Metro Diner Opens First Lecanto Restaurant

Aug 17, 2026

Family-friendly restaurant brings famous all-day breakfast, comfort food and award-winning favorites to Citrus County’s fast-growing commercial corridor

Metro Diner, the family-friendly restaurant known for bold takes on American comfort food and award-winning breakfast, lunch, and dinner, has opened its first Lecanto location.

Located at 3351 W. Norvell Bryant Hwy. in Summit View at Corta Commons, the 3,710-square-foot diner seats 134 guests inside plus 24 on its outdoor patio. The new location is owned and operated by Managing Partner and long-time restauranteur Melissa Deskins, who brings more than 20 years of restaurant experience to Citrus County.

“I’ve spent more than two decades in the restaurant industry because I love bringing people together through great food,” said Deskins, who holds both a Culinary Arts and a Baking & Pastry Degree. “Metro Diner combines the welcoming feel of a hometown diner with the support of an established brand. I’m excited to become part of the Lecanto community and create a place where families can gather for everyday meals and life’s special celebrations.”

Known for hearty portions and comfort food made from scratch, Metro Diner’s all-day menu showcases homestyle classics. Guests can enjoy everything from fluffy omelets, pancakes and breakfast platters to tender BBQ ribs and specialty burgers made with 100% Angus beef.

Among the restaurant’s most popular dishes is Metro Diner’s famous Fried Chicken & Waffle—crispy fried chicken served atop a Belgian waffle with signature strawberry butter and the diner’s sweet-and-spicy sauce. Another standout is the Iron City Meatloaf, which earned national attention when Guy Fieri featured it on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on Food Network.

While guests often ask for recommendations, Deskins keeps it simple.

“My favorite meal is a classic Bissell Breakfast,” she said. “Eggs, crispy hash browns, sausage patties and toast, served with a short stack of pancakes—it’s hard to beat.”

As Metro Diner establishes roots in Lecanto, Deskins plans to support local schools, family-focused organizations and community events while becoming an active member of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce.

Metro Diner Lecanto will initially be open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with plans to expand hours from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. once dinner service is added. For more information, call (352) 366-0337, visit www.metrodiner.com, or follow Metro Diner on social media.