Kappy's diner closes its doors

A landmark diner since 1967, Kappy's is closing on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 4 p.m. "or until they run out of food," said Executive Chef Adam Milsom. Located at the intersection of Sybelia Ave. and 17/92 in Maitland, this small drive-up deli has been serving Philly cheese steaks, burgers, N.Y. hot dogs, subs and the best root beer floats in town for 57 years.

Kappy's also was recognized in "Kehillah: A History of Jewish Life in Greater Orlando," under the Growth: Hospitality section, where it fit right in with Ronnie's and Sonny's BBQ.

The original owners, Itch and Anne Kaplan from North Carolina, opened in 1967 and sold the diner to Bob Caplan in 1974.

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it," was Caplan's motto and it held true for 50 years. Caplan's daughter, Rachel Milsom took over ownership.

Adam Milsom, executive chef, posted on Kappy's Facebook page:

"It has been an absolute honor for me and my family to serve this community for the past 52 years. We deeply appreciate everyone who has walked through our doors throughout our time in service and will miss being able to feed y'all every day.

"Closing Kappy's is the hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life ... Believe me, this is not how we want to go out and is as sudden a surprise to us as it is to everyone else."

Since the announcement of its closing, customers have been making suggestions of where Kappy's could reopen.