Ellie and Bob Smela, who opened Ellie’s ’50s Diner in 1990, are retiring. The restaurant will close July 10. That’s Ellie depicted on the sign, sporting a poodle skirt. Photos by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star
Ellie’s ’50s Diner is closing after 32 y
ellie smela (3)
The pink ’57 Chevy in front of Ellie’s Diner will likely be granted a variance
to remain on the property along Federal Highway.
Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star
By Thom Smith
Doo-wop or don’t wop. Ellie Smela’s favorite color is pink, but she and hus
Bob and Ellie Smela are celebrating 25 years
at Ellie’s 50’s Diner on North Federal Highway in Delray Beach.
Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star
By Scott Simmons
You’d think Ellie Smela would be exhausted after 25 years of rocking around the clock at he
