Meet 'Bowtie Bob,' a fixture at Farmingdale Diner for more than 30 years

Few people personally know the waiters and waitresses at their local restaurants. But regular customers at the Farmingdale Diner instantly recognize "Bowtie Bob." The 77-year-old waiter, named Robert Flynn, of Bethpage, currently holds down five shifts a week and has been working there for more than 30 years. His nickname comes from the signature bow tie he wears, along with a smile.

"Bob warmly greets everyone as they come in and jokes around with the customers. People really like him," diner owner Harry Savvides said. "His charisma makes him stand out, plus he provides good service. He’s just a great guy."

Flynn works the dinner shift from Tuesday through Saturday. Most of his customers have become regulars. "I know what they all like to drink and eat," he said. "Before they come in from the parking lot, I have their coffee and Coca-Cola on the table ready for them."

BOB’S BACKGROUND

Prior to the diner, Flynn, who is married with two adult children, used to work as a cook at Bagel Master in Syosset and owned his own business, Potsie’s Deli in Syosset on Berry Hill Road. He found being an owner too taxing. "If I didn’t get out of it, the business would have killed me," he said. "I was working seven days, clocking in over 100 hours a week. It was too much."

Flynn first came to the Farmingdale Diner as a customer and started part-time, then eventually moved to full-time. Social interaction is what he thrives on.

"I’ve seen kids grow up from babies. I knew all their grandparents too. I even went to a few funerals," he said. "It’s been a great journey."

His trademark bow tie happened almost by accident.

"I was filling in for somebody at another diner where you must wear a bow tie. After a while I started to get into it because I thought it would be fun to wear different bow ties," Flynn said. "Now I have bow ties for every holiday, cartoon bow ties, ones that light up. My collection is over 300."

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

Many customers come in and specifically request to be seated in Flynn’s section.

"People gravitate toward him. He’s like a fixture at the diner," customer MaryAnn Toner, 65, of Farmingdale, said. "Bob’s a gentle soul but still very on top of everything. He always makes sure everything comes out right, if not he fixes it."

Flynn is known for his positive demeanor and helpful manner.

"Bob’s always in a good mood and happy to serve," diner regular Heidi Zaks, 51, of Farmingdale, said. "I had a meal the other night and I didn’t love it. He immediately said, ‘Sorry about that. What else can I get you?’ The man never seems to be annoyed. It’s amazing."

Known for his personal touch, Flynn also shows genuine concern for his customers.

"You felt like your uncle was hanging out with you while you were getting food," longtime patron Bob Bedford, 47, of Garden City said. "We would come in at 1 or 2 a.m. and Bob would greet us by name, saying, ‘How are you guys doing? Where were you tonight?’ As we’d walk out the door he’d tell us, ‘Please be safe.’ He always made sure we were OK."

When asked how he is able to do such a physically challenging job at his age, Flynn said, "You’ve got to like what you do. If you don’t, you’re not going to make it. This job takes a certain breed. But I’m not going to retire. It’s the customers that keep me going."