A Yonkers diner owner is worried about her business due to the prolonged temporary closure of the Empire City Casino.

The Claremont Diner owner says up to 35% of business comes from casino employees. MGM, the owner of Empire City Casino, recently announced that jobs could be lost if the coronavirus lockdown continues through the end of August.

“The Raceway and Casino is a big business right now which affects our whole community and area here,” says owner Maria Sofocli. “We miss our customers..seeing them inside the place.”

The restaurant has been staying afloat with takeout, delivery and pickup orders. 

It’s been a rough two months, but the owner insists they will get through the tough times. “We’re hoping to make it, we want to be here,” says Sofocli.

News 12 is told the Yonkers Avenue diner has been serving customers for the past 25 years.

LIVE BLOG: Coronavirus updates from the tri-state area and beyond
TRACKER: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut coronavirus cases and deaths