A family atmosphere, locally sourced food, and decades of serving Hornell
By: Johanna Elattar, pictured are Lori Cramp with Tracey Greene
Amidst the vibrant hustle and bustle of Seneca Street in the picturesque town of Hornell, New York, stands a culinary gem that has woven itself into the fabric of the community – none other than Billy Schu’s diner. For over three decades, this charming establishment has been a cherished fixture, dishing out not just hearty meals but also a generous helping of warmth and hospitality that keeps patrons coming back for more. From its modest origins as a diner christened in honor of a beloved teacher to its current iteration under the stewardship of Ian and Lori Cramp, Billy Schu’s has undergone a transformative journey while remaining an enduring symbol of camaraderie and togetherness.
Ian Cramp’s odyssey with Billy Schu’s commenced nearly twenty years ago, when he first crossed the threshold of the diner’s doors in 2003. Little did he anticipate that this initial encounter would mark the inception of a lifelong devotion to the eatery. Fast forward to April of the following year, and Ian, alongside his wife Lori, assumed the mantle of Billy Schu’s, embracing its legacy with unwavering pride and dedication.
What distinguishes Billy Schu’s from its culinary counterparts in the area is its palpable familial ambiance. From the instant patrons step foot into the establishment, they are enveloped in an aura of genuine affection and hospitality, instantly welcomed into the fold as honorary members of the Billy Schu’s family. This sense of belonging forms the cornerstone of the Cramps’ ethos at the diner.
In alignment with their steadfast commitment to supporting the local community, Billy Schu’s meticulously sources a plethora of its ingredients from nearby suppliers. Whether it’s the crisp produce sourced from Fitzpatrick’s or the farm-fresh eggs and poultry procured from Stearn’s Chicken, each component not only epitomizes freshness but also strengthens the bonds with local farmers and producers.
However, Billy Schu’s transcends the mere act of culinary indulgence; it stands as a bastion of philanthropy and goodwill within the community. The establishment routinely contributes gift certificates to the Humane Society’s raffle baskets and orchestrates an annual Thanksgiving feast, ensuring that the less fortunate are embraced with warmth and sustenance during the holiday season.
Stepping into the diner’s cozy interior, patrons are greeted by the sight of meticulously crafted wreaths, lovingly fashioned by Judy and Shelly Smith, infusing a seasonal charm into the dining experience. Moreover, the ambiance is further elevated by the deft touches of Decorator’s Choice, which has artfully curated the paint and flooring to harmonize with the inviting atmosphere.
The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed unprecedented challenges for Billy Schu’s, akin to countless other establishments within the hospitality sector. Nonetheless, Ian and Lori Cramp resolved to navigate through the tempest without forsaking their allegiance to the community. Rather than succumbing to closure, the diner swiftly pivoted to offering takeout orders and delivery services, ensuring that patrons could savor their favorite dishes from the confines of their homes.
Despite their valiant efforts, the pandemic exacted its toll on Billy Schu’s, prompting Lori to take decisive action. In a bold and heartfelt gesture, she penned a poignant missive to local dignitaries, including Rep. Tom Reed, delineating the myriad tribulations confronting restaurants like hers and imploring for assistance.
To Lori’s astonishment, her missive struck a resonant chord with not just the local populace but also reverberated far beyond the confines of the community. Within a matter of days, her plea went viral across social media platforms, amassing over a thousand shares. The outpouring of support was overwhelming, with patrons flocking to the diner to express their solidarity. In a single evening, Billy Schu’s witnessed an astounding influx of $10,000 in donations and food orders, serving as a poignant testament to the profound affection and unity pervading the community.
As Billy Schu’s gazes towards the horizon, it does so with a profound sense of gratitude for the unwavering patronage of its loyal clientele and the indomitable resilience that has buoyed it through even the darkest of hours. With Ian and Lori Cramp steering the ship, this venerable diner is poised to continue its legacy as a beacon of warmth, hospitality, and community spirit for generations to come.
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell NY writer who specializes in community news and features. She also has a flair for national stories that have local connections. You can reach her at, hauntedhill@yandex.com.
