Specialties
Mark’s Diner is a warm and welcoming, family-friendly restaurant in Portage, MI, specializing in your favorite breakfast and lunch dishes. We offer a kid’s menu, daily specials, and lunch specials to satisfy every appetite.
At Mark’s Diner, we carry on the family tradition established by the previous owners, offering great breakfast and lunch options at reasonable prices.
Mark began his journey in the restaurant industry at the age of 16 in Northern Michigan. His first job was with a Burger King franchise in Alpena, MI. Over the next 31 years, Mark worked with three Burger King franchisees across Michigan, including Alpena, Oscoda, Sault Ste. Marie, and Big Rapids.
In 1993, Mark and Michelle moved to Kalamazoo, where Mark continued his career with Burger King, eventually serving as a Restaurant Manager and later as a Human Resources Manager for 15 years.
In 2014, Mark left the fast-food corporate world and briefly tried his hand in the insurance industry. However, his passion for food service brought him back. In May 2015, Mark joined EMA Enterprises under the guidance of Mike Leeuw, where he learned a new side of the food service business: breakfast, lunch, catering, and concessions.
A few years ago, Mike and Mark discussed the possibility of Mark owning his own restaurant. Mike, dedicated to passing successful businesses on to long-term employees, believed in Mark’s vision. Now, in 2025, Mark’s Diner is a reality.