Sacramento's famous little vintage diner, Jim-Denny's, is about to quietly change hands. Regulars and history buffs can breathe a sigh of relief: The buyer plans to keep the 76-year-old landmark restaurant operating right where it is, said broker Dave Herrera of Colliers International. An investor who values the diner's history is purchasing the business and the property at 816 12th St. It's expected to close escrow in the next two weeks. "He had a lot of interest because of the history that the building and business have had, and the impact it's had on all the locals," Herrera said. An agreement was reached within about a week of when the historic diner and restaurant business was mar

Sacramento landmark Jim-Denny’s went up for sale Monday. The Lane family has decided to sell the historic white and red diner after five years so Patsy Lane, the heart and soul behind the counter, can retire to Montana. The restaurant has served breakfasts and burgers for 76 years – first at 16th and J streets, where Jim Van Nort initially opened the restaurant. Van Nort moved the business to 816 12th St. after returning from WWII. The Lanes struggled with the decision even before the diner was featured on the Travel Channel show Man v. Food in late September. Lane just turned 60, and she's ready to take it a little easier, said her daughter, Joanna Lane, part owner along with her mothe

Jim-Denny's has gotten lots of local attention in 76 years of grilling burgers and serving breakfast. Now travelers and foodies throughout the country have a chance to learn about the little white and red diner when Jim-Denny's is featured on the Travel Channel show “Man v. Food” Wednesday night. After finishing a batch of chicken corn chowder Tuesday morning, co-owner Patsy Lane said she's a little stressed about the show and a viewing party they're throwing Wednesday night. Lane will make food for the party, to be held from 7-10 p.m. at Butch N Nellie's, 19th and I streets. Everyone in the community is invited, Lane said. "I'm nervous," she said. The show will air at 9 p.m. For the e

 “These guys are nuts. I really hope no one throws up. Care for some hamburger with your water?” I thought to myself as I watched eight men sitting in a row, stuffing Jim-Denny’s half-pound hamburgers down their throats, one of who proceeded to dip his half-eaten burger and patty into a cup of water between bites.   On the stage behind them stood the emcee, Sacramento's local music guru Jerry Perry, with a mic in hand, watching with everyone else to see who would clean his plate first.   Pedro Alarcon won the Jim-Denny’s superburger-eating contest at 3 minutes and 41 seconds. Perry handed him a T-shirt for his accomplishment and suggested the rest of the men take their leftovers home.