The Diner Project—Gallery

The Diner Project images were made inside the iconic Russ’s Kitchenette Diner in East Cambridge, MA between 1974-1977. Enter and meet Russ, the owner, Charlie, the cook, Geri, the waitress, and some of the loyal customers, many who frequented the diner daily for decades. Russ lost his lease in 1978 and the diner closed for good after 41 years. These photographs capture a part of Cambridge’s rich culture and history that no longer exist.

The Diner Project images are available for exhibition.
Please contact us with inquiries.

Charlie peeling potatoes
Russ at the Helm
Charlie and Sons
Customer with Leather Hat
Russ Portrait
Geri at Counter
Morning News
Charlie with Mop
Diner Exterior
Russ with Bowl of Soup
Five Guys
Man in doorway of diner
Cash Register
Two men in conversation
Man in Leather Jacket
Two Men at Window
Man in hat looking at man smoking cigarette
Close up of man's hand holding a cigarette with smoke curling upwards
Pastry Shelf
Black and white photo of a man in a suit and hat enjoying a dessert at a diner, with close-up of hands holding a small pastry or donut.
Man with Fedora
Hands Close Up
Diptych of photos of Geri and Russ as seen on photographs held by the other.
Geri holds a photo print of "Russ at the Helm."
Russ looks on as a woman's hand is seen holding a photo print of Geri.
Russ with Cigar
Quad showing steam tray, making coffee, onions, and slicing roll
Steam Tray
Coffee Filter
Buttered Roll
Onions
Paying Customers
Geri standing at counter with customers.
Three boys playing trumpets in front of the diner.
Two young men having breakfast at the counter.
Snapshots (1974-1977) [Quad]
Knives Out
Men in Hats (Quad)
Close up view of man with glasses
The Smoker
Man leaning on counter near window
Male Customers
A chef in a white uniform and hat working in a restaurant kitchen with another chef in the background.

Recent Praise for The Diner Project

“On behalf of the Office of Mayor E. Denise Simmons, I want to extend our deepest gratitude for entrusting us with The Diner Project and for sharing these long-lost photographs with the Cambridge community. Your work preserves a vital moment in the city’s history, the people, the labor, the laughter, and the community at Russ’s Kitchenette Diner. Thanks to you, visitors are rediscovering the stories of everyday heroes like Ms. Geraldine “Geri” Silva. The response from the public has been heartfelt, reflective, and filled with wonderful memories.

 It has truly been the highlight of my day to watch people pause, connect with the images, and even share their own reflections. Your photographs have sparked conversation, curiosity, and joyful connection. Thank you for the partnership through this entire process. It has been such an honor to collaborate with you." - Suryani Dewa Ayu, Director of Civic Design and Engagement, City of Cambridge, MA.

Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
1975 Born To Run Tour—Boston Symphony Hall

Born to Run Tour. 1975
Born to Run Tour. 1975
Bruce and Little Steven. 1975
Clarence Clemons. 1975 Born to Run Tour.