Ritchie Presents Watertown's Iconic “Crystal Restaurant" with New York State Senate Empire Award

As the City of Watertown prepares to kick-off the Christmas season with its annual parade and Festival of Trees events this week, State Senator Patty Ritchie is honoring downtown Watertown’s iconic “Crystal Restaurant” with the New York State Senate’s Empire Award.

Operated by the Dephtereos family for over 90 years, the Crystal Restaurant is Watertown’s oldest restaurant. It has countless loyal customers—some of whom dine at the restaurant every day—and is especially popular at Christmastime for its “Tom and Jerry” beverage, which is available only during the holidays.

“The Crystal Restaurant is a North Country institution and a special place where for nearly a century, its customers have not only enjoyed good food, but also created memories with family and friends,” said Senator Ritchie.

“I am pleased to present the Crystal Restaurant with the Senate’s Empire Award, and wish the business continued success in the years to come.”

Earlier this year, the Dephtereos family officially took ownership of the building the Crystal Restaurant has operated in for over 90 years, giving them the ability to make improvements to the building and its façade.

The New York State Senate Empire Award recognizes excellence in business.  Its recipients demonstrate leadership in their industry, job creation, economic growth and contributions to its community.

(Senator Ritchie is seen in photograph above with Crystal Restaurant owners Peter and Libby Dephtereos)