In 1872, in Providence, Rhode Island, Walter Scott began selling takeout food from a horse-drawn wagon at dusk. He attracted late-shift workers, theatergoers, and others who were out and about after dark. Based upon his success, a factory soon began building “lunch wagons.” These were followed, in turn, by converted railway dining cars. After that, during the 1920s to 1940s, came modest buildings featuring art deco and streamline moderne elements that copied the appearance of those cars.
After World War II and the opening of the interstate highway system, these diners saw a boom in business. The typical establishment had stainless-steel siding and nostalgic, retro-style touches.
Their casual atmosphere, comfort-food cuisine, extended service hours, and modest prices provided alternatives to higher-priced restaurants and continue to do so today. They also provide a walk down memory lane for people seeking to recapture a chapter of the country’s culinary past.
Here’s an introduction to several iconic diners that offer good food, efficient service, and an immersion in part of the American story that combines sustenance with sentimentality. Travelers seeking this experience can use an internet search to find classic diners throughout the country.
Diners are popular throughout Florida with year-round residents, long-term “snowbirds” who spend several months each year escaping the winter cold where they live, and short-term passersby. My wife, Fyllis, and I joined that last group during our recent visit to Hollywood, where we enjoyed brunch at Jack’s Diner. Along with the usual menu items, they serve up Southern favorites such as biscuits slathered with homemade sausage gravy and pecan pie. Decorations throughout the interior transported Fyllis and me back into the past.
As is true at many of these establishments, members of the waitstaff are very friendly. Female customers often are addressed as “Honey” and “Doll,” and men become “Darling.” Caroline, our Jack’s Diner waitress, acted as if we had known each other for years and were close friends. She felt comfortable confiding in us the news that “it gets crazy here early in the morning when people from nearby adult drinking establishments come by for a bite to eat.”
The A1 Diner in Gardiner, Maine, is one of the oldest still in business. When it opened in 1946, it immediately became popular among workers in the nearby paper mills. The same neon signs, vinyl booths, and other decor features that greeted them continue to appeal to people today. The spot is popular among both locals and travelers, all of whom drop by to enjoy stick-to-your-ribs dishes that include some Maine-specific menu items.
The Olympia Diner in Newington, Connecticut, is another ageless eatery, in business since 1954. It has appeared in movies, commercials, and public service announcements. It also has been the setting for some real-life dramas. People have met their spouses there, business deals have been made, a marriage proposal was accepted and, on one occasion, divorce papers were served.
The vintage bright-neon light display that identifies the Marietta Diner in Georgia indicates that, like many such establishments, it is open 24/7 and offers a full breakfast all day and night. Along with the usual fare, the menu includes a section listing Greek specialties. Some regulars return to enjoy the baklava and baklava cheesecake, which are popular signature dishes.
The 59er Diner in Leavenworth, Washington, has TV fame, having been featured in an episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” A popular retro highlight is the jukebox that can play hundreds of 1950s tunes. Another attraction is that the establishment serves eggs from its own chickens and vegetables grown in its garden. Travelers who wish to spend the night can book one of the comfortable cabins onsite.
As explained by Moody’s Diner in Waldoboro, Maine, when the number of vacationers visiting the state began to grow, “it seemed like a good idea to build a couple of cabins” to put them up. Today, the 104-seat diner is augmented by 18 cottages and rooms. The property is owned and operated by three generations of its original founding family.
At some diners, the aroma of freshly baked goodies attracts first-timers and convinces many to return. The Eveready Diners in Hyde Park and Brewster, New York, prepare their own breads, cookies, cakes, and pies. Those who order apple pie enjoy fruit grown in their orchard.
Every morning, bakers at the Penrose Diner in Philadelphia prepare treats for that day’s customers. From breakfast favorites such as muffins, cinnamon buns, and Danish pastries to sweet treats such as cookies, cakes, and pies, their pastry case always has plenty of delicious choices. They even make their own Greek baklava from a family recipe.
