The DINER.

[Wild Root]

Leroy's,

Well, today I took a chance and visited a very old restaurant. It’s located on Huntington drive which is part of California’s historic Route 66. It is just a walk from my house and I have lived here in Monrovia all my life. I have seen this place all the time and never had the chance to go in and try the food. I have seen many people sit outside for long periods of time to wait for a table. I took today, my day off and said to my self: I’m going in there! Boy, I’m I glad I did. The place is called Leroy’s and it’s been there for over 27 years. Before that, it was a Breakfast King which I believe was built in the 1940’s. The out side is just as it was in the 40’s or early 50’s, the inside is cozy and worm! The people that work there treat you like family and make sure you are a happy customer! The waitress even called me honey and or sugar! And the best part is that they have good prices on their menu! I paid only $6.44 for a full plate of some really good Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, vegetables, a roll and a bowl of turkey noodle soup! The food was good and the serves was even better! I missed the rush which was great for me. I sat down at the counter and no sooner that I had done so, the waitress asked me what I would like to drink. So, I had a glass of water no sooner then 3 seconds! I then looked at the menu and then the waitress asked if I would like to take a look at the lunch special. So, she told me about it and I tried it. Boy, lots of food for little money! Plus, they like men who wear hats! I was wearing my brown Knox I had just won on ebay and then one of the girls working there said: I like your hat but, it needs to be cocked to the side! So, to say the least, I’ll be back there next week!

Root.

[Mycroft]

Very cool, and good prices, can you send some pics of the resterant.

[Wild Root]

Sure, I'll have to take some first. I'll see what I can do!

Root.

[jamespowers]

I can see that you had quite a "lunch." Sounds like dinner for the rest of us. :p
Now aren't you sorry you never went into that place before. ;)

Regards to all,

J

[Wild Root]

YES!

Well, I have wanted to eat there for dinner but they are only open for breakfast and lunch. Yes JP, I had one to many N's in the word DINER. Sorry about that. So, I saw that I had a day off and insted of going to a fastfood joint for lunch, I though I'd try it since it was right there. It worked perfect since the auto parts place was next to it.

I'll be going again soon!

Root.

[jamespowers]

Hmmm... I didn't really notice the diner dinner thing but now that you point it out it is funny. :p :cheers1:

Regards to all,

J

[Wild Root]

oh, great. Ahahahahaha. Any way, yeah if any of you boys and gals make it to Monrovia, you MUST have a meal at Leroy's!

Root.

[Chamorro]

What's the crossstreet? I'm in Monrovia quite often. There's a 3 Day Suit Broker there and Jakes Barbeque ... yummm. :hamburger

[Matt Deckard]

Root is like a block away from the Suit Broker

[Wild Root]

Yes, it's just south east of me. Leroy's is just a few doors west of Earnie's Auto parts on Mayflower and Huntington Dr. It's cross the streat from Apple Bea's.

Root.

[Chamorro]

Under my schnozz this whole time ... now do I really feel like driving on the 210 in the rain tonight? Hmmmm....

[Wild Root]

Don't try and go tonight! They're closed. They're only open for Breakfast and Lunch. They close in the early afternoon.

Root.

[Matt Deckard]

On assignment

I am usually always on the road to someplace or another as I like to travel and am not used to sitting around the house (I wear cars out, it’ll be that way ‘til I get the helicopter). Last weekend was a bit different as I set up to to be a shut in and get some work done that has been piling on the sidelines.

That day I received a call from my old friend Wild Root who wanted me to head out with him to do some shopping for vintage goods and a bite to eat. I probably would have turned him down as I don’t like to leave work unfinished, though that's what 1:00 to 5:00 am are for right? I felt adventurous today so I grabbed my laptop and hat and jumped into the car to make the 60 mile drive to Monrovia. After a few stores and a few finds we headed down Huntington where we stopped to eat at a little Diner on the side of Monrovia's Restaurant row called Leroy’s.

Between Huntington Drive and Mayflower Street, Leroy’s has been around since the late 40’s and was originally part of the Breakfast King Chain of restaurants. 28 years ago they took the name Leroy’s. The diner is built into a duplex arartment complex on route 66 with dining on the inside in front and dining and access to restrooms on the outside in back.
Waiting on the bench outside before we were seated I joked that they were setting us up with their biggest table, low behold after a group of 10 exited the diner we were seated at the biggest booth in the house. If Cheers were a diner this would be it; as I watched the dance of waitress to table interaction it was obvious that the customers were repeat. Our waitress headed for our table and my colleague and I ordered a couple of Cokes (diet of course for me). The size of these drinks was enormous. Following that we placed our meal orders.
We ended up with the waitress who looked like she stepped out of a movie, her name was Cindy and she wore glasses, had her hair up and spoke with an attitude. “What’s for you sweetie?� We both ordered the Steak and eggs with two sides… medium rare. The turnaround was fast and the banter between Cindy and us was what made the dining ambiance worth the drive alone. This was what I wanted in a diner. The friendly feel, the quick service, the willing staff and the relaxed atmosphere. This place was old school all the way and when we headed for the door it was just an assumed fact that we would be back.

Aside from some of the melodic Elton john and Cindy Lauper tunes that played in the background, you’d think you stepped into the past. Open only for breakfast and lunch.

I believe you would call the architecture ranch, though I didn’t go for the architecture. Total for two steak and eggs meals with drinks and 2 sides cost $19.00 plus tip… Now that’s the business!

[scotrace]

It's great to be single.
Before you have children, you say, "let's go for a drive in the country," and boom! You're driving in the country.
Once you have children, you say, "let's go for a drive in the country," and boom! You're making sandwiches.

I think many of us in the midwest view California as a sort of foreign country where all the food is organic by law and you bump into Hollywood stars at the post office and they clap you in irons for smoking and Pinot Noir flows from the downtown drinking fountains. Magical.
My hometown boasts one bit of magic: a real soda fountain that is unchanged since the mid-20th. It's fashionble now for the kids from the high school to go there at lunch for a phosphate. President Bush made a campaign stop at that store last summer. Bought the chocolate covered marshmallows and got a kiss from a local girl. Big stuff.

[jamespowers]

I think many of us in the midwest view California as a sort of foreign country where all the food is organic by law and you bump into Hollywood stars at the post office and they clap you in irons for smoking and Pinot Noir flows from the downtown drinking fountains. Magical.


You are right for the most part there---all except for the Hollywood stars part. You have to live near there for that to happen on a regular basis. ;)
Matt, I am glad you had a good experince at the Diner. They are few and far between around here---especially with the great old style decor.

Regards to all,

J

[Wild Root]

Well, Leroy's is really a true joy to eat at. Like Matt said, it's cheap and good.

The building it's self is a 1940's ranch style that was popular after the war. I like it my self but, it's not for every one.

If any of you find your selves going down Route 66 through Monrovia, stop on by and have a good meal for two for the price of one.

Root.

[jamespowers]

That sounds like one heck of a deal. What does the menu look like---what do they serve?

Regards to all,

J

[Wild Root]

Horse... they serve horse.

:p


No, they have most things you would find in a diner. No, not rats! Good standard American food.

Root.

[jamespowers]

Horse... they serve horse. :p
No, they have most things you would find in a diner. No, not rats! Good standard American food.

Mmmm. Horse and eggs. :p
If I am in the area I will have to try it.

Regards to all,

J

[DBLIII]

Sounds like a great place to eat!
I used to drive right past this diner every day:
www.63diner.com
and it's still not too much out of my way now. Nice to have these kinds of places still around.

[BellyTank]

Horse is still somewhat of a delicacy in Sweden-
cooked on the rare side and thinly sliced with a smear of horseradish... mmmmmmmm....
Of course it was also a universal wartime meat.

B
T

[Wild Root]

I heard about that BT. A friend of mine tried that once and he said it was very good but, it wasn't very cheap.

Horseradish on horse.... hahaha, sounds like a perfect fit.

Root.

[BellyTank]

Doh! I missed that one, Smartypants- :hamburger :beer: :kick:
B
T

[Wild Root]

Ha Ha,

Cheers! :cheers1:

Root.

[jamespowers]

Geez, next thing I am going to hear is that skunk is a delicacy somewhere. :p
"Yes, I'll have the skunk ala King with a side of horsey sauce please." :rolleyes: :p

Regards to all,

J

[carpecaligo]

There are lots of Diners around these parts (east coast) but they unfortunately don't have the same service as you're discribing.
There is a Diner right up the street from my house, it's always been the local hangout - the food isn't great and the service depends on your waitress, but everyone who works there knows us, and the jukebox still runs.

For anyone in MD who gets the chance - A close friend of mine (Well, her family) runs The Plum Crazy Diner and it's the best Diner experience I've had to date - Good food, Good service, great atmosphere.


Is anyone in here familiar with Johnny Rockets? Its a relatively new fast food chain with a 50s theme - realistic Diner style, the staff all wears those funny little hats, and there are oldies playing nonstop (I admit to a charleston while waiting in line for a milkshake)
Honestly - the food is unimpressive, But they have good milkshakes, and the atmosphere is fun if you're with a group.



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v51/carpecaligo/JohnnyRockets002.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v51/carpecaligo/14593.jpg




I can't decide If I like it or not. If I'm just stoping in for a soda, it's nice - but it's almost too retro. I'd feel silly walking in there wearing vintage clothes.

[renor27]

hello all I am going to be Traveling from DC to NH @ the end of the month would love to stop in @ some good local diners on my journey. Any of the groupe from that part of the country know of any I should stop in for my meals. Also any around DC.
David

[jamespowers]

I am not sure if they are everywhere but there is a small chain in California called Lori's Diner that has that classic diner experience. The best part is that they have coat and hat hangers at the end of every booth. ;) The food isn't bad either. The hamburgers and such are referred to as the "best around" by my mother who grew up in the golden age. So I suppose she would know the difference. ;)

Regards to all,

J

[Michaelson]

.
Once you have children, you say, "let's go for a drive in the country," and boom! You're making sandwiches.



Or being sent to the store for milk and bread, since you're in the mood to take a drive.... :rolleyes: ;) Regards! Michaelson

[Matt Deckard]

http://images9.fotki.com/v179/photos/8/83243/2171351/Sittinatthediner-vi.jpg

[scotrace]

The Tormented Poet?
or Bored After Porcellian Club Dinner?

or Listening to Root's Tale of The Found Spectators Again

Perhaps "Can't believe I lost my hat... thing cost me $400... I oughta punch myself in the jaw... just like this... right here"

"He had found his Emma, at last. But in a textbook case of bad timing, his necktie accidentally dipped into the salad bowl, wicking Balsamic & Olive Oil up to the knot. He couldn't possibly introduce himself like this. 'At least I have a fresh haircut,' he thought."

:cool:

Great shot. You look grand.

[Wild Root]

It was neither.

It was the waitress that was board and wouldn’t shut up. :p

Rob.

[Matt Deckard]

http://images9.fotki.com/v179/photos/8/83243/2171351/RobDiner-vi.jpg

[jamespowers]

Hmmm... Looks interesting. I hope that is bread in front of you. :p

Regards to all,

J

[jitterbugdoll]

In Arizona there is a chain of retro diners called the 5 & Diner. The food is good and the service is usually decent--it's one of my favorite places to go, actually. We do have Johnny Rockets here, but the 5 & Diner is much, much better!
We also have a Ruby's Diner (the one I used to go to closed a while back--not uppity enough for the Scottsdale crowd, I suppose!)

I also work at the neatest vintage soda fountain--it's called MacAlpine's and was built in 1928. It housed a pharmacy until 1992, and it is the oldest continuously operating soda fountain in the southwest. Wayne Newton and his brother, who lived in one of the surrounding neighborhoods, used to come and sit at the counter. The food is top-notch home-style cooking, and they have and use a lot of the original equipment (for example, the shake machines are from the 40s.) Also, I have met so many people who either worked at the fountain when they were teenagers, or remember it as *the* high school hangout. Once, a gentleman came in and softly told me that he had worked here when was 16--in 1940.
Although we don’t have official uniforms (yet), I always dress vintage. I have the cutest green and white striped day dress that matches the décor and makes a perfect uniform. I wear a 1940s waitress apron, style my hair in big rolls, and even wear a cap. I find that customers love the look, and I often have people ask for me when I am not there. About once a month, tourists ask to take my picture! I'll try to a post of photo of me in waitress mode.
http://www.agilitynut.com/p/mcalpine31104.jpg

http://www.agilitynut.com/p/mcalpine21104.jpg
(The brown and white tile, originally installed over concrete tile in the 40s, has been replaced with green and white tile)

http://www.agilitynut.com/p/mcalpine1104.jpg

Here’s a pic from the 1930s—note the prices:
http://www.acmeron.com/puhs/MacAlpine's.jpg

This is a photo of Mr. ‘Mac’, taken in the 1940s. The little boy, who won the car in a contest, brought this photo to us a few months ago:
http://www.acmeron.com/puhs/MacAlpine's%202.jpg

A few blocks away from MacAlpine’s is a tiny (seats 9) diner that was built in the 1930s. It was built in the 1930s and has awesome turquoise and red décor. Although the menu is slightly modern/trendy, they serve bottled sodas (vintage colas made with sugar cane and not high fructose corn syrup) and the place is just fun to look at.
http://cardhouse.com/travel/az/welcomeext.jpg
http://cardhouse.com/travel/az/welcomeext2.jpg
http://cardhouse.com/travel/az/welcomecabinets.jpg
http://cardhouse.com/travel/az/welcomecounter.jpg

[Wild Root]

MacAlpine's:

I had the chance to go over there for Thanksgiving last year. I was in town and got to hang out with Havershaw and his wife for a day. It was fun! They took me over to MacAlpine's and it was closed for a new floor. I was so dissapointed because I just looked in the window and I just about died! It looks so cool inside! Way better then some of the places here in CA.

Any way, next time I'm in AZ, I'll try and stop on buy there and check it out.

Root.

[jitterbugdoll]

Yep--they were closed for several weeks for the installation of the new floor. It looks great though--they went with two-tone green linoleum. Although not original to Mac's (actually, the brown and cream tile was added in the 40s anyway), it is a very accurate 1930s-40s color and really brightens the place up!
The booths and telephone booth were brought in 1992--I believe they came from an old hotel in New Orleans.

Some changes have been made, but the place is still really, really neat. It simply oozes nostalgia--you would love it! And yes, there are pegs at each booth for you to hang your hat!

I’m not sure if I’ve ever met Havershaw—but I’m usually there are Saturdays, so maybe he came in and I didn’t realize it!

[ITG]

jitterbugdoll,
I'm totally digging that diner you work at. Very retro. The pics really give off the right feel for stepping back in time.

[Matt Deckard]

Anyone have other pics and stories of small local eateries?

[Tony in Tarzana]

Hamburger Hamlet on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles. From the outside, it's nothing special, it's in the ground floor of what looks like an office building. Inside, it's authentic retro. Looks like nothing has been replaced in 50 years.

The booth in the corner facing southwest has a small plaque identifying it as Dean Martin's favorite. Prices are in line with Los Angeles, a nice burger and fries for 8 bucks, a Martini for... 8 bucks. Guess where their profit margin is. ;)

[Barry]

Doumar's... home of the cone.

http://www.doumars.com/1949OurPride.jpg

Barry

[scotrace]

Anyone have other pics and stories of small local eateries?


Not a diner, but a soda fountain, still giving out with Phosphates:

http://mysite.verizon.net/respd8l2/candy5.jpg

[Hannigan Reilly]

Flesor's Kandy Kitchen in Tuscola, IL. The family renovated and re-opened their soda fountain from 1901. They serve lunch, as well.

http://www.flesorscandy.com/newphotos/images/store.jpg

http://www.flesorscandy.com/newphotos/index.htm

[Rosie]

There was a GREAT diner my dad used to take me to when I was a kid called George's. It was very '40s, great architecture as I recall and had those old green milkshake makers. The same family owned it for years and they were the sweetest people. It was great, we would go after church almost every Sunday and whenever I had a doctor's appointment (my pediatrician, and dentist were in the same neighborhood). Sadly, because of gentrification, :mad:, their rent went up, and it has become a Payless Shoe Store and a coffee house. :(

[funneman]

Hey Barry,

This looks like a place we used to go to in Norfolk, Va. Shredded pork BBQ with cole slaw on top. MMMMMMM. Pass the Tobasco!

[raiderrescuer]

http://www.users.qwest.net/~martinmichael4/images/BlueGarden_Small.jpg

When the Blue Garden was up and running they served excellent food. Unfortunately it died when a lot of the downtown businesses died plus they changed it to parallel parking, so now there is a lot less spots to park.

[Barry]

Hey Barry,

This looks like a place we used to go to in Norfolk, Va. Shredded pork BBQ with cole slaw on top. MMMMMMM. Pass the Tobasco!

Yep! That's it. My folks live down that way. The limeade is great too.

Barry

[funneman]

Anyone ever visit this landmark adjacent to Georgia Tech? The greasyest fries, the nastiest hotdogs, the poorest service and worst atmosphere!

As Yogi Berra would say "No one ever goes there, the place is always too crowded!"

[Salv]

A few original diners have been imported into the UK and are still in use.

This one was originally known as the Riverside Diner, and was located on the banks of the Susquehanna River, just north of Harrisburg, PA.

http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/Diner/DSCN0644.jpg

It was moved to London in the early 90s after a complete refurbishment, and it was in Covent Garden for a few years. It was put into storage when the site it was on was due to be redeveloped, and it finally ended up in a garden centre in Ashford, Kent, to the south-east of London.

There are some photos of the interior here. (http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/PhotoAlbum17.html)


This second diner was bought by the same company that bought the Riverview. As far as I know it was originally in Jersey and came to London just after the Riverview. It was first situated near Liverpool Street railway station, then moved 400 yards into the Spitalfields Market, then finally moved again to its present site at Trinity Buoy Wharf, directly across the River Thames from the Milennium Dome:

http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/2006-04-23%2003.52.24%20-0700/Image-DC660278D2B611DA.jpg

Interior photos here. (http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/PhotoAlbum19.html)

The company that owned these two had a third diner, which they put up in Golders Green in north London. That one was also moved some years ago, but I haven't managed to track it down.

[Dinerman]

I'm a diner enthusiast. I write for a magazine about diners. I've been to almost 200 of them, and I'm only 15! I can look at a diner, and name which company manufactured it, the year (give or take a couple), and any modification that has been done to it.

For example... the red Fatboys is a late 1950's worcester diner
The blue and cream is an early 1940's O'Mahony
and the welcome diner is a late '40's Valentine.

can you guess why I'm Dinerman?

sorry, I'm obsessive, but that's just who I am.:p

you want to see more? go to roadsideonline.com
that's the magazine's website. I've got some stuff (reviews, art) at the link below.

[Salv]

Hi Dinerman - thanks for dating Fatboy's, there's very little information available at the diner itself, apart from the Worcester name on the original clock above the grill.

I bought an original postcard like this one of the Riverview Diner on eBay recently:
http://www.oh-diners.com/postcards/pcimages/riverview.jpg
which I'll scan and print a copy of to give to the current owners.

There's another diner in London, but it's a new build in the classic style, and known as Starvin' Marvins
http://www.perivale.co.uk/images/starvin-marvins-448-336.jpg

There's another thread (http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?t=7586)in the Lounge with some photos I took in Florida while on holiday a couple of years ago of the abandoned Pelican Diner, and the new built Starlite Diner. These are within a mile of each other in St Petersburg - have you been down that way?

[Dinerman]

Hi Dinerman - thanks for dating Fatboy's, there's very little information available at the diner itself, apart from the Worcester name on the original clock above the grill.

It still has the original clock? You don't see that much. If they've ever been abandoned for any length of time, the clock tends to be one of the first things to go. I guess it could be also because old clocks break.

There's another diner in London, but it's a new build in the classic style, and known as Starvin' Marvins

That's built by DinerMite out of GA. I'm not a huge fan of that style, a little too retro for my blood, but to each their own.

There's another thread in the Lounge with some photos I took in Florida while on holiday a couple of years ago of the abandoned Pelican Diner, and the new built Starlite Diner. These are within a mile of each other in St Petersburg - have you been down that way?

" haven't travelled in the US as much as I want, but I always consult Diner City and Roadside Online before I go. "

Hey- that's me!


No, I've never been that way, but It's a shame to see those pictures. They're great shots of the diner, but it's always sad to see one bite the dust.
Thanks for the tips!

[Dinerman]

sorry- one more thing. do you know the addresses of any of the diners in the London area? We'd like to know or the magazine.

[Matt Deckard]

Nice to see you online Dinerman. We'll have to go eat sometime.

[Salv]

sorry- one more thing. do you know the addresses of any of the diners in the London area? We'd like to know or the magazine.

Sure - the Riverview Diner is at:
Bybrook Barn Garden Centre,
Canterbury Road,
Kennington,
Ashford, Kent TN24 9JZ
This is about 50 miles south-east of London - there's a map showing the location of Ashford here (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=600000&Y=150000&width=700&height=400&gride=601406&gridn=143757&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=pc&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=TN249JZ&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=1&scale=1000000) and the garden centre has a page about the diner (http://www.bybrook-barn.co.uk/riverview_diner.htm) on its website.

Fatboy's (http://www.fatboysdiner.co.uk/) is at:
Trinity Bouy Wharf,
64 Orchard Place,
London, E14 OJW
This is about 5 miles east of London's West End (Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Soho etc.) - map here (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=537500&Y=180000&width=700&height=400&gride=539416&gridn=180796&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=pc&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=1&scale=100000) - the red circle shows the diner's location.

Starvin' Marvins (http://www.starvinmarvins.co.uk/site.asp) is at:
BP Service Station,
Central Parade,
Western Ave,
Greenford UB6
This is about 8 miles west of the West End - map here (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=515000&Y=180000&width=700&height=400&gride=516324&gridn=182922&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=pc&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=UB68TF&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=0&scale=100000&right.x=5&right.y=141).

[Matt Deckard]

I ate at the Pacific Dining car last week with MK. Quite a snazzy joint with well made steaks and waiters dressed to serve the elite.

The bread just kept coming.

[carebear]

When you're in Anchorage, you'll need to stop at:

The Lucky Wishbone (open since '56) for Burgers, fried chicken and malts.

-or-

The Arctic Roadrunner (since the '60's) for burgers, onion rings and great shakes.

-or-

The White Spot (another older one) originally a very 50's-60's lunch counter, it's moved a couple times just in my 35 years but the burgers are still great.

If I can find my patch cord, I'll get some pictures. Only the 'Bone really still has that vintage look to my eyes. (Anchorage being so young and the '64 earthquake causing such damage)

We've got one of the few remaining Art Deco theatres in the country though (4th Avenue Theatre) and some original townsite buildings.

Not a lot of vintage to be found....

[raiderrescuer]

From the Diner at the Oregon Cave Chateau:

http://www.users.qwest.net/~martinmichael4/images/MilkAd_Small.jpg

[ledsled]

I have not read all the posts in this thread, so my apologies if this has been mentioned already.

I was very saddened to hear the news earlier this week that O'Rourkes Diner in Middletown CT burned down. From the looks of it, the stainless steel shell is still there, but the guts of the building are gone. I am not sure how many generations of O'Rourkes have run it, but since I have gone there the owner is Brian, who is working the grill EVERY day. I think he got the business from his uncle, but might be wrong about that detail. Brian has that shaved yesterday, got up at 4:00AM this morning kinda look to him... a bit ashen, but right where he belongs in his life's plan.

O'Rourkes is (was?) are really SMALL diner, like a quarter size.... sitting next to the railroad tracks on the main street of Middletown, across the street from a huge brick church and by a rotary leading to a big old bridge. You could feel like you were in the 30's/40's without even going into the diner. While we in the northeast do not have the bragging rights you southwesterners do with route 66, his diner sits along the CT version of route 66. Lots of motorcycles enjoy cruising that stretch of road on warm Sundays.

I was always fascinated by the patrons, equally split between street characters (a shelter was nearby), academic professors and student from Weslyan University, and the occasional (but consistent) psychiatric patient recently released from a state hospital to a halfway house.

To Brian's creative credit, he had TWO menu's.... he literally printed two menu's! One was the regular greasy-spoon affair, and the other was his own diner gourmet creations. It was very clever how he appeased the "academics "and the "streets" at the same time. He enjoyed making various breads (always an Irish soda bread on hand). The waitress would bring a plate of samples while you waited to place your order. The loaves of his creations would be stacked up near the register, luring you as you had cash in hand to pay your bill.

I hope Brian O-Rourke will be able to rebuild. The diner will never be the same. I don't know how he could recreate the decades of dents, scratches, layers of paint, carved initials, etc. I hope he rebuilds, so he can continue to create the amazing food and Tom Waite's sort of atmosphere that he was so successful with before.

[Dinerman]

yeah.
O'Rourke's was one of, if not the oldest diner built by the Mountain View Diner Company.
And it looks like they're going to rebuild! The exterior is likely saveable, so that's good.
And if you want to read about it, talk about it, or see some first hand pictures, go to roadsideonline.com

[ledsled]

Thanks for the link Dinerman. I can quickly see that Brian has quite a following! I hope he can rebuild, and somehow make his new diner look old....

I usually have my birthday breakfast at O'Rourkes. I missed it this year. Damn. It feels like I never had a chance to say goodbye to a good friend. Hope I'll get my second chance.

[Lincsong]

I think it was in St. Pete's Beach, FL that I saw one of those old diners that was built inside a trolley car. lol lol

[ledsled]

Speaking of diners made out of trolley cars, have any loungers eaten at the diner in Baker City, Oregon that was made out of a Railroad car? I love that town!

[Salv]

I think it was in St. Pete's Beach, FL that I saw one of those old diners that was built inside a trolley car. lol lol

Was it the Pelican Diner?

http://www.dinercity.com/flDiner/pelicanExtM.jpg

Last time I was there (May 2004) it was locked up and for sale. I put some photos of the interior in this thread. (http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?t=7586&highlight=riverview)

[Dinerman]

I'm sorry for this rant- but 99 percent of diners were not and are not trolley cars or railroad cars.
Just like automobiles- they were built in plants devoted to building diners.
I'll just rattle off the names of a few builders
silk city
mountain view
kullman
deraffelle
fodero
the list goes on, though less than 5 are left in business today.

I just thought I'd take a bit of time to tell you all.

I'm off to NJ for a diner trip tomorrow.
wish me luck

[carebear]

Were they built in the factory as diners but using the same forms as the trolleys and such?

Like the purpose built motorhomes built on generic bus chassis and bodies?

[Dinerman]

nope-
a diner was built strictly as a diner

A good deal were custom built for specific customers, though you could get an off the rack model for cheaper.

they had nothing to do with trolleys or railcars. the two weren't built by the same companies.
designs change company to company and builder to builder.
they were a direct decendent of horse drawn lunch wagons (similar to today's hot dog carts).
Over time these humble carts grew larger, and lost their wheels. More and more companies were started.
Materials shifted from painted wood to porcelain enamel then to stainless then to stone, and finally back to stainless.

Monitor roofs and barrel roofs were popular to early diners, making them easily confused with train cars and trolleys to the untrained eye. Later, more curvy roofs were employed, as were hidden roofs.

Diners were either shipped whole on trucks, or, depending on their size, split into sections, shipped and reassembled.

It was a large industry, but with fast food and the like, it's dwindled, with only a handfull of builders still left today.

[ledsled]

Once I figure out how to post pictures here, and if I can find the picture of the Baker City diner, I will show you that they used a railroad car as a basis to construct it. If my memory serves me right (that's always up for debate), the diner is sort of V-shaped. I think they cut a railroad car in half, and then built the connecting joint themselves. While I agree with Dinerman's main point about diners being made as diners, I stick to this particular one in Baker City starting out on the railroad. ;)

[McPeppers]

Most Diners were built to be just diners <---fact.

However throughout history several "converts" have been discovered. Old shells from trolley's have been converted, the hulls of old airplanes and of old boats (not ships... the debate on the difference between a boat and a ship is a long and heated one. For most purposes this line is used, "All ships are boats but not all boats are ships. The difference is that ships can carry a boat somewhere in or upon it, while a boat cannot carry a ship"),Old Railroad dining and passenger cars have been converted aswell.

Personally I like those for their uniqueness.

[Dinerman]

but there were so few of them converted, and even fewer left...

Personally- I've been to about 200 diners in the past 2 years. Of those, only one has been a interurban convert. One used as the kitchen- the other used as the counter area. That one was in nashville.

[McPeppers]

Well they are an exception, not the rule ^_-

[Dinerman]

Here was my dinering today.
we went to NJ for the Diner day at the Bay way diner.

Breakfast at the elgin diner in Camden, NJ

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5077.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5077.jpg)

stopped at this former white tower

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5097.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5097.jpg)

We went to the club diner about a year ago. since then, they'veremodeled it into this. It's just sad looking.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5110.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5110.jpg)

The main event was held here- at the bay way diner in Linden, NJ
I ate a texas weiner platter.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5116.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5116.jpg)

2 hamburgers at the white diamond in Linden, NJ

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5150.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5150.jpg)

the white rose in Linden, NJ

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5161.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5161.jpg)

The deepwater diner in Carney's Point, NJ

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5173.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5173.jpg)

there's a mid '40's diner built by silk city under all that porch

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5179.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5179.jpg)
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_5181.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_5181.jpg)

[McPeppers]

Sweet hehe :)

[ledsled]

Hey Dinerman, I see you made it up to NJ. If you ever make it further north along I-84 in CT, there's a very old little diner in Sandy Hook, CT. It's less than a mile off the Newtown exit. Don't get mixed up with the new, flashy Blue Colony diner. Oh, no, no, no. Go down the hill to Sandy Hook and it's sits right next to the road. I don't recall what they call it now (Sandy Hook Diner? Teddy Bear diner?). I do not think there's any metal. It did begin it's life as a diner, though (probably in Danbury), and then got connected to an old house. Maybe it's listed on you website. Sorry to say I have not searched for it. I just saw you were in Jersey, so thought I could entice you to continue up north a bit. If you do, let me know!

Back to the Baker City diner, I've emailed a friend that lives there. His computer is forever crashing, and he rarely checks it.... but I've put in a request for him to confirm what I think is the origin of that diner. Meanwhile, I'll tear my house apart looking for the photos of it! lol

[Dinerman]

yeah- I've been to the Sandy hook diner. It's a very rare '20's diner built by the Tierney company. Great food, and it's just such a slice of history.

Yesterday, we hit up a diner in Kennett Square, PA. It got flooded out a little while ago, and is now closed. That diner is a 1920's O'Mahony or maybe also a tierney. It's hard to tell with these older diners- they copied each other's designs, and with the state of unoriginally of most of them, it's difficult to tell much.

anyway- here's the picture of it.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_8686.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_8686.jpg)

and this is what it would have originally looked like

http://www.geocities.com/cornwallace55/dpics/towanda1.JPG

[Vladimir Berkov]

Growing up in New Jersey going to the diner was a common occurance. However, living in Texas they are conspicuously absent. The only "diners" are really either cafes/lunchcounters or retro chain places like Johnny Rocket's.

[Dinerman]

Looks like there are still a few real diners in Texas.
you've got Hullabaloo's in Wellborn, TX http://www.hullabaloos.net/wellborndiner.html

you've got a '50's diner graft of two diners in Wichita Falls. Tose are collectively known as the pumpjack diner.

Dallas has Theo's diner
Glenrio has the now abandoned Little Juarez diner.

There are a good many of others, but they are new "fake" diners.

none of these are anywhere near you, so it doesn't really matter anyways. Keep them in mind if you do any traveling though.

[Sweet Leilani]

and this is what it would have originally looked like

http://www.geocities.com/cornwallace55/dpics/towanda1.JPG
http://www.geocities.com/cornwallace55/dpics/towanda1.JPG

Dinerman, have you ever been to that diner in Towanda? I drive by it all the time on my way to my inlaws, but it's always too late (I think they are only open breakfast & lunch). I will be there for a week starting Oct. 7, so I may have a chance to stop in. It's now attached to the bldg. next door, so I guess business is pretty good.

[Dinerman]

that's one of the diners on my short list of places to visit. Once I get my licence- I'm there.

Before it was restored, that place was the definition of dump. From the pictures I've seen, it looks exactly like it would've the day it came from the factory. Looked like http://www.dinercity.com/paDiner/jerrysExtM.jpg
sad, huh.
And now it is the sparkling beaury in that other picture.
I've only heard good things about the food.

[Sweet Leilani]

Yes, it looks so new I wasn't sure it was actually old. I will try to make a point to go there & give you a report. Like you said, I have heard good things about the food- I understand the cook/owner is a real diner lover.

[ledsled]

http://www.geocities.com/cornwallace55/dpics/towanda1.JPG

Dinerman, have you ever been to that diner in Towanda? I drive by it all the time on my way to my inlaws, but it's always too late (I think they are only open breakfast & lunch). I will be there for a week starting Oct. 7, so I may have a chance to stop in. It's now attached to the bldg. next door, so I guess business is pretty good.


This Red Rose diner looks like a larger (and restored) version of the Sandy Hook diner.

[Dinerman]

yeah- That's pretty close to what the sandy hook would've looked like as well.

[panamag8or]

If you're ever in Gainesville, FL, there are two places downtown that can't be missed. One is Wise's Drug store, where they have a lunch counter/soda fountain that makes great lunches and sandwiches. They have been open since the '50's. The other is Louis' Lunch, a little burger place that has been open since the 20's. I try to hit both when I make it down there.

Here in Panama City, they have done their best to erase all traces of anything vintage, from hotels to amusement parks and restaurants. However, there is a place on old hwy 98 (now business 98) near downtown called Jimmy's, that has been around since 1946. Lots of great memoribilia on the wall, including old newspaper ads. Over one table is a page from the "Carhop's rules" book. No gum, tardiness costs you .25, etc... It makes for great reading while chowing down on a burger or shrimp basket.

[fortworthgal]

Looks like there are still a few real diners in Texas.
you've got Hullabaloo's in Wellborn, TX http://www.hullabaloos.net/wellborndiner.html

none of these are anywhere near you, so it doesn't really matter anyways. Keep them in mind if you do any traveling though.

Actually, Wellborn looks to be just outside of Bryan-College Station. That's not *too* much of a hike, I guess. I'll make it a point to try to get by there when we're in that vicinity next March.

There are a few lunch counters around here, but no true diners so to speak. I'll throw in my usual pitch for the Airport Diner at the Hangar Hotel in Fredericksburg - it is new, but the interior looks almost identical to the photos of the Wellborn diner. Fabulous food, too.

[fortworthgal]

I also work at the neatest vintage soda fountain--it's called MacAlpine's and was built in 1928. It housed a pharmacy until 1992, and it is the oldest continuously operating soda fountain in the southwest. Wayne Newton and his brother, who lived in one of the surrounding neighborhoods, used to come and sit at the counter. The food is top-notch home-style cooking, and they have and use a lot of the original equipment (for example, the shake machines are from the 40s.) Also, I have met so many people who either worked at the fountain when they were teenagers, or remember it as *the* high school hangout. Once, a gentleman came in and softly told me that he had worked here when was 16--in 1940.
Although we don?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢t have official uniforms (yet), I always dress vintage. I have the cutest green and white striped day dress that matches the d?ɬ©cor and makes a perfect uniform. I wear a 1940s waitress apron, style my hair in big rolls, and even wear a cap. I find that customers love the look, and I often have people ask for me when I am not there. About once a month, tourists ask to take my picture! I'll try to a post of photo of me in waitress mode.

I hope you can find a photo of yourself in "waitress mode" because I would love to see that! That place is fantastic, and it sounds like you fit right in. What a cool place to work!

[Dinerman]

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_GoldSkillet3Large.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/GoldSkillet3Large.jpg)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_GoldSkillet2Large.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/GoldSkillet2Large.jpg)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_GoldSkillet1Large.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/GoldSkillet1Large.jpg)

and here's the message that went along with them.

I found 3 pictures of that diner in Baker City, Oregon. Once you see it, I think you will agree that it's one of those "homemade" diners... not from a factory, but the final product looks great.

I took those pictures in June, 2001. As I recall, the interior of the diner was more spacious than I anticipated. The food was good too. It's a beautiful part of the country if you ever get out there. Be sure to stay in the Geiser Grand Hotel. You'll not regret it. (They have a website too if you want to check them out).

[airfrogusmc]

In Fall River Mass.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_9379.jpg

[Dinerman]

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_2311.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_2311.jpg)


this is a painting I finished this weekend. Not the best photo of it, but you can tell what it's like.

[jitterbugdoll]

I hope you can find a photo of yourself in "waitress mode" because I would love to see that! That place is fantastic, and it sounds like you fit right in. What a cool place to work!

I found one--I had forgotten that a local reporter took my picture for an article on MacAlpine's a few months ago :)

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d706b3127cce8df8b9449d2900000016108AatmbRq2ctP

[Tony in Tarzana]

Zowie! Chocolate malted please! :)

[Mr. Sable]

This diner is a block from my apartment. One of the reasons I chose to live where I did. That and the Casablanca Video store.


http://static.flickr.com/95/248794809_62301e55e8.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/96/248004188_4087ff9ab4.jpg
"After Hours"

http://static.flickr.com/82/248004189_ef0c3e1809.jpg
"After Hours 2"

http://static.flickr.com/96/220701455_25c831db33.jpg

http://www.pix8.net/pro/pic/72173704C/564676.jpg

*I shot all these stills but the one I'm in.

A 1930's diner was being demolished, so these guys salvaged EVERYTHING beforehand and put it in a modern building exactly as it was in the old location. I have permission to shoot a scene for my film noir inside.
The food is excellent there. They don't serve fries, only hash browns... and you get a Double Bubble gum with your bill.

There's another diner in my town owned by the same folks, all original in the original location. It's 3:20am, so the name of it eludes me, but those with kids might recognize it from the Chevy Chase movie "Snow day". It's a hole-in-the-wall place. You have to walk down the aisle single file and more or less sideways to get past the bar/counter out the front door.

[Mr. Sable]

"The Galaxie" was the name I couldn't think of:


http://static.flickr.com/20/70802317_5aaa64d317.jpg

I'm not sure who took this photo, but it's a good one.

[Mr. Sable]

I took these pix of the Galaxie on my way home from work today:


http://static.flickr.com/94/255337995_36a37e246b.jpg
the front.

http://static.flickr.com/112/255337994_a85ad9d67a.jpg
It's hard to tell from this 'through the venitian blinds' shot, but I think the kitchen is bigger than the dining section. You can sort of tell the proportions looking at the back wall there. Half the space is kitchen, the other is dining/aisle/bar allcrammedtogether.


http://static.flickr.com/103/255355906_09b2e258f8.jpg

[Dinerman]

is that a barrel roof I see back there in the kitchen?

[Mr. Sable]

I'm not sure. Should I take more photos?

[Dinerman]

I dunno. I mean- I know it's in a storefront and all, built on site and the like, but you just don't see curved rooflines like that in places much.

my guess is they just really did their research.

[Mr. Sable]

That particular one, though, has been there about 50 years. The other one, only maybe six.

[Dinerman]

in any event- they both look really nifty. What kind of crowd seems to frequent them? Trendy? Just locals?

[Mr. Sable]

The Belmont is a cross-section - mostly locals. There's a half-block line up for this place every Saturday and Sunday from 8am til about 2 - which is when I roll in usually.

The Galaxie attracts the yuppie crowd who don't mind paying four bucks for a milkshake. I've never been inside. Both these places close at 4pm daily, and I can't usually get to the Galaxie before they lock up.

[Dinerman]

They're owned by the same folks, aren't they?

[Mr. Sable]

Indeed.

[Dinerman]

not exactly a diner- but I thought I'd share.
This used to be a white tower, an old burger chain. There's a pic of it back in the day, and a pic of it now. Pretty awful.
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_oldwhitetower1.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/oldwhitetower1.jpg)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_3498.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_3498.jpg)

[Mr. Lucky]

Don't know if anyone has shown this -
http://www.taghkanicdiner.com/TaghDinr.jpg

Off the Taconic Parkway in Upstate New York. One of my favorites.

[Dinerman]

Nice lookin' Mt. View diner there.

I went on a short run to Baltimore today. Hit the Hollywood diner for lunch. This is the diner they shot the movie "Diner" in. It's moved since then, and the interior's changed some, but it's a cool diner nonetheless.
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_4358.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_4358.jpg)

[Dinerman]

I also hit the State diner up in Baltimore.
I had seen a news story about it closing about a week ago. That had been the first I'd heard of it, and even though it's closed, I thought it might be good to visit. (You knever know if these places will ever reopen when they close).

The outside has been remodeled beyond recognition, except maybe for the window size and spacing.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_4382.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_4382.jpg)

Over the years, a lot has changed; it has newer stools, new booths, a TV, speakers, and a lot of homedone repairs. The interior isn't in particularly great shape, but it's unmistakeably a diner built by the silk city company of Patterson, NJ. The beautiful original lines show through. This picture was taken through the window.


http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/th_IMG_4377.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_4377.jpg)

[Dinerman]

If you want- the news story's here (http://wjz.com/local/local_story_283133241.html).

[Salv]

Spencer - or anyone else - have you been to the Jackson Hole diner in Queens, NY? This is the diner that was in Goodfellas - I'll be in NY for a few days some time next year and it's on my list of places to visit, if I have enough time. Is it worth a trip out to Queens?

http://www.movie-locations.com/movies/g/goodfellas_airline.jpg

[Dinerman]

I've never been there myself, unfortunately.

from what i've read about it, it's been "retrofied". Coke signs, etc. Kind of turned into a caracature of itself on the inside. The food is supposed to only be "okay"

http://www.roadsidefans.com/queens.html

has some of the diners of qyeens if you want them.

also check out
http://www.dinercity.com/nyDiner/nycDiners.html

[Salv]

I probably won't bother with the Jackson Hole diner then, thanks for the heads-up.

[The Captain]

Back in the spring of '01, as some of you know, I worked on the film, The Majestic. I recently snatched a few stills out of a digital video I shot of the construction of the diner, the theater and the court house. The diner was great! Every detail was as authentic as possible (even the menus were printed with the real '51 prices!)Please excuse the quality of the images.

http://i.pbase.com/o5/63/463863/1/68931448.6RNAq4hQ.TheDiner318015.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/o5/63/463863/1/68931565.qVgrSO36.TheDiner318016.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/o5/63/463863/1/68931658.NuRbePoJ.TheDiner318017.jpg

[Harp]

Please don't say the studio later tore this diner down....

[The Captain]

Harp, I am sorry to say that Mable's Diner is just a new concrete slab in front of a rundown, old service station. As it was not built to code and was never meant to last past the wrap of the film, it was demolished, much to the sadness of many. It would have been a good addition to 'The Victorian Village" of Ferndale, CA.

http://i.pbase.com/o5/63/463863/1/68931223.Wvp2Y5Ec.TheDiner318012.jpg

[The Captain]

I should have mentioned that the woman in the previous picture is a "set decorator". The man is a production paramedic. Here is the sign that stood in front of the diner.

http://i.pbase.com/o5/63/463863/1/68931315.TBLaKDME.TheDiner318014.jpg

[Harp]

Ahh nuts.... Too bad the town and studio could not reach
some agreement on code and post-production ownership transfer,
whatever... line up a potential buyer etc., what a waste.:mad:

[The Captain]

Harp, they not only removed every vestige of the diner, but the theater was demolished, too. Where it stood is now, once again, the city public parking lot. I will post a few images of the theater in another thread.

[Mr. 'H']

What a shame Captain!

[Dinerman]

That diner is so wrong...
It's got details from just about every diner manufacturer, all crammed together in a way that just doesn't work. It's like someone saw a picture of a '50's paramount diner, and built the set from the memory of that picture, but ignoring all the subtle class of the original.
The exterior looks like a '50's diner, the interior looks late '30's. It's so full of incongruities.

If you aren't a diner person, it would look right, just as if you weren't a hat person, a 20 dollar wool felt would look right.

I'm sorry to be such a purist and a diner snob, but how hard would it have been to have done it right?

[Dinerman]

Well-This wednesday, I'm going off on yet another trip. This time to Winchester, VA for some tiny burgers at the snow white grill and the piccadilly grill. The Piccadilly was a real diner built back in the '20's. I'll have to see if the diner is still there, just hidden, or if it's a newer (1950's) storefront building. Also going to hit the triangle diner, the Rainbow diner, and the Amherst diner. It's going to be a good day.

[Dinerman]

http://thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?t=13194

the red rose thread

[Solid Citizen]

South Beach, Miami Florida about a month ago!



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d73/pthorson/IMG_0226.jpg


SC ;)

[Dinerman]

that's beautiful.
The burnished circles on the skins of some paramounts is enough to make your jaw drop. It's just so cool and classy. You also gotta love the curves on the roofline.

[fortworthgal]

you've got a '50's diner graft of two diners in Wichita Falls. Tose are collectively known as the pumpjack diner.

I make it up to the Wichita Falls area pretty frequently. I'll try to visit the Pumpjack next time I'm up that way, and take photos.

[Dinerman]

some shots from the most recent diner trip.

Amherst diner exterior

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_4882.jpg

[Dinerman]

The Snow White Grill in Winchester. Not technically a diner- but pretty dang cool, and it had sliders, so I was happy.
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_4917.jpg
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_4912.jpg

[Wild Root]

South Beach, Miami Florida about a month ago!



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d73/pthorson/IMG_0226.jpg


SC ;)

Now that's sweet! I love the detail on it... wonder what the inside is like!

=WR=

[Dinerman]

not my pic- but it shows the interior.http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/eleventhStreetIntM.jpg

[Wild Root]

Now, that's what I'm talking about!!! Look at those old light fixtures! PERFECT!!!

I'd eat there any time if I lived down that way!

Thanks!

=WR=

[Dinerman]

There was just a show on the food network about diners, drive ins and dives, and guess who was in a few of the shots? Me.

They did some of the filming at the Bayway diner up in Linden, and they zoomed in on me, maybe it had something to do with the hat, or with the fact that I was stuffing myself with a chili dog. Anyway- I thought it was pretty cool.

[Steve]

We have a great diner down here in Pensacola, the Scenic 90 Cafe (http://www.filmnorthflorida.com/locations/Scenic-Highway:-Scenic-90-Cafe/).

It's one of my favorite places to eat. It always makes me think of the diner scenes in Back to the Future.

[Mr. Sable]

There was just a show on the food network about diners, drive ins and dives, and guess who was in a few of the shots? Me.

That is pretty cool! Congrats! I hope you recorded it!

[Dinerman]

Thanks.
I did record it, and although I was only on for a second or two, I thought it was pretty cool.

[Dinerman]

I make it up to the Wichita Falls area pretty frequently. I'll try to visit the Pumpjack next time I'm up that way, and take photos.

too late. CLOSED.
http://www.timesrecordnews.com/trn/local_news/article/0,1891,TRN_5784_5123549,00.html

[Dinerman]

http://www.roadsideonline.com/index.php
It's also the 2nd story down on roadside.

[Dinerman]

Well- It looks like the Farmington Diner in Farmington, Maine stands in the way of another Rite-Aid.

This story from the Morning Sentinel (http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/3408184.html)


FARMINGTON -- Rite-Aid is reportedly eying several properties in Farmington to replace its Wilton Road store in West Farmington.

The three businesses in question are the now-vacant Quiznos Subs, that owners Robert Tate and Steve Field closed only months after opening, the Farmington Diner and the C.N. Brown Co. gas station.

Repeated attempts to reach the diner's owner, Brian Wood, were unsuccessful and calls to C.N. Brown's central office in South Paris were not returned.

The Farmington Diner is the oldest store along the strip, having been built in the 1950's from an railroad dining car. It caters to a loyal clientele who enjoy the affordable prices and generous portions.

the diner is actually a slightly remodeled late '40's /early '50's Mt. View, not a railroad dining car. The cowcatcher corners give away the manufacturer.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/farmington1.jpg

[texasgirl]

We were recently in Mason City, Iowa and we had the opportunity to eat at a Valentine diner. I had never heard of one, but it was great! I didn't have my camera, but I found a picture online of it, see below. The inside just had 8 barstools and a counter. And the breakfast was delicious!

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k260/texasgirl_333/suzieQExt.jpg

This has a virtual tour- you can see how tiny it is inside
http://www.kshs.org/diners/USA/iowa/suzieq.htm


Valentine Diners began their nearly forty-year career in Wichita, Kansas--an idea born of the Great Depression. They were constructed as eight-to-ten-seat diners that one or two people could operate. If you were good at it--if you served good food at a fair price and kept your customers happy--you could make a successful business of a Valentine. In an industry where nearly all major diner manufacturers were on the East Coast, the Kansas creation managed to ship its little pre-fabs all across the country. Valentines could be found along major highways to attract travelers, in industrial areas to attract workers, and in small towns where they might be one of the only (if not the only) restaurants available.

[Dinerman]

Gotta love those valentines.

[dhermann1]

I posted this on The Steamer Trunk, but I thought I'd share it here also. We were up the Hudson River last weekend, and found this near perfect specimen in Peekskill. The Center Diner, built in 1938.
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s268/dhermann1/Westchester%20trip/Centerdiner.jpg
And the interior.
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s268/dhermann1/Westchester%20trip/CenterDinerinterior.jpg

[Jack Scorpion]

Still partial to Santa Monica's Rae's. If it weren't too busy on weekend mornings, I'd call it an oasis.

[Scuffy]

Howdy all! I happened to come across this thread while I checked in and figured I'd leave my 2 cents! Although it's on the other side of the state from me I remembered a place called "Lester's" Diner. After a quick search I found that they are still open. From what I recall it had great food. If anyone is near Bryan, Ohio make sure you check it out!!

I tried to upload a pic from both my PC and the site and both failed so here's the link to their site.

http://www.lestersonline.com/

Also! If anyone knows of anything near Cleveland, Erie or Pittsburge and you'd like to get together- let's do it! I'd love to bring the Graflex or one of my other camera's along and have a bit of fun!! :D

Scuffy

[dhermann1]

Main Diner, in Westfield NY. about 40 miles east of Erie, is a great little place. It's thoroughly, but nicely, 50's-ized. I try to get there at least once a year when I'm in the area.
Here's a link with info on it and other diners in the region:
http://www.geocities.com/cornwallace55/buff.html

[Dinerman]

I second that opinion of the Main. Great little '20's place. Not very much left that's original, (though you can still see the wheelwells from the wagon wheels it was brought to the site on) but it's got a great small town diner vibe. Nice town, as well. Some great antique shops.
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_0861.jpg

[Mr. K.L.Bowers]

We had lunch here last week. Frost’s Diner in Warrenton VA. on Business US17.

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j100/canalboatman/Frostsdiner.jpg

[KittyT]

My boy and I went to the Agawam Diner in Rowley, MA this weekend. It's a 1954 Fodero. There's no shortage of great diners around MA, though most of them are Worcester dining cars, made an hour outside of Boston.

http://www.dinercity.com/maDiner/agawamExtM.jpg

The Rosebud, Worcester 1941, located in Davis Square, Somerville, MA. The best place for brunch, as they have a full bar.

http://www.dinercity.com/maDiner/rosebudExtM.jpg

Kelly's Diner, O'Mahoney 1948. Somerville, MA

http://www.dinercity.com/maDiner/kellysExtM.jpg

The Boulevard, my favorite place for a late night bite after a show in Worcester. Worcester #730 1936

http://www.dinercity.com/maDiner/boulevardExtM.jpg

The Miss Florence, in Western MA. Worcester, 1930s.

http://www.dinercity.com/maDiner/missFlorenceExtM.jpg

And my favorite diner ever, the Whately Diner (technically named the Fillin' Station) in Western MA, Kullman 1960. It's the first diner I ever remember going to, as a college student, as it's the only place around that area that's open 24 hours.

http://www.dinercity.com/maDiner/fillinStationExtM.jpg

For an interesting look at the history of diners (and an interesting piece of Massachusetts history), visit http://www.dinermuseum.org/dinerhistory.php For a photo guide to diners all over the country, visit http://www.dinercity.com/index.html

[Dinerman]

The Frost diner's a nice place. Good food, and pretty much original.

KittyT: Dont you love those old Worcesters?

And if you don't mind- I'll plug the new dinerfinder here
Go to roadsideonline.com (roadsideonline.com) and there's a link on the right hand side that says diner finder. You have to register to use it, but it's got close to every diner in the country listed. It's a great resource.

[Dinerman]

Tastee Diner Bethesda, MD A 1930s Jerry O'Mahony.
Very original with the exception of 70 years or paint on the exterior. I'd love to know what the enamel looks like under all that.
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_3904-1.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_3718.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j164/dinerman/IMG_3722.jpg

[KittyT]

And if you don't mind- I'll plug the new dinerfinder here
Go to roadsideonline.com (roadsideonline.com) and there's a link on the right hand side that says diner finder.

Thanks! I'm impressed that even Jonquille's (right near my house - a common breakfast spot for us on weekends, sadly in a poor state of repair) and Phyllis's (nearly invisible place I drove by a million times before I noticed it - haven't been yet) were included.

There are a lot of diners within close driving distance to me that I've been wanting to check out and the guide is super helpful! There are a few on there, I noticed, that don't have pictures and one (Buddy's) that's been completely overhauled on the outside. Are you interested in getting photos or updated photos for any of these diners, if I happen to take them?

[Dinerman]

Of course I'm interested. If you send them to me, I'll pop them off to Randy and they'll get edited in.

[Gingerella72]

And if you don't mind- I'll plug the new dinerfinder here
Go to roadsideonline.com (roadsideonline.com) and there's a link on the right hand side that says diner finder. You have to register to use it, but it's got close to every diner in the country listed. It's a great resource.

I'm green with envy for anyone that lives where these diners are in abundance! Heck, for anyone that even has only ONE! :rage: :p

There are several old "greasy spoons" and old small-town, non-chain eateries in my area, but nothing that has the classic building architecture and character of the classic diner in the photos above. That's what I get for living in Nebraska. [huh]

[lyburnum]

I guess it doesn't exactly classify as a 'diner' per se, as England doesn't exactly see many of those. But the sadest thing for me recently was the passing of the 'New Picadilly' in...erm... Picadilly. The landlord sold off the block of shops and restaurants to be knocked down and turned into a 'mixed use block' :mad:

http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5gLVFamzUElV0p2itHFn6Uxq-zJlg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/1414845518_b15051bc19.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/1413964323_4ae83f9d6f.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/1413951913_9ea47dc27f.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/1413951521_b58e3c3ab2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/IMG_3252.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/IMG_3255.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/IMG_3256.jpg

*sigh*

[imoldfashioned]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/1413964323_4ae83f9d6f.jpg

Great pictures all but I especially love the way this guy looks!

Such sad news about that "diner equivilent" closing.

[SamMarlowPI]

Great pictures all but I especially love the way this guy looks!

Such sad news about that "diner equivilent" closing.

looks like Buddy Holly lol lol

I'd sure like to find a diner like the one in "Road To Perdition" that Hanks and the kid stop in, or the one in "Forever Young" where Mel Gibson and his girl ate blueberry pie...

[dhermann1]

We met Salv when he was in NYC with his lovely family a few months ago. Had a great time, and what you say is totally correct, Paddy.
Re: The Piccadilly: I think it's mentioned previously in this thread. I think you should persuade the owner to sell the contents, maybe on auction, or preferably all together, so someone can recycle as much of the place as possible.

[imoldfashioned]

Hmm, I'll have to look up some photos of Salv...

[cookie]

I guess it doesn't exactly classify as a 'diner' per se, as England doesn't exactly see many of those. But the sadest thing for me recently was the passing of the 'New Picadilly' in...erm... Picadilly. The landlord sold off the block of shops and restaurants to be knocked down and turned into a 'mixed use block' :mad:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/IMG_3252.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/IMG_3255.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v15/Lyburnum/IMG_3256.jpg

*sigh*


Fantastic photos from a disappearing Britain...:rage: :rage: :( :( :eek: :eek:

[The real Henry]

When I see all these great pictures, I really start to miss Diners here in Germany. All you see in my region are modern bars and restaurants.


Regards,
Henrik

[dhermann1]

Henrik: I was in Munich in spring of 2004, and you may not have mid-century diners, but you certainly have great traditional German restaurants, like Hacker Haus and the Hofbrauhaus. I enjoyed myself immensely in those places. We have great big phoney "German" places, you have the real thing. Enjoy and support your authentic cultural heritage. Send us some pix of the authentic types of places in your country.

[Mike in Seattle]

The Frost diner's a nice place. Good food, and pretty much original.

KittyT: Dont you love those old Worcesters?

And if you don't mind- I'll plug the new dinerfinder here
Go to roadsideonline.com (roadsideonline.com) and there's a link on the right hand side that says diner finder. You have to register to use it, but it's got close to every diner in the country listed. It's a great resource.

That "Spencer's Roadside" guy looks awfully familiar for some reason...

[Larry C]

A few original diners have been imported into the UK and are still in use.

This one was originally known as the Riverside Diner, and was located on the banks of the Susquehanna River, just north of Harrisburg, PA.

http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/Diner/DSCN0644.jpg

It was moved to London in the early 90s after a complete refurbishment, and it was in Covent Garden for a few years. It was put into storage when the site it was on was due to be redeveloped, and it finally ended up in a garden centre in Ashford, Kent, to the south-east of London.

There are some photos of the interior here. (http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/PhotoAlbum17.html)


This second diner was bought by the same company that bought the Riverview. As far as I know it was originally in Jersey and came to London just after the Riverview. It was first situated near Liverpool Street railway station, then moved 400 yards into the Spitalfields Market, then finally moved again to its present site at Trinity Buoy Wharf, directly across the River Thames from the Milennium Dome:

http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/2006-04-23%2003.52.24%20-0700/Image-DC660278D2B611DA.jpg

Interior photos here. (http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/PhotoAlbum19.html)

The company that owned these two had a third diner, which they put up in Golders Green in north London. That one was also moved some years ago, but I haven't managed to track it down.

Just so you know, I use to be an occasional patron at the Riverview Diner when it was in Harrisburg, PA, also I have photos of it in Falmouth, Maine when it was being restored. The red colored Fat Boys was originally the Georgetown Diner of Georgetown, Massachusetts (Worcester Lunch Car # 849). I use to patronize this diner as well when it was called Randy's Roast Beef at the Georgetown location prior to it moving in the 1980's. It was in storage for 7 or 8 years before it was bought, restored and resold to go over to England.

[Dinerman]

Larry? That you?

[Salv]

I haven't checked this thread for a while so I missed this:


I guess it doesn't exactly classify as a 'diner' per se, as England doesn't exactly see many of those. But the sadest thing for me recently was the passing of the 'New Picadilly' in...erm... Picadilly. The landlord sold off the block of shops and restaurants to be knocked down and turned into a 'mixed use block' :mad:

<...snip some beautiful photos...>

*sigh*

Lovely photos lyburnum - did you take them?


My favourite 50's member on the Lounge, has still got to be Salv from London. He just oozes that 'cool' from 'that decade.' And would look GREAT sitting in an American diner.
We met Salv when he was in NYC with his lovely family a few months ago. Had a great time, and what you say is totally correct, Paddy.Thanks gents - you're both very kind :o


Just so you know, I use to be an occasional patron at the Riverview Diner when it was in Harrisburg, PA, also I have photos of it in Falmouth, Maine when it was being restored. The red colored Fat Boys was originally the Georgetown Diner of Georgetown, Massachusetts (Worcester Lunch Car # 849). I use to patronize this diner as well when it was called Randy's Roast Beef at the Georgetown location prior to it moving in the 1980's. It was in storage for 7 or 8 years before it was bought, restored and resold to go over to England.Thanks for posting this Larry. I like knowing the history of these diners, and it's great that you've actually been in them as well.

[Marlowe, P.]

if there is one i have a strong reccomendation for.. I mean the real deal man... the old scool look and the old school service... where some lady named Flo takes your order and tells you need a haircut... there a couple in Albany, NY that also offer the best cocktails you will ever drink in your life. But the best, man the creme d' la creme is the Little Gem in Syracuse, NY where the Greeks still own the diners and hire working class folks to run the tables, where smoking is still legal even though its an ill eagle, where its still under 4 bucks for 2 over ez eggs and homefries. 2 pieces of rye over buttered toast and coffee is included, the place you drive to after the bar or the morning after the bar. The place where the start of a seedy story starts and where most american novels should start.
I dont offer pictures as further encouragement to get there on your own. What other reason will you ever have to visit Syracuse, NY??

[Larry C]

Larry? That you?

Yeah, who else would it be!lol

[RockBottom]

A few original diners have been imported into the UK and are still in use.

This one was originally known as the Riverside Diner, and was located on the banks of the Susquehanna River, just north of Harrisburg, PA.

http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/Diner/DSCN0644.jpg

It was moved to London in the early 90s after a complete refurbishment, and it was in Covent Garden for a few years. It was put into storage when the site it was on was due to be redeveloped, and it finally ended up in a garden centre in Ashford, Kent, to the south-east of London.

There are some photos of the interior here. (http://homepage.mac.com/salvmac/PhotoAlbum17.html)




Ironically, there's a similar one which is still on the Susquehanna River just north of Harrisburg, PA. That's not far from me and I drive the route often, to fish or visit my kid at college.

[Sweet Leilani]

Are you talking about the Bluebird? I haven't eaten there in a couple of years, but I do drive by it occasionally; as of last summer it was still going strong.

[Dinerman]

Yeah, who else would it be!lol

Figured you'd show up here eventually.

Spencer

[RockBottom]

Are you talking about the Bluebird? I haven't eaten there in a couple of years, but I do drive by it occasionally; as of last summer it was still going strong.


I'm not sure of the name--it's on 11/15 north of Marysville.

[Dinerman]

The West Shore Diner of Lemoyne, PA. One of my personal favorites. Hit it over winter break.
It's a super rare early '30s Silk City.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_4088-1.jpg

[Dinerman]

Kim's classic diner. Ohio. 1946.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_0223.jpg
Summit Diner. Pennsylvania.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_0166.jpg
Summit Diner Interior after an unfortunate recent remodel
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_0155.jpg
Not really a diner, but a cool roadside restaurant.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_0384.jpg

[mrswheats]

Dinerman, where is Kim's Classic Diner is located?
And thanks for posting so many great pictures, everyone!

[Dinerman]

It's in Sabina.

[mrswheats]

It's in Sabina.

Thanks a million! We may have to meander that way the next time we travel south to visit my sis-in-law in Cincinnati.

[Dinerman]

Thanks a million! We may have to meander that way the next time we travel south to visit my sis-in-law in Cincinnati.

It's definitely worth a stop. It was recently restored, and looks like it just rolled out of 1946, with the exception of some retro stuff that's been put up. Nothing major, though.
The owner of the place is one of the nicest you could care to meet, and the food is excellent.

[Dinerman]

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7864.jpg

[Dinerman]

Out in Omaha, NE

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/art/dinerstitch.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/art/IMG_5381.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/art/IMG_5382.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/art/IMG_5379.jpg

[Sweet Leilani]

http://www.agilitynut.com/07/5/valerio2.gif

I'm sure its not news to some of you, but I just want to lament the closing of one of my favorite diners, the Vale-Rio in Phoenixville, PA. I've eaten there whenever I'm in the neighborhood and it was just exactly what a diner should be.

It will be moved and supposedly re-opened, but I'm not holding my breath- the owner seems like a real jerk: the lot it sits on was sold to become a Walgreen's and a Starbucks- just what we need more of around here! :mad:

[Dinerman]

The bridge diner- A 1930s Silk City in Havre DeGrace, Maryland. The roof is much later.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_5824.jpg

A possible diner in Mass. If it is, it has been remodeled beyond identification as to manufacturer. Then again, it might not be a diner at all. The barrel roof and dimensions suggest it was at least inspired by one.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/delidiner.jpg
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_5851.jpg

This one is a '50s model made by Master, a small company, the product of wom not many survive. It has been integrated into the addition, and covered with a roof, and now serves as the restaurant for a small airport in Mass.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_5835.jpg
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_0613-1.jpg
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/flyindiner.jpg

The yankee Diner inc. , built by Worcester in 1939. It's in Charlton, Mass. Got stopped by a cop here.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_5863.jpg
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_5859.jpg

The A-1, a 1946 Worcester semi-streamliner in Gardiner, ME. The best food, and the most interesting food I've ever had at a diner. It's worth the drive.
The location is unusual, as it's perched on stilts next to a bridge.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_5972.jpg

[Story]

Brothers recreate World War II era diner






By Ronnie Roy
Thursday, April 10, 2008 2:53 PM CDT


If you'd like to travel back in time but don't have access to a time machine, step inside T. Alderson's Cities Service Diner in St. Charles. It's the next best thing.

The decor, the furniture, the menu, the candy counter, the soda fountain, the milk dispenser - all are carefully designed to evoke being in a 1940s diner.

"If you were to walk into a diner in 1945, these are the things you would see," said Dan "Jake" Jacobs, who opened the restaurant in February with his brother Rick. "Everything we've got, we tried to make it authentic, even down to the signage outside."The restaurant is named after Thorley Alderson, the brothers' grandfather, who owned a diner in St. Charles from 1946 through 1979.

http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2008/04/10/entertainment/sj2tn20080410-0411stc_diner0.ii1.txt

[Dinerman]

terrible picture- I was in a moving car at the time, but this is the Tastee Diner, a 1946 O'Mahony.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_6675.jpg

[59Lark]

I travel very little as i own a sewing machine shop attached to my home and work six days a week, not whining but one of my few pleasures is to take every bus trip to henry ford museum, greenfield that is offered and i love Lammy diner, a restored diner inside now there is no eating , but restored and period music, but as a person that is so sentimental as to cry during movies such as the majestic, and the forever young. I have too keep my self from crying as i sit alone in that diner with forties music playing. I have always felt that i didnt belong in this time and long for a different time, and the diner is a doorway to that time, but for someone who longs for a different era the diner is a timecapsule. I appreciate all this pictures of these diners and the information that has been put, i also saw the reference to the early wagon horse drawn lunchwagons such as the white owl lunch wagon they have at henry ford museum, that henry ford himself had lunch from on more that one occasion. Some dear friends opened up a diner restraunt in our downtown, in a old restraunt from the 1950s , they put in black and white tiles, and put in comfy booths, and filled it with memories , and now play fifites music and put on good food and you know for a place all the nay sayers told us couldnt fly, its straightened and flew right. Its the only place on the main drag , that isnt owned by greeks and its doing well and a lot of seniors eat there, no doubt reliving their teenage years . thank you for all the info. mikeh

[cookie]

"but as a person that is so sentimental as to cry during movies such as the majestic, and the forever young. I have too keep my self from crying as i sit alone in that diner with forties music playing. I have always felt that i didnt belong in this time and long for a different time"

[CaddyKid21]

I really love streamliners, so sleek and clean looking. I wonder what would happen in a hurricane, if it has no flat sides, could it survive one.

[Dinerman]

Hit this up over the weekend with some friends, after prom. Highlight of the night. I was the one with the camera, so no shots of me, unfortunately. '30s diner built by O'Mahony. Still very original. Very fun place to be late at night.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7055.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7054.jpg

[Sarge]

Cindy's Diner located in downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. Their motto is "Serving the whole world . . .15 at a time." Although only open till 2pm they serve about the best breakfast in town as well as burgers, fries and malts.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/cindyext-1.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/cindysint.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/cindyext.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/cindysnow.jpg

[Dinerman]

Nice looking little valentine you got there. Compact little things, aren't they?

[Sarge]

Another great diner, just up the road from here, is The South Side Soda Shop and Diner located in Goshen, IN. They serve homemade sandwiches, salads, desserts, and offer over fifty varieties of pie. They are best known for their famous Chili and Green Rivers.

Back in July it was featured on the Food Network show "Diner's, Drive-In's, and Dives".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=withX9C85A0

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/SouthSideDinerGoshenIndiana.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/SouthSide_1.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/SouthSide_2.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/SouthSide_3.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y246/jeffs46815/SouthSide_4.jpg

[CaddyKid21]

What type of diner was in the movie "Diner". Great movie.

[Dinerman]

That's a 1954 Mountain View. It's been moved and now sits in Baltimore, operating as the Hollywood Diner.

[Story]

Tom Waits: Eggs & Sausage
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_M5bK7RUmQ&feature=related

[David Conwill]

Another great diner, just up the road from here, is The South Side Soda Shop and Diner located in Goshen, IN...

That's about fifteen minutes from my wife's grandparents' house in Sturgis, MI. When we found out about it via Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives we declared that we won't go visit them again without checking it out.

-Dave

[Dinerman]

Hit up this one today, the Silver diner of Rockville. One of the first modern diners built in the old style. This one actually nailed the look pretty well. After this, they got a little cartoon-y.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7524.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7535.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7532.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7533.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7527.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_7528.jpg

[leaette]

We ate in this 1939 diner this past weekend. It's the Emerald Diner in Hubbard, Ohio. Great food and this diner is in great shape.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff033.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff024.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff023.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff022.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff021.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff025.jpg

[Mike in Seattle]

GREAT photos, gang!

[Dinerman]

That's a beauty. Don't you love the woodwork and the glass on these '30s ones.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x233/leaette/stuff033.jpg

[thebadmamajama]

AHH! The South Side Soda Shop is a dream! The great green, cream, and black Deco colors. It's fantastic. Thanks for posting it, Sarge!

[Dinerman]

The 29 diner in Fairfax, VA. Used to be part of the local Tastee Diner chain. The AC broke a little before we got there, but with the ceiling fans and a box fan at one end, it wasn't bad at all. The food at the 29 is fantastic, great juicy, melty cheeseburgers, crispy fries, and excellent rice pudding.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_1248.jpg

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/IMG_12431.jpg

[RetroToday]

Does anybody here know if this diner still exists in some form?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3526/3257878955_ed1d23251b.jpg

The diner on the cover of the album "Abandoned Luncheonette" was formerly the Rosedale Diner located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. It went out of business and was dumped in a small wooded area located along Route 724 in Kenilworth, PA, where this picture was taken. The diner was there for years until it was basically stripped apart in 1983 by people looking for souvenirs.

The remains were moved from the site shortly thereafter, but where? Just curious.

[Dinerman]

The true authority on this diner is Larry Cultrera, of the Diner Hotline (http://dinerhotline.wordpress.com/). You could probably contact him through his blog. As I understand it, there's nothing left.

This is what the Rosedale looked like when new.
http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/PhotoRosedale1.jpg

My blog has pictures of the (now abandoned) pizza place (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2009/01/30/abandoned-pizza-world/)that the owners of the Rosedale opened, which is situated across the street from the woods where the Rosedale sat when it was photographed for that album.


Does anybody here know if this diner still exists in some form?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3526/3257878955_ed1d23251b.jpg

The diner on the cover of the album "Abandoned Luncheonette" was formerly the Rosedale Diner located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. It went out of business and was dumped in a small wooded area located along Route 724 in Kenilworth, PA, where this picture was taken. The diner was there for years until it was basically stripped apart in 1983 by people looking for souvenirs.

The remains were moved from the site shortly thereafter, but where? Just curious.

[fr8dog]

fantastic photos...I love it!

[RetroToday]

The true authority on this diner is Larry Cultrera, of the Diner Hotline (http://dinerhotline.wordpress.com/). You could probably contact him through his blog. As I understand it, there's nothing left.

Thanks for the response Dinerman,

Sad to hear it's disappeared completely, I was hoping at least the shell was somehow saved.

I guess the only fragments left over now reside in the homes of those souvenir hunters.

[Dinerman]

Just another old diner. So many have disappeared.

The diner was late '40s and built by the Fodero diner company. While that particular one may be gone, there are still a few that are very close still in existence.

[Dinerman]

Found a new one today, in the Trinidad neighborhood of Northeast DC. It was trucked there from Avoca, New York, and arrived four days ago. It's a 1947 Silk City diner, originally manufactured in Patterson, NJ.

The Capital City Diner at 1050 Bladensburg Road NE is expected to open in August.

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee100/dinerman2/May%2017%20onwards/IMG_0666.jpg

Video of the move - Fox (http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/news/dc/052009_diner_moves_from_ny_to_dc)
Video of the move - ABC (http://www.wjla.com/news/stories/0509/624592_video.html)
Photos from the old location (http://www.princeofpetworth.com/2009/05/a-real-historic-diner-coming-to-dc/)

[Dinerman]

Neptune Diner- Lancaster, PA- 1951 Mountain View
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_3493.jpg


Airport Diner - Kutztown, PA - 1960 Silk City
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_3494.jpg

5th Street Diner - Reading, PA - Modern Kullman
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_0762.jpg


Letterman's Diner - late 1920s/ early 1930s O'Mahony

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_0768.jpg

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/21.jpg

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_0765.jpg

[Guttersnipe]

...try It's Tops Coffee Shop (feeding 'Frisco's single guys since 1935):

http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp271/dvonrock/ItsTops.jpg

[Warbaby]

Here's a 1930s photo of the Danbury (Connecticut) Diner sign. Alas, the diner itself is just outside the frame:


http://www.warbaby.com/fedorapix/DanburyDiner1930s.jpg

[Dinerman]

Saw these today.

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4048.jpg
Sandy Hook Diner, Sandy Hook, CT - 1920s.

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_3308.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_3313.jpg
Blue Colony Diner- modern

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4066.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4050.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4054.jpg
Gilley's - Portsmouth, NH - 1940 diner on a later truck

[Zemke Fan]

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_3308.jpg
You slay me! Love this shot of the pie-cookie...

[Dinerman]

Miss Portland Diner- Portland, ME
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4101.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4094.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4087.jpg

[LizzieMaine]

Been to both the Blue Colony and the Miss Portland myself -- both great spots, and the Colony is one of the few modern-built diners I've been to that does well at capturing the ambience without loading itself down with a lot of "theme restaurant" kitsch. The staff there is also very pleasant and accomodating!

I've been by the Sandy Hook, too -- a good friend of mine lives in that town -- but I've never seen it open!

[Dinerman]

A-1 Diner- Gardiner, ME

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_3401.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4145.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4159.jpg

[Dinerman]

Capital City Diner- Washington, DC
formerly the Avoca diner of Avoca, NY
I took pictures when it first arrived, see HERE (http://thefedoralounge.com/showpost.php?p=802223&postcount=201)
At that point it was expected to open in August. After a series of nightmares in dealing with contractors and with the city, it finally opened this month, and by all accounts is excellent.

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Washington%20DC/acapcity4photomichaelgstewart.jpg

[Big_e]

Ever since I checked out Dinerman's blog, I started eating at the diner near my house. The Metro Diner has been around since longer than I can remember and I've lived in Dallas since '67. I found out that it's been in business since 1964, I love it 'cause it's open 24 hours. It's my office whan I'm not at the office. I like the old time feel of the place. Here's some pics I lifted from a restaurant review:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/Gordo_Ruckus/Foo/metro4.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/Gordo_Ruckus/Foo/metro1.jpg

My next favorite place is Norma's. It's been around since the '50's. The chrome fixtures on the inside kinda give the place an atomic feel. I don't go here much 'cause it's always packed and closes at 8:00 but the food and service is great!

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/Gordo_Ruckus/Foo/normas3.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/Gordo_Ruckus/Foo/normas1.jpg

Here's me in my favorite Metro Diner after work:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/Gordo_Ruckus/Foo/securedownload2.jpg
Ernest

[exquisitebones]

we have one diner here in vancouver, but it only looks like a cool diner on the outside.
the inside is not cool and old looking, and the food is rubbish.. kinda like really expensive Mcdonalds type food. foul!

I wish we had a great old diner here <3

[Ed]

if there is one i have a strong reccomendation for.. I mean the real deal man... the old scool look and the old school service... where some lady named Flo takes your order and tells you need a haircut... there a couple in Albany, NY that also offer the best cocktails you will ever drink in your life. But the best, man the creme d' la creme is the Little Gem in Syracuse, NY where the Greeks still own the diners and hire working class folks to run the tables, where smoking is still legal even though its an ill eagle, where its still under 4 bucks for 2 over ez eggs and homefries. 2 pieces of rye over buttered toast and coffee is included, the place you drive to after the bar or the morning after the bar. The place where the start of a seedy story starts and where most american novels should start.
I dont offer pictures as further encouragement to get there on your own. What other reason will you ever have to visit Syracuse, NY??


Sadly, it's about to close unless a buyer is found.

http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2009/03/little_gem_diner_a_fixture_in.html

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff147/zochin/DINER.jpg

[Edward_Lindey]

We had a nice one growing up in Mercer Pa. My senior year it was purchased by some German guy and moved to Germany. Anyone know of any Diners in germany? It would be nice to see it again.

Edward

[Dinerman]

The Gateway (http://roadsideonline.com/component/content/article/57-diner-finder-updates/6652-gateway-diner-moves-to-the-netherlands) used to be in Germany, but was just moved to the Netherlands. Also originally in NJ.

Then there's the "American Diner" (http://roadsideonline.com/diner-finder/abroad/209)- formerly of NJ.

It doesn't seem either of these is yours. Do you remember the name of the place?

[Edward_Lindey]

It was just known as the Mercer Diner.

Edward

[poggleberry]

There is a diner I have visited a few times in Church Gresley, near Swadlincote in Derbyshire, UK.
It was originally called Murphy's Diner in 1952 and lived in Cambridge, Massachusetts, some car dealers brought it to the UK and the present owners bought it off ebay in 2004, they restored the diner and opened it in 2005.
Great atmosphere and classic diner food.

http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt235/poggleberry/The%20Fedora%20Lounge/hotrods2.jpg

http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt235/poggleberry/The%20Fedora%20Lounge/hotrods.jpg

http://i615.photobucket.com/albums/tt235/poggleberry/The%20Fedora%20Lounge/diner.jpg

[Dinerman]

There is a diner I have visited a few times in Church Gresley, near Swadlincote in Derbyshire, UK.
It was originally called Murphy's Diner in 1952 and lived in Cambridge, Massachusetts, some car dealers brought it to the UK and the present owners bought it off ebay in 2004, they restored the diner and opened it in 2005.
Great atmosphere and classic diner food.


It's funny that you mention Murphys. Larry Cultrera just did a post on them over at his blog- diner hotline. (http://dinerhotline.wordpress.com/)
Murphy's Diner lives on! (http://dinerhotline.wordpress.com/2009/11/28/murphys-diner-lives-on/)

[Jennifer Lynn]

One of the latest diners I've been to doesn't sport too much of a vintage look (more of a country diner with a down home sort of feel, I think), but it's been around since the 50's and offers up breakfast, lunch and dinner during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Anything on their menu at any time, and the pancakes are the size of your head!

It's called the Dam Diner, and is up in Ocklawaha Florida (the Ocala area - about an hour or so north of Orlando). I went there a few times for lunch and dinner during and after work at an archeology dig last year. Their waitstaff is friendly, you get timely service and the prices are very reasonable.

I may be up there again next month, and will see to taking pictures of the place. For now, here's an article:

http://www.ocala.com/article/20080623/NEWS/900957615?tc=ar

[Dinerman]

The Silver Diner, now 20 years old. One of the first retro styled diners and next to maybe the American City Diner in Washington DC, one of the best executed. It will be replaced by a new location a quarter of a mile down the road.

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1070597.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1070589.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1070600.jpg

[Dinerman]

It will be replaced fairly soon this this behemoth. It's two stories and no doubt provides them with a bit of extra space for offices and the like (it's the flagship of the chain), but it lacks all the charm and nods to classic design of the original location. The original is I think at this point the only "true" diner in the Silver Diner chain, as all the rest are stick built on site, while the original Rockville location was built by Kullman diners in NJ and shipped to the location in sections. This means it can be taken apart and moved if need be. From what I've heard, the Silver Diner chain will just be tearing down the diner that launched 20 years of retro- styled diners across the country and established a 17 location chain.


http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1070577.jpg

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/CommercialRealEstate-Consumersafety.jpg

[Dinerman]

This one was built in the 1950s by Kullman Diner Co.
It's seen much better days.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs079.snc4/35301_143774165635308_137332866279438_425820_68556 95_n.jpg

[Rockapin-up]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4096/4807350289_b339d3839d_b.jpg
http://www.cindyrestaurant.com/

This is Cindy's located in Eagle Rock, California, it's been a couple of years since I'v eaten there. Suppose im due for a visit.

[Inky]

Here's the diner at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan. If you are ever out that way the museum is well worth a visit. Several big barns full of restored/original condition vehicles from the beginning of the automobile industry. Really spectacular and not to mention, this little diner is a real gem with tasty food (and great frozen custard!)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4765028793_35547d3e74_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4765029705_8949be04d2.jpg


Here's some photos of it prior to restoration -

http://www.oh-diners.com/blue%20moon/41_silk_city_for_sale.htm

[Dinerman]

Capital City Diner- Washington DC
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs031.ash2/34914_144027392276652_137332866279438_427437_80604 23_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs031.ash2/34914_144027388943319_137332866279438_427436_47282 40_n.jpg

[JazzyDame]

There's a diner-style family restaurant called Latif's in Turlock, California located about an hour from where I live. I believe it's been around since the late 1940s. It's been a favorite spot for families for decades upon decades. It gets mixed reviews, and the contemporary set who have no appreciation for the past and are devoid of any sense of nostalgia tend to shun it, but I think it's wonderful. The food is all-American, diner-style fare, and they make THEE most incredible pies (which long-time customers are known to purchase for holidays and special events, all the while fibbing, "I spent hours in the kitchen today, slaving away with rolling pins and steamy ovens...I'm a flour-y mess, but you're worth it!" while extending a famous Latif's pie to a lucky recipient...not that I'm *ahem* guilty of such a thing). ;)

Dinerman, you might be able to help me with this. I'm trying to place the architecture style, and will try to get some personal photos of the place. It doesn't have a website, but there's a couple of photos of it here:

http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/6d/39/19/inside-latif-s.jpg

and here:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotos-g33197-d379139-Latif_s_Restaurant-Turlock_California.html#23935257

I think it may be Googie. Are you familiar with Googie? I am a bit embarrassed to admit that I've always been fascinated with Googie architecture, cheezy as it may seem to some....:o (For a reference to Googie, please visit here: http://www.spaceagecity.com/googie/

Anyway, it's a wonderful little locally-owned, family-run diner and I just love it! In fact, I could go for one of their generous, creamy chocolate shakes just about now...

P.S. Note the dwindling supply of freshly-baked pies awaiting pick-up, nestled snugly in their pink boxes under the counter. :essen:

[jamespowers]

We have a Fifth Wheel Diner that has been at its present location since 1946. My grandmother and a few of her friends used to go there after work or for lunch when she worked for Gerbers.
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/iw-thumbnail/2633434.jpg

The place is always packed with people. It is a small hole in the wall but it has great food. I always expect to wait at the counter for a table.

[lframe]

I am in Carolina Beach for holiday right now. There is a restaurant here that I swear is an old diner.I will photograph and post over the next few days.

Also, I am going to be posting photos of my fave donut shop "Britt's" that has been in existence since 1939. There is one kind of donut and they are always served hot. The cash register is the original to the business.

Stay tuned!

[poggleberry]

It's funny that you mention Murphys. Larry Cultrera just did a post on them over at his blog- diner hotline. (http://dinerhotline.wordpress.com/)
Murphy's Diner lives on! (http://dinerhotline.wordpress.com/2009/11/28/murphys-diner-lives-on/)
Just revisited this thread, thanks for the link Dinerman, it's great to see the history of this diner.

[Dinerman]

I am in Carolina Beach for holiday right now. There is a restaurant here that I swear is an old diner.I will photograph and post over the next few days.

Also, I am going to be posting photos of my fave donut shop "Britt's" that has been in existence since 1939. There is one kind of donut and they are always served hot. The cash register is the original to the business.

Stay tuned!

One of these? (http://www.agilitynut.com/diners/nc.html)

[lframe]

One of these? (http://www.agilitynut.com/diners/nc.html)

Nope. But, I know where Mattie's diner is! They have been working on it and I wondered how old it was. Wow!

[Tripnastic]

Gordon's Stoplight Drive-in in Crystal City Missouri. One counter, 20 stools, great food. Open since 1948 and still going strong through floods, bad economies and fast food chains opening all around it!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3474/3796314409_d7c09216f4.jpg


http://www.mophotoworkshop.org/61/teamb/images/stipe01.jpg

[Dinerman]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs097.ash2/38178_1551715718703_1409441092_1489581_7907289_n.j pg

Got this for my dad for his birthday.

[Feraud]

^ What a great gift!
I remember a few diners in Queens that used to have those at the tables.

[Dinerman]

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1080242.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1080246.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1080243.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Summer%202010/P1080241.jpg

[Dinerman]

1952
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs295.snc4/41106_154223154590409_137332866279438_494030_18090 15_n.jpg

1954 (remodeled later)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs155.ash2/41106_154223164590408_137332866279438_494033_50767 84_n.jpg

1920s
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs427.snc4/47019_154224491256942_137332866279438_494046_14637 1_n.jpg

2003
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs207.ash2/47019_154224501256941_137332866279438_494049_37102 56_n.jpg

1950
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs427.snc4/47019_154224504590274_137332866279438_494050_13345 60_n.jpg

2000s?
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs407.snc4/47019_154224521256939_137332866279438_494055_30782 92_n.jpg

1935
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs371.snc4/45407_154224777923580_137332866279438_494056_16897 80_n.jpg

1946
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs371.snc4/45407_154224781256913_137332866279438_494057_29190 01_n.jpg

1965 (heavily remodeled)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs191.ash2/45407_154224787923579_137332866279438_494059_48825 01_n.jpg

[Trenter]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4098/4934294288_1a471fc536.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4933700145_7d5e4f2c5c.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4934294242_709c8dd5e6.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4933700213_b632001d48.jpg

Hi all, I´ve been lurking in your lounge for ages and finally decided to start contributing to this great community. I´ll start by showing some pictures of the Shawmut Diner in New Bedford, Ma. taken last spring.

[MysteriousRed]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4765028793_35547d3e74_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4765029705_8949be04d2.jpg
[/url]

Great photos, Inky!

[Lefty]

xposted in hats

brunch in Old Brooklyn at Charlie's Dog House
because who wants to get up early?
http://i911.photobucket.com/albums/ac319/leftyhats/DSC_0257-1.jpg
http://i911.photobucket.com/albums/ac319/leftyhats/DSC_0255-1.jpg
http://i911.photobucket.com/albums/ac319/leftyhats/DSC_0261.jpg

[Derek Cavin]

Anyone ever visit this landmark adjacent to Georgia Tech? The greasyest fries, the nastiest hotdogs, the poorest service and worst atmosphere!

Ride by there everyday on the bus and parking lot is pretty crowded. You should see it on weekends.

[Dinerman]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs612.snc4/59246_1623035821661_1409441092_1680865_4789980_n.j pg

[Dinerman]

Sullivan's Diner- Horseheads NY (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/1220/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/183-8340_IMG.jpg

Miss Portland Diner- Portland, ME (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/miss-portland-diner-portland-me/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/464-6438_IMG.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/IMG_4101.jpg

Diner in Hammonton, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/diner-hammonton-nj/)
Before
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4791.jpg
After
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/DSC05167.jpg

[Dinerman]

Elmer Diner - Elmer, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/the-elmer-diner-elmer-nj/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4798.jpg

Site of Olympia Diner- Carney's Point, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/olympia-diner-carneys-point-nj/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4821.jpg

54 Diner- Buena, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/the-54-diner-buena-nj/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4827.jpg

At the Hop Diner- Pomona, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/pomona-diner-at-the-hop-diner-pomona-nj/)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs650.snc4/61016_1596813398593_1183736683_31687230_4834145_n. jpg

[Dinerman]

'60s/'70s diner in NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/diner-nj/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4921.jpg

Town and Country Liquors / Markette Diner- Bridgeton, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/town-and-country-liquor-new-jersey/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4889.jpg


Angie's Bridgeton Grill- Bridgeton, NJ (http://dinerman.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/angies-bridgeton-grill-bridgeton-nj/)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/IMG_4920.jpg

[Dinerman]

Maryland diners of the '30s and '40s
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Trip%20Back%20To%20School/aberdeendiner.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Trip%20Back%20To%20School/Photobucket.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Trip%20Back%20To%20School/overleadiner.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Trip%20Back%20To%20School/outridersdiner.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Trip%20Back%20To%20School/newidealdiner.jpg
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/Trip%20Back%20To%20School/edgewooddiner.jpg

[dhermann1]

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/DSC05167.jpg
I assume this damage is irreversible? Man, what a travesty.

[Dinerman]

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/dinerman4/DSC05167.jpg
I assume this damage is irreversible? Man, what a travesty.

Looks like everything in the interior went in the trash. It looks like with the bump out for the new "stonework" that maybe some of the exterior was left and just covered over, but it's hard to tell.

[Dinerman]

Looks like there's an old diner under there somewhere. Impossible to tell who built it, though.
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/postcard/IMG_0359.jpg

Burlington Diner- Burlington, NJ
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/postcard/Diners005.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/postcard/Diners003.jpg

Skyliner Diner- Cortland, NY
http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/postcard/172-7210_IMG.jpg

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/postcard/172-7211_IMG.jpg

[Dinerman]

http://i450.photobucket.com/albums/qq223/dinerman3/postcard/Diners006.jpg

[Unlucky Berman]

Very interesting thread and thanks for sharing all these nice pics with us in the world outside of the "Diner-country". :eusa_clap It's that what I envy you in the USA for. Why did the US export this boring McD and WürgerKing to the rest of world and not the nice diner culture with such a broad scope of different and stylish restaurants with the real vintage touch to it? :D