A State-by-State Guide to the Best Diners In America
A State-by-State Guide to the Best Diners In America
If you find yourself craving pancakes more than prosciutto, then eating out at diners just might be your thing. There's something so nostalgic about diners — and we're not just talking about the ones that are decorated like they're straight out of the '50s. Sliding into a booth and ordering a big burger, fries, and chocolate shake is the ultimate comfort dining experience. And not to mention the joy of getting a hearty plate of bacon, eggs, and pancakes for breakfast.
But with so many amazing diners across all of the US, finding a reliable diner joint can be a real mission. To help steer you in the right direction towards great diner food in your home state (or outside of it for when you're traveling), we've scoured hundreds of online reviews from sites like Yelp, Google, and Trip Advisor, and compiled a list of the best diners in every state. Now all you've got to do is get your eating pants ready.
John's City Diner - Birmingham, Alabama
If you’re looking for delicious southern comfort food, John’s City Diner is the place you want to be. Its got mouth-watering meatloaf, pork chops, mac and cheese, and, of course, chicken and waffles. There’s also an extensive bar menu if you want to treat yourself to a nice drink.
Southside Grill - Anchorage, Alaska
You definitely won’t have to worry about small portions at Southside Grill. No matter what you order, whether it be one of the tasty breakfast skillets or a classic club sandwich, you’ll be full and satisfied. And just to top it all off, the restaurant has a great family feel and some budget-friendly prices.
Welcome Diner - Phoenix, Arizona
Welcome Diner is a great spot, especially if you have a group with different dietary restrictions. The menu has tons of modern vegetarian dishes, like the jackfruit po boy, as well as plenty of old classics like eggs Benedict, gumbo, and jumbalaya. No matter what you order, your tastebuds will thank you.
Wesner’s Grill - Rogers, Arkansas
The best kinds of diners are ones that have all-day breakfast, and Wenser’s Grill does all-day breakfast masterfully. The mom and pop joint has pancakes, french toast, and tons of omelettes. And if you want something more savory, the burgers and tots are also a fan-favorite. Just make sure to save room for a slice of the fresh-baked pie!
Pann’s Diner - Los Angeles, California
Pann’s Diner has been featured movies like Bewitched and Pulp Fiction, but it’s not just their Hollywood star status that draws you in. The restaurant has amazing comfort food, complete with fluffy biscuits, delicious mac and cheese, and to-die-for french toast.
The Little Diner - Vail, Colorado
For an amazing breakfast at a cute spot, The Little Diner is the place to go. It's open until 2 p.m. every day, so you can treat yourself to some tasty eggs Benedict or a more savory lunch.
Uncle D’s Diner - East Berlin, Connecticut
A classic ’50s retro vibe is what you’ll get as soon as you walk into Uncle D’s Diner, which is soon followed by being greeed by the friendly staff. The signature dish is the Uncle D’s Cadillac Taco, which is definitely not to be missed.
Stargate Diner - Seaford, Delaware
You can head to Stargate Diner for a delicious meal at any time of the day — they’re open for breakfast, lunch, and diner. And while the entrees are all amazing, what you’ll really be there for are all of the homemade desserts.
Moonlite Diner - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Going to the Moonlite Diner is about as classic as a diner experience can get. There are amazing burgers, sinfully delicious milkshakes, and prices that can’t be beat.
The Breakfast Club - Tybee Island, Georgia
The Breakfast Club is a hidden gem that isn’t so hidden — you’ll have to be ready for a bit of a wait, but the food is oh-so worth it. The menu features award-winning burgers and tons of different egg dishes for the breakfast crowd.
Downbeat Diner & Lounge - Honolulu, Hawaii
If you find yourself in Hawaii and are looking for some tasty Hawaiian comfort food, the Downbeat Diner & Lounge needs to be your go-to. It has a seemingly endless amount of vegetarian and vegan options, like the flavorful vegan chili, but also plenty of meat options, including a pulled pork sandwich.
Dixie's Diner - Idaho Falls, Idaho
At Dixie's Diner, you can expect to find oversized portions overflowing with flavor, all served in a retro atmosphere. Make sure to check out anything that comes with the tasty onion rings. If you're a fish and chips fan, you'll definitely want to order a plate.
The Chicago Diner - Chicago, Illinois
The menu at The Chicago Diner is not only mouth-watering, but is also a food-sensitive person’s dream. Everything is vegan by default, but you can add on non-vegan items like eggs and cheese. And for those with gluten issues, there’s also a separate gluten-free menu. You definitely won’t want to miss the delicious nachos, poutine, lasagna, or chili.
Metro Diner - Indianapolis, Indiana
The dishes at Metro Diner are unlike anywhere else. The menu features things like breakfast pie and croissant French toast — talk about decadence! And if you really want to complete the meal, order one of the very reasonably priced cheap bloody Mary’s.
Bluebird Diner - Iowa City, Iowa
You’ll have to be ready for a bit of a wait on the weekends at Bluebird Diner, but its warm cinnamon rolls and incredibly extensive menu is totally worth the wait.
Jimmie’s Diner - Wichita, Kansas
You’ll get the full ‘50s diner experience at Jimmie’s Diner, complete with jukeboxes at every booth. The pancakes, sandwiches, and burgers are all great options, but you’ll definitely want to make sure you get one of the old-school milkshakes.
Rick’s White Light Diner - Frankfort, Kentucky
Any of the seafood po' boys at Rick’s White Light Diner will keep you coming back. There's even one with alligator! Diners love how perfectly seasoned everything is at this cozy little dive spot, so there’s really no wrong choice.
Hub CIty Diner - Lafayette, Louisiana
The friendly staff, Elvis decor, and consistently amazing food are what have made Hub City Diner the go-to diner in Louisiana. You won’t want to miss the catfish or pork stew, and you’ll definitely want to make sure you snag one of their biscuits.
Palace Diner - Biddeford, Maine
Palace Diner is known for its fluffy buttermilk pancakes, and there’s always a lengthy lineup to prove it. If pancakes aren’t your thing, the omelette du jour and the hearty lumberjack breakfast are both amazing options.
Marie’s Diner - La Planta, Maryland
Marie’s Diner is always full of people, and that’s because the food is such a big draw. You can get huge portions of its famous pancakes, chicken fried steak, or homemade biscuits.
Miss Worcester - Worcester, Massachusetts
If it’s breakfast time and you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, Miss Worcester can help you. The French toast is to die for and comes fully loaded. If you want to go all out, you can get the homemade banana bread French toast. The diner operates out of an old train dining car, meaning space is limited, so you’ll want to get there early to guarantee a seat.
Clique - Detroit, Michigan
This greasy spoon diner pulls in a wide crows with their tasty menu and quintessential diner feel. Patrons of Clique rave about the restaurant’s silver dollar pancakes, so you’ll definitely want to check those out.
Band Box Diner - Minneapolis, Minnesota
Band Box Diner is a hole in the wall type place that you’ll be ecstatic you found. It’s the oldest operating diner in the area and is a no-frills kind of place — just delicious food that speaks for itself. If you love a good burger, you’ll want to order the longtime favorite Lunch Box Burger.
Country Diner - Foxsworth, Mississippi
Personable staff and amazing southern home cooking await you at Country Diner. The restaurant is open for both breakfast and lunch, so you can get two meals in there if you really try — and you’ll probably want to! The pork chops and chicken and dumplings are definite highlights of the impressive menu.
Oscar’s Classic Diner - Jefferson City, Missouri
The family atmosphere, quick service, and tasty food aren't the only reasons you'll want to eat at Oscar's Classic Diner. The prices are also amazing, with most meals being under $10. The catfish sandwich is always a good choice, or if you're feeling a bit hungrier, opt for one of the large platter dishes.
Roadhouse Diner - Greatfalls, Montana
There are burgers galore at Roadhouse Diner. The menu has 12 different kinds, including a tasty veggie burger and even a PB&J burger. If none of the menu options float your boat, you can also choose to build your own.
11-Worth Cafe - Omaha, Nebraska
11-Worth Cafe is an old school greasy spoon diner that’s no muss no fuss. The focus is all put on serving up plate after plate of memorable food, including their unbelievable biscuits and gravy. And if you’re looking to get a good bang for your buck, the oversized omelettes are a great choice. The diner is usually busy with a bit of a line, but not to worry because the line moves quickly.
Lou’s Diner - Las Vegas, Nevada
You'll be hitting the food jackpot at this Las Vegas joint. Lou's Diner gives you a super nostalgic feeling from the cozy decor to the homemade preserves that are brought to your table. Nothing on the menu disappoints, but you'll definitely want to get a slice of the homemade cake or pie.
4 Aces Diner - West Lebanon, New Hampshire
4 Aces Diner is a classic American diner with big, delicious meals that are sure to be the best part of your day. Grab yourself a sizable breakfast plate or a hearty sandwich for lunch, and you'll be in food heaven.
Tops Diner - East Newark, New Jersey
Tops Diner is a New Jersey institution, and was even frequented by former Governor Christ Christie. It's got delicious diner food but with an elevated twist. You can find shrimp and grits, truffle mac and cheese, or even a morning quesadilla on the menu — none of which will disappoint!
Wow Diner - Milan, New Mexico
The name really says it all, because Wow Diner will leave you gobsmacked. At breakfast definitely make sure to try one of their expertly crafted omelettes, and for lunch, the lobster pasta is a fan-favorite. To finish off an already amazing meal, get a slice of their apple pie.
Veselka - New York City, New York
This 24-hour Ukrainian diner has been a staple in New York City since 1954, and it's always has a crowd — even at 2 a.m. Veselka serves up their signature pierogis and tons of delicious soups, including borscht, as well as classic diner fare like french toasts and tuna melts.
Poole’s Diner - Raleigh, North Carolina
For diner fare with an elevated twist, Poole's Diner has got you covered. You can get roast chicken with whipped potatoes, a shrimp and crab stew with perfectly seared scallops, or just a classic mac and cheese.
Wood House - Bismarck, North Dakota
You'll want to make sure you get a side of onion rings at Wood House, along with one of their amazing burgers of cheese frenchee (basically a deep fried grilled cheese). And it's not just the food that's great, it's also how you order it. Each table has a phone to the kitchen that you use to let them know what you'd like.
Slyman’s Restaurant - Cleveland, Ohio
Slyman's Restaurant is a long-time institution that's best known for their corned beef sandwiches. And if you're worried about a sandwich not being filling enough, don't be. These ones are huge!
Metro Diner - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Metro Diner has several locations across a few states and it's not hard to see why — this all-American diner has a menu that everyone will want to try. Not only is there drool-worthy shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles, but there are cheap yet delicious bloody mary's that will be the cherry on top of any meal.
City State Diner - Portland, Oregon
You may have to endure a short wait to get a seat at City State Diner, but everything here is so consistently good that you won't even mind. You can enjoy a Louisiana Crab Hash or, if you can't make up your mind, go for the Best of Both Worlds and get half eggs Benedict and half biscuits and gravy.
Dutch Eating Place - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Dutch Eating Place is a counter inside the iconic Reading Terminal Market where you'll definitely want to pull up a stool. There you can get plates of Dutch comfort food including apple dumplings with cream that's big enough for two people. To beat the rush and make sure you get a seat, try to get there as early as possible.
West Side Diner - Providence, Rhode Island
If the sound of an apple cider mimosa piques your interest, then West Side Diner is a must-try. You can also try their famous stuffed banana berry French toast, or get some pancakes with a wide array of available fixings, including cookie dough and Reeces pieces.
Fillin’ Station Diner - Hollywood, South Carolina
Burgers, hot dogs, and crispy french fries will await you at Fillin' Station Diner. And did we mention the homemade cake? You'll definitely want a slice of that too!
Phillip’s Avenue Diner - Sioux Falls, South Dakota
A retro diner with speedy service is what you'll find at Phillip's Avenue Diner. Oh, and some strong coffee and delicious food too. They've got all the classics from the reuben sandwich to eggs Benedict to chicken and waffles.
Loveless Cafe - Nashville, Tennessee
Loveless Cafe serves up the best of the best of southern comfort food. Diners rave about the homemade biscuits served warm with butter and fresh fruit preserves. And the daily specials, including a smoked beef brisket on Sundays, are not to be missed.
Maxine’s Cafe and Bakery - Bastrop, Texas
Maxine's Cafe has all of the diner staples: eggs, sausage, grits, and pancakes so big they barely fit on the plate. The diner also serves unbeatable desserts, including cookies, pies, and a drool-worthy blueberry cheesecake.
Ruth’s Diner - Salt Lake City, Utah
Ruth's Diner has been serving up dishes for 90 years and the only thing bigger than the meals is the flavor packed into each one. Just going into the diner is an experience in and of itself — the restaurant operates out of an old Salt Lake trolley car — but to make sure you get the full Ruth's experience, you need to try one of the famous mile-high biscuits.
Sonny’s Blue Benn Diner - Bennington, Vermont
Sonny's Blue Benn Diner is another joint that is run out of an old rail car, and because of that seating is limited and there can be a bit of a wait on weekend. But once you get to your table and taste the food, you'll forget about all of that. For the breakfast crowd, the blueberry almond pancakes with Vermont maple syrup are always a hit. But if you're looking for something savory, the chicken and biscuits is a reliable go-to.
Joe’s Cafe - Sterling, Virginia
You'll never have to worry about waiting too long for food at Joe's Cafe, since it's known for fast service. The spot is popular and always bustling with people wanting to get a taste of their expertly cooked dishes. The menu boasts all the classic diner hits with a few Mexican-inspired dishes as well.
Willow & Jim’s Country Cafe - Silvana, Washington
For a hearty meal in Washington that will leave your tastebuds happy, Willow & Jim's Country Cafe is the place to go. Anything that comes with the hash browns is an absolute must, and so is ordering a bowl of their clam chowder. Top everything off with a cinnamon roll and you'll be in for the best food coma of your life.
Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill - Charleston, West Virginia
There's no shortage of barbecue options at Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill. They're known for their wildly delicious ribs, and the mac and cheese is a must-try too.
Delta Diner - Mason, Wisconsin
Delta Diner is a neighborhood institution and Mason, and for good reason. They've got huge delectable burgers, savory breakfasts, and a stuffed Norwegian pancake that will keep you coming back for years to come.
Johnny J’s Diner - Casper, Wyoming
The friendly staff at Johny J's Diner will happily serve you up one of their famous homemade cinnamon rolls, which can also be turned into a cinnamon roll french toast if you're feeling like eating something extra decadent. The milkshakes here are also a menu highlight.
Drool-worthy pancakes, milkshakes, burgers, and so much more await you.