Top 10 All American Diners

Mickey diner

Blue Benn Diner- Bennington VT

Contrary to the typical retro reform dining experience with Marilyn Monroe in a hoop skirt and roller skates this sometimes referred to as "a gourmet" diner boasts all the classics and none of the fuss.  Standing proudly along its current spot on Route 7 since 1949 the Blue Ben remains a true-blue hash house.

(check out my last post for Vermont vacation ideas)

Goody Goody Diner- St. Louis MO

Connely's Goody Goody has its roots in the dark days of the depression and was originally home to the first walk-up A&W Root Beer stand.  Now in business for almost 60 years this St. Louis family run staple still prides themselves on frosted mugs and classic atmosphere.

True to St. Louis classics be sure to try the "Chicken and Waffle Supreme" with grits.

Becky's Diner on Hobsons Wharf- Portland, ME

An homage to true American spirit and drive Becky, a mother of six recognized a need for the hardworking fisherman of Maine to have a place to eat before and after a grueling day beyond the docks.  She lobbied hard and beat zoning laws and was finally awarded the ability to build a diner on the waterfront.

Full of sleepy fishing town classics like some killer "Chowdah" also be sure to crawl outside of your comfort zone and try the lobster and swiss omelet.

Summerton Diner- Summerton, SC

Just a stones through from interstate 95 off exit 108 this small town slice of classic americana doesn't need any fancy schtick, elaborate signage or market study driven prices, Summerton' s keeps it real.  From the greasy skillet, Southern fried chicken, Sunday specials, Ocra and never ending refills of iced tea this family run establishment has its priorities straight.  With dinner specials starting around $6.95 Summerton serves as a reminder of whats really important.

66 Diner- Albequerque, NM

This nostalgia driven diner seeks to bring back the former glory of the classic Route 66 ideology.  With thick malts, full grease traps, impossible to finish burgers and enough neon lighting for a modern day rave; the mom and pop 66 Diner dedicates itself to the preservation of a quickly vanishing aspect of US history along Route 66.

Rudfords Restaurant- San Diego, CA

Along El Cajon Boulevard this once common place diner now stands as a San Diego novelty and reminder of times past.  With a south of the border influence Rudfords sets itself apart by successfully combining potato dominant dishes with rustic Mexican Chili's, peppers and Tamales to complete these maritime meals.  And with breakfast starting around $4 you may never want to leave.

Rosies Diner- Rockford MI

Arguably one of the most famous diners in the world Rosie's colorful Americana history makes this roadside staple one of the most recognizable classics out there.  Probably best known for Nancy Walker as "Rosie the Waitress" in the much loved Bounty Paper Towel commercials, Rosie's Diner is a familiar image in a veritable cornucopia of well known photographs.  Tie that in with classic styling, neon lights, charming retro-cool, classic American fare and a newly built bar to entertain Sunday football; there's really no reason to ever leave.

The Avalon Diner- Houston, TX

With a tagline "Justly Famous Since 1938" and blue plate specials it doesn't get more classic.  Consistently serving up rave reviews in major publications the Avalon's Texas sized portions and Delaware sized prices keep 'em coming from all around.

Peggy Sues Diner- Yerma, CA

Nestled outside a little ghost town in between Los Angeles and Las Vegas Peggy Sue's Diner is often overlooked.  Another historic gem set along the quickly dissolving Route 66 the real Peggy Sue was originally a young Hollywood starlet with over 100 movies and commercials to her credit.  Straying from the limelight in search of a simpler life she took her piece of Hollywood and embedded it in Yerma with her lovely blast from the past diner "Peggy Sue's."

Mickey's Dining Car- St. Paul, MN

One of the first original American diners making its mark in 1939 has been recognized in films and TV for decades from the "Mighty Ducks" to "The Food Network".  Designed as a classic railroad dining car from the period Mickey's Diner mixes nostalgia with aesthetics and succeeds in a fully rounded experience.  Oh, and the classic Americana dishes that has kept Mickey's famous for nearly 60 years and featured in countless write-up's isn't all that bad either.