Diners are an American classic that have been a staple of the dining experience for over a century. The best diners offer comfort food that satisfies your appetite and takes you back to simpler times. While there are many diners to choose from, there are a few that stand out above the rest. Here are the best diner food menus in every state.
Alabama: Wagon Wheel Cafe – The Wagon Wheel Cafe in Decatur serves old-fashioned Southern cooking. Their breakfast biscuits are the stuff of legends, and their fried chicken and liver and onions are also must-tries.
Alaska: Snow City Cafe – Located in Anchorage, Snow City Cafe has an extensive menu that features creative dishes that use fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. Their crab benedict and sourdough waffles with whipped cream and berries are not to be missed.
Arizona: Joe’s Farm Grill – Located in Gilbert, Joe’s Farm Grill serves burgers made with grass-fed beef and locally sourced ingredients. Their fresh green salads and seasonal sides are also worth trying.
Arkansas: The Oark General Store – This historic general store and cafe is located in the Ozark mountains and serves classic Southern favorites like biscuits and gravy and chicken fried steak. You’ll also find homemade pies and cobblers.
California: Original Tops – This classic spot in Pasadena is famous for their pastrami sandwich, but their burgers and fries are also top-notch. They have been serving up American favorites since 1952.
Colorado: Sam’s No. 3 – This Denver diner has been around since 1927 and is known for their Greek-style omelets and green chili. They also serve classic diner fare like burgers and milkshakes.
Connecticut: O’Rourke’s Diner – This Middletown diner has been around since 1941 and serves up unique dishes like Irish eggs benedict and homemade corned beef hash. Their sweets are also a standout, with homemade pies and desserts.
Delaware: The Starboard – This Dewey Beach diner has an extensive breakfast menu that features creative dishes like the “Hangover Omelette” and “The Kitchen Sink.” They also serve delicious burgers and sandwiches.
Florida: Skyline Chili – This Cincinnati-style chili spot has been winning over Florida residents for years. Their famous spaghetti topped with lots of chili and cheese is a must-try.
Georgia: The Varsity – This famous Atlanta diner has been around since 1928 and serves up classic Southern favorites like chili dogs and onion rings. Their signature “V” burger is also a must-try.
Hawaii: Rainbow Drive-In – Located in Honolulu, Rainbow Drive-In is a must-visit spot for Hawaiian plate lunches. Their teriyaki chicken and mixed plates are delicious and filling.
Idaho: Big Jud’s – This burger spot in Boise is known for their massive “Big Jud” burger, which is made with two pounds of beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, give it a try.
Illinois: Lou Mitchell’s – This Chicago diner has been around since 1923 and serves up classic American breakfast foods like pancakes, waffles, and omelets. They are also famous for their homemade doughnuts.
Indiana: Dixon’s Chili Parlor – Located in Indianapolis, Dixon’s Chili Parlor has been around since 1916 and serves up unique chili dishes like the “chili spaghetti” and “chili mac.”
Iowa: Hamburg Inn No. 2 – This Iowa City diner has been around since 1948 and serves up classic diner fare like burgers and pancakes. They are also known for their “pie shakes,” which are milkshakes made with pie.
Kansas: Stroud’s – This Kansas City diner is known for their fried chicken, which is made with a secret recipe that has been passed down for generations. Their sides, like green beans and mashed potatoes, also hit the spot.
Kentucky: The Brown Hotel – This Louisville hotel has an iconic hot brown sandwich, which is an open-faced turkey and bacon sandwich topped with Mornay sauce. It’s a must-try when in Kentucky.
Louisiana: Cafe du Monde – This New Orleans cafe is famous for their beignets, which are fluffy pillows of fried dough covered in powdered sugar. Pair them with a cafe au lait for the ultimate Louisiana experience.
Maine: Becky’s Diner – This Portland diner serves up classic seafood dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls. They also have delicious breakfast items like blueberry pancakes and eggs benedict.
Maryland: The Double T Diner – This diner has locations throughout Maryland and serves up classic diner fare like burgers and fries. Their breakfast platters and French toast are also worth trying.
Massachusetts: Mike’s City Diner – This Boston diner has been around since 1949 and serves up unique dishes like “The Kitchen Sink,” which is a burrito filled with eggs, cheese, sausage, and hash browns.
Michigan: Lafayette Coney Island – This Detroit institution has been around since 1917 and serves up Coney dogs, which are hot dogs topped with chili, onions, and mustard. Pair it …