Essential Advice We've cooked up a main course of diner decree with a heaping side of hints.
Before stainless steel, there was tile. Tom's Diner boasts extensive tile work--all in red.
What Makes a Diner
A "diner" is technically a prefabricated, stand alone structure.
Original pre-fab diners came business-ready with counter, kitchen, and booths. Just add food and customers.
A pre-fab diner will usually have the name of the manufacturer on a small plaque above the front door (on the inside).
Eating's the Thing
In our experience it's best not to get too fancy with diner food. Unless the owners are clearly Italian, avoid the fettuccine alfredo. Diner food is best when it's simple--bacon turkey clubs, big iceberg lettuce salads heaped with meat and cheese, and anything for breakfast.
Save room for dessert. Be sure to ask your waiter if the desserts are homemade. If they are, choose a favorite, and go for it--never mind the calories.
For the True Diner Experience
The best way to experience a diner is to sit at the counter, especially during the breakfast and lunch rushes. The regulars will probably want to strike up a conversation and the wait staff spend most of their time behind the counter, so it's easier to chat and get your coffee refilled fast.
Sitting at the counter also gives you a chance to watch the cooking staff at work. Most diners have open kitchens, and watching a good short order cook at work is fascinating.
If you're lucky enough to get a waitress who calls you "Hon," order an extra cup of coffee and stay awhile.
Check, Please
Bring cash when visiting diners--many do not accept credit cards.
Always tip for good service--like other restaurants, 15-20% is appropriate.
Even when paying with a credit card, try to tip with cash. Diner staff are some of the lowest paid people in food service, and tipping with cash allows them to keep more of what you give them before paying taxes.
Check the front counter of the diner when you first come in to see whether or not you pay your server or at the cash register. This way you won't have to wait to see how to pay when you've finished your meal.
Contact Information
Dinercity.com
www.dinercity.com A comprehensive list of diners found all over the U.S.
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