Remember the table hugged by intimate bright-red booth seating, laminated menus that list more than 100 items – like classic eggs benny, juicy burgers and sandwiches, or oversized, thick milkshakes – and the small white cups, soon to be filled with hot coffee straight from a pot poured by a friendly face, whether it’s a Saturday morning, or a late night out?
Neighbourhood diners, luncheonettes and casse-croûtes, with their 1950s-style decor, jukeboxes and gumball machines, are a flashback to an optimistic past. In Canada, some have managed to stand the test of time since the ‘40s or ‘50s, while others have jumped on the retro resurgence decades later, and re-imagined the concept for today. Either way, they usually offer a dependable spot for quick, cheap comfort food with big portions, good service, and a heaping spoonful of nostalgia.
Whether it’s your favourite brunch spot, or the only place open for late-night eats, we’re asking readers across the country to share their go-to diner, luncheonette or casse-croûte.
Tell us about your favourite classic diner: Where is it? What makes it stand out? Why do you repeatedly go back? What is your favourite dish there? To share your thoughts, answer below or e-mail adutt@globeandmail.com.
Tell us about your favourite diner
Where is it? What makes it stand out? Why do you repeatedly go back? What is your favourite dish there? Share your thoughts.