Nothing Screams "Diner" Like the Blue Plate Special
Stepping into a diner is like stepping into a moment frozen in time and Americana. Diners haven't evolved all that much, because they don't have to. It's great to have restaurants where you can get classic comfort food and not worry about Michelin Stars. Here are 20 diner classics that will never grow old.
1. Pancakes
A stack of fluffy pancakes is the foundation of the diner breakfast. They're usually dripping with butter and maple syrup, or sometimes dusted with powdered sugar. Try a stack with strawberries and whipped cream to hit a pure note of nostalgia.
2. Bacon and Eggs
A simple dish of bacon and eggs is a diner staple. The bacon is usually cooked to crispy perfection, and you can get the eggs however you like them. This is the standard for diner fare.
3. Waffles
Waffles with crispy edges and soft centers can come across as a bit upscale for a diner, but they always hit the spot. Traditionally served with syrup and butter, but you can pair it with ham, bacon, or fried chicken. What you pair a waffle with will determine if it's best for lunch, brunch, or dinner.
4. French Toast
Diners are famous for making French toast with thick slices of bread. The bread is dipped in egg and grilled to golden perfection. A light or heavy dusting of powdered sugar completes this diner classic, and can sweeten any breakfast or lunch.
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5. Hash Browns
Hash browns are the ultimate diner side, and are best served crispy and a bit greasy. Some diners offer a scattered version or one cooked with onions, cheese, or chili. Make sure you get a side of hash browns with your bacon and eggs.
6. Omelets
The omelet represents the versatility of the diner. Each diner makes their own version, even though most still serve the classics like a cheese omelet or Denver omelet with ham, peppers, and onions. A perfectly-cooked omelet is a diner's chance to shine.
7. Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy are served at every diner in the South. It's peppery gravy smothering soft, buttery biscuits. Eating a plate of biscuits and gravy is like biting into comfort. It's messy, hearty, and you'll be full by the time you're done, if not sooner.
8. Sausage Links
Every diner takes pride in their juicy sausage links. Often cooked on a griddle to perfection, diner sausages offer bold flavors and a bit of spice to elevate eggs or balance a stack of pancakes. Sausage links are an essential part of any diner breakfast.
9. Chicken-Fried Steak
You need to try this diner classic if you haven't yet. It's breaded beef that's fried until it's nice and crispy, and then covered in a country gravy. This comforting dish should be paired with mashed potatoes or eggs.
10. Meatloaf
Lots of upscale chefs have tried to reinvent the meatloaf, but none have come close to the perfection that is the diner meatloaf. It's served in thick slices with vegetables, mashed potatoes, and covered in brown gravy.
11. Hamburgers
Burgers are everywhere, but there's nothing like a diner burger. The best version is the classic cheeseburger or a double-stack with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions. Enjoy one with a side of onion rings and you'll be completely satisfied.
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12. Patty Melt
The patty melt is the quintessential diner meal. It's half burger and half grilled cheese, and a total gooey masterpiece. Diners serve it on toasted rye with caramelized onions and melted Swiss or American cheese.
13. BLT Sandwich
What's better than crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes on toasted bread? Enjoy this classic diner sandwich with mayo and bite into its timeless simplicity.
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14. Club Sandwich
Layered with bread, turkey, lettuce, bacon, tomato, and gobs of mayo, this iconic diner sandwich is cut into triangles and pinned with toothpicks. How holding it together with toothpicks makes it taste better is a mystery, but it's true.
15. Grilled Cheese
Describing the grilled cheese doesn't do it justice. It's golden, crispy bread holding together a layer of melted cheese. It's comforting and simple, and will never disappoint. The classic diner move is to pair it with a cup or bowl of tomato soup for dipping. Some diners experiment by adding bacon or tomatoes, but you can't go wrong with the traditional version.
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16. Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, and whoever thought this flavor combo would work is a genius. It's tangy and savory and best when served with a pickle.
17. Hot Turkey Sandwich
This open-faced sandwich features slices of turkey smothered in gravy and served with mashed potatoes. It hints at Thanksgiving leftovers, but can be enjoyed year-round.
18. Tuna Melt
The tuna melt is a true diner concoction. It combines tuna salad with melted cheese, and is usually served on rye or sourdough. It's a grilled sandwich that should be enjoyed with a side of potato chips.
19. Blue Plate Special
The Blue Plate Special is the most diner-specific dish ever. It's basically a daily rotating comfort meal served at an affordable price. It can be meatloaf one day, and fried chicken the next day. It's surprising, fun, and always a treat.
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20. Salisbury Steak
A consistent Blue Plate Special is Salisbury steak. This hearty dish is ground beef shaped into patties and then fried and smothered with brown gravy and onions. It's always paired with vegetables and mashed potatoes, and it's a distinct diner menu item.
