The 7 Coolest Classic Diners in America Inline
Photo: Courtesy of Vince Dominguez / @tonalmemories1/7Dove’s Luncheonette, Chicago
The wood paneling, counter stools, jukebox, and penny tile floors telegraph a certain retro charm, one compounded by the sounds of ’60s and ’70s Chicago soul and blues wafting through the air. Come for the decor and stay for the delicious Southern-inspired Mexican cuisine.
Photo: Courtesy of @cleo.yeh2/7Empire Diner, New York City
The Art Moderne exterior of this New York establishment is a landmark of sorts on the corner of 10th Avenue and West 22nd Street. Though it has changed hands many times since it was built in 1946, the decor remains largely untouched, save for a stylized model of the Empire State Building added to the roof in 1976.
Photo: Courtesy of Vintage Glamper / @vintageglamper3/7Brent’s Drugs, Jackson, Mississippi
Though it was renovated last year, walking into this space—originally a pharmacy when it opened in 1946—feels like a complete time warp. Sidle up to the soda fountain and order up some of the fresh, local fare.
Photo: Courtesy of Emy / @emysena4/7Skillet Diner, Seattle
The first iteration of this American-inspired eatery was housed in a vintage Airstream trailer, and that aesthetic carries over to its more traditional brick-and-mortar establishment—think: a slightly more streamlined take on the diner, where concrete walls meet green vinyl booths and counter stools. And while you’re there, be sure to try the bacon jam.
Photo: Courtesy of Laura Skvortsov / @urbanstarlings5/7Sawyer Co., Austin, Texas
When the circa-1940s Arkie’s Grill closed in 2012, Sawyer Co. swooped in to resurrect the stylish diner. Changes have been made to the interiors—a new mural, updated booths—to put it squarely in a cool, retro-modern category. On the menu? It’s all about the shrimp and grits, jambalaya, and gumbo.
