If you haven’t heard, it’s the summer of the great American road trip, and any good trip should be planned around good meals. The right restaurant isn’t just a stop for sustenance, but a “third place” — a setting distinct from home or place of employment, in which the sharing of food and community are one and the same.
The best third place is the one in your own town, but if you’re friendly and respectful, you’ll find yourself welcomed into the little microcosms of Western civilization scattered across the country and known as the quintessential American diner. It’s not just a cost-effective way to feed a family — it’s a daily ritual in which you may participate for the price of a burger, black coffee, beer, or basket of fried shrimp.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it’s a collection of some favorite hole-in-the-wall places — dare I say, diners, drive-ins, and dives — that are worth stopping at if you’re driving through (or live nearby). You’ll notice some states are over- or under-represented; I’ve only included places that I or someone I trust can personally vouch for, and I haven’t had the money or the time to visit every state in the union yet. If I missed your favorite, that’s why we have a comment section.
Westside Lilo’s, Seligman, Arizona
With its address on Route 66, this onetime hobby shop-turned-restaurant is the Southwestern version of what Cracker Barrel used to be, and a favorite of Federalist White House Correspondent Breccan Thies. You’ll find family pictures and taxidermy on the wood-paneled walls. Choose from all kinds of classic American fare, but don’t miss the carrot cake.
Frosty Chalet, Lone Pine, California
I stumbled across this place on a college road trip from Los Angeles to Carson City, Nevada. It’s cash-only and open seasonally, so call to make sure they’re open (they don’t have a website). But it’s worth stopping if you ever find yourself in the metropolis of Lone Pine, pop. 2,000.
Neptune’s Net, Malibu, California
Less off the beaten path than Frosty Chalet, Neptune’s Net is an iconic stop along the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s changed hands a few times since it began in 1956, and been featured in a few movies (such as 1991’s Point Break), but it still maintains its old-school charm. Choose from burgers or seafood — I recommend the fish tacos — and take in the ocean view from the row of picnic tables on the porch.
Eagle Diner, Eagle, Colorado
In contrast to the uppity sensibilities of its neighbor town of Vail, the Eagle Diner feels like a step back in time, with its checkered floors and neon lighting.
Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock, New London, Connecticut
Located on Shaw Cove on the Thames River (unlike its British cousin, the “H” in this one isn’t silent), Captain Scott’s is accessible by car or by boat. They might be named for their lobster, but the fried shrimp is great too.
Tune Inn, Washington, D.C.
This one comes recommended from multiple Federalist staff, including yours truly. Founded in 1947, the Tune Inn boasts of having “the second oldest liquor license in DC after the repeal of Prohibition.” It’s still family-run and one of the few places in Washington that’s still a real hole in the wall.
The Yearling, Hawthorne, Florida
Situated on Cross Creek, stomping grounds of The Yearling author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, the restaurant bears the same name in her honor. It’s been there since 1952, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back to its early days when you enter. Come for the Rawlings Burger and conch fritters, and stay for the wood-paneled walls and local taxidermy.
Burger Station, Hernando, Florida
Just across the street from the lake, you won’t regret stopping for a spell at this old gas station turned burger joint. The burgers are amazing, but the sweet potato fries with marshmallow fluff are even better.
11th Street Diner, Miami, Florida
The chrome dining car that now houses the 11th Street Diner was built in 1948 and then served as a diner in Pennsylvania for more than four decades, before it was moved to Miami Beach and reopened as a diner there in 1992.
The Breakers, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Palm Beach may have the most famous “Breakers” in the state, but New Smyrna has the most fun one. Sit at the semi-enclosed bar overlooking the beach for the best views. My favorite is the Hawaiian burger.
Gator Joe’s, Ocklawaha, Florida
Situated on the shores of Lake Weir, Gator Joe’s Beach Bar & Grill is one of the premier establishments in the 1500-person town of Ocklawaha. Founded in 1926, it’s named after a famous local alligator who helped the FBI track down the Ma Barker gang (read the story if you don’t believe me). You have to try the gator tail if you’ve never had it, but you’ll keep going back for the fried shrimp.
El Cap, St. Petersburg, Florida
El Cap has been a staple in St. Pete for more than six decades, for good reason. As of 2022, prep guy Johnny Johnson had formed two million burger patties, with a daily record of 2,300. As the menu notes, burgers are served medium rare unless you request otherwise.
Powell’s Dairy Freeze, Starke, Florida
If you ever find yourself in Starke, Florida, stop at Powell’s, a local drive-in favorite. They serve burgers and such, but the milkshakes are the way to go if you’re looking to beat the Sunshine State heat.
Old Sugar Mill Pancake House, De Leon Springs, Florida
I almost didn’t include this one because some places are too special to share, but if you’ve made it this far you probably deserve to hear about it. Situated in an old wooden structure that used to be a sugar cane mill, the restaurant opened in 1961 and lets diners make their own pancakes on griddles inlaid in each table. After 61 years under the original owners, it changed hands in 2022, but it still looks (almost) the same. It can take a while between putting your name in and being seated, so plan to pass the time swimming in the spring adjacent to the restaurant.
The Varsity, Atlanta, Georgia
Visited by multiple presidents, the Varsity isn’t exactly a well-kept secret in Atlanta. First opened in 1928 by founder Frank Gordy, it was named “the world’s largest drive-in” in 1950, and it’s still run by the Gordy family. Don’t miss the homemade fried peach pies.
Mr. Chick, Cairo, Georgia
Family-owned since 1972, Mr. Chick is a Cairo, Georgia, institution. As you might infer, their specialty is Southern fried chicken. If you don’t want to sound like a Yankee tourist, make sure you pronounce Cairo correctly — it’s KAY-ro, unlike its Egyptian cousin.
Billy Goat Tavern, Chicago, Illinois
My colleague Eddie Scarry recommends this place in Chicago, famous for its “Cheezborgers.” Opened in 1934, the Billy Goat Tavern got its name when “a goat fell off a passing truck and wandered inside,” according to its website.
Carlson’s Drive-In, Michigan City, Indiana
Near the shores of Lake Michigan, this Indiana drive-in has been around for 78 summers. You’ll find hot dogs, burgers, chili, and other favorites, but most importantly, homemade root beer that’s brewed onsite.
Mayberry Cafe, Danville, Indiana
This Andy Griffith-themed diner comes recommended by my colleague Maisey Jefferson. Christine and Brad Born have been running the Mayberry Cafe since it opened in 1989, and have even entertained members of the Andy Griffith Show cast there.
Chick and Ruth’s Delly, Annapolis, Maryland
Named for founders Chick & Ruth Levitt, this place has been serving Annapolis since 1965. It’s a popular spot for campaigning politicians, for whom you’ll notice several menu items are named. In addition to standard diner fare, they have many great crab dishes — like the Annapolis fries, which are basically Maryland poutine. Test your mettle with their 6-pound milkshake challenge, and show your patriotism by joining in the daily morning ritual of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
White Trolley Cafe, Corinth, Mississippi
Our morning editor, Hayden Daniel, recommends this 18-stool establishment. They’re known for their “slugburger,” which was popularized during the Great Depression when it was common to mix fillers like flour and soy grits into burger patties to make the meat stretch. They originally cost a nickel, or in 1930s terms, a “slug.”
Solly’s Hot Tamales, Vicksburg, Mississippi
Tamales probably aren’t what you think of when you picture old-school dives, but Solly’s is a worthy exception — and while you should definitely order the tamales, they have burgers etc. too. What Henry Solly started from a pushcart has now been serving Vicksburg since 1939.
Four Aces Diner, West Lebanon, New Hampshire
“Over 13 million eggs and still crackin,” boasted the menu at this diner that’s been serving West Lebanon since 1952. At this joint, another Breccan recommendation, you’ll find creative sandwiches and burgers as well as an extensive breakfast menu.
El’s Drive-In, Morehead City, North Carolina
This one comes recommended by The Federalist’s Shawn Fleetwood. El’s Drive-In has been right where it is today since 1959, and like a traditional drive-in, the only seating options are outside or in your vehicle. Starting with founder El Franks, it’s been run by three generations of the Franks family.
Camp Washington Chili, Cincinnati, Ohio
Closed on Sundays and open 24 hours the rest of the week, Camp Washington Chili first started serving Cincinnati in 1940. “Johnny Johnson, the patriarch of the Camp Washington Chili family, has been a constant part of that routine since 1951 when he immigrated to the United States from Greece and began working at Camp Washington Chili,” their website says. “Johnny hasn’t worked anywhere else since the day he arrived.” Try their famous “5-way” — chili with spaghetti, onions, beans, and cheese.
Easterby’s Family Grille, Charleston, South Carolina
There aren’t many places around anymore where you can get a 20-piece basket of fried shrimp for $12.95, but Easterby’s is one of them. It’s been serving the West Ashley neighborhood of Charleston since 1973.
Loveless Cafe, Nashville, Tennessee
Lon and Annie Loveless opened the Loveless Cafe in 1951, and eventually “converted their home into a restaurant and built a 14-room motel for overnight guests.” Today, it’s still serving up to 10,000 biscuits a day to Nashville locals and visitors alike.
Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe, Lubbock, Texas
With pink walls and vinyl chairs, this 1950s-style gem cycles through nearly 100 ice cream flavors every year. Don’t miss the fully functional jukebox!
Bob and Edith’s, Arlington, Virginia
Another Breccan recommendation, Bob and Edith’s has been serving Virginia’s D.C. suburbs for more than 50 years, and it’s still family-run. They’ve since expanded to eight Northern Virginia locations, but the one on Columbia Pike is the original, which Bob and Edith bought for $800.
The White Spot, Charlottesville, Virginia
Founded in 1953 and named for the spot on the floor where the previous establishment’s beauty salon chair had been anchored, this unassuming burger joint is a University of Virginia favorite. Try the Gus Burger, which comes with a fried egg.
Riverside Lunch, Charlottesville, Virginia
Breccan recommends this one, but I can vouch for it too. Founded in 1935, they’ve been using the same grill for longer than I’ve been alive. Besides the burgers that made them famous, the fried mushrooms are my personal favorite.
The Virginian, Charlottesville, Virginia
The Virginian was founded in 1923, making it Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant. During Prohibition, it was a soda fountain; now, it’s a popular hangout spot for UVA students. Breccan recommends it, and so do I — especially the “Stumble Down Mac ‘n’ Cheese” and the Southern fried chicken.
Texas Tavern, Roanoke, Virginia
Small but mighty, the Texas Tavern has one counter which spans the length of the restaurant, which is about the size of a shipping container. Across it you can watch your burger be prepared and make conversation with the man preparing it. Founded by Nick Bullington in 1930, it’s now run by his great-grandson. The chile is don’t miss, and every burger on the menu is under four dollars — just don’t ask for ketchup.
Wright’s Dairy-Rite, Staunton, Virginia
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, this drive-in has been serving the town of Staunton (pronounced STAN-ton) since 1952. Order from your car or eat indoors, but either way try the Superburger.
Vienna Inn, Vienna, Virginia
Founded in 1960, the Vienna Inn is a refreshing dose of old-school in a part of the state that’s besieged by D.C.’s urban sprawl. They’re famous for their chili dogs, of which they sell 10,000 per month, according to their website. (This one’s another Breccan favorite.)
Red Baron Drive-In, Afton, Wyoming
The Red Baron has been serving Wyoming’s Star Valley since 1968. South of Grand Teton National Park, it’s only open during the summer months, but it’s a go-to spot for burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream.
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, Jackson, Wyoming
Not exactly a diner, but charming enough to make the list anyway. There’s live music every night and free dance lessons on Thursdays. Heads up, it’s the one entry here that isn’t family-friendly — patrons must be 21 to enter.
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