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37 All-American Diners, Hash Houses, And Greasy Spoons To Fuel Your Summer Road Trip

All over the country, you’ll find a microcosm of Western civilization known as the quintessential American diner.

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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........

© The Federalist