There’s no better place to savor retro Americana than at a classic diner. Whether you’re after crispy fries, chicken fried steak, chocolate malts, or banana splits, these Southern diners go heavy on good vibes, great food, and a strong sense of Main Street pride.
Staunton, Virginia
Wright’s drive-in captivates with its mom-and-pop ambiance and curbside service, proudly serving mouthwatering burgers, fries, and macaroni salad since 1952. Just pull up, speak your order into a metal box, and wait for your food to come to you. Save room for Wright’s Wheelie, a hot glazed donut topped with a jumbo scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
Memphis, Tennessee
Arcade Restaurant has been feeding hungry patrons since 1919, and a renovation in 1955 brought in then-novel neon signs and vinyl-covered dining room chairs. Fourth-generation co-owner Kelcie Zepatos says the restaurant is just one of many mom-and-pop businesses that make downtown Memphis special. “It’s very soulful,” she says. “We have people that come in and eat every day, and they just kind of have their spot.” Hearty breakfasts like Harry’s hash brown bowl and sweet potato pancakes are standouts, as is Elvis Presley’s favorite, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich. Located in the historic South Main Arts District, Arcade Restaurant has even made cameos in the films The Firm and Walk the Line.
Payne’s Sandwich Shop & Soda Fountain
Scottsboro, Alabama
Payne’s dates back more than a hundred years, but it’s got the quintessential 1950s diner aesthetic: monochrome tile floors, a shiny jukebox, and red vinyl counter stools. Stay for the rich chocolate malts, banana splits, root beer floats, and if you fit the bill, nickel ice creams for seniors on Thursdays.
Hendersonville, North Carolina
Housed in a one-time drugstore building dating back to 1883, Mike’s on Main boasts a lovingly preserved soda fountain, 1950s-style decor, and all-day breakfast. Nosh on time-honored American fare like country-fried steak and homemade egg salad. That’s not to mention the old-fashioned egg creams, hot fudge sundaes, and location in one of Western North Carolina’s most charming towns.
Cornelia, Georgia
Fenders Diner opened its doors in 1996, but pastel-colored booths and midcentury dinette tables artfully capture the essence of an earlier era. “A lot of people make an annual pilgrimage—they come into Fenders on their way up to the mountains,” says co-owner Jay Reeder. “So we’ve got a neat fan base that’s all over Georgia.” The menu is a steadfast mix of classic and new-school favorites like cinnamon roll pancakes, fried okra, and smash burgers. For the kids, adds Reeder, “we end every meal with cotton candy that comes with the check.”
Chesnee, South Carolina
Bantam Chef bursts with memorabilia like a 1950 Studebaker, a 1958 three-wheeled BMW motorcycle, and vintage Harley-Davidsons. The menu is packed with greasy-spoon faves, including crispy fried chicken and apple pie. Also, there are plenty of “plenties,” including Chicken-a-Plenty and Country Steak-a-Plenty, so named because they are served with “plenty” of sides—French fries, onion rings, and coleslaw. Bantam Chef claims to have the best sweet tea, but you’ll have to try it to see for yourself.
Houston, Texas
Since 1967, this 24/7 Texas institution has been charming diners with its cozy booths, friendly wait staff, and from-scratch comfort foods like smothered pork chops. Dot is also famous for its house-made pies, including pecan and chocolate cream, available by the slice or whole. The sign outside proclaims “Steaks, Shakes & Pancakes,” and they make good on that promise.
