20 Of Our Favorite Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Restaurants

Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Here’s a curated list of 20 amazing restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, complete with details, tips, and must-try dishes. These spots offer something special, from local favorites to unique dishes across the U.S. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just exploring new places, these gems deliver unforgettable dining experiences! Let me know if you want help crafting an itinerary or finding more options near you.

The Brunch Box – Portland, OR

Specialties: Over-the-top burgers and hearty breakfast sandwiches.

Must-Try: Redonkadonk Burger (bacon, egg, grilled cheese buns).

Tips: Arrive early—lines can get long!

Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Louie’s Grill & Bar – Oklahoma City, OK

Specialties: Tex-Mex and classic American diner dishes.

Must-Try: Green Chile Cheeseburger and their signature Frito Chili Pie.

Tips: Great spot for families; their spicy salsa is house-made.

tripadvisor

Pizzeria Lola – Minneapolis, MN

Specialties: Korean-inspired wood-fired pizzas.

Must-Try: The Sunnyside (guanciale, pecorino, cream, egg).

Tips: Try the kimchi on the side for an authentic twist.

Young Joni/Facebook

Blue Ash Chili – Cincinnati, OH

Specialties: Cincinnati-style chili.

Must-Try: 6-Way Chili (spaghetti, cheese, onions, beans, fried jalapeño caps).

Tips: Add a coney for the full experience.

blueashchili

The Donut Man – Glendora, CA

Specialties: Freshly made fruit-stuffed donuts.

Must-Try: Strawberry Donut (seasonal).

Tips: Go during strawberry season for peak freshness.

Flickr

Hodad’s – San Diego, CA

Specialties: Iconic, oversized burgers.

Must-Try: Double Bacon Cheeseburger.

Tips: Share the fries—they come in huge portions.

Bradley Schweit Photography 2015

Guy’s Big Bite BBQ – Miami, FL

Specialties: Southern BBQ and comfort food.

Must-Try: Pulled Pork Cuban Sandwich.

Tips: Don’t skip the house-made sauces.

palmbeachpost

Matt’s Big Breakfast – Phoenix, AZ

Specialties: Simple, hearty breakfasts made from scratch.

Must-Try: Hog & Chick (pork chop and eggs).

Tips: Small space, so arrive early to snag a seat.

azcentral

Grinder’s – Kansas City, MO

Specialties: Gourmet pizza and cheesesteaks.

Must-Try: Chili Bomb Pizza.

Tips: Great outdoor seating with a lively atmosphere.

grinderspizza

Alcenia’s – Memphis, TN

Specialties: Soul food with a personal touch.

Must-Try: Fried chicken and sweet potato pie.

Tips: Owner B.J. will make you feel like family.

alcenias

Island Vintage Coffee – Honolulu, HI

Specialties: Local Hawaiian-inspired breakfasts and bowls.

Must-Try: Acai Bowl with fresh tropical fruits.

Tips: Great coffee pairings and ocean-view seating.

islandvintagecoffee

Bachi Burger – Las Vegas, NV

Specialties: Asian fusion burgers.

Must-Try: Pork Belly Steam Buns.

Tips: Try the unique yuzu lemonade.

Bachi Burger Facebook

Nick’s Italian Cafe – McMinnville, OR

Specialties: Handmade pastas and Italian comfort food.

Must-Try: House Lasagna.

Tips: Their wine pairings highlight local vineyards.

Ross William Hamilton

Café Genevieve – Jackson Hole, WY

Specialties: Comfort food with a gourmet twist.

Must-Try: Pig Candy (candied bacon).

Tips: Perfect spot for brunch.

genevievejh

The Shanty – Wadsworth, IL

Specialties: Fresh seafood and farm-to-table fare.

Must-Try: Whiskey Shrimp.

Tips: Seasonal menu, so check for specials.

opentable

The White House Sub Shop – Atlantic City, NJ

Specialties: Legendary subs.

Must-Try: White House Special (loaded Italian hoagie).

Tips: Split a large sub—they’re enormous!

theinfatuation

Smokey D’s BBQ – Des Moines, IA

Specialties: Award-winning BBQ.

Must-Try: Burnt Ends Dinner.

Tips: Their mac and cheese is a sleeper hit.

smokeydsbbq

The Pantry – Little Rock, AR

Specialties: Central European comfort food.

Must-Try: Bacon-Wrapped Dates and Pantry Burger.

Tips: Their cocktails are well-crafted and worth a try.

aymag

The Pie-O-Neer – Pie Town, NM

Specialties: Handmade pies with a rustic feel.

Must-Try: Green Chile Apple Pie.

Tips: Limited hours—check before visiting.

pieoneer

Franklin Barbecue – Austin, TX

Specialties: Brisket that’s worth the hype.

Must-Try: Beef Brisket Plate.

Tips: Arrive early—they often sell out by noon.

franklinbbq

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