Whether it’s the huge menu selections, the funky bright décor, or the value for money, diners are still popular today than ever before. Here’s a look at Westside Today’s top five diners:
1) Café 50’s
This is a great spot to stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner, regardless of whether or not you have friends joining you. This traditional American diner really makes you feel like you are in the 50’s with their classic food and charming atmosphere. Owner Craig Martin complements the classic diner formula (kitschy memorabilia, late-night hours, home-cooked fare, man in corner swinging antique golf clubs) with vintage accents, including a 1957 Seeburg jukebox. It’s open daily 7 am to midnight (Fridays and Saturdays until 1 am).
• 11623 Santa Monica Blvd., West L.A. 310.479.1955, cafe50s.com.
2) The Headlines Diner and Press Club
This little joint in Los Angeles is a wonderful place to go for a hearty meal between, should the mood strike you between 6 am and 10 pm weekdays or 7 am to 10 pm weekends. Whether you need to satisfy some major munchies or fuel up for the day ahead, The Headline’s got your back. The menu includes its famous omelets, more than 15 sandwiches, nine burgers combos that come with fries (or French toast), and bottomless soft drinks.
• 10922 Kinross Ave., Westwood. 310.208.2424, headlinesdiner.com.
3) Rae’s Restaurant
The quaint teal-colored establishment serves Santa Monica the most important meal of the day. If a simple and traditional breakfast is what you’re after, this just might be the place for you. Locals will attest to food being cheap, the portions are big, and all the staff offer friendly service. It’s open daily from 6:30 am to 4 pm. Fun fact, this diner was featured in Tony Scott’s 1993 romantic crime caper “True Romance.”
• 2901 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica. 310.828.7937.
4) Ronnie’s Diner
This old-fashioned diner may not be open particularly late, but if you are hungry between 7 am and 2:30 pm weekdays, or 7:30 am and 2:30 pm on weekends, you could treat yourself to anything from pancakes to a ground turkey burrito. The meals are simple, tasty, and they fill you up. An added bonus: outdoor seating.
• 12740 Culver Blvd., Culver City. 310.578.9399, ronniesdiner.com.
5) Swinger’s Diner
Since 1993, Swinger’s has been feeding both early birds and nighthawks alike with traditional diner food. If you don’t have the wings to get to one of their locations, you can get your food delivered right to your door.
• 8020 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles. 323.653.5858, swingersdiner.com.
• 802 Broadway, Santa Monica. 310.393.9793, swingersdiner.com.
