North Carolina's Best Diner

Posted: Aug 20, 2008

What is North Carolina’s best diner? Ponder that culinary question as we continue our Best of Carolina series. Randy Cotten of Cary suggested this topic. Here’s what he had to say:

“I am drawn to the historic diners of the Northeast. Many of these great eating places are being featured in the current series on the Food Network, "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives". Unfortunately, N.C. is not a diner mecca. However, many great cafes do exist here. You know, the type where you can get breakfast 24/7, homemade desserts, great vegetables and wonderful, sincere service. Yes, I know the Triangle has places labeled as diners, but they have a menu that is very basic, almost fast-foodish and with no real love applied or selection that makes them stand out. While I love cuisine from speciality restaurants, I can always count on the family atmosphere and comfort food awaiting in a "how are you today honey" diner. And, don't we all need a bit of that at times? So, where are they in N.C.?"

Great question, Randy. Thanks. What are the best diners in North Carolina? What diners or cafes serve an outstanding and wide range of food with casual atmosphere, reasonable prices and extended hours?

We’ll take your nominations today and vote tomorrow. By the way, pass the lemon pie, would ya.

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I, as many transplants from the North, do find one of the things I miss about New York & especially New Jersey are the DINERS. As the blog states not a fast food place that has 10-15 items on a menu, but the top of place that has over 100 items and you can get any of these 24/7. Desserts: 10" high cakes, rice pudding, bread pudding, chocolate pudding, fruit pies, coconut custard, a pot of coffee on the table. Hey how about, lox, cream cheesem red onion on a bagel, or a big Greek salad with feta and stuffed grape leaves, and, pinch me, I thought that I was back in the land of Oz. I hope that a poster will point out that place here in WAKE County

Eduardo1
GOLO member since November 25, 2007
August 20, 2008 7:56 a.m.

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I think one of the best ones in the state is in Nags Head at Bob's Grill. I think you can get breakfast 24/7, or at least all day if they are not open 24 hours, & the pancakes & omletes are as big as the plate they come on. Prices are very reasonable & you get tons of food. They also have really good seafood since it is at the beach. If anyone wants to know, they are located on the bypass (Hwy 158) but I can't remember the milepost number. You will know the place when you see their slogan on their sign - "Eat And Get the Hell Out!!" They are always crowded because they have great food & atmosphere!

khoggard
August 20, 2008 8:10 a.m.

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Well, though it comes no where close to what Eduardo was describing, I have to say that the Farmer's Market Restaurant is one of my favorite "diners".

Having lived in the western part of the state for several years, I would also have to say that back in the day, the Cullowhee Cafe served good food on a consistant basis.

happy
GOLO member since August 2, 2007
August 20, 2008 8:21 a.m.

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There is a place in Aulander NC that all the locals call "The Diner" Food is outstanding and prices very reasonable. Tiny for a tiny town but BIG taste. Another is Claudine's in Rich Square NC. Outstanding home cooking. I travel that area periodically and try to always be close to one of these locations when my hunger strikes!

Mmaker52
GOLO member since July 5, 2007
August 20, 2008 8:30 a.m.

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4 Corner Diner in Atlantic Beach - good breakfast, has lunch and dinner some, very homey and busy

I also liked R&C Restaurant in Williamston. Grew up near there and that was a good place to go.

I guess, Bill, we're really looking for good ole' places to eat that are not chains.

murdock
GOLO member since February 14, 2008
August 20, 2008 8:41 a.m.

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Murdock -- I am unhappy to report that R & C's closed in July. I live in Williamston & the owner decided to retire & no one took over the business. It will be greatly missed by everyone here. A close 2nd to them would be Griffin's Quick Lunch. Don't let the name fool you. They serve breakfast all day & the food is really good.

khoggard
August 20, 2008 8:50 a.m.

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I would offer Knights on Main in Blowing Rock. It has great home cooking and reasonable prices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is always accompanied with a personal greeting when you walk in the door.

veyor
August 20, 2008 8:52 a.m.

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Arnold's Family Resteraunt in Richlands is pretty good. It is always crowded with lots of locals. The Rockin' Comet Dinner in Clayton is pretty good. It is some of the best home cooked food around here.