Virginia's Top Diners: A Taste of American Tradition
Diners are an American original. Culturally a symbol of American optimism, they’ve been featured prominently in arts, movies, and culture for over a hundred years. Today, great American diners can still play an important role in society. Not only do they serve mouthwatering, homey food, but they provide a meeting spot—for everyone. Here are the best diners in Virginia.
Blue Moon Diner, Charlottesville, VA
The Blue Moon Diner is a fun, family-friendly spot in Charlottesville. They serve all your diner-food favorites, including sandwiches, breakfast, and burgers. Breakfast is served all day and they have live music on weeknights.
Pink Cadillac Diner, Natural Bridge, VA
The Pink Cadillac Diner in Natural Bridge can’t be missed. If you somehow don’t see the actual pink Cadillac parked out front, then you’re sure to find the massive, pink-colored building just behind it. This 1950s-style diner has a family-friendly environment and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Metro 29 Diner Restaurant, Arlington, VA
Metro 29 Diner Restaurant in Arlington has been featured on “Diner, Drive-In’s, and Dives,” as well as the Washington Post. They serve vice-presidents as well as every-day folk with steaks, salads, Italian food, and homemade desserts. The menu is huge and they’re open late, giving you plenty of time to sample everything.
Virginia Diner, Wakefield, VA
The Virginia Diner styles itself “a legend in a nutshell since 1929.” For over 85 years, they’ve provided southern-comfort food at a reasonable price. They’re known for their incredible peanuts, used in their desserts as well as sold by the fistful.
Pop’s Diner Co., Chesapeake and Virginia Beach, VA
Pop’s Diner Co. has three locations in Virginia, one in Chesapeake and two in Virginia Beach. They’ve been voted “Best of the Beach” and have a “kid’s eat free” policy. For the last 13 years, Pops’ Diner has focused on delivering solid, unpretentious food in a place where everyone’s welcome.
City Diner Restaurant, Falls Church, VA
The City Diner Restaurant in Falls Church is known for their assortment of dishes and great service. This humble diner sticks to serving simple food done right. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with American classics or Greek and Italian flavors.
Bob and Edith’s Diner, Multiple locations
Bob and Edith’s Diner has locations in Springfield, Arlington and Alexandria. This 24-hour cozy diner prides itself on serving exceptional, classic diner food in a “familiar diner setting.” Come in for breakfast or lunch.
Exmore Diner, Exmore, VA
A little town on the Eastern Shore, Exmore is home to the fabulous Exmore Diner. They’ve been in business for over 50 years and still known almost every local visitor well enough to celebrate special occasions with them as well as serve them delicious home-style cooking. What more could you ask for in a local spot?
Frost Diner, Warrenton, VA
You can’t eat in a more authentically Americana spot than the Frost Diner. This silver-tin can of a restaurant has been in service for over 50 years. Sitting at one of their booths or counter-side chairs feels like stepping into a time capsule. Enjoy generous portions and great service at this cash-only restaurant.
