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Diners in New England: Top 5
What to look for in a diner
by Richard Gutman
Nobody knows more about these classic eateries than Richard Gutman, curator of the Culinary Arts Museum at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI, and author of three books on the history of diners. When we asked him to name his five favorites, he groaned, "There are more than 300 diners just in Massachusetts!" Still, he agreed to confide all five of his top picks, with a little lore about each of them.
Find 20 more classic New England diners selected by Richard Gutman.
Modern Diner
A 1941 Sterling Streamliner, this was the first diner named to the National Register of Historic Places, in 1978. Go for the weekend brunch specials, such as lobster Benedict (made by Al Roker when he visited for his Food Network special "Diner Destinations"). [DETAILS]
Kelly's Diner
A 1947 Jerry O'Mahoney diner, this stainless-steel classic was profiled on the Food Network hit "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives." It serves generous portions—Kelly's Super, for example: two eggs, choice of meat, home fries, two huge pancakes, and toast. [DETAILS]
Capitol Diner
Located in a 1928 Brill diner, this family-run business, since 1938, serves up one of the friendliest atmospheres, plus fare from meatloaf-and-mashed to crab sandwiches and quesadillas. [DETAILS]
Libby's Blue Line Diner
A 1953 Worcester Lunch car, this diner sits like a fort, perched high above I-89, with a spectacular view for the patrons inside. The baked goods excel, and the breakfast can't be beat, as the frequent wait-for-a-seat will attest. [DETAILS]
A1 Diner
Patrons of this small diner, a 1946 Worcester lunch car, enjoy its eclectic menu, as well as the owners' deli and specialty food store next door. It has a unique location: perched on steel stilts alongside elevated Bridge Street. Its recipes and lore are chronicled in "A1 Diner: Real Food, Recipes & Recollections" by Sarah Rolph (Tilbury House, 2006,; $20). [DETAILS]
Reader Comments
Comment from Mel Allen on May 9, 2008
I have not been to all of these diners but I know this: if Richard Gutman says they are his favorites, then I want to follow in his steps. He is one of the diner experts in the country.
Comment from Jeff Folger on May 27, 2009
I stopped at a diner in Maine during a fall trip and it coincided with a power outage in the local area and everybody who lived in a five mile range was there also... The diner was the only one who had power and great meatloaf and mashed potatoes... There are several in this area like the Agawam up off I-95 in Rowley at the junction of 133 and 1A... It's a big silver one that shines in the sun. Jeff
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