I've made a simple observation here in Cedar City, Utah. That is that nothing stays the same. El Quetzal (Guatemalan food) closes and El Toro Loco (yet another Mexican food place) takes its place. Pisco Peruvian threats closing its doors for good but instead simply closes for a remodel. Palette Creamery, your favorite Friday night spot, gets merged into a bakery with Simply Delicious Confections.
I am not saying that these changes are negative in nature. In fact, constant change and improvement is what keeps most businesses going. As mentioned in a previous post, I enjoy going to new places and trying new menu items. In this post, however, I would like to point out that there are restaurants here in Cedar City and in every town in the world that do not drastically change; and I, for one, appreciate that.
In Cedar City, that restaurant is All-American Diner. When I was in Jr. High (more than nine years ago), I came down to Cedar City with my grandma and uncle to see some plays at the Utah Shakespeare Festival. We had one night to go out to dinner. My uncle suggested the All-American Diner.
Although it was my first time, my uncle had been there years before. I remember going in and my uncle commenting on how it was "exactly the way I remember." Red Brick, wood paneling, booths, tables, a counter and Americana decor. They serve all types of breakfast food, sandwiches, burgers, steaks and so much more.
In my many trips to this restaurant, I have never been disappointed with the quality of food. In comparison to other restaurants, the only sub-par food item for me was their regular french fries (which is why they were only ranked 6th in Cedar City). This was true until I received feedback from my blog post indicating that the All-American diner has fresh cut french fries as well-you just have to ask.
When I heard this news I called my friend Megan and we went to All American Diner (which happens to be our friendship's favorite dinner spot). There was a line out of the door as usual during their rush, but they seated us quickly. The waitress was friendly and helpful and the food was delicious. Megan got their stuffed burger with curly fries and I got their chicken club with fresh cut fries.
With a pickle on the plate, this meal was as classically Americana as they come. My personal favorite part is that they give you a bottle of fry sauce. While this restaurant surprised me with their secret menu item, the atmosphere and experience remained the same from my trip to the diner when I was in Jr. High. While large franchised restaurants have to play by certain rules, don't forget to support the local businesses that try so diligently to provide you with a hometown experience.
Comment below with your favorite hometown diner and where it's located. I'd love to start traveling and trying new things. Thank you for your continued feedback.
Until next time,
Katrina
Comments