Diner culture is something that has long been immortalized in Americana history for decades now. While diners have transformed and emerged as beacons of neon, glimmering relief to weary travelers who have been on the road for long hours, they've also become spots for families to bond, friends to meet up for lunch, and solo patrons to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. It seems like almost every small town in the country has its own community spot and every big city has multiple locations, each with its own regulars to keep the doors open.
Along with the atmosphere of a diner comes the food that people enjoy so much. There are staples that have been on diner menus from the start and continue to be well-loved today. As far as a definitive ranking, though? We're consulting with the diner - and foodie experts - on this one.
Pancakes
Pancakes go above and beyond the call of duty for so many reasons. After a long night out doing who knows what, an early morning before a big day, and a lazy Sunday when all you can think about is lounging on the couch, pancakes are there for you. It seems that there are no better places in the world who make them as well as diners - it's unclear whether it's the simple science behind a well-worked griddle or flattop or the fact that the air in a diner just makes them taste better.
Biscuits And Gravy
Traditionally seen as a Southern staple, biscuits and gravy have slowly made their way around the country and have now become, simply, a diner staple.
While they're not found in every diner, you can guarantee that when they are, they're the most popular thing on the menu. Many diners offer this combination as a special and it's no surprise when it's sold out by noon.
Waffles
Running very closely with pancakes are waffles. In reality, it's a tough call to make between diner pancakes and diner waffles - when it comes down to it, though, pancakes are just the slightest more popular than their cake-like cousin. Waffles with ice cream, with a side of bacon, with chocolate chips, you name it... a diner will create it. Bonus points if chicken and waffles are on the menu that week.
Omelet
Omelets are an absolute diner staple which is why they're so high-ranking. One of the most beautiful things about a diner menu is the fact that at least one-fourth, if not half of it, is usually devoted to the omelet section. Among the traditional options such as a Western or bacon omelet come the diner specials, and, at the bottom, the 'create your own' option.
Eggs Benedict
What's seen as a fairly high-end dish is now something that can be eaten almost everywhere and, again, diners must be doing something right because eggs benedict is among one of the most popular breakfast and brunch items ordered all day. Who would have thought that a couple of poached eggs, a lemony, buttery sauce, and some Canadian bacon would go so far?
Cheeseburger
There's no need to even go to the fast-food drive-thru for those who live within close proximity to a diner.
Referencing that same seasoned flat top, there's something so magical about what happens when a burger patty lets out that sizzle, gets topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a bun, and is served alongside some crispy fries.
Milkshake
No cheeseburger would be complete without one of these and it's not just a lost drink of the 1950s. While it might conjure up images of poodle skirts, milkshakes have been completely transformed and welcomed with open arms into the modern era. Occasionally, you can still see the original milkshake blenders that some diners opened with, in fully-working condition, if you order one.
Loaded Fries
Sometimes called 'Disco Fries' if you happen to be up North, loaded fries have become a late-night staple like no other. When it's too late to order a full meal but too early to order breakfast, loaded fries are there, waiting to satisfy. With layer upon layer of cheese (shredded, nacho, or both, we're not picky), a topping of onions or scallions, and a layer of crispy fried bacon, there's nothing not to love about these except the calories. Luckily, no one is even counting them that late at night.
Reuben
To round out the popularity list, the Reuben comes in last. That's not to say it's not an extremely popular diner option - it is, just not the most popular. However, there's such a strong difference between a diner-made Reuben and any others, especially if you're lucky enough to be ordering one in New York City.