Alexander SumnerI used to watch Gilmore Girls and always wondered what the food at Luke’s Diner actually tasted like. Rory and Lorelai basically visited there every day—how good had those breakfasts been?
Sadly, Luke’s is fictional, so I had to accept the cold, hard truth that I’d never get to try his famous burger or see what the fuss was about with his coffee. But that didn’t stop me from going on my own little diner journey in the real world.
Luckily, I got to explore a bunch of diners in Philadelphia with some friends. Each spot had its own vibe and menu.
After trying so many, we’ve become self-proclaimed diner critics. We can now rank them like pros. And, of course, we’ll be sharing our favorite Philly diners because we don’t believe in gatekeeping good stuff!
1. Sam’s Morning Glory Diner
Media credits: ebcinpa
Address: 735 S 10th St.
Contact details: +1 215-413-3999
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8 AM – 2 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Price: $$
Sam’s Morning Glory Diner wasn’t just another breakfast spot–it’s a place with real personality. We found politically-charged decors and dish names like “Putin is a Douche Quesadilla” and “Hate Makes You Ugly Breakfast Tacos.”
Some might find it polarizing, but for us, it was part of what made the experience feel so authentic and local. The diner mixes homemade hot sauce and ketchup with activism and sass and pulls it off.
We ordered the “President Musk Gets No Special Scramble,” and loved it. The eggs were perfectly fluffy, and the sauteed spinach and shiitake mushrooms added an earthy richness that balanced beautifully with the caramelized onions.
| Pro tip: Make sure to bring cash since they don’t accept debit or credit cards. There’s an ATM nearby, but save yourself the fee and come prepared. |
2. Penrose Diner
Media credits: penrosediner
Address: 2016 Penrose Ave
Contact details: +1 215-465-1097
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Penrose Diner has been around for over 50 years, and we can tell they’ve fine-tuned everything to balance that old-school charm with a modern diner feel. Think shiny booths, a classic counter with stools, and big tables in the back for groups like ours.
Their menu has plenty of great options without being overwhelming. We tried a bunch of dishes between us, from French toasts to omelets and breakfast skillets. Their breakfast skillet, in particular, came in big portions that a few of us took as leftovers.
Plus, the staff was accommodating. They made sure everything came out hot and at the same time (a small detail, but appreciated since we were a group). Even after we finished eating, they also let us hang out for a while longer to catch up.
| Pro tip: The parking lot is on the smaller side, so you might have to circle once or twice during peak times, but don’t stress. Turnover is fast, and there’s usually street parking nearby if you’re up for a short stroll. |
3. Fishtown Diner
Media credits: fishtowndiner
Address: 2424 E York St
Contact details: +1 215-426-2424
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Visiting Fishtown Diner, we had a feeling it’s deeply loved by its neighborhood. Locals were greeted by the waitress with their names. Even though we were just newcomers, we were also welcomed like old friends.
The decor here also hits the sweet spot between retro and industrial. They even have a wall of celebrity mugshots, which was interesting.
One of us ordered the Western omelette with rye toast. The ham inside gave a salty richness, while the peppers added a subtle crunch. I personally loved how their creme brulee french toast had thick slices of challah and was soaked in a custard.
| Pro tip: Mention if you’re a senior, teacher, or public service worker. They offer discounts but won’t always ask, so speak up to get your little reward. |
4. Four Seasons Diner Restaurant
Media credits: fourseasonsphilly
Address: 2811 Cottman Ave
Contact details: +1 215-331-0797
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: $$
Four Seasons Diner has a wide variety of American comfort food and international options. We also loved that their service is fast!
Their Lava Stone Grilled Ribeye Steak stole the show for me. It was tender, succulent, and perfectly cooked. The salad bar was also stocked with fresh vegetables and toppings, which is a nice touch for those who want a healthier meal.
One of us also received lukewarm mashed potatoes and broccoli, but the waitress quickly resolved this by replacing them with hot sides, which we really appreciated. The portion sizes here are generous, and the cleanliness of the restaurant also stood out.
| Pro tip: The diner adds an 18% gratuity on tables after 10 PM, so it’s good to be aware of that when you’re planning to visit. |
5. Oregon Diner
Media credits: oregondinerphilly
Address: 302 Oregon Ave
Contact details: +1 215-462-5566
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Oregon Diner has been here since the 1960s, and it really shows in the best way. It’s got that classic diner vibe but with a huge menu that feels more like a full-on food catalog. They have over 200 items!
Their cheesesteak with fried onions and extra meat was super flavorful and not overly salty, and those long onions gave it a cool twist.
One of us also tried the broiled salmon and was impressed with the portion—it was easily two meals’ worth.
Even with a packed menu and a steady stream of customers, everything came out hot. Plus, you can get breakfast any time of the day, and they even serve alcohol and have a full dessert lineup.
| Pro tip: Check for menu changes. They’ve expanded the menu over the years, so if you’ve been here before, there’s probably something new worth trying now. |
6. The Dining Car
Media credits: the_dining_car
Address: 8826 Frankford Ave
Contact details: +1 215-338-5113
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
The Dining Car’s architecture had us pausing to snap a few photos. It has shiny stainless steel trim, a metal-sheathed roof, and a classic 1930s design that gives off that nostalgic diner charm.
When it comes to the seating system, there’s no host stand. They don’t take your name, and you just get seated in the order you arrive. It can be a little confusing if you’re not used to it.
Their mozzarella sticks were crispy and gooey, but they’re a bit pricey for a starter. The chicken parm sandwich was also great and came in a big portion. Just a heads up–fries aren’t included, so you’ll have to order those separately.
| Pro tip: Since The Dining Car is still a cash-only spot, don’t forget to bring some cash. There is an ATM in the lobby if you need it, though. |
7. Country Club Diner
Address: 1717 Cottman Ave
Contact details: +1 215-722-0500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 8 PM
Price: $
If you want to try some traditional Jewish dishes, you should visit the Country Club Diner.
I ordered the salad with chicken, walnuts, dried cranberries, and blue cheese. It came out in a generous portion, which is definitely shareable. While the chicken could’ve been a bit juicier, the flavors came together nicely, and the blue cheese gave it a tangy kick.
The diner also shines with its service. Our waitress went out of her way to whip up a creative dessert for one of the kids in our group. Everyone we encountered, from the staff to the folks working the bakery counter, was warm and welcoming.
| Pro tip: Grab something to-go from the bakery. They have fresh bread, slices of cake, and signature cookies. They travel well and make a great snack later (or a gift if you’re visiting someone). |
8. Liberty Bell Diner
Media credits: libertybelldiner
Address: 8445 Frankford Ave
Contact details: +1 215-331-4344
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: $$
Liberty Bell Diner offers vegetarian options and late-night dining, so it’s really accessible and versatile for various preferences.
We tried their roasted turkey, which was served hot and a little juicy. It came with potatoes and gravy, which felt like a traditional home-cooked meal. Their chicken a la spinach was also rich with flavors that it tasted like something you’d find at an Italian spot.
The cream of turkey soup was the hands down the best one we’ve tried, though. It’s creamy and layered with subtle herbs, and we even got tender chunks of real turkey in every spoonful.
| Pro tip: Make sure to save some room for dessert. Their homemade pumpkin pie and chocolate fudge cake are worth it. If you’re too full, just get a slice boxed up. |
9. Little Pete’s
Media credits: nitratestock
Address: 2401 Pennsylvania Ave
Contact details: +1 215-232-5001
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
Our team was eager to experience Little Pete’s, given its reputation for comfort food and its location near the Art Museum. Inside, it has a retro atmosphere with warm lighting and vintage decor. We opted to sit outside, though, since the environment was fresh and pleasant.
We ordered the sirloin steak, which was incredibly tender. The steak had a slightly crisp exterior, which added a satisfying texture, while the inside remained juicy with each cut.
It was also surprising that they have a full bar, which opens at 7 AM. However, their cocktails and spirits were a little pricey.
| Pro tip: Since breakfast is served all day, take advantage of it. The eggs, scrapple, and home fries are a great way to make your day better, no matter the time. |
10. Broad Street Diner
Media credits: ameliarampe
Address: 1135 S Broad St
Contact details: +1 215-825-3636
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 9 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 8 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM – 9 PM
Price: $
Broad Street Diner nails that classic 1960s diner feel, complete with comfy booths and a laid-back vibe. We also loved that they had vegan options. Upon our arrival, we were immediately offered tea or coffee to warm up.
Their Mexican burrito was warm and satisfying. The flour tortilla is soft but holds up well. It wraps around a generous filling of scrambled eggs, sauteed peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
We also noticed how inclusive the dinner is towards people with mobility aids. Aside from the ramp out front, their staff was also quick to assist a customer in a wheelchair during our visit, which we really appreciated.
| Pro tip: If you’re ordering anything that comes with toast, ask for the multigrain bread. The slices are thicker, with a slightly nutty aroma and good texture that holds up well to butter or jam. |
11. RITZ Diner
Media credits: ritz_diner
Address: 8000 Roosevelt Blvd
Contact details: +1 215-613-8894
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
We had to skim RITZ Diner’s menu for five minutes for their wide selection of dishes. In the end, I ordered some crab cakes, which were some of the best I’ve had. It was crispy outside but tender on the inside.
The salad bar was also one of our favorite things as a group. All of the ingredients there were fresh, bright, and actually worth the hype. Their omelette was also ginormous and packed with fresh mushrooms, peppers, and ham and cheese.
Even during the dinner rush, we also noticed how every one of the staff stayed attentive and upbeat. The interior of the diner was also family-friendly and modern for a classic diner.
| Pro tip: Hit them up between 2 PM to 6 PM for their early bird specials. You’ll get full meals at wallet-friendly prices, without skimping on flavor or portion sizes. |
12. Champ’s Diner
Media credits: champsdinerpa
Address: 1539 Cecil B. Moore Ave
Contact details: +1 215-769-0995
Operating hours:
- Monday: 6:30 AM – 2 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Friday: 6:30 AM – 2 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Price: $
Champ’s Diner is not flashy, but there’s something incredibly warm and inviting about it.
During our visit, there were a lot of regulars hanging out there. Despite our showing up as a group of 8, the staff was very accommodating. Service was fast and friendly, and it never missed a beat.
The chicken and waffles were an easy team favorite. The chicken came out donkatsu-style, crispy and perfectly seasoned. It was paired with waffles that were fluffy and slightly sweet.
One of us ordered the banana, strawberry, and whipped cream waffles alongside the chicken, which honestly felt like two meals in one. It all came together sweet, fruity, and indulgent without being too heavy.
| Pro tip: If you’re in a rush or want to bring brunch back to your home, the presentation and quality hold up nicely even in a to-go box. |
13. Mayfair Diner
Media credits: debritt3
Address: 7373 Frankford Ave
Contact details: +1 215-624-8886
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 5 PM
Price: $
As soon as we walked inside the Mayfair Diner, we were transported back to the 1950s with its retro vibe and cozy atmosphere. The ambiance feels timeless, striking the perfect balance between being nostalgic without feeling outdated.
The menu was packed with classic American comfort food, from breakfast options to late-night bites. Their scrambled eggs were not too cooked or too runny, but just the right texture. We also loved the home fries, which had the perfect crunchy edges.
Our waitress was friendly and attentive too. She even included the necessary condiments like salt, pepper, and grape jelly without us having to ask. Overall, the diner felt like it was built for comfort, with wide aisles and roomy booths.
| Pro tip: Check out the menu updates. They’re working on refreshing their menu, so don’t be afraid to ask your server if there’s anything new or off-menu worth trying/ |
