There is something so rewarding about finding an old school diner still left in Florida, honoring the decor and style of decades past. While diners were once all the rage in the United States, sadly, there aren’t too many left anymore. However, for that handful of nostalgic diners still left, they seem to pay respect to the past in the best possible way.
1. Old Fashioned 50’s Diner
Sometimes all you want is an old fashioned diner experience without all the frills that will take you back to the 1950s. If that sounds familiar, then we have the perfect place. Old Fashioned 50’s Diner in Tavares pays respect to an important decade not just through the decor and atmosphere, but also with their menu.
Address: 381 E Burleigh Boulevard, Tavares, FL 32778-2201
2. Toasted Mango Cafe
The Toasted Mango Cafe will probably become your favorite place to snag diner food in all of Florida. This tiny cafe has won accolades such as the Best Diner in the state by MSN Food & Drink. And once you feast for breakfast the very first time, you will absolutely understand why.
Address: 430 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236-4822
3. 11th Street Diner
You probably cannot find a more quintessential diner experience than the one located on 11th Street in Miami Beach. You can stop late at night for a burger and milkshake or visit after the beach for a late afternoon breakfast. Either or, you won’t be disappointed.
Address: 1065 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
4. The Fox
Talk about deliciously old school. The Fox Restaurant in Jacksonville, Florida keeps things simple and sweet. You’ll find classic diner fare like salty, homemade corned beef hash, and over-easy eggs. This is the place to go for breakfast or lunch if ever you’re in the Avondale area.
Address: 3580 St Johns Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32205
5. Angel’s Diner
This is it—the oldest diner in Florida. Angel’s Diner offers simple service with an oh-so-satisfying menu. You’ll find baskets of onion rings and French fries peppering the menu, plus swivel stool seats at the counter. If ever you’ve wanted a classic diner experience in Florida, we’d certainly recommend starting here.
Address: 209 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177
6. Jack’s Hollywood Diner
When most people think about diners, they automatically think about delicious platters of breakfast. Jack’s Hollywood Diner offers that and so much more. The Super Breakfast plates from Jack’s end up being everything you never knew you needed to start a day. Plus it doesn't hurt that the outside is as nostalgically appropriate as ever.
Address: 1031 N Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020
7. Starlite Diner
Classic decor. Impeccable diner fare. Nostalgia at every turn. The Starlite Diner in Daytona Beach offers visitors an experience that is as close to the original as possible. Set in an old style American car diner building, plus memorabilia on the walls, this is a meal not to be missed in Florida.
Address: 401 N Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
8. Lester’s Diner
Lester’s Diner in Florida is one of those diners that has never changed—which is a great thing. You can still enjoy the same diner-feel that many of the locals have enjoyed for years. And like many other old fashioned classic diners, Lester’s boasts a bakery section that you’ll smell as soon as you walk through the door.
Address: 401 N Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
9. Howley’s Restaurant
Howley’s Restaurant is an all-classic 1950s diner, all the way from the red leather counter stools to its neon lights. Returned to 1950s glory after a 2004 renovation, you’ll be able to enjoy a bit of nostalgia throughout the visit. Pro Tip: order a slice of pie—you’ll have plenty to choose from and they are all homemade and delicious.
Address: 4700 S Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
10. Peter Pan Diner
A true staple to the South Florida scene, Peter Pan Diner is a coveted 24/7 diner that has a menu to rival all diner menus. With daily specials, plus breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, you will never leave with an empty-stomach. Prepare yourself for huge plates of food—Peter Pan Diner doesn’t mess around.
Address: 1216 E Oakland Park Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334
Have you ever been to any of these diners on this list? Share with us your thoughts about your experience in the comments section!
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