There are some restaurants that have been dishing up delectable eats for so long that they’ve become an institution. Given Boston’s age, it comes as no surprise that our city has several long-standing restaurants that belong on everyone’s dining bucket list.

One such establishment is Charlie’s Sandwich Shoppe. This timeless South End diner has been feeding Bostonians since 1927. Even sitting U.S. presidents have dined here!

The quaint exterior of this breakfast and lunch spot is appealing.
Yelp/stoppit t.
Once inside, you can’t help but smile at the red, black, and white color scheme.
Yelp/Kota O.
Every detail, from the chrome to the vinyl to the old photos hanging on the walls screams retro.
Yelp/Kota O.
For a truly nostalgic experience claim a seat at the counter, where you can watch orders being prepped.
Yelp/Sean A.
Charlie’s has always been a place where the customer comes first. In the restaurant’s early days, when segregation was the norm, the diner was unusual because it welcomed all.

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There are only 32 seats in this small restaurant. Since Charlie’s attracts a host of regulars, you’ll probably need to wait in line. Not to worry. Table turnover is fairly fast.
Facebook/Charlie's Sandwich Shoppe
The food here may be homey and comforting, but Charlie’s has actually won a James Beard Award!
Yelp/Salina T.
At breakfast, try the turkey hash — a famous dish on the restaurant’s menu.
If you’re eschewing carbs, skip Charlie’s because your willpower won’t be able to withstand the sight and scent of the griddle cakes and French toast.
Yelp/Martin L.
The raspberry griddle cakes are to die for…
…and the French toast comes out perfectly golden.
Yelp/Brian S.
Lunch is all about sandwiches, from Ambassador Flynn’s Reuben to Charlie’s Pilgrim Sandwich.
Yelp/James B.

A combination of soul-satisfying food and a gloriously retro vibe account for the restaurant’s success over the past ninety years. You’ll find Charlie’s at 429 Columbus Avenue in Boston. The restaurant is open from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily.

What’s your most cherished Boston dining institution? If you’re building a Boston dining bucket list, you should also check out these 15 eateries.

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