Florida American Diners

At every intersection on the main highways you will find petrol (gas) stations and diners. The American diner can trace its origins back to horse-drawn wagons at the end of the 19th century. Today when you think of an American diner, you think of stainless steel, long counters, stools and cosy booths; exemplified by nostalgic TV shows like ‘Happy Days’.

With the advent of the fast food restaurant, the diner took a bit of a back seat but today there has been something of a revival. Diners make perfect eating places, for breakfast, lunch or dinner, particularly if you are on the road. If you are in a hurry then take a spot at the counter or relax in one of the booths.

Friendly’s

The Friendly’s restaurant chain is an old family favourite. A good selection of starters, entrees and sandwiches, which are good value for money and always ended with their famous ice-cream deserts. Lots of choice in lots of flavours! You can also just call in for dessert.

We have always found Friendly’s restaurants wonderful for children. Given a choice our daughter would always choose a Friendly’s restaurant. On entry, kids are given crayons and a play-placemat, to keep them occupied whilst the meal is prepared. There is always something on the menu to suit, and finished with the cone-head ice cream.

Click here to read more about Friendly’s restaurants and get a list of addresses for the Orlando and Kissimmee area.

Denny’s

Another firm favourite, the typical American diner complete with the counter and stools. Many Denny’s restaurants are open 24 hours a day and you can order one of their famous breakfasts like the Original Grand Slam® at any time of the day, not just in the morning.

The Denny’s menu features a wide variety of appetizers, hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, chicken, steak and seafood entrees as well as desserts. They offer low-carb and low-fat menu choices for the health conscious and if you are over 55 there are special ‘senior’ selections. There is also a children’s menu for the under 10s.

Click here to read more about Denny’s restaurants and get a list of addresses for the Orlando and Kissimmee area.

Shoney’s

Shoney’s restaurants are a combination of American diner and family restaurant and have a more ‘homely’ feel to them compared to say Denny’s; you might almost describe them as old-fashioned (but in a nice way).

Shoney’s restaurants offer full table service for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an ‘all you care to eat’ buffet. Children (4 and under) can often eat free (one free meal for each adult meal).

Click here to read more about Shoney’s restaurants and get a list of addresses for the Orlando and Kissimmee area.