Southside Diner is more than what it appears from the road. Situated off Pleasant Valley near York Rd in a small plaza, it is easy to miss. My husband and I stopped in on a whim and were immediately struck by the friendliness of the place. We felt welcomed as we found a table in the eclectic 50's style diner. Vintage Coke memorobilia was dotted throughout the restaraunt and the walls featured posters of James Dean and Norma Jean, in and around Hollywood roadside diners. A large display of antique state license plates decorated one wall, while napkins holders on the tables looked as though they were saved from our childhood. The front of the restaurant included a full wall of windows bringing in loads of light.
As a side note: My college-aged daughter has been dining here off and on, for over a year and each time she comes home and tells me how much she loves this place. I just didn't give much credence to her comments at the time. My loss.
The back of the diner featured a bar and stool set-up while smaller tables were located in an open area. It was small and intimate, but I happen to like that! Behind the bar was the grill and food prep area. We could see everything that was happening, however it wasn't the least bit distracting. The cooks were calm and worked diligently on the orders being placed. I would guess there were close to 12 or so guests, two at a table and perhaps 2 or 3 guests at the front bar on stools.
Our server was friendly and genuine. She described the specials and didn't even finish before we landed on what would soon be our favorites! For drinks, my husband ordered a coke, but he had to choose between the fountain, twist cap or a nostalgic bottle. He opted for the vintage classic-style bottle. I enjoyed a steaming cup of coffe and spied fresh creamer on the table. My coffee was consistently topped off so that it was never cold. Our server checked on us, but was not interruptive.
The special I was eager to try was the vegetarian benedict. Oh my! I coudn't believe the presentation. Why didn't I take a picture? It wasn't the first thing on my mind at the moment. The eggs were perfectly cooked as they lay across a bed of fresh baby spinach leaves and thickly sliced, perfectly ripened tomato. Below that was a combination of finely chopped grilled onions, peppers, mushrooms and other seasonings spread over an opened faced toasted english muffin. The eggs were topped with perfectly made hollandaise sauce. Along with the vegetarian eggs benedict were piping hot, fried potatoes. Did I say this meal was perfect? It really was! And, it tasted delicious. The flavors were fresh and everything was seasoned just right. I was completely impressed and enjoyed every bite of what I could finish!
My husband ordered turkey hash and eggs. I can't tell you what exactly was on his plate (I was too busy enjoying mine!), but it looked great and he quickly pointed out the dried cranberries that were included in the presentation of the meal. Each corner boasted a couple of dried cranberries that added a delightful flavor to the eggs and turkey hash. He was unable to finish his meal, so we boxed up what remained to bring home.
Truly, this is not your ordinary diner. I have been to many fine restaurants and have never enjoyed a breakfast as much as I did today. The presentation alone made it worth our visit.
Our bill was reasonable for the quality and quantity of each dish. Clearly a lot of heart goes into each guest's meal and if each visit is like our first, we are most likely to stop in more often. Our bill came to $34, however the full menu did boast lesser priced breakfast and lunch options. We simply wanted to try the breakfast specials for the day.
All in all, I would say that Southside Diner is a gem of a place and I encourage anyone who lives nearby to give it a try. Be sure to come hungry! read more