A cheap, hearty meal can be hard to come by these days—yet the nostalgic greasy spoon stands as a reliable source of low-cost bites and salty fries for generations of San Diegans.
Sadly, the past year bore witness to the loss of two beloved spots: Lucky’s Golden Phenix in North Park and Perry’s Cafe in Old Town. Having served the community for 49 and 39 years, respectively, these institutions will go down in history for their great people and great dishes. But plenty of stalwart, delicious diners remain. Here are five must-trys.
Courtesy of Harry’s Coffee Shop
Harry’s Coffee Shop
La Jolla’s delectably retro restaurant Harry’s Coffee Shop continues to serve up diner favorites with an extra side of Americana. Dig into chicken fried steak on a waffle while cozying up into a worn leather booth.
Address: 7545 Girard Ave, La Jolla
Hours: Daily, 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Courtesy of Point Break Cafe
Point Break Cafe
A safe haven for salty sea dogs, Point Break Cafe on Shelter Island treats a hangover right with stiff drinks and breakfast served until 3 p.m. Nautical décor and dishes like coconut pineapple pancakes cause any guest to say, “Aye aye, matey” when asked if they want another bloody mary.
Address: 2743 Shelter Island Dr, Point Loma
Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 7 a.m.–11 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 7 a.m.–12 a.m.
Courtesy of Rudford’s Restaurant Diner
Rudford’s Restaurant
Best identified by its Googie-style neon signage, Rudford’s stands strong as one of San Diego’s most popular (and oldest) diners. The North Park restaurant famously sat on the route of President John F. Kennedy’s visit to San Diego in 1963, inspiring the namesake JFK Bacon Caramel Shake served today.
Address: 2900 El Cajon Blvd, North Park
Hours: Daily, open 24 hours
Courtesy of Tobey’s 19th Hole
Tobey’s 19th Hole
Fore! No need to worry about stray golf balls when sharing a mimosa pitcher and a plate of tater tots on the patio at Tobey’s 19th Hole. Panoramic views of the Balboa Park Golf Course are accompanied by a lengthy list of sandwich options, ranging from roast beef to cod on a bun.
Address: 2600 Golf Course Dr, South Park
Hours: Daily, 6:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
PARTNER CONTENT
Refresh, Revamp, Recieve a Lot of Compliments
Courtesy of Big Kitchen Cafe
Big Kitchen Cafe
Run by owner Judith “Judy the Beauty on Duty” Forman, South Park’s Big Kitchen Cafe has kept a kooky but curated ambience for over 40 years. Peruse specials inspired by regulars— like Whoopie’s Breakfast and André’s Suggestions—while listening to live music on Saturday mornings.
Address: 3003 Grape Street, South Park
Hours: Thursday–Monday, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.