There’s nothing quite like heading to your favorite local diner for some good old comfort food. And luckily Seattle has a lot of great diners that will give you a blast from the past. So if you want to enjoy a great breakfast this weekend, here are 12 classic retro diners to check out in Seattle.
Glo’s
This spot is a Capitol Hill institution that has been around since the ’80s. And they make all of their delicious breakfasts from scratch plus they have one of the best benedicts in town. We also love that they have a community meal program where you can buy a hot meal for a person in need.
Where: 1621 East Olive Way
Hours: Daily 8 am-2 pm
Geraldine’s Counter
This is another institution that’s located in Columbia City. Geraldine’s is known for serving up some of the best french toast in town and the atmosphere is super cozy. Plus they support small, local vendors in their commitment to using the finest and freshest ingredients.
Where: 4872 Rainier Ave South
Hours: Daily 8 am-3 pm
Salmon Bay Cafe
This spot is a great old-school diner located right on the water. And you can enjoy “fisherman” sized plates while supporting a business that’s been around since the 70s. Who knows you might just become a regular here after trying it.
Where: 5109 Shilshole Ave NW
Hours: Daily 7:30 am-2 pm
Lowell’s Restaurant
We love this spot that describes itself as “almost classy”. Not to mention they’ve been open since the 50s so they definitely know what they’re doing. And it just so happens to have the best dining views in town. So if you want a beautiful view and early morning breakfast this is the place to go.
Where: 1519 Pike Pl
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9 am-4 pm, Friday-Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Luna Park Cafe
This West Seattle classic has some real 50s vibes if that’s what you’re looking for. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and they even have a vegan menu as well. So don’t miss out on this spot that’s been a Seattle staple since the 80s!
Where: 2918 SW Avalon Way
Hours: Daily 8 am-9 pm
The 5 Point Cafe
This is a cafe with some serious history that’s been around since the 30s! Between prohibition, the great depression, and the grunge music scene, this cafe has been through a lot. And what’s best of all is that it’s stayed pretty authentic throughout the years. So if you haven’t visited before, now is the time.
Where: 415 Cedar Street
Hours: 24/7
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Burgermaster
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Burgermaster is a unique local chain that’s been around since the 1950s. And all of their locations definitely feel retro in the best way possible. Plus we love that they use local ingredients including grass-fed beef. And not many fast food spots can say that.
Where: 5 locations
Hours: Varies
Voula’s Offshore Cafe
If you’ve ever driven along the lake chances are that you’ve seen this spot or dined at it before. It’s truly one of Seattle’s classic diners. You can expect tasty diner food and comfort food that will make your weekend. So if you’re planning a day at the Fremont Market you might as well stop here before.
Where: 658 NE Northlake Way
Hours: Monday-Friday 6 am-3 pm Saturday & Sunday 8 am-2 pm
Twedes Cafe
Well technically this isn’t in Seattle, it’s in North Bend. But this has to be one of Washington’s most iconic diners as it’s the Double R Diner in Twin Peaks. That’s right you can dine at the Twin Peaks diner. So if you haven’t been before it might be worth the drive.
Where: 137 W North Bend Way, North Bend, WA
Hours: Sunday-Saturday 9 am-7 pm
The Lockspot Cafe
This Ballard spot has been serving Seattle at the entrance to Hiram M. Chittenden Locks for over 90 years! So clearly they know a thing or two about serving up good food. And this spot is definitely what we’d call an oldie but a goody. So if you’re in Ballard be sure to give them a try.
Where: 3005 NW Locks Place
Hours: Monday-Friday 11 am-2 am, Saturday & Sunday 10 am-2 am
14 Carrot Cafe
This spot is definitely retro and also somehow feels like you’re in your grandma’s house. The 14 Carrot Cafe is tucked away on Eastlake but is definitely worth checking out if you like diner food. They’ve been in business since the 70s
Where: 2305 Eastlake Ave E
Hours: Thursday & Friday 8 am-2 pm, Saturday & Sunday 8 am-3 pm, Monday 9 am-5 pm
Dick’s Drive-In
Now we know, this spot isn’t really a diner. But it pretty much embodies everything retro. After all, they’ve been open since the 50s and many of their restaurants haven’t changed much since then. And of course, you have the classic drive-up design. Not to mention, it’s one of Seattle’s best and also cheapest spots to get a tasty meal.
Where: 7 locations
Hours: Daily 10:30 am-2 pm
Okay folks that’s what we have for you when it comes to retro diners in Seattle to check out. We hope that you get out there and try at least a few. After all, most of these spots have been family-owned for decades and we want to see them continue to thrive in our city. Have a great rest of the week!
