Traveling to Gettysburg or just passing through, stop at the Lincoln Diner. Whether you are hungry or just love the Diner experience, then you will enjoy the Lincoln Diner. For better then 60 years the Lincoln Diner has been serving locals and tourist alike. Originally established in 1955 as the Varsity Diner, it became the Lincoln Diner in 1971. It is easy to understand how this Diner has lasted more than 60 years. Good food matched with friendly staff is a winning combination.
If you want a taste of Americana go to the Lincoln Diner first thing in the morning. They open at 7:00 and are hopping by 7:15 This is one of those restaurants where everyone seems to know everyone. The waitresses greet the guest by name. Even though this was the first time I was there, I was made to feel welcome walking in the door. Looking at the menu, I had a major dilemma, what to order. They have a menu filled with my favorite comfort foods. On this particular visit My waitress helped me solve the dilemma by asking a simple question how hungry are you.
I didn’t instantly gravitate towards the Reuben Sandwich. I was leaning towards their Bacon Cheese Burger. My desire to compare their Reuben to local Irish Pubs helped my settle me late lunch choice. Lincoln Diners Reuben is served with a healthy portion of corn beef and sauerkraut, topped by Swiss cheese and thousand island dressing. The one thing that sets this sandwich apart is the thick slices of rye bread. This is a hearty sandwich, that should be considered when visiting. I like my onion rings to be thinly cut and crispy. The Lincoln Diners Onion Rings met my expectations. I was impressed with my lunch, but I learned from my waitress is that breakfast is were the Lincoln Diner excels.
When I went to the Lincoln Diner for breakfast, I was on a mission to try their pancakes. I was told that they pride themselves in making all the batters by scratch. In fact all their menu items are made using family recipes. I believe my pancakes lived up to the hype. They were heavy but airy. I wish I knew what was in the batter because they tasted good, but a little different. I want to know what the difference is. The meal as a whole I could not finish. Three large pancakes, two eggs, and bacon was a bit much. To me bacon says a lot about a restaurant. I use Denny’s as the standard by which to judge all restaurant’s bacon. Denny’s bacon is the worst, usually thins slices of flavored grease. Lincoln Diner’s slices were thick, not over greasy. I’m a definitely interested in trying other menu items.
In my travels, I’m not looking for Americana when selecting a place to eat, but I appreciate Americana evident in my choice. Lincoln Diner is a classic and well worth a visit. When I think of the Lincoln Diner, I think of the famous painting Nighthawks by Edward Hopper. I will certain visit again.
