The 9 Best Diners in Boston: Where to Find Nostalgic Eats at a Low Cost

Despite its latest major overhaul, Rosebud retains its diner status with a friendly vibe and comforting eats—this time, with an Indian twist. The 1941 exterior of this Somerville institution remains intact, but inside, the kitchen is pleasing crowds with fantatic fusion takes on American diner classics. Dig into a comforting butter chicken pot pie or, if you're more of a morning person, try the masala chai French toast. In addition to its spiced-up renditions of blue plate favorites, this place still offers a selection of its ever-famous pies. 

The crowds keep coming for excellent diner fare in Watertown. Deluxe has been around since the 1940s, and is now restored and maintained in all its classic splendor. There’s a lunch counter, booths and a neon-lit exterior. Everything on the menu is available at any time of day, so go for it—get a grilled Reuben, meatloaf or a chili-cheese dog for breakfast; chow down on hash and eggs or johnnycakes for dinner. You’ll even find a few fancier options like crab cakes or chicken piccata, but stick with the classics for a true diner experience.

Whatever the hour, South Street Diner has been welcoming hungry patrons since 1947. Open 24/7, it’s a prime spot for party people wrapping up a night out, insomniacs looking for a snack and some company, or commuters heading to work from South Station. The Diner Special (three eggs, two pancakes or French toast, home fries, toast, choice of bacon, corn beef hash, ham or sausage) is always a winner, as are the burgers, shakes and numerous breakfast standards. Beer and wine is served until 1am.

Slip into a cozy booth for breakfast and lunch weekdays, or any time Thursday through Saturday. Since 1949, Victoria’s Diner has satisfied the masses with a huge menu of diner favorites. Whether it’s eggs benedict for breakfast, an open-faced roast beef sandwich for lunch, country fried steak for dinner, or waffles late at night, Victoria’s has it. There’s a full bar, takeout and even catering for avid diner fare enthusiasts.

This two-piece car, manufactured in 1953, was, at the time, the largest diner ever built. It lived in Delaware for decades before arriving in Ball Square in 1996, to the delight of Somerville diner fans. All the classics are represented here, from omelettes and club sandwiches to chicken pot pie and pot roast. Kelly’s is cash only, but, after all these years, everything is still incredibly afforable. 

If you love diner food but loathe a bacon-and-sausage grease-fest, Veggie Galaxy is for you. Breakfast favorites are all on the menu, and you can stuff your omelettes with as much produce as you desire. For lunch and dinner, the classics are given creative vegetarian spins, resulting in crowd faves such as a meatless BLT, poutine, sherpher's pie and a seitan reuben. Bakery items—cakes, pies, doughnuts and muffins—are all vegan and just as delicious as the real thing.

South Boston staple Mul’s has the classic diner elements, from the shiny exterior and checkered tiles to red booths and counter seating. The menu, however, updates classic diner fare a bit with offerings such as crème brûlée French toast and banana-pecan pancakes. Coffee is bottomless and service is friendly. On weekends, it’s a destination for a hangover cure that hits the spot or a pleasant way to while away the morning.

For real diner history enthusiasts, the drive to Salem is worth it to visit this diner, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Salem Diner is one of only two Sterling Streamline diners left in the state, and it’s still in its original location. Enjoy large portions of omelettes, pancakes and corned beef hash, all served with a smile from the friendly staff.

This cozy neighborhood institution in Southie is populated by regulars and fans of classic diner fare. Breakfast items are served all day as well as a lunch menu of soups, club sandwiches, and subs. The corned beef hash—served with eggs, home fries and toast—is a favorite. Anything with kielbasa or linguica is also a popular choice.