Almost every town in the US has a diner. Every day, people stop by to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and enjoy good company. They are an iconic part of Americana. These restaurants may seem like regular restaurants at times, but they have a much more fascinating history that represents American ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit. Here is a brief overview.

The First “Diner”

It was in Providence, Rhode Island, that the American diner was born in the 19th century. At the time, America was experiencing the Industrial Revolution. A massive labor force was needed to work the many plants and mass-production factories that now dotted the East Coast, and employees worked around the clock to fulfill the growing demand for textiles, hardware, and countless consumer products.

A local peddler, Walter Scott, realized that nightshift workers needed food, but had no open establishments to buy it from since most closed at night. In 1872, he started selling sandwiches, coffee, and other foods from a roofed wagon as a makeshift restaurant. In no time, other residents caught on to Scott's idea, and diners were born.

Diner Roots

As mobile diners began selling breakfast and lunch throughout New England, restaurants faced competition. Foods and meals were simple--pie, sandwiches, coffee, sausages, and fish. As these mobile diners grew in popularity, large crowds would form in the streets on factory meal breaks, leading to noise complaints from local residents.

In response to police complaints about the crowds, diners created physical establishments in affordable prefabricated buildings using the profits from their food wagons. When physical diners began selling breakfast, lunch, and dinner in 1923, the word "diner" was coined.

Modern Diners

The classic stainless steel diner with a neon sign appeared in the 1950s. Families gathered there for meals each day, and they were designed in such a way that patrons felt at home. It wasn't long before companies began replicating successful diners, eventually leading to restaurant chains and fast-food drive-throughs. 

Diners serve a wide range of food while also relying on their classics. Soups, burgers, and sandwiches are favorites, as well as dinner staples like steaks and seafood. Diners are also known for their large, hearty breakfast plates that include essentials like eggs, bacon, pancakes, sausage, and hashbrowns. They maintain their success because there's something on the menu for everyone.

Visit The Diner at Sugar Hill in Buford, GA for an authentic diner experience. Their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus are filled with delicious American cuisine, and they strive to make your dining experience a memorable one. Call (770) 831-0180 today to make a reservation or explore their menu and private dining options online. For regular updates and news, you can connect with them on Facebook.