On Central Ave. in Nordeast you find an institution and rightfully so. Ideal Diner has been around since 1949 and its attitude remains unchanged for good reason.
The motto at Ideal is “Where regular people feel special and special people feel regular.” The 14 stool and single counter spot offers little difference today from the first day it opened.
Proudly, Ideal used to serve the working class primarily but are happy to serve a grand diversity of individuals these days. No matter the difference in characters walking through the door, the menu stays the same with staples like hamburgers, a working man’s breakfast and pies that go straight to your ass, but you won’t be upset about.
Last we went, we grabbed ourselves a traditional California Burger (hamburger with lettuce and tomato) for the affordable $4.25 and a basket of fries. Made right in front of you, it doesn’t matter what spot at the counter you have, you’re always taken care of by the staff.
If you have any room left in your stomach, albeit unlikely, be sure to grab a slice of one of the gorgeous pies for $3.00 (worth every penny).
Like a true landmark, upon leaving the joint you carry its aura with you. In this case, the smell of a classic diner. We contemplated not washing clothes and ourselves for a couple days but it only made us more hungry so we caved.
So until next time Ideal, where we intend to be pried from our stools.