Defining the word diner can be very subjective. For this web site, restaurants that meet any of the following criteria earn the title:
- Has the word "diner" in its name,
- Is house entirely or partially in a prefabricated, portable structure,
- Is enclosed in or uses a trolley car, railroad car or other former form of surface transportation,
- Has an exterior made of porcelain enamel steel or has an abundance of chrome, brushed steel or aluminum in or on the interior or exterior, or
- Generally are not part of a national chain - Denny's Classic Diners, Little Chef, White Castles, Little Taverns, White Hut, Royal Castles, Krystals, White Diamonds, McClarren's Silver Shanties and Hill's Snappy Service restaurants are exceptions. (I am trying to compile a complete list of these chains locations where porcelain-enamel or portable structures were used - if you know of a location where one stands or used to stand, please contact me!)
By the way, all businesses listed as diners are also listed in the general restaurant pages!
For more information about diners, be sure to check out these great web sites:
Enjoy!
P.S. Special thanks to the Kansas State Historical Society for their assistance on Valentine diners!
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