Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives is packed with bold flavors and good vibes, but not every stop lives up to the hype. Some spots have closed, gone downhill, or just didn’t impress locals. Here’s where Guy missed the mark—and what to try instead.
1. Byways Cafe (Portland, OR)
Byways Cafe was a beloved brunch spot, drawing crowds with its retro decor and comforting meals. Yet, in 2019, this iconic cafe served its last stack of pancakes, leaving brunch lovers yearning for more.
For those still aching for homestyle cooking, Mother’s Bistro & Bar offers a warm embrace with its hearty dishes. The vibe here is cozy and inviting, reminiscent of Sunday dinners at grandma’s.
Though Byways Cafe is missed, Mother’s Bistro ensures that Portland’s brunch scene remains robust, offering dishes crafted with love and tradition.
2. Blueplate Lunch Counter (Portland, OR)
The nostalgia of Blueplate Lunch Counter was treasured by many, a place where memories were made over milkshakes and burgers. Sadly, it closed in 2016, leaving a void in Portland’s comfort food landscape.
However, Pine Street Market has stepped in to fill this gap, offering a plethora of modern comfort food options. From artisan sandwiches to gourmet burgers, the market is a haven for foodies seeking diversity.
Portland’s evolving food scene continues to thrive, ensuring that even with closures, there’s always something new and exciting to explore.
3. Pizzeria Credo (Seattle, WA)
Once a go-to for pizza enthusiasts, Pizzeria Credo shut its doors in 2023. Its absence is felt deeply by those who cherished its authentic pies. Despite this loss, Seattle’s pizza lovers need not despair.
Serious Pie offers a haven for those craving wood-fired perfection. Each pizza is crafted with precision, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Seattle continues to be a hub for culinary excellence, with Serious Pie leading the charge in elevating the city’s pizza game to new heights.
4. The Original Dinerant (Portland, OR)
Trendy yet fleeting, The Original Dinerant captured the hearts of many with its chic vibe and creative dishes. Unfortunately, it couldn’t withstand the test of time.
For those seeking bold flavors and unique experiences, The Sudra offers a plant-based menu that tantalizes the taste buds. With dishes that burst with vibrant colors and spices, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Portland’s diverse dining scene ensures that even as some doors close, innovative eateries like The Sudra continue to thrive.
5. Joe’s Cable Car (San Francisco, CA)
Joe’s Cable Car was once a culinary landmark, celebrated for its towering burgers and retro charm. Closed in 2014, it left many yearning for its classic American flavors.
Swan Oyster Depot now stands as a beacon for seafood lovers. It’s a spot where fresh oysters and seafood platters reign supreme, offering an authentic taste of San Francisco’s oceanic bounty.
The city’s dining landscape remains vibrant, ensuring that even as some favorites fade away, new treasures await discovery.
6. Chicken Guy! (NYC)
Chicken Guy! promised to revolutionize the chicken sandwich scene but fell short, with many critics unimpressed by its offerings.
Fuku, however, delivers on the promise of flavor, serving up juicy sandwiches that pack a punch. The combination of tender chicken and bold sauces creates a sensory delight that’s hard to resist.
In a city renowned for its culinary diversity, Fuku shines as a standout, proving that delicious surprises are always just around the corner.
7. Chino Bandido (Phoenix, AZ)
Chino Bandido was a fusion marvel but received mixed reviews as time went on. The initial buzz faded, leaving diners searching for authentic Mexican cuisine.
Barrio Cafe emerges as a haven for those seeking genuine flavors, with dishes that celebrate the richness of Mexican culture. Each plate tells a story, crafted with precision and passion.
Phoenix’s food scene continues to evolve, and Barrio Cafe stands out as a testament to the enduring power of authentic, heartfelt cooking.
8. Mojo Donuts (Miami, FL)
Mojo Donuts dazzled on screen but fell short in person, leaving many craving consistency in their sweet treats.
The Salty Donut, however, has captured the hearts of locals with its inventive flavors and impeccable execution. Each bite is a sweet adventure, enticing and satisfying.
Miami’s dessert scene thrives on creativity, and The Salty Donut continues to lead the pack, proving that a little innovation goes a long way in delighting taste buds.
9. Batterfish (Portland, OR)
Once celebrated for its crispy fish and chips, Batterfish closed its doors in 2023. This left a void in the hearts of many locals and visitors who craved its signature dish. While Batterfish might be gone, Portland offers other culinary gems.
Consider visiting Salt & Straw for ice cream adventures, where flavors like pear and blue cheese dance on your palate. Or indulge in the spicy, aromatic Thai wings at Pok Pok, where each bite is a burst of authentic Thai goodness.
Portland’s food scene remains as vibrant as ever, promising a delightful journey for food enthusiasts.
10. South 21 Drive-In (Charlotte, NC)
South 21 Drive-In was once cherished for its nostalgic appeal, but its burgers left many wanting more flavor.
Brooks’ Sandwich House, however, delivers with burgers that embody the essence of juicy perfection. Each bite offers a satisfying balance of flavors, drawing crowds eager for a genuine taste experience.
Charlotte’s culinary scene continues to flourish, with Brooks’ leading the charge, ensuring that flavorful options are always within reach.
11. Louie Mueller Barbecue (Taylor, TX)
Once a BBQ pilgrimage site, Louie Mueller Barbecue has faced criticism for dry brisket and long waits.
Snow’s BBQ offers an alternative that lives up to the hype, with meats smoked to perfection and flavors that linger. Despite the drive, it’s a journey worth taking for any true BBQ enthusiast.
Texas’ BBQ landscape remains competitive, and Snow’s stands as a testament to quality and tradition in every bite.
12. Polite Pig (Orlando, FL)
The Polite Pig promised BBQ bliss but left some patrons unsatisfied with its seasoning.
4 Rivers Smokehouse has captured the hearts of locals with its flavorful cuts and vibrant ambiance. Each dish is a testament to the art of BBQ, crafted with care and expertise.
Orlando’s dining scene remains dynamic, with 4 Rivers leading the way in delivering truly memorable BBQ experiences.
13. Turf N’ Surf Po Boy (Austin, TX)
Turf N’ Surf Po Boy once lured diners with promises of seafood delights, but mixed reviews have overshadowed its initial allure.
Quality Seafood Market remains a shining star, offering fresh catches and a welcoming atmosphere. Each visit promises a taste of the sea, with dishes that celebrate the ocean’s bounty.
Austin’s love affair with seafood endures, with Quality Seafood Market ensuring that every visit is a culinary adventure.
14. Capone’s Pub (Coeur d’Alene, ID)
Capone’s Pub attempted to wow with bar classics but fell short of expectations.
Crafted Tap House steps in with creative pub fare that excites the palate. Each dish is a symphony of flavors, crafted with imagination and flair.
Coeur d’Alene’s pub scene remains lively and engaging, with Crafted Tap House ensuring that innovation and quality are always on the menu.
15. Blue Ash Chili (Cincinnati, OH)
Blue Ash Chili was known for its unique spaghetti chili but didn’t win over everyone.
Camp Washington Chili offers a more flavorful experience, capturing the essence of Cincinnati’s chili culture. Each bowl is a hearty, satisfying delight that warms the soul.
Cincinnati’s chili legacy continues to thrive, with Camp Washington serving as a beloved institution for locals and visitors alike.
16. RJ’s Bob-Be-Que Shack (Mission, KS)
RJ’s Bob-Be-Que Shack once smoked with promise but now offers just average fare.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, however, remains legendary, with flavors that ignite the senses. Each bite is an explosion of smoky goodness, crafted by skilled pitmasters.
Kansas’ BBQ scene remains robust, with Joe’s leading the way in delivering unforgettable, mouthwatering experiences.
17. The Golden Bear (Sacramento, CA)
The Golden Bear once offered trendy twists on classics but didn’t resonate with everyone.
Bacon & Butter provides comfort food done right, embodying warmth and satisfaction in every dish. With hearty portions and inviting flavors, it’s a haven for those seeking solace in good food.
Sacramento’s dining scene is enriched by places like Bacon & Butter, ensuring that delight awaits around every corner.
