Usually, when people go out to eat, they call the establishment a “restaurant.” However, every eatery is not a restaurant. Some places where customers eat qualify as diners.
Diner: Definition
A diner is smaller than restaurants in metro Richmond, Virginia. Diners offer a casual atmosphere with booths served by a waitstaff and a long sit-down counter with direct service. Many diners have extended hours, and some along highways stay open for 24 hours.
- Food: simple menus with breakfast served throughout the day
- Service: usually available for long late hours
- Price: inexpensive options
- Atmosphere: casual setting
Differences between a restaurant and a diner
A diner is a type of restaurant, but it’s typically smaller, more casual, and less expensive than a traditional restaurant. Customers order food and can sit at a counter or in a booth.
Diners are known for serving breakfast all day and lunch, dinner, and sometimes late-night snacks. Diners typically serve a common breakfast menu that includes pancakes, eggs, bacon, and French toast. A typical lunch includes burgers, fries, malts, shakes, tuna melts, salads, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Dinners include meatloaf, chicken, and fish. Diners also have many types of desserts.