(Every diner has a story to tell, and it’s often served with a side of bacon and eggs. Whether it’s a beloved recipe, a family legacy spanning generations, or the camaraderie of regulars at the counter, these places are more than just eateries — they’re community gathering places. Over the course of 2025, I’ll visit 25 or so diners, eating their signature dishes and uncovering the stories that make each one special. Come along with me.)
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Syracuse, N.Y. — Every plate at J.R. Diner starts on the same grill John Rados has used since 1984, and he’s the only one who touches it. No shortcuts. No heat lamps. Just a flattop, a spatula and nearly 40 years of muscle memory…