Inside: Big Al's Diner

For the past 15 years, Big Al’s Diner has been a local hot spot, and thanks to one Iron Chef, it has even earned a few minutes in the national spotlight.

Food: Every good diner is known for something. While Big Al’s menu covers everything you’d expect from a neighborhood eatery including sandwiches, burgers and a handful of dinner items, it’s the breakfast that makes people regulars.

Breakfast, which is served all day, features 17 combinations ranging from $5.50 to $11.50, 10 different omelets (we tried the three cheese with homefries and toast for $6.75), sandwiches (try the ham, egg and cheese on an English muffin for $4.50) to the classic carb trio: pancakes, waffles and French toast. Almost all items are made from scratch and portions are generous—almost too big.

If you want to eat like Iron Chef Michael Symon, try the corned beef and hash. This was the dish featured on The Food Network’s “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” Symon also is a fan of the biscuits and gravy and pancakes.

While we didn’t sample what the chef did (though we trust his palate), we’d also like to add the home fries with caramelized onions among some of the best breakfast fare we’ve had in town.

Décor: This diner probably hasn’t changed since the day it opened, and we suspect some items are still around from the previous tenant (Chuck’s Diner). It’s your typical neighborhood, down-and-dirty diner with friendly service and lots of familiar faces.  

Service: Everyone takes turns waiting on you and all with a friendly smile. If you do go for weekend breakfast, expect to wait. Seating is based on first come, first served and finding space to wait to sit is almost as coveted as a table itself.

Insider tip: Grab yourself a great cup of coffee first to help with the wait. We recommend the cappuccino or mama’s skinny mocha at neighboring Vine & Bean (another great breakfast place on this street, just north of Shaker Square).

Bottom line: If you’re a fan of breakfast, this traditional greasy spoon is worth checking out. You never know who you may see; plus it’s your chance to try a nationally-recognized dish for less than $10.