Step Back in Time: The Best Vintage Diners in Detroit

Story by Katherine Stozicki

Ever wished you could step back in time and sit at the counter of a dairy bar sharing a milkshake with your date? Or ever wanted to experience what it might have been like to live “Grease” in real life? Well, this article has you covered! Here are all the best old-fashioned diners in the Detroit metro area.

Red Knapp’s Dairy Bar
Found in Rochester is Red Knapp’s Dairy Bar. With most of its original 1962 interior, Red Knapps serves classic shakes, burgers, and friends as well as some other options for those who prefer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free foods. Enjoy sitting in one of their classic booths, or at the counter and sip on a shake or soda!

The Grand Diner
Family owned and operated, The Grand Diner located in Novi serves breakfast, American stables (sandwiches, burgers, etc.), stir-frys, and wings. If you’re looking for a dinner with a vintage feel, but with an abundance of food options checking out The Grand Diner is a must!

Angie’s Hamburger Stand
Milkshakes, burgers, sandwiches and more. Angie’s Hamburger Stand combines that old-fashioned diner feel with tasty food in Canton. When you step inside, you’ll see old-fashioned signs and menus, the classic diner counter, and leather booths. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to go or wanting to stay and dine it, you will not be disappointed by Angie’s!

O.W.L
Open 24 hours most days, O.W.L is. Royal Oak staple that will take you back to a simpler time. An industrial but modern take on the classic diner, O.W.L will satisfy those late-night cravings. With tacos, sandwiches, breakfast, and fries O.W.L truly has it all!

Dagwood’s Deli
With an extensive sandwich menu, Dagwood’s Deli in Farmington is a great place to check out if you’re craving a classic old school sandwich! With classic deli-style seating, picturesque sandwiches and more, you need to visit if you are craving a truly tasty sandwich in a classic atmosphere.

The Fly Trap
A colorful diner which makes is own hot sauce and jam The Fly Trap is the perfect place to stop if you’re spending the day in Ferndale. From breakfast to salads to burgers and noodles there is something for everyone at the Fly Trap! The Fly Trap, described as a “finer diner” takes the classic diner experience and modernizes with liquor, an updated menu, and drinks different from just soda and milkshakes.

Mike’s Famous Ham Place
On Michigan Ave in Detroit, you can find Mike’s Famous Ham Place which features made to order sandwiches, breakfast, burgers, and other classics in an old-school diner setting. If you’re looking for a truly classic diner (we’re taking all the food stables, the atmosphere, the kitchen) then you need to check out Mike’s Famous Ham Place!

Motz’s Burgers
In Detroit is Motz’s Burgers, a classic diner which features their famous beef sliders. A long-standing burger joint, Motz’s Burgers offers dine-in and take-out in a classic and chill setting and offers sandwiches and fried appetizers as a part of their menu.

Checker Bar
A modern take on the classic diner, Checker Bar offers a vintage atmosphere along with classic American stables and a cocktail menu. This is a great place to dine at if you’re looking for that diner feel, but with a twist! Checker Bar also features a variety of classic arcade games, vintage signage, and a fun, inviting atmosphere!

You May Also Like