The Maple Leaf Diner is the go-to for those hoping to find fine poutine in Dallas. It’s also a great place to order blueberry pancakes and waffles covered in maple syrup straight from Canada. The owner, Michael Delaurier, is a Canadian and opened it to satisfy his cravings for the food of his homeland, including butter tarts, Nanaimo bars, and Canadian peameal bacon.

This Fort Worth diner is family owned and operated, and a menu loaded with classic diner fare, from tuna melts to disco fries to corned beef hash. It goes with the classic diner decor in Stevie’s, where the walls are lined with kitsch items and vintage posters of celebs from generations gone by.

This hidden gem is the place to go for breakfast, done either American or Mexican style. Try the chorizo breakfast burrito, a croissant sandwich, or a pork chop with eggs. And for lunch, don’t miss the catfish or the Dallas burger with a special hot sauce.

Lucky’s bills itself as a haven for comfort food lovers and a comfortable space to be in. It trades in retro, with a big neon sign, big booths that evoke that ‘50s diner feel, and a checkerboard floor. It serves breakfast all day in classic diner style, including a mean bowl of grits and pancakes. And it sources from many local farmers in Texas for everything from its bread and butter pickles to its butterfat ice cream.

Buzzbrew’s is one of DFW’s few late-night diners, open until 2 a.m. most weekend nights and late all week at its Deep Ellum location. It serves local coffee and foods made from scratch — and offers free Wi-Fi. Try any of its numerous beers on tap, a mimosa, or the French toast and Impossible burgers it’s well known for. 

Step right back into the ‘50s at this spot, with counter service, an unbeatable breakfast, and banana bread that earns raves. For the truly old school, it’s also known for its liver and onions. 

There are always great meals at this Deep Ellum spot (we’re particularly fond of the fried chicken sandwich), but it’s also a spot for good times. With a rotation crew of local artists who stop in to play shows, diners are often treated to great local live music. Stop into the musically themed bathrooms and visit some of your favorite old records and posters. 

Visitors and locals alike need to make this tiny grill a stop-in on their trip through town (breakfast is the go-to move). It’s cash only, only a few seats, and no restroom, but it’s worth it. The history of the place has been more or less lost, but current diners love the burgers, enchiladas, and every breakfast option. For those visiting Dealey Plaza or the Sixth Floor Museum, it’s a great option to stop into.

Spiral Diner is your classic nostalgic diner with a twist — it’s vegan-friendly. Oh, and the decor is way more swingin’ ‘60s than car hop ‘50s. All the greatest hits are here, from vegan barbecue to pancakes to Frito pie to nachos. It also has rotating specials worth stopping in to try.