Courtesy Diner
8601 Cameron St.
St. Louis, MO
all damned night!
Locations at 1121 Hampton Ave. and 3153 S. Kingshighway. I've only been to the one on Hampton.
The first time I went to St. Louis it was for a fella, and fast-talking city girl that I am, I wasn't expecting much in the way of culture, nightlife, literacy...
Boy, was I wrong.
The riverfolk, it would seem, know how to eat, and the Courtesy Diner is not just a convenience off the highway in this singularly car-dependent town. Hurtle south on I-55 at four in the morning. hit US-40 west and realize you want some pancakes. Have no fear. Get off on Hampton Avenue and look for the shining little place across the street from the American Heart Association regional headquarters. Step inside, light a smoke, put some Prince and Johnny Cash on the jukebox, and prepare to fall in love.
They know how to treat weary travelers here. The pancakes are none of these utterly enormous, unfinishable, Bisquick-bitter monstrosities we've come to hate, but accept in diner fare. Rather, they're elegant, round, buttery confections, lightly crisped outside, custardy inside. Or screw breakfast and have a sizzling, delightfully briny fish sandwich and a triple-thick chocolate milkshake. Or brave the homemade chili loaded with grated cheddar and onions. Just come with ample quarters, smokes and time. St. Louis has trouble letting go, but that's just because it knows how to make fast friends.
