Remember When This Popular Maine Diner Was on ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ Almost 20 Years Ago?

Diners are true Americana. It's probably why they are some darn popular here in Maine.

Maybe it's the ambiance. Maybe it's the neighborhood camaraderie. Or maybe it's just the delicious and iconic food. Whatever it is, it's a perfect combination for this small state that loves community and culinary prowess.

One of the diners that perfectly encapsulates this is the legendary A1 Diner in Gardiner.

Located on giant stilts in the heart of town is this iconic streetcar eatery. Built in 1946 by the Worcester Lunch Car Company, the A1 Diner has been a Central Maine institution for generations. It's truly everything a diner should be, offering delicious diner classics and elevated originals, exceptional service, and the best ambiance you could ask for.

The A1 Diner has had quite a history that even includes celebrity sightings, like David Harbour from Stranger Things, who visited the iconic joint back in the summer of 2023.

As cool as that was, it doesn't compare to the time that the A1 Diner was the subject of a television segment on one of the most popular food shows of all time.

If you're a fan of food, then I'm sure you have heard of the show Diners, Drive-ins & Dives. Hosted by Guy Fieri, the show features him traveling across the country to visit some of the most iconic small restaurants, sampling food and promoting the business.

It's an insanely popular show, so popular that numerous websites are devoted to it and all the restaurants that have been featured. The economic impact that Guy and 'Triple-D' have made is immeasurable.

Guy has been to Maine on a number of occasions, with his earliest trip being to the A1 Diner. The show originally aired on June 4, 2007. The episode was titled "Local Legends", and was part of the show's first season.

Guy didn't come just for the pancakes and sausage. He was looking for some of the original menu items that most would not expect to come from a diner like this. Those dishes included Mojito Duck Breast and Greek-Stuffed Flank Steak Roulade. To say Guy was impressed would be an understatement.

However, it wasn't just about the new originals. Guy also sampled the homemade corn beef hash and chicken pot pie. Of course, both got the seal of approval.

What an experience it must have been for the wonderful folks from the A1 Diner, which is still rocking and rolling in its same spot as it has been since 1946.

It's wonderful to see such an iconic and authentic dining car still in operation today. Here's to many more years of serving up delicious food to the community, and to the 'Triple D' fanatics.