Backroads on the Interstate
Even when time and circumstances require a route on the interstate, it is still possible to have a backroad dining experience. This gleaming beacon of a restaurant (and its pink cadillac "billboard" sign) has called to us on several annual drives between Colorado and Ohio. Today we listened! The I-70 Diner (link) in Flagler, CO is only yards north from the I-70#395 exit ramp and was a real treat.
We arrived during early lunchtime (11am-ish) to a nearly empty parking lot and vacant tables inside but by the time we finished our meal many more customers were seated. There were local regulars (obvious by the friendly banter between them and the waitress). And some were travelers like ourselves. The interior (and exterior for that matter) was an unmistakable 50's diner theme with a base of black and white with bright red accents trimmed with chrome or bright metal. There were some slight signs of wear here and there, but the diner had a clean and comfortable feel to it. The walls were covered in 50s/60s memorabilia of photos, framed 45s, and comfortably corney signs. One thing I don't recall is if there was any music playing. A little "Blue Suede Shoes" or "Sh Boom Sh Boom" or "Earth Angel" in the background would have been a plus. We asked our waitress (not in period attire, but maybe that's over the top) about when the diner was built and were told that it was only in 2007 which is surprisingly later than one might think. However, after later reading some history of the place, we learned the building itself was stored in sections for many years prior to 2007 before being relocated to Flagler and reassembled and readied for business. A gas station is across the street from the diner if you also need to top off your fuel tank.
The menu is fairly extensive and offers many options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, salads, desserts, burgers along with a kids section. Breakfast and lunch items appear to be available all day. Our party of three ordered a chili dog (not a silverware optional experience) and fries, a smothered chicken burrito, and a mushroom swiss burger with a side salad. We were all happy with the food and the service was good - even offering to-go drinks for us as we readied for the road. The prices were what we'd expect for a non-chain, non-happy meal, experience. I have to tell you though about our restraint, as the temptation for pie and ice cream was real. Very, very real.
(LB)