We're kicking Greasy Spoons Week off with our map of San Diego's Iconic Diners. This collection of joints focuses on the breakfast specialists, the all-day gems that have ideally had a few decades to age into faded comfort. These old school spots fuel our city at all hours of the day with their classic diner fare; did we miss a favorite? Let us know in the comments.
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Here Are The Iconic Diners of San Diego

Lucky's Golden Phenix
North Parkers hold this old school Chinese restaurant-turned-diner dear to their hearts. The priciest item on the cash-only menu is a Denver omelette, clocking in at just over $4. The serviceable plate includes crispy hash browns, toast and jam.
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Rudford's Restaurant
Equally popular with the early bird special crowd and after-bar party goers; both sets agree that the biscuits and gravy and chicken fried steak at this 24-hour diner are first rate.
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Perry's Cafe
Hungry locals and truckers just passing through fill up at this roadside eatery, where they do a great job with breakfast basics (the hash browns are always crispy) and the service is friendly and efficient. Go early to avoid a wait.
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Hob Nob Hill
This Bankers Hill eatery has been feeding San Diegans since 1944. Their popular prime rib dinners mean homemade roast beef hass at breakfast-time.
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Harry's Coffee Shop
This La Jolla institution is renowned for their potato pancakes served with sour cream and applesauce but they've got everything from healthy egg white omelettes to throwbacks that include chipped beef on toast.
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Big Kitchen
Judy the Beauty runs this neighborhood favorite in South Park which counts Whoopi Goldberg as a former staff member with has a namesake dish on the menu: 2 eggs any style, bacon, potatoes, toast, and large orange juice.
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Restaurant
This no-name eatery (regulars just call it Restaurant or 12th & Broadway) is the very definition of old school. Established in 1957, this greasy spoon serves up cheap breakfast and Mexican combo plates with a dose of local history.
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Tobey's 19th Hole Restaurant
Feed a hangover or fuel up before a round of golf at this tucked-away eatery with a great view of downtown San Diego. Regulars are particularly fond of their corned beef hash and the Bloody Marys.
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The Huddle
Families and old timers share counter space at this Mission Hills spoon, known for their pork chop and eggs and fried chicken atop either waffles or French toast.
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The Old Townhouse Restaurant
Over 40 years of breakfasts have been served at this beach-adjacent diner. Eater readers are fans of the mimosas, bottomless cups of coffee and the fluffly biscuits.
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