5 & Diner

Usually a safe bet.... For a late-night craving for burgers or breakfast and it's reasonably close and inexpensive....however, it's a crap shoot if you order any classic diner goodies, such as an ice-cream soda or malt. Two of the last five times the servers have come up with some unique interpretations of the simple ice cream soda (a coke float...........or ice cream in plain carbonated water). Order a malt and you will likely get a milk shake without a trace of malt. Might be nice to actually train the waitstaff on how to make these items or at least tape instructions on the wall........... but other than that, it's a decent place and more interesting than a late dinner at IHOP or Denny's.…

Low Five. From the time Bob Dole made a publicized early morning campaign stop here just before the 1996 election, the food and service at this location has been up and down like a yo-yo. It remains in our dining rotation primarily cuz the kids enjoy the diner atmosphere, coin jukebox and the occasional shake - and it's not as bad as it was. Breakfasts are a pretty safe bet and are served all day. I generally opt for an omelet or a club sandwich, and stay away from heavy fare like burgers and steaks. Open very late (24 hrs??). Good for kids who've never been inside a diner or if it's late and nothing else is open. Beyond that, I'd look to eat elsewhere in the abundant Camelback/16th street restaurant market.…