Retro US-style roadside diners become tourist attraction in the UK – it's like going back to the 1970s
EAT UP Retro US-style roadside diners become tourist attraction in the UK – it's like going back to the 1970s
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THE US is so far away, but luckily, there are diners right here in the UK that are strikingly similar to the diners we have all seen in classic American movies.
With comfy seating booths, juicy burgers, pancake stacks and sundaes, visitors have confessed the diner makes them feel like they're in the 1970s.
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Brightside diners serve up American-style food like pancakes and milkshakes
Credit: Instagram
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The Brightside decor takes people back to the 1970s
Credit: Brightside
The American-style diners are known for being nostalgic, as well as hearty food.
The inspiration behind the chain sparked from the owners' childhood trips to roadside restaurants - in particular, Little Chef which ceased operations in 2017.
All of the Brightside diners are open from Monday to Sunday, 8am to 9pm to accommodate those on long journeys and travelling.
In the mornings, Brightside has American dishes like Early Rider which is a mix of smoked streaky bacon, The Jolly Hog 'Proper Porker' sausage, egg, baked beans and sourdough toast.
There's also pancake stacks with either fruit or bacon toppings and veggie options.
Certain breakfast dishes are served as part of the all day breakfast, but other tasty meals include pizza, burgers, fish and chips, and curry.
Also served are sides of chunky chips, cheesy garlic dough balls and macaroni chips.
Other classic American items include the big selection of milkshakes with chocolate flavours, strawberry, banana, salted caramel and Biscoff.
There's also an option to pick from the 'Speedy Menu' for those needing to get back on the road in a hurry.
There's also a children's menu as well as vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options.
Inside Popeye's first UK restaurant as we try the menu – and the fried chicken is better than KFC
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There are four restaurants across the UK
Credit: Brightside
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The diner even has a 'Speedy Menu' for anyone wanting to get back on the road
Credit: Instagram
The very first restaurant opened back in February 2023 opposite the Exeter racecourse.
Across the UK, there are four restaurants, in Honiton, Exeter, Saltash and Ram Jam in Oakham.
One visitor to the diner in Saltash wrote: "Thought I'd give this place a try as it's on my way home. Glad I did, the restaurant has cracking retro decor and feel and food was great! Seen somewhere saying it's like Stranger Things, I definitely agree."
Another, who had a meal at the Exeter site, added: "Some nice outdoor seating and really cute 1970s style diner done really well."
A third visited Honiton and said: "What a great find a fantastic American style roadside diner open all day for breakfast lunch and dinner."
These impressive restaurants are ones you will find inside redesigned planes - and there's one in the UK.
And Sun Travel reviewed the Mollie's Motel & Diner in Oxfordshire.
Plus Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding reveals how she eats on a budget during her travels.
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