Cindy’s Diner Provides a Classic Meal for a Cheap Buck

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Author: Larissa Saco

Cindy’s Restaurant has been a fixture on Colorado Boulevard since 1946. Known for its intimate and cozy design, Cindy’s has been featured in several television episodes, commercials and scenes from films.

Customers of all ages gather at the restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner to soak up the 1940s diner experience. Cindy’s has maintained all of the vintage touches from its original form.

One morning, my friend and I decided to visit the infamous diner for a pre-class breakfast. My friend, a Maryland native, was craving the traditional New England diner atmosphere.

Despite varied reviews on Yelp, we put skepticism aside to see for ourselves what Cindy’s had to offer.

It took about 20 minutes to walk to Cindy’s from Occidental. However, the trip proved worth it after experiencing the restaurant’s speedy service, quirky environment and a delicious meal.

As we stepped into Cindy’s, the old, blue map of Eagle Rock hanging on the wall drew my attention immediately. A dark green backdrop stood out, vibrant behind the traditional counter-top and soda fountain. The area was decorated with toy jack-o-lanterns and pictures of orange-brown leaves in spirit of the fall season.

Diners can watch the chefs behind the counter as waitresses tend to them. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee sitting on the counter filled the air.

My friend and I sat down in one of Cindy’s many distinctly upholstered booths. The booths looked striking against the vintage brown wallpaper with stars across it.

Although the power was out that day, Cindy’s was still serving food, and the large windows provided enough light for everyone to eat their meals comfortably.

From our seats, we had a perfect view of the iconic parking lot and the funky green and white sign that reads “Cindy’s Coffee Shop.” The words “Restaurant,” “Steaks” and “Chicken” are underneath the sign, adding to the overall simple yet satisfying aesthetic.

Across the spacious parking lot, my friend and I watched cars passing by on Colorado Boulevard. We could see why this diner was a perfect place for film productions such as “The Incredible Shrinking Woman,” the television series “Without A Trace” and various commercials.

The menu itself has all the classics. Although there is not a great assortment of cultural foods – except for a “Mexican Corner” that includes huevos rancheros, chorizo and eggs and machaca – there’s almost every sandwich and burger you can think of.

The best part is the affordable costs. I was pleasantly surprised that the price range was about $6 to $8, and that no meal was over $10. The restaurant also provides a discount for Occidental students.

In addition to sandwiches and burgers, the restaurant serves salads, sides, soups, desserts and numerous beverages such as milkshakes, coffee, ice tea and soda.

On the back of the menu, one can view a breakfast lover’s dream with timeless favorites like egg’s benedict, French toast, pancakes and various omelets and waffle dishes. The breakfast specialties are also highlighted in blue and red, featuring the “Quickie,” which includes three hot cakes, two strips of bacon or sausage and two eggs any style for $6.75.

My friend ordered her personal favorite: a spinach and tomato egg white omelette with a side of pancakes. I went for one of the restaurant’s sandwich specialties, the number two: a roast beef and Swiss cheese sandwich with lettuce and tomato served with French fries (or coleslaw if you prefer).

What is really great about Cindy’s is that you can ask for alterations in your meal and they have no problem customizing it for you. The omelette my friend ordered was not on the menu, but the waiter did not charge her extra.

Also, the gentleman behind me asked for macaroni and cheese on top of his eggs, and the waiter was happy to take the order. The waiters, dressed in jeans and T-shirts, match the relaxed atmosphere and are willing to make conversation with the customers.

Our meals were served with no frills and large portions. My French fries were crunchy, yet soft in the middle. The tender roast beef, crisp toast, sweet tomatoes and lettuce on my sandwich resulted in a satisfying combination of flavors.

After trying some of my friend’s breakfast food, it was clear Cindy’s wasn’t a one-dish wonder. The pancakes were soft and fluffy with plenty of melted butter. The omelette was made with fresh ingredients and was full of spinach, adding color and flavor to the healthy breakfast.

We both left the restaurant that morning with full stomachs. Cindy’s provided a great alternative to a Marketplace breakfast. My friend also expressed her satisfaction in getting the traditional diner experience she was homesick for.

Whether you are craving a savory burger, club sandwich or an authentic diner experience, I strongly suggest visiting the effortlessly wonderful Cindy’s for a cheap and fulfilling breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Cindy’s Restaurant is located at 1500 Colorado Boulevard.

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