Tilt'n Diner in Tilton, New Hampshire

A little on the crunky side, but I guess that’s what you’d expect from a real 50’s diner. This is a theme restaurant that takes it seriously. The exterior, interior, chairs, tables and menus all look retro–retro but clean and well-maintained. Along with the throwback décor, you also get sassy waitresses who have a wisecrack for every customer. By the entrance, the diner sells old comic books and classic full-page ads torn from old magazines (to transact, just take what you like and slot your payment in the cash box on the wall). It all adds to the atmosphere.

What about the food? Well, it’s classic diner fare. I ordered an omelet with cheese and sausage with hash brown potatoes on the side. The plate was a scramble of yellows on khaki with some crispy brown edges. No visual feast, but it was delicious and just right for a late breakfast before shopping. This place is owned by the Common Man group of interesting restaurants in this area. Once again, they made a good meal that matched the all-out atmosphere. Great place to stop before heading to the Tilton Outlets or the Super Wal-Mart. I did notice that 75% of the license plates were from New Hampshire. So on a big tourist holiday like 4th of July on a big tourist road like I-93, this place was still a local favorite. I-93, Exit 20 on the east side. Hard to miss.