Elmo's Diner
776 Ninth St,
919/416-3823
Hours: Sun-Thurs 6:30am-10pm; Fri-Sat 6:30am-11pm

This is the busiest, most popular, and most nostalgia-laden diner in Durham, the ultimate burger joint where endless amounts of coffee are dispensed during exam week, and where a Southern/American menu has many locals recalling their childhoods. Set in what was originally designed as a bakery, and housing a staff that's clad in T-shirts, Elmo's has Naugahyde-covered banquettes and counter stools, spinning ceiling fans, and areas of exposed brick. Expect a simple, all-American menu that incorporates burgers, meatloaf, chicken burritos, salmon cakes, and omelets, as well as "full square meals" that stick to the ribs at affordable prices. Biscuits and gravy accompany virtually any main course you select.

Reservations: Reservations not accepted