This Maine Diner Had Its Moment On ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ 20 Years Ago — Here’s A Flashback

Diners are true Americana. It's probably why they’re so darn popular here in Maine.

Maybe it’s the ambiance. Maybe it’s the neighborhood camaraderie. Or maybe it’s just the delicious, iconic food. Whatever it is, it’s the perfect combination for this small state that loves community and culinary prowess.

One of the diners that perfectly encapsulates this is the legendary A1 Diner in Gardiner.

Located on giant stilts in the heart of town, this iconic streetcar eatery was built in 1946 by the Worcester Lunch Car Company. The A1 Diner has been a central Maine institution for generations. It’s truly everything a diner should be—offering delicious diner classics and elevated originals, exceptional service, and the best ambiance you could ask for.

The A1 Diner has quite a history, including celebrity sightings like David Harbour from Stranger Things, who visited the iconic joint in the summer of 2023.

As cool as that was, it doesn’t compare to the time the A1 Diner was the subject of a television segment on one of the most popular food shows of all time.

If you're a fan of food, then I’m sure you’ve heard of the show Diners, Drive-ins & Dives. Hosted by Guy Fieri, the show features him traveling across the country to visit some of the most iconic small restaurants, sampling food, and promoting the business.

It's an insanely popular show—so popular that numerous websites are devoted to it and to all the restaurants featured. The economic impact that Guy and Triple D have had is immeasurable.

Guy has visited Maine on several occasions, with his earliest trip being to the A1 Diner. The show originally aired on June 4, 2007, and the episode was titled "Local Legends," which was part of the show’s first season.

Guy didn’t come just for the pancakes and sausage. He was looking for some of the original menu items that most would not expect from a diner like this. Those dishes included Mojito Duck Breast and Greek-Stuffed Flank Steak Roulade. To say Guy was impressed would be an understatement.

However, it wasn’t just about the new originals. Guy also sampled the homemade corned beef hash and chicken pot pie. Of course, both earned the seal of approval.

What an experience it must have been for the wonderful folks at the A1 Diner, which is still rocking and rolling in the same spot it has been since 1946.

It's wonderful to see such an iconic and authentic dining car still in operation today. Here's to many more years of serving up delicious food to the community, and to the 'Triple D' fanatics.