This Famous Maine Diner Is The Triple Threat Of Restaurants
Over the last few years, Maine has effortlessly claimed a place for itself on American “best-of” lists. But, it’s not just seafood that has people flocking to Vacationland. Over time, we’ve built up a unique list of spots that offer foods from Vietnamese to Thai and even an entire spot dedicated to seaweed! But, that doesn’t mean you’ll only find modern takes on good food. Mainers know that people like the classics and nobody does it better than one particular diner in Biddeford. In fact, we think it’s a triple threat. It’s got a great history, a cool hip vibe and, most importantly, some of the best food you’ll taste in any diner. The vintage diner in Maine we’re visiting today should go on your must-eat list immediately.
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The Palace Diner, located in Biddeford, is Maine's oldest restaurant.
The diner has made its home in one of only two existing Pollard dining cars in the world and it dates back to when Biddeford was a true textile mill town. In fact, it fed those in the industry beginning in 1927 making it a town staple for nearly 90 years.
In the early days, the diner was open 24 hours a day to ensure that workers always had a place to go. There were only 15 seats, which were always buzzing with people.
While the current version of the Palace Diner has been open since 2014, the history of its ownership is rich.
Original owner, Louis Lachance, was a locomotive engineer who ran the diner until the early 1960s. It changed hands many times over the years, with different people putting their own distinct mark on it.
What you find inside today is the brainchild of Greg Mitchell and Chad Conley who met while farming in Maine. Their friendship was born out of a shared desire to share quality food with others and they've been doing it since March 2014.
The counter inside is where the majority of the action takes place.
Speaking of fried chicken, on select Fridays they host Friday Chicken Friday where their perfectly concocted poultry is served from 6pm until they run out.
The Palace Diner is located at 8 Franklin St. in Biddeford. You can call them on (207) 284-0015. Visit their website for more information, including the menu. Check them out on Facebook to keep up-to-date on specials and, most importantly, the next Fried Chicken Friday!
For a quintessential Maine dining experience that includes waterfront views, head to Harpswell and this beautiful restaurant.
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Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
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