I have a very large soft spot for locally owned and operated restaurants. And this is exactly what this place is. There isn't a large parking lot or fancy entrance when you walk in. As soon as you walk in you find yourself in a tight, but yet roomy diner. Don't expect the fancy decorations or big puffed booths. You came here to get your food and eat. And that experience is worth paying for (and by paying I mean little).
Nothing fancy on the menu, yet they maintain an interesting blend of options to keep you coming back. You have your burger and hot dog combos and the daily specials on their own whiteboard. The food is all reasonably priced and a combo can run for about $5.50.
I came during dinner and found the place filled with construction workers covered in paint to parents eating with their ketchup faced children. I find this to be the real magic of the diner. A place where the white and blue collared can eat together without that feeling you get in some other places meant for a particular cohort. Finding a seat wasn't a problem though, so if you want to grab a seat and eat, no worries. I can imagine during the non-winter season that many people will want to eat outside on the picnic benches before catching the light rail uptown.
The hot dogs and fries didn't give my taste buds anything new to think about either. There really isn't anything special about the food. It's the atmosphere and price you go here for. It's quick and pleasing service. That feeling that these owners actually give a two cents about their restaurant and reputation in the community. That's why you go here.
I have yet to try their seemingly famous ice cream, so I will update when appropriate. Four stars for quality and service. Sure it isn't the best food, but it's local and a part of Charlotte.