One day I passed the time away reading Cleveland food blogs. As I am in this part of town several times a week I was happy to find bloggers praise Shay's. The old-fashioned platters of meat loaf, turkey, or roast beef served with gravy and mashed potatoes were described in mouth watering terms. The cheeseburger was nothing short of a culinary discovery. To add to the attraction bloggers claimed this was a place that served a highly diverse customer base. Economic and racial barriers are crossed at the Shay counter, booths, and small tables.
On my one and only visit I found none of the above the least bit supported. I did find my waitress friendly and helpful. When asked she informed me Shay's serves processed turkey. Not much is cheaper or easier than roast turkey but restaurants have latched on to processed turkey like a Kardashian on a dollar. I had hoped Shay's did not. The hamburger and fries were typical of those found at a restaurant food service. As for diverse customers, on my visit I was the only diverse customer.
Prices are very low, Shay's offers plain old American food in an area with mostly Asian restaurants. The menu is loaded with favorite diner foods. The premises are typical of an old luncheonette. It has a lot going for it with one important exception, the food.