Dino's Family Restaurant is a hidden gem in the Sugar Creek area of Charlotte! This family-owned establishment has been a part of the north Tryon landscape for over 30 years. For me, the food at local restaurants just tastes better! Maybe it's just the good vibes I get from supporting local business.
I love diners, and Dino's is the epitome of a "New York-style" Greek-owned diner. The breakfast options were delicious and incredibly affordable--and available all day! My group ordered a Western omelette, eggs and a pork chop, and a short stack of hotcakes. The portions were giant, the food came out nice and hot, and the hotcakes were absolutely delicious. And it was all for $23--about $8/person.
While I didn't have lunch or dinner, the menus had plenty of options, sandwiches, burgers, and daily specials that come with a choice of two side vegetables, hot rolls, corn muffins, and a cup of soup. Specials included Ribeye Steak, Chicken Parmigiana, Fried Chicken Fingers, and Beef Liver. Sides included hot and cold choices such as Collard Greens, Potato Salad, or Sweet Peas. I met the owner Constantine (Dino himself!) who was very friendly and happy to answer any questions about the diner. For dinner he suggested Dino's Special Grilled Chicken Tenders with onions, peppers, and mushrooms over rice.
Of course, Dino's is a diner, so if coffee and a sweet treat is what you seek you will be all set. The coffee is rich, hot, and constantly flowing, and there is both pie AND banana pudding...my most favorite thing in the whole word.
If you are looking for a quick homestyle meal, skip IHOP or Shoney's, support local biz, and try Dino's Family Restaurant. You won't be disappointed!