Athenian II

Athenian II
846 Washington Street
Middletown CT
(Try this or other locations!)

This chain of diners has kept Connecticut residents happy and full for years. Open 24 hours a day, the Athenian diners are great places to go for a late night breakfast. I’ve only been to the diner in Middletown so I will limit my review to that particular institution. Many Wesleyan students and graduates who have found themselves sitting in the 60s style booths may agree or disagree with my assessment.

Now, let’s be honest. There’s nothing particularly special about the place. The eggs are eggs and the bacon could be crispier. The prices are also a bit high but my some time traveling companion says that any eggs are overpriced. Still, the coffee is free flowing and you get the partially unhealthy breakfast that you expect and order. They know how to do eggs and their fried potatoes are pretty tasty, especially the ones that have been slightly burnt.

As you can tell by the picture, the cantaloupe is also a fine dish to order.

Like most diners they have lunch and dinner specials all day. These can be pricey and range from lamb to stuffed grape leaves. Again, like most diners, their vegetable choices could sure use some improvement. The lettuce looks like it’s pretty drained of any nutrients and the broiled broccoli looks like it might benefit more from the vitamins inside me. The cream of broccoli, on the other hand, is pretty good as is their cream of chicken.

Whatever the criticisms, the food is tasty and you have a good time there. The wait staff is friendly and many of them wander the aisles armed with hot coffee. The management might consider increasing the size of the water glasses though. The shot glass style probably saves on water but it just doesn’t quench the thirst.

If you’re in Middletown and you’re just not in the mood for anything special but want to have an enjoyable time, try the Athenian diner.

(Images by AG)