Endless hours at 24 Diner

Last Sunday, 24 Diner and I finally made it official.

One thing about this downtown gem is that no matter what time of day I've indulged in you, consistency is the common thread. Whether it's post-festival going at ACL (you know we fest goer's have a blinding disregard for ordering appropriately) and indulging on chicken & waffles with milkshakes OR lunching with business associates on frittatas and mixed greens – you get some of the best plated food in town. Quality ingredients and a commitment to preparation are motivating factors for 24 Diner. No wonder you're constantly recommended and have an endless wait at the door. Hmmm, think this will be a bad review? Likely not.

Arriving at 12:00 p.m. sharp and being seated in a record time of 5 minutes, I opted to kick-start our meal with the infamous 24 Diner Bloody Mary made with Austin's own Tito's Vodka. 24 Diner blends their own mix and offers a surprisingly tasty medley of pickled vegetables all for $6.50. Call it a drink or meal, any sucker for a spicy bloody with ample flavors and an obvious amount of vodka, will find this styling has all the components. Dare I say 24 Diner boasts the #1 Bloody Mary in town? Try it!

Hungry with absolutely no shame, Breakfast In Austin opted for the massively overindulgent, Fried Egg Sandwich served with skillet fries. Imagine a doughy Challah Bun with Texas Applewood Smoked Bacon and cheddar cheese topped with an over medium egg with a perfectly cooked yolk. For the average diner, guilt may overtake you during those last 4-5 bites. Please don't let it. I encourage you to finish this delicious sandwich. It’s penny worthy and filling with a price tag of $9.95.

Kids in tow? My 12 year old, also excited for 24 Diner, decided to go big & rich with the French Toast Platter. Boasting a large cut of French bread and topped with vanilla cream & fresh blueberries, this sampling was an undertaking for anyone, pre-teen or otherwise. With the addition of egg & bacon sides, it became pretty clear that this plate would go unfinished. Flavorful, filling and pricey at $11.95.

For you breakfast lovers who prefer a gluten-free lifestyle, 24 Diner is mindful of your dietary needs. Along with a gluten-free menu, they are happy to modify recipes, so please ask! My friend, Sarah, who has been GF for several years opted for the 24 HASH with bacon, sausage, jalapeno and cheddar cheese served with a side of homemade skillet fries. Hunger kicking in, our server recommended Sarah order the large portion for $9.95. Thumbs up!

24 Diner has certainly found a niche in Austin with their “round the clock service” and quality of food choices. With breakfast available morning, noon or night, indulgence can occur for you at anytime.

It's all about the feast, not the famine!

For more information, visit 24 Diner at: http://24diner.com/

Whether it's 3 a.m. or 11 p.m., check out 24 Diner's Breakfast Menu at: http://24diner.com/public/pdf/24%20menu%20side1%2005_02_11.pdf

OR 24 Diner's Gluten-Free Breakfast Menu at: http://24diner.com/public/pdf/24%20gluten%20menu1%2005_02_11.pdf

Local and involved, no surprise that 24 Diner is connected! Find with them on FB at: http://www.facebook.com/24Diner or follow their Tweets at: @24DinerATX

Pros: Hmmm, this is tough - open 24 hours, breakfast 24 hours, best bloody mary ever, creative & flavorful dishes, farm to table local ingredients, locally roasted coffee, green minded - composting & recycling, great location at 6th & Lamar, spot-on service and relaxed ambiance

Cons: Always a wait, so be patient, items are on the spendy side but quality justifies the expense

Suggestions: Order a bloody mary at the bar while you wait, once seated take your time & enjoy - nobody will make you feel rushed

24 Diner ~ 600 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78703 ~ 512.472.5400 (Open 24 hours, with the exception of Wednesday morning from 1-6 a.m. for cleaning)