Overview: The West Taghkanic Diner is a well-preserved 1953 Mountain View style diner with all the standard designs of this age (steel everywhere, long profile, dominant counter). Driving into the dusty lot, the first thing you will notice is the hulking neon sign depicting Native American chief Taghanook. The lights of the sign at night hovering over a hologram of chrome is a ’50s dream. Imagine waiting out a snowstorm at the counter as the dim neon outside reveals streams of whipping snow. The summers are busier and feel no less iconic, with Harley dudes streaming in and out.
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The Menu: The food here is the simplest diner food simply done right. The breakfast plate that brings it all home is “The Big Chief” comprising a choice of eggs, toast, potatoes, powdered pancakes and sausage, bacon or ham. The main menu shares some popular standouts with Martindale Chief, perhaps because of their shared lineage, or that Martindale Chief owner Lopez Santos used to cook there.
Standout Specials: Though best known for their basics, the West Taghkanic has its own nightly specials, too. Stop by on a Tuesday for a homemade Yankee pot roast that will stick to your ribs.
Regulars Recommend: The egg cream, according to an anonymous biker
Notable Feature: This is one of the few diners of these years that were never moved once placed in its original location in 1953. It is a true piece of history.
Phone: 518.851.7117
