The 814: Visit Zodiac Dinor

Victoria McGinty, Managing editor

If you crave the traditional American diner experience, the Zodiac Dinor is Erie’s own American Dream. Located at 2516 State Street, this place is a staple for breakfast or brunch in Erie. Like any true diner, the Zodiac is home to an amazing staff. They will give you tips on the best menu items and make sure your coffee is always hot. When dining there to craft this article, the restaurant was packed, but the staff still made sure to give us a memorable dining experience. Our server was very talkative and friendly, and she went above and beyond.

While the venue is on the smaller side and can easily become cramped due to its popularity, it is worth it for the menu and pricing. The restaurant’s theme is iconic with a colorful exterior and a retro outer space theme to compliment the inside of the restaurant. While most diners aim to capture the essence of 1950s American culture, the Zodiac does some-thing different—and it works. The result is a quirky, zany spot with incredible food and service. As for the menu, the diner has an array of breakfast classics, lunches and a rotation of seasonal specials. As someone who loves breakfast food, it was a very hard choice to pick just one thing off the menu. Everything sounds absolutely delicious, so making a selection was nearly impossible.

While visiting the Zodiac, I chose the “Big Dipper.” This is a breakfast menu item that includes two eggs of any style, bacon or sausage, and toast. Priced at $4.99, this plate was bigger than one could have anticipated. I dare you to find another diner in Erie offering better for less. The serving sizes are enormous and almost impossible to finish. The price is definitely worth the size and quantity, especially on a college student’s budget. While one can find joy in the traditional breakfast choices, the Zodiac also offers a variety of Belgian waffles, French toast as well as Big A$$ pancakes. Yes, that is actually what it is called on the menu, no joke. While one can enjoy these griddle classics plain, the diner is always featuring these items with special toppings or inclusions. As summer is quickly approaching, the diner is currently offering a special on strawberry Belgian waffles and apple pie French toast.

If sweet breakfasts are not your style, there are plenty of options to choose from. Everything you try on the menu is sure to surprise and delight you. If you are one who does not particularly like breakfast, the diner also has some classic lunch menu items as well. One can choose from a variety of grilled favorites such as hot dogs and hamburgers, chicken sandwiches as well as a variety of salads.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is similar to any hometown restaurant. It is very family-friendly and resembles what any small-town diner is good at, which is hospitality. The staff is incredibly welcoming and attentive and the service, even on a busy Sunday morning, will go above and beyond to make your experience memorable. While the restaurant may not be the most spacious in Erie, it is still incredibly special to the area. Even better, it’s not too far from campus! I would highly suggest you stop in at least once. Currently, the diner is open from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm every day. If you are looking for a new spot for a girls’ day brunch or somewhere local to try just because, then I suggest the Zodiac Dinor. You’ll be back for more before you know it!