Location: I-95 Exit 22, Lumberton, North Carolina

A true classic for the 95 traveler, especially those looking for a stopping point directly between Disney World and the Big Apple. John’s isn’t for today’s growing vegetarian population, but it’s definitely for steak lovers. The specialty is prime rib, but everything else (various cuts of steak, seafood entrees, and evening specials) is magnificent as well. Excellent appetizers, deserts, and drinks from the bar will complete the meal, leaving you with a total dining experience. Stop in a little early to put your name on the list or just call from your car or hotel. Enjoy!

Location: Various Locations

I was surprised to see on the Gourmet section of your web site that no one had mentioned Waffle House! Being a native of Atlanta, Georgia, I became familiar with the uniquely Southern restaurants on road trips. The slogan is “Good Food Fast”, and that’s what you’ll get! From (of course) waffles to hamburgers to grits to hashbrowns (scattered, smothered covered, chunked, topped, and/or diced), the Waffle House menu offers good food at a very low price. Eerily, every Waffle House from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to Daytona Beach, Florida, is exactly like every other one, but at least the food, service and prices are consistent!

These places are NOT for asthmatics. If you smoke, this is your restaurant! (Waffle Houses are scattered about the Southeast. Like a recent radio ad in Atlanta said, “How would an interstate exit look without a Waffle House? Pretty lonely, I guess.)

Location: I-95 Exit 41, Jessup, Maryland

Set back from the road and a little hard to find, Frank’s Diner is worth seeking out. This is a vintage 1959 diner moved here from its original location in New Jersey. The food is excellent. A welcome change from the chain restaurant food one usually finds while on the road. We especially liked the french fries (homemade – actually tastes like potatoes), soups, and sandwiches available on their signature sour dough bread.
Portions are generous without being wasteful. The children’s menu features chicken fingers made from real chicken breast filet) and those great french fries. The traditional formica top booths, juke boxes and stainless steel trim are a delight. The service was friendly and efficient. Frank’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.