A bit run down, but the service is friendly and fast and the breakfasts are good, as are milkshakes. Very family friendly, high chairs, kids items, etc., ample parking. I've been back here several times since I wrote the original review. The reason I go back is because the staff is very, very friendly, particularly to my toddler. Last time we went, after immediately bringing juice in a sippy cup and crayons with coloring paper, he got a free mickey-mouse pancake (actually 3 pancakes - face + ears). He was later presented with an Easter pencil and eraser. A customer gave him a $1 coin for his piggy-bank. After he finished eating, my husband took him outside to look at the airplane out front. There's also a play area/slide outside in the back. Kids (under 4) can also get free mashed potatoes with gravy instead of the pancake.
(4)
Tina M.
The staff was friendly and kind. Very warm comfortable atmosphere. Food was azing and prices were good!
(4)
Shane S.
Met friends for dinner in what we knew would be first class cheese. I have been here before years ago, and remember that it was just pretty basic. Their claim to fame is the deep fried mac & cheese. If for nothing else, check them out for that. In it's hay day, I bet this place rocked. Now, it's just a small town diner minutes from the big city. Staff is friendly, and prices are nice for the quantity of food. I'm sure we'll make it back again for some greasy goodness! Three stars for the amount of Pepto needed afterwards.
(3)
Linda L.
What a treat! All American diner atmosphere and great food. Friendly service from the minute you open the door u til you leave. This place is on my list of favorites.
(5)
Paul H.
Disappointed! I really wanted this to be my Saturday breakfast place. Waited 1 hr for meal ... Bad bad coffee. Good food once it finally came. The search is on for Saturday breakfast.
(1)
Ted R.
Went for lunch today. Enjoyed the history of the Bomber gas station and cafe. I had a burger with fries and my wife the fish and chips. Looked super for breakfast and would get that next trip to Portland.
(4)
Marina B.
Good food, staff is nice. Fed us breakfast even though it was over but they didn't tell us that when we sat down. When I asked for for half and half, the server brought me an entire little pitcher when all I wanted was 2 more creamer cups. Extremely satisfied when I left.
(5)
Edward H.
The plane is gone :( but the food is delicious with great service. Coffee is fresh and plentiful as well as staff cheeriness. The food was out relatively quick and tasty to the last bight. Highly recommend this solid establishment.
(4)
Oregon C.
They've got gluten-free options! I assumed this place was like a dive of an old diner and found they've tried to make it look very classy. The food I thought was more pricey than I expected, however very good quality and excellent service.
(5)
Jade M.
Not for the average Portlander. I liked it's quirky laid back non-style, it's almost claustrophobic low ceiling and cheerful waitstaff. The girl even gave me a free, small bowl of soup because she overhead me saying how starving I was. The only thing is it's not really the kind of place you want to relax and spend a lot of time over your meal. You eat in a tiny living room style area and there's no view or windows as there usually is in other diners. You feel like you're literally in a stranger's home, complete with the personality blaring decor that speaks of the owners and not necessarily to the comfort of the patrons. I think it relates mostly to the senior demographic. My pulled pork sandwich was delicious and well-priced, and as I said, the waitress was above par, but I felt somehow as if I was cloistered deep in the woods down a back country lane intead of right off a main stretch of Milwaukie. Honestly, I was glad to make my way back to civilization, lest I catch myself saying "y'all" before I knew it.
(3)
Tony H.
Went there on Valentine's Day with my fiance. It was my very first time there, I don't know if I'd go back.
(2)
Gary L.
Sunday morning ate breakfast here .... very clean , great service , and very goof food , reasonable prices ...we will be back
(4)
B.Marie G.
This is a good place for breakfast. I love the chai tea. Service is better in the morning than at night. Chicken fried steak is ridiculously huge!!!! Prime rib is flavorful. Overall its a good place, just watch for the sketchy waitress..
(3)
Nick H.
Longview has the Pancake House. The 'Couve has Paul's. Milwaukie has The Bomber. You know what I'm talking about; the place that's been there forever. The place where 96% of the people in there have white or blue hair. The place where guys my age show their grown children pictures of B-17s and explain how grandpa flew these over the Riech and dropped bombs on the people we now buy cars and coffee makers from. Just don't expect him to talk about it. This is no place for calorie counters. There is no room on the wall for a nutrition chart. This is where you go when you want to have a Big Breakfast, consequences be damned. I can handle eating like this about once every 3 months. It's not good for you but you shouldn't walk into a place like this while thinking about things like that. This is where I go to commit Food Adultry. Don't tell Mom ( or my Cardioligist). Bad Nicky. Bad.
(4)
Jim Spagg X.
This place is a straight up kink-fest if you are a hungover hungry boy. The biscuits and gravity are friggin' huge, and they taste like something a heavenly angel would shit out onto a plate. The price was right, and the portions were huge, and the atmosphere was odd, pretty much everything that makes a place good. I'd come back here a millions times if I thought it wouldn't kill me with cholesterol
(5)
Kelly S.
Frozen fried chicken and frozen cooked veggies (stouffers??) just like mom used to make. Disappointed the chicken isn't house made! Salad was great and has a good vibe. Waitress was super nice!
(1)
Bob B.
It as been a couple of years since I was here. Passing through and stopped because of the Bomber. According to several sources, the bomber is undergoing restoration so it's been temporarily removed. This is a very quaint, low key diner. The food was very good. We had burgers and fried chicken. Everything was flavorful and they served generous portions. The wait staff was very friendly. We were treated as if we went there every day. Next time I'm in the area I'll stop by again. Hopefully the plane will be back.
Me and my dad go there the first sunday of every month and we split the co pilots meal and let me tell you it so good we finish the whole thing (we also don't eat for the rest of the day) when you go make sure that you go early just so your food gets out faster. Also you better remember to bring a bib cauls your going to want to dig strait in (shovle not included)
(4)
Jerry P.
We used to stop here almost every Sunday for breakfast. After several years of not going we decided to go back. Service was terrible. Food order was taken late. Once it was the cook did not make our food. Others got there well after we did and were served, had eaten and left and we still did not have our food. We had to ask several people were it was before we were told the cook "didn't hear the bell". The good was not as good as it used to be. Still good don't get me wrong but it used to be outstanding. I still suggest this place even though we had problems.
(3)
Christian H.
The food is always fresh and cooked very well. The staff is always friendly. Its definitely a place I'd recommend to friends.
(5)
Bossy G.
The food at a friends anniversary party was beautiful and fresh and the staff was amazing. That said, a number of us went (quietly and not successfully) in search of some salt and pepper. The food was so underspiced!. It could have been A+. The platter of roasted veggies was a favorite but had no salt/pepper and would have loved a drizzle of balsamic or a light dill yogurt sauce. Pretty much true across the board. I would not use them, myself, unless this was addressed. The freshness and presentation was super, still.
(4)
Corey T.
Some of the best good old fashioned diner food I've had in a long time! Excellent and extremely friendly service! Highly recommend the fresh squeezed oj and the breakfast biscuits are SO SOFT, FLAKEY & DELICIOUS!!!!! And the owner....is absolutely the kindest lady and so personable! A must stop for the incredible food, the wonderful staff and the aviation history!
(5)
Carl T.
I have been to the bomber a couple times and have never been disappointed. Today I met some friends for lunch. I ordered the Reuben with cole slaw. The meat was juicy and ample and the kraut was delicious. The cole slaw was fresh and ample. For value and taste the bomber can't be beat. Service is always good and the smiling friendly waitresses make dining here fun. My only suggestion is to redo the entrance. Its confusing and seems like it has been under construction for way to long. Try this place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. GREAT comfort food!
(5)
Greg F.
First stop after landing at PDX when we moved back to OR. It just doesn't get better than this! Will be there for breakfast tomorrow.
(5)
Josie C.
Nice place, good food, friendly staff. A good, solid, middle-American restaurant for when you don't need to be blown away with something unique and amazing and you just want something warm and familiar and reasonably priced. And on this Sunday morning, there are lots of families here of all ages, which I think is always a good sign that the locals like and trust this place.
(4)
Amy M.
I never rate things 5 stars because there is always room for improvement..but...THIS was such a fun atmosphere! I'm not sure if the food was amazing, or the interesting atmosphere made the food really good. You get lots of food though! There was a gingerbread pancake special today..so that was fun. And the best hashbrowns I've had outside of a Waffle House (weird, I know)
(4)
Teri C.
We love this place! Great prices and service. Food is non-fancy traditional diner type menu. Only 4 stars because we found the pie just ok.
(4)
Cody M.
The food he is so freakin awesome, the service was lacking but it was a busy morning. The belly gunner is the mother of all chicken fried steak so amazing. And OJ comes in a frozen glass what's not to love!? Great experience all around.
(4)
Chris W.
I have been here quite a few times and I will say that every time I've been here the service was wonderful as was the food. Lots of cool stuff to look at on the wall.
(3)
Jen K.
"Mom, what are you going to rate it?" My son started pestering me halfway through the meal to give this Portland landmark diner five stars. Son #1: "Point One - good service" Me: It was good, but not crazy good. S1: "Point Two - great milkshake" Me: Also fine and I liked that they had more than vanilla, chocolate and strawberry on the menu. My son loved the sprinkles on top of the whipped cream and the metal canister for a refill. S1: "Point Three - Good burger" Me: This is diner food so it is enjoyable but doesn't make me go crazy. Rather than a standard burger, I enjoyed the Betty Grable Melt so the patty was served on toasted rye bread with grilled onions and Swiss cheese. S1: "Point Four - Cool stuff to look at" Me: Absolutely. Family owned and operated since 1947, there are interesting WW2 photos and memorabilia inside and out. In addition to the B-17 Bomber, outside there are totem poles, a surf shack and other things that just made me scratch my head. What is going on here? S1: "Point Five - The price is right" Me: Yes, he talks like that. And he is correct. One of these days, the chip-off-the-old-block might get his own Yelp account. Until then, I get to assign the stars. We really enjoyed this place and my favorite was the Betty Boop mural in the bathroom. She was almost worth five stars on her own. But while I love the nostalgic feel, I wouldn't want you to think you're going to eat the best food ever. You will, however, enter a time warp.
(3)
J C.
Patty Melt, check. Coleslaw, check. Chili fries, check. Listen --- it's not diet food but its worth a stop if you want to get off the beaten path.
(3)
Todd K.
I would have given five stars--if this were ten years ago, when I first tried the restaurant. First thing I ever tried was their massive Bomber Burger, which Art Lacey (the gentleman who brought the plane over and set it up there; I believe I read somewhere he actually constructed a special road to tow it in), invented; probably the first burger with peanut butter (and every other topping, pretty much). If you could eat it all, you'd get an award paper signed by the waitress. The wife and me pretty much went there every week for awhile, and all the food was great. Nowadays, however, the Bomber Burger is no longer even a moderate challenge--it has shrunk in size while the price has inflated. It's also always so damned crowded with regulars, you have to wait awhile for a seat sometimes. The most disappointing thing for me, though, is the lack of rebuild on that airplane. They said they were restoring it and were accepting donations toward that end, and that was ten years ago. Yet, the plane looks worse and worse every year. I remember when it was a gas station, it was particularly great at night, when everything was lit up. My grandpa said at the time they used to let people inside the plane, but that stopped. Anyway, great memories, but the food has gone down a bit in quality and up in price, something I'm never happy about.
(3)
Jennifer G.
So I havent gone here in years and was excited to go with my husband for his birthday and my inlaws!! I have always rememberd it really good. So, my son wanted the mac n cheese and was glad he wanted it, so I expected something different than what he gets at home...nope it was kraft mac n cheese loaded with cheese. Come on, if your going to add that much cheese, why not make it from scratch? then my husbands veggies were the same ones they sell in the frozen section at stores that I buy for my cassroles. I so wasnt impressed. Then my inlaws got the Moes seafood dish. I dont eat sea food, but they are from the south and have experince with this. My father in law said he wasnt understanding it but the big peices were too done, but the smaller peices were not done enough. But my mother inlaw it was the opposite. She said her scallops were too done and ruberlike. I asked her if maybe it was because they were frozen? Now my husband and i watch alot of Kitchen Nightmere and keep watch of restaurants that do cut back and do frozen...and this place totally does this. I highly doubt their pies are home made....but frozen. the only really good thing was their Ruben and the really neat things around the restaurant!
(2)
Jackie C.
As always dinner at the Bomber was great. I hade the pot roast sandwich, wonderful. My husband had the Betty Grable (patty melt) All their sandwiches have WWII name. The staff is so friendly, The food is good, and the history is great. It is a really fun place to go especially with those old enough to remember WWII or kids. The walls are covered with plane stuff, but the biggest attraction is the real B-17 parked out front. The plane is in the process of being restored to flyable condition. I love supporting family businesses, and The Bomber diffently qualifies, it is currently operated by the daughter of the man who bought the retired plane from the military and flew it here back in 1947.
(4)
Holly D.
What can i say? The Bomber is an institution in Milwaukie. I have been going there since the airplane had a gas station under it back in the 70s. Now I take my parents there for breakfast. Give up the cholesterol count when you order. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are my favorites, Burgers with shakes are traditional and if you are there when it is open , there is a small little museum, next to the Victory Garden area that you must see. As a history buff, it is the Bomber's best kept secret.
(5)
Jack D.
Nothing special here. Standard fare for those that dont care. Hospitality is nice. Food was average edible. Kids mac and cheese was kraft out of the box. Steak was good without having to add any "sauce." Would I go here again. No.
(3)
Lisa W.
I can't believe I have lived in the Portland area all my life and I have never eaten here. It is a very cute diner that has classic food and ambiance. My sandwich "The Lacey Lady" was amazing! My husbands hamburger was very good too. We will definitely be going back, it is classic all American food with good service for a great price.
(5)
Heather S.
Have driven several times and finally went in and was pleasantly surprised..family owned mom and pop diner with large portions..they offer free pancakes to little ones at certain times..Nice and very friendly staff.. Will definitely go again!
(4)
Paul I.
I've driven past hundreds of times and never thought to try it out. Moving two blocks away helped get my foot in the door. It happily filled the diner-shaped hole in my heart. Burgers were very good and location history formed the more interest parts of their decor. They do a good deal of street sign advertising as to their specials, but I've unfortunately ignored them. They're likely this restaurant's deeper cuts that shine brighter than a club sandwich w/ fries. BTW - Who knew peanut butter was the missing burger ingredient!?
(4)
Katrina W.
When you're driving down 99E in Milwaukie and see an old war plane mounted in front of a restaurant called The Bomber, there's a fair chance you already know a lot about the place. Going in, I expected: - white hair & walkers - plane memorabilia - old-school diner food I was not disappointed. The waitresses were very friendly and knew to speak with volume to their patrons. I had an aviation-themed burger and fries and a delicious blackberry milkshake with fake whipped cream on top and the leftover shake on the side in a metal mixing container. They even had a make-your-own-commemorative-penny machine. There's actually a whole museum (and, oddly, an apartment complex and a "Victory Garden") at the Bomber Complex, but the museum was closed by the time we got there. I went with my stepdad (aged 76) and his best friend Jerry (aged 78). My stepdad had been there before... like, 40 years before... and remembered going with his brother, and details about how it used to be arranged. Jerry had not been there, and his comment was that pretty soon all the people who feel nostalgic about the place are going to drop off, and to the people who remain -- people like me -- it'll only seem like a novelty too far from town, which probably, sadly, won't keep it open. I'd hate to see that happen. How will we clog our arteries if diner food becomes extinct? So please, ladies and germs, head over to the Bomber. Bye-bye Hitler, and Buy-buy Bonds (or Bomber Burgers, at least)!
(4)
Joelene M.
The food is satisfactory, my husband and brothers tried the "Challenge" beat it, and enjoyed the reward sunday... but uh Peanut Butter and Hamburger isn't very tasty.At all.So ...only order it if you wanna beat the challenge, not if you think it will be delicious.
(3)
Julie D.
All American greasy diner food! A good burger, onion rings and killer shake. I liked the old school vibe of the place. I liked the older snappy waitress and the cool stuff on the walls. Both the hubby and I were very entertained by the table of older people that looked like they were regulars. Just a cute, fun place to have a diner meal.
(4)
Holy-foo' X.
First went there as a young boy w/my family. My brother and I were, of course, completely focused on the real-life airplane cemented into the front lot. It was like "Food--who cares about FOOD? Who could eat @ a time like this?? Can't you see there's a frickin' AIRPLANE right out there????" Back then, of course, my rating for Ye Olde Bomber would have been about 5 trillion stars. Eating there as an adult, it may suffer due to association with the particular women I was dating at various the times when I went back to the bomber. Let's just say, the one memorable thing about the Bomber now is the stiff drinks they are so generous about promptly serving. The food made no lasting impression whatsoever. Finally, I just have to say--- there was an INCREDIBLY hot older waitress that worked there for years. I don't see any reason to be returning there any time in the foreseeable future. So I have no idea if she's still there. But I always had to wonder, what in the world was her story. Was she widowed early, or divorced penniless from some rich guy who had sense enough to make her sign a pre-nup, or what? (If so, score one for the men! A rare win indeed, where so many other men are taken to the cleaners) You just don't see women of that age, and of that caliber, in the service industry very often.... ...Then again, I s'pose it makes sense that The Bomber would be the PERFECT place of employ for an aging Blonde Bombshell. Much classier than, say, the Acropolis, a few doors down the road... Does anybody out there know what the story is/was w/that waitress? If you've ever been there on the night shift in the past 6-8 years (don't think I've been there since 2005-6 or so), you must have noticed her....
(3)
Keith B.
the bomber has the slowest service i have EVER experienced. unapologetic slow. i don't know why i waited so long for very average sysco food slow. actually it wasn't even average sysco food and it was slow. i kept it simlpe with sausage,eggs and toast with hashbrowns and it was still slowwwww. sausage was barely warmed up...like not even browned and it still took the better part of an HOUR! wtf??? OH wait make that a SLOW whaaaaaaat the fuuuuuuuuu#@? The restaurant is pretty cool inside with great posters and relics but it in no way makes up for thier bland food and did i mention??? SLOW service. i don't mind eating all frozen and warmed up food but at least make the price appropriate and speed it up. price/qaulity/qauntity here is really bad. when we were paying our bill the counter girl asked how was it and i said o.k to which she replied "just ok? actually i lied ...i wasn't ok it was MEH. STILL looking for a go to place in my area, this won't be it.
(2)
Francois P.
It is a dinner, old rustic and good. Priced well and you got to love the planes. Beau was a nice server. Adequate and knowledgeable. My kids loved the milkshake and the grilled cheese, the Philly was good too.
(3)
Tessa Y.
I had been avoiding this place for a long time because I thought of it as a dive. I was at a business meeting once that was catered by them and was not impressed. We went out to breakfast the otherday to Bertie Lou and proceeded to wait outside for over 30 min in the cold for the only table that could hold 3 people to open. We gave up and someone suggested we go to the bomber. I have been trying to be more openminded lately so I was game. I am glad that we went! The restaurant is little run down but we had wonderful, hot coffee on our table within 2 minutes of sitting down. We had amazing service, the food was wonderful and not greesy! Its hard to find a place where the eggs, omelets, lts rare that we find a place where the breakfast food is not greesy. The price was great too! 3 people with tons of food for $30. We even ordered extra pancakes for the dog and they threw in sausage links for him. :) The only reason why we did not give this place 5 stars was the biscuits were very dry. We will be back!
(4)
Zara L.
The food is probably what you'd expect, the shakes are great, and the service is awesome. Our son was enthralled by the warplane decor and outgoing waitstaff. A classic American diner good for kids or a group looking for burgers-n-fries.
(4)
Rachelle f.
I went here for the first time today after passing by it so many times, I was a little nervous after ready the other reviews but once i walked in the door i was pleasantly surprised, Service was incredibly fast, the food was great and everyone was nice. Whoever said it was run down must be crazy, it was nice, clean and updated. The food was not greasy to the point you need medication, it is great home cooking. I think some of the bad reviewers just wanted to complain about anything and everything but really have no ground to stand on, Its a family owned business of course stuff is going to be more expensive than a cookie cutter chain restaurant that you are used to, everything is fresh and good quality. I highly recommend it, don't let the negative reviews stand in your way.
(4)
Cindy Q.
I like my cholesterol sunny side up. Breakfast at The Bomber is always made to order. Anyone in Milwaukie knows this place as THE breakfast place to eat. If you have trouble finding it, just tell folks to look for the airplane. This WWII bomber was transported in by deceased owner Art Lacey and placed above his gas station. Behind it is located an old time motor inn and restaurant. His daughter and grandson now run it, but I don't think the menu has probably changed much. Behind the gut buster style breakfasts, the hidden secret of the Bomber Restaurant is their catering business. From simple backyard buffets to full gourmet specialties, Punky Scott can match the best of Portland catering services. I've used them for all kinds of functions; group breakfasts, weddings, staff socials, retirement parties, barbecues. They can do it all.
(4)
Connie L.
The Ruben sandwich here was delicious. Can't wait for a return visit. The staff was very friendly also. Don't judge a book by the cover.
(4)
Mike G.
This place has been around for ever! I have know Punky and Jason since I was in preschool! Jason (Grandson to Art!) and I went thru school together. The menu and food has always been the same it seems like! You will always have a good breakfast here and your food will always be consistent in quality and presentation. The lunches and dinners have never been the best but always good. If you are in the area check it out!
(3)
Chris J.
loads of ww2 artifacts and trinkets the biggest being a ww2 bomber in the parking lot.......good drinks good food
(4)
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Address :13515 SE McLoughlin Blvd
Milwaukie, OR, 97222
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Sara T.
A bit run down, but the service is friendly and fast and the breakfasts are good, as are milkshakes. Very family friendly, high chairs, kids items, etc., ample parking. I've been back here several times since I wrote the original review. The reason I go back is because the staff is very, very friendly, particularly to my toddler. Last time we went, after immediately bringing juice in a sippy cup and crayons with coloring paper, he got a free mickey-mouse pancake (actually 3 pancakes - face + ears). He was later presented with an Easter pencil and eraser. A customer gave him a $1 coin for his piggy-bank. After he finished eating, my husband took him outside to look at the airplane out front. There's also a play area/slide outside in the back. Kids (under 4) can also get free mashed potatoes with gravy instead of the pancake.
(4)Tina M.
The staff was friendly and kind. Very warm comfortable atmosphere. Food was azing and prices were good!
(4)Shane S.
Met friends for dinner in what we knew would be first class cheese. I have been here before years ago, and remember that it was just pretty basic. Their claim to fame is the deep fried mac & cheese. If for nothing else, check them out for that. In it's hay day, I bet this place rocked. Now, it's just a small town diner minutes from the big city. Staff is friendly, and prices are nice for the quantity of food. I'm sure we'll make it back again for some greasy goodness! Three stars for the amount of Pepto needed afterwards.
(3)Linda L.
What a treat! All American diner atmosphere and great food. Friendly service from the minute you open the door u til you leave. This place is on my list of favorites.
(5)Paul H.
Disappointed! I really wanted this to be my Saturday breakfast place. Waited 1 hr for meal ... Bad bad coffee. Good food once it finally came. The search is on for Saturday breakfast.
(1)Ted R.
Went for lunch today. Enjoyed the history of the Bomber gas station and cafe. I had a burger with fries and my wife the fish and chips. Looked super for breakfast and would get that next trip to Portland.
(4)Marina B.
Good food, staff is nice. Fed us breakfast even though it was over but they didn't tell us that when we sat down. When I asked for for half and half, the server brought me an entire little pitcher when all I wanted was 2 more creamer cups. Extremely satisfied when I left.
(5)Edward H.
The plane is gone :( but the food is delicious with great service. Coffee is fresh and plentiful as well as staff cheeriness. The food was out relatively quick and tasty to the last bight. Highly recommend this solid establishment.
(4)Oregon C.
They've got gluten-free options! I assumed this place was like a dive of an old diner and found they've tried to make it look very classy. The food I thought was more pricey than I expected, however very good quality and excellent service.
(5)Jade M.
Not for the average Portlander. I liked it's quirky laid back non-style, it's almost claustrophobic low ceiling and cheerful waitstaff. The girl even gave me a free, small bowl of soup because she overhead me saying how starving I was. The only thing is it's not really the kind of place you want to relax and spend a lot of time over your meal. You eat in a tiny living room style area and there's no view or windows as there usually is in other diners. You feel like you're literally in a stranger's home, complete with the personality blaring decor that speaks of the owners and not necessarily to the comfort of the patrons. I think it relates mostly to the senior demographic. My pulled pork sandwich was delicious and well-priced, and as I said, the waitress was above par, but I felt somehow as if I was cloistered deep in the woods down a back country lane intead of right off a main stretch of Milwaukie. Honestly, I was glad to make my way back to civilization, lest I catch myself saying "y'all" before I knew it.
(3)Tony H.
Went there on Valentine's Day with my fiance. It was my very first time there, I don't know if I'd go back.
(2)Gary L.
Sunday morning ate breakfast here .... very clean , great service , and very goof food , reasonable prices ...we will be back
(4)B.Marie G.
This is a good place for breakfast. I love the chai tea. Service is better in the morning than at night. Chicken fried steak is ridiculously huge!!!! Prime rib is flavorful. Overall its a good place, just watch for the sketchy waitress..
(3)Nick H.
Longview has the Pancake House. The 'Couve has Paul's. Milwaukie has The Bomber. You know what I'm talking about; the place that's been there forever. The place where 96% of the people in there have white or blue hair. The place where guys my age show their grown children pictures of B-17s and explain how grandpa flew these over the Riech and dropped bombs on the people we now buy cars and coffee makers from. Just don't expect him to talk about it. This is no place for calorie counters. There is no room on the wall for a nutrition chart. This is where you go when you want to have a Big Breakfast, consequences be damned. I can handle eating like this about once every 3 months. It's not good for you but you shouldn't walk into a place like this while thinking about things like that. This is where I go to commit Food Adultry. Don't tell Mom ( or my Cardioligist). Bad Nicky. Bad.
(4)Jim Spagg X.
This place is a straight up kink-fest if you are a hungover hungry boy. The biscuits and gravity are friggin' huge, and they taste like something a heavenly angel would shit out onto a plate. The price was right, and the portions were huge, and the atmosphere was odd, pretty much everything that makes a place good. I'd come back here a millions times if I thought it wouldn't kill me with cholesterol
(5)Kelly S.
Frozen fried chicken and frozen cooked veggies (stouffers??) just like mom used to make. Disappointed the chicken isn't house made! Salad was great and has a good vibe. Waitress was super nice!
(1)Bob B.
It as been a couple of years since I was here. Passing through and stopped because of the Bomber. According to several sources, the bomber is undergoing restoration so it's been temporarily removed. This is a very quaint, low key diner. The food was very good. We had burgers and fried chicken. Everything was flavorful and they served generous portions. The wait staff was very friendly. We were treated as if we went there every day. Next time I'm in the area I'll stop by again. Hopefully the plane will be back.
(4)Denny S.
I had the chicken fried, with the bombardier hash browns. It came with biscuits and gravy but even this oinker barely touched the biscuits after finishing the giant CFS! The hash browns had sautéed onions and cheese, they were terrific. With all that said the CFS had nutmeg or something else in it that was just not right to me. The service was excellent, I mean WELL above par. Overall I'd go there again for sure, I'd just try something new.
(3)Ava R.
Me and my dad go there the first sunday of every month and we split the co pilots meal and let me tell you it so good we finish the whole thing (we also don't eat for the rest of the day) when you go make sure that you go early just so your food gets out faster. Also you better remember to bring a bib cauls your going to want to dig strait in (shovle not included)
(4)Jerry P.
We used to stop here almost every Sunday for breakfast. After several years of not going we decided to go back. Service was terrible. Food order was taken late. Once it was the cook did not make our food. Others got there well after we did and were served, had eaten and left and we still did not have our food. We had to ask several people were it was before we were told the cook "didn't hear the bell". The good was not as good as it used to be. Still good don't get me wrong but it used to be outstanding. I still suggest this place even though we had problems.
(3)Christian H.
The food is always fresh and cooked very well. The staff is always friendly. Its definitely a place I'd recommend to friends.
(5)Bossy G.
The food at a friends anniversary party was beautiful and fresh and the staff was amazing. That said, a number of us went (quietly and not successfully) in search of some salt and pepper. The food was so underspiced!. It could have been A+. The platter of roasted veggies was a favorite but had no salt/pepper and would have loved a drizzle of balsamic or a light dill yogurt sauce. Pretty much true across the board. I would not use them, myself, unless this was addressed. The freshness and presentation was super, still.
(4)Corey T.
Some of the best good old fashioned diner food I've had in a long time! Excellent and extremely friendly service! Highly recommend the fresh squeezed oj and the breakfast biscuits are SO SOFT, FLAKEY & DELICIOUS!!!!! And the owner....is absolutely the kindest lady and so personable! A must stop for the incredible food, the wonderful staff and the aviation history!
(5)Carl T.
I have been to the bomber a couple times and have never been disappointed. Today I met some friends for lunch. I ordered the Reuben with cole slaw. The meat was juicy and ample and the kraut was delicious. The cole slaw was fresh and ample. For value and taste the bomber can't be beat. Service is always good and the smiling friendly waitresses make dining here fun. My only suggestion is to redo the entrance. Its confusing and seems like it has been under construction for way to long. Try this place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. GREAT comfort food!
(5)Greg F.
First stop after landing at PDX when we moved back to OR. It just doesn't get better than this! Will be there for breakfast tomorrow.
(5)Josie C.
Nice place, good food, friendly staff. A good, solid, middle-American restaurant for when you don't need to be blown away with something unique and amazing and you just want something warm and familiar and reasonably priced. And on this Sunday morning, there are lots of families here of all ages, which I think is always a good sign that the locals like and trust this place.
(4)Amy M.
I never rate things 5 stars because there is always room for improvement..but...THIS was such a fun atmosphere! I'm not sure if the food was amazing, or the interesting atmosphere made the food really good. You get lots of food though! There was a gingerbread pancake special today..so that was fun. And the best hashbrowns I've had outside of a Waffle House (weird, I know)
(4)Teri C.
We love this place! Great prices and service. Food is non-fancy traditional diner type menu. Only 4 stars because we found the pie just ok.
(4)Cody M.
The food he is so freakin awesome, the service was lacking but it was a busy morning. The belly gunner is the mother of all chicken fried steak so amazing. And OJ comes in a frozen glass what's not to love!? Great experience all around.
(4)Chris W.
I have been here quite a few times and I will say that every time I've been here the service was wonderful as was the food. Lots of cool stuff to look at on the wall.
(3)Jen K.
"Mom, what are you going to rate it?" My son started pestering me halfway through the meal to give this Portland landmark diner five stars. Son #1: "Point One - good service" Me: It was good, but not crazy good. S1: "Point Two - great milkshake" Me: Also fine and I liked that they had more than vanilla, chocolate and strawberry on the menu. My son loved the sprinkles on top of the whipped cream and the metal canister for a refill. S1: "Point Three - Good burger" Me: This is diner food so it is enjoyable but doesn't make me go crazy. Rather than a standard burger, I enjoyed the Betty Grable Melt so the patty was served on toasted rye bread with grilled onions and Swiss cheese. S1: "Point Four - Cool stuff to look at" Me: Absolutely. Family owned and operated since 1947, there are interesting WW2 photos and memorabilia inside and out. In addition to the B-17 Bomber, outside there are totem poles, a surf shack and other things that just made me scratch my head. What is going on here? S1: "Point Five - The price is right" Me: Yes, he talks like that. And he is correct. One of these days, the chip-off-the-old-block might get his own Yelp account. Until then, I get to assign the stars. We really enjoyed this place and my favorite was the Betty Boop mural in the bathroom. She was almost worth five stars on her own. But while I love the nostalgic feel, I wouldn't want you to think you're going to eat the best food ever. You will, however, enter a time warp.
(3)J C.
Patty Melt, check. Coleslaw, check. Chili fries, check. Listen --- it's not diet food but its worth a stop if you want to get off the beaten path.
(3)Todd K.
I would have given five stars--if this were ten years ago, when I first tried the restaurant. First thing I ever tried was their massive Bomber Burger, which Art Lacey (the gentleman who brought the plane over and set it up there; I believe I read somewhere he actually constructed a special road to tow it in), invented; probably the first burger with peanut butter (and every other topping, pretty much). If you could eat it all, you'd get an award paper signed by the waitress. The wife and me pretty much went there every week for awhile, and all the food was great. Nowadays, however, the Bomber Burger is no longer even a moderate challenge--it has shrunk in size while the price has inflated. It's also always so damned crowded with regulars, you have to wait awhile for a seat sometimes. The most disappointing thing for me, though, is the lack of rebuild on that airplane. They said they were restoring it and were accepting donations toward that end, and that was ten years ago. Yet, the plane looks worse and worse every year. I remember when it was a gas station, it was particularly great at night, when everything was lit up. My grandpa said at the time they used to let people inside the plane, but that stopped. Anyway, great memories, but the food has gone down a bit in quality and up in price, something I'm never happy about.
(3)Jennifer G.
So I havent gone here in years and was excited to go with my husband for his birthday and my inlaws!! I have always rememberd it really good. So, my son wanted the mac n cheese and was glad he wanted it, so I expected something different than what he gets at home...nope it was kraft mac n cheese loaded with cheese. Come on, if your going to add that much cheese, why not make it from scratch? then my husbands veggies were the same ones they sell in the frozen section at stores that I buy for my cassroles. I so wasnt impressed. Then my inlaws got the Moes seafood dish. I dont eat sea food, but they are from the south and have experince with this. My father in law said he wasnt understanding it but the big peices were too done, but the smaller peices were not done enough. But my mother inlaw it was the opposite. She said her scallops were too done and ruberlike. I asked her if maybe it was because they were frozen? Now my husband and i watch alot of Kitchen Nightmere and keep watch of restaurants that do cut back and do frozen...and this place totally does this. I highly doubt their pies are home made....but frozen. the only really good thing was their Ruben and the really neat things around the restaurant!
(2)Jackie C.
As always dinner at the Bomber was great. I hade the pot roast sandwich, wonderful. My husband had the Betty Grable (patty melt) All their sandwiches have WWII name. The staff is so friendly, The food is good, and the history is great. It is a really fun place to go especially with those old enough to remember WWII or kids. The walls are covered with plane stuff, but the biggest attraction is the real B-17 parked out front. The plane is in the process of being restored to flyable condition. I love supporting family businesses, and The Bomber diffently qualifies, it is currently operated by the daughter of the man who bought the retired plane from the military and flew it here back in 1947.
(4)Holly D.
What can i say? The Bomber is an institution in Milwaukie. I have been going there since the airplane had a gas station under it back in the 70s. Now I take my parents there for breakfast. Give up the cholesterol count when you order. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are my favorites, Burgers with shakes are traditional and if you are there when it is open , there is a small little museum, next to the Victory Garden area that you must see. As a history buff, it is the Bomber's best kept secret.
(5)Jack D.
Nothing special here. Standard fare for those that dont care. Hospitality is nice. Food was average edible. Kids mac and cheese was kraft out of the box. Steak was good without having to add any "sauce." Would I go here again. No.
(3)Lisa W.
I can't believe I have lived in the Portland area all my life and I have never eaten here. It is a very cute diner that has classic food and ambiance. My sandwich "The Lacey Lady" was amazing! My husbands hamburger was very good too. We will definitely be going back, it is classic all American food with good service for a great price.
(5)Heather S.
Have driven several times and finally went in and was pleasantly surprised..family owned mom and pop diner with large portions..they offer free pancakes to little ones at certain times..Nice and very friendly staff.. Will definitely go again!
(4)Paul I.
I've driven past hundreds of times and never thought to try it out. Moving two blocks away helped get my foot in the door. It happily filled the diner-shaped hole in my heart. Burgers were very good and location history formed the more interest parts of their decor. They do a good deal of street sign advertising as to their specials, but I've unfortunately ignored them. They're likely this restaurant's deeper cuts that shine brighter than a club sandwich w/ fries. BTW - Who knew peanut butter was the missing burger ingredient!?
(4)Katrina W.
When you're driving down 99E in Milwaukie and see an old war plane mounted in front of a restaurant called The Bomber, there's a fair chance you already know a lot about the place. Going in, I expected: - white hair & walkers - plane memorabilia - old-school diner food I was not disappointed. The waitresses were very friendly and knew to speak with volume to their patrons. I had an aviation-themed burger and fries and a delicious blackberry milkshake with fake whipped cream on top and the leftover shake on the side in a metal mixing container. They even had a make-your-own-commemorative-penny machine. There's actually a whole museum (and, oddly, an apartment complex and a "Victory Garden") at the Bomber Complex, but the museum was closed by the time we got there. I went with my stepdad (aged 76) and his best friend Jerry (aged 78). My stepdad had been there before... like, 40 years before... and remembered going with his brother, and details about how it used to be arranged. Jerry had not been there, and his comment was that pretty soon all the people who feel nostalgic about the place are going to drop off, and to the people who remain -- people like me -- it'll only seem like a novelty too far from town, which probably, sadly, won't keep it open. I'd hate to see that happen. How will we clog our arteries if diner food becomes extinct? So please, ladies and germs, head over to the Bomber. Bye-bye Hitler, and Buy-buy Bonds (or Bomber Burgers, at least)!
(4)Joelene M.
The food is satisfactory, my husband and brothers tried the "Challenge" beat it, and enjoyed the reward sunday... but uh Peanut Butter and Hamburger isn't very tasty.At all.So ...only order it if you wanna beat the challenge, not if you think it will be delicious.
(3)Julie D.
All American greasy diner food! A good burger, onion rings and killer shake. I liked the old school vibe of the place. I liked the older snappy waitress and the cool stuff on the walls. Both the hubby and I were very entertained by the table of older people that looked like they were regulars. Just a cute, fun place to have a diner meal.
(4)Holy-foo' X.
First went there as a young boy w/my family. My brother and I were, of course, completely focused on the real-life airplane cemented into the front lot. It was like "Food--who cares about FOOD? Who could eat @ a time like this?? Can't you see there's a frickin' AIRPLANE right out there????" Back then, of course, my rating for Ye Olde Bomber would have been about 5 trillion stars. Eating there as an adult, it may suffer due to association with the particular women I was dating at various the times when I went back to the bomber. Let's just say, the one memorable thing about the Bomber now is the stiff drinks they are so generous about promptly serving. The food made no lasting impression whatsoever. Finally, I just have to say--- there was an INCREDIBLY hot older waitress that worked there for years. I don't see any reason to be returning there any time in the foreseeable future. So I have no idea if she's still there. But I always had to wonder, what in the world was her story. Was she widowed early, or divorced penniless from some rich guy who had sense enough to make her sign a pre-nup, or what? (If so, score one for the men! A rare win indeed, where so many other men are taken to the cleaners) You just don't see women of that age, and of that caliber, in the service industry very often.... ...Then again, I s'pose it makes sense that The Bomber would be the PERFECT place of employ for an aging Blonde Bombshell. Much classier than, say, the Acropolis, a few doors down the road... Does anybody out there know what the story is/was w/that waitress? If you've ever been there on the night shift in the past 6-8 years (don't think I've been there since 2005-6 or so), you must have noticed her....
(3)Keith B.
the bomber has the slowest service i have EVER experienced. unapologetic slow. i don't know why i waited so long for very average sysco food slow. actually it wasn't even average sysco food and it was slow. i kept it simlpe with sausage,eggs and toast with hashbrowns and it was still slowwwww. sausage was barely warmed up...like not even browned and it still took the better part of an HOUR! wtf??? OH wait make that a SLOW whaaaaaaat the fuuuuuuuuu#@? The restaurant is pretty cool inside with great posters and relics but it in no way makes up for thier bland food and did i mention??? SLOW service. i don't mind eating all frozen and warmed up food but at least make the price appropriate and speed it up. price/qaulity/qauntity here is really bad. when we were paying our bill the counter girl asked how was it and i said o.k to which she replied "just ok? actually i lied ...i wasn't ok it was MEH. STILL looking for a go to place in my area, this won't be it.
(2)Francois P.
It is a dinner, old rustic and good. Priced well and you got to love the planes. Beau was a nice server. Adequate and knowledgeable. My kids loved the milkshake and the grilled cheese, the Philly was good too.
(3)Tessa Y.
I had been avoiding this place for a long time because I thought of it as a dive. I was at a business meeting once that was catered by them and was not impressed. We went out to breakfast the otherday to Bertie Lou and proceeded to wait outside for over 30 min in the cold for the only table that could hold 3 people to open. We gave up and someone suggested we go to the bomber. I have been trying to be more openminded lately so I was game. I am glad that we went! The restaurant is little run down but we had wonderful, hot coffee on our table within 2 minutes of sitting down. We had amazing service, the food was wonderful and not greesy! Its hard to find a place where the eggs, omelets, lts rare that we find a place where the breakfast food is not greesy. The price was great too! 3 people with tons of food for $30. We even ordered extra pancakes for the dog and they threw in sausage links for him. :) The only reason why we did not give this place 5 stars was the biscuits were very dry. We will be back!
(4)Zara L.
The food is probably what you'd expect, the shakes are great, and the service is awesome. Our son was enthralled by the warplane decor and outgoing waitstaff. A classic American diner good for kids or a group looking for burgers-n-fries.
(4)Rachelle f.
I went here for the first time today after passing by it so many times, I was a little nervous after ready the other reviews but once i walked in the door i was pleasantly surprised, Service was incredibly fast, the food was great and everyone was nice. Whoever said it was run down must be crazy, it was nice, clean and updated. The food was not greasy to the point you need medication, it is great home cooking. I think some of the bad reviewers just wanted to complain about anything and everything but really have no ground to stand on, Its a family owned business of course stuff is going to be more expensive than a cookie cutter chain restaurant that you are used to, everything is fresh and good quality. I highly recommend it, don't let the negative reviews stand in your way.
(4)Cindy Q.
I like my cholesterol sunny side up. Breakfast at The Bomber is always made to order. Anyone in Milwaukie knows this place as THE breakfast place to eat. If you have trouble finding it, just tell folks to look for the airplane. This WWII bomber was transported in by deceased owner Art Lacey and placed above his gas station. Behind it is located an old time motor inn and restaurant. His daughter and grandson now run it, but I don't think the menu has probably changed much. Behind the gut buster style breakfasts, the hidden secret of the Bomber Restaurant is their catering business. From simple backyard buffets to full gourmet specialties, Punky Scott can match the best of Portland catering services. I've used them for all kinds of functions; group breakfasts, weddings, staff socials, retirement parties, barbecues. They can do it all.
(4)Connie L.
The Ruben sandwich here was delicious. Can't wait for a return visit. The staff was very friendly also. Don't judge a book by the cover.
(4)Mike G.
This place has been around for ever! I have know Punky and Jason since I was in preschool! Jason (Grandson to Art!) and I went thru school together. The menu and food has always been the same it seems like! You will always have a good breakfast here and your food will always be consistent in quality and presentation. The lunches and dinners have never been the best but always good. If you are in the area check it out!
(3)Chris J.
loads of ww2 artifacts and trinkets the biggest being a ww2 bomber in the parking lot.......good drinks good food
(4)