A wonderful diner, my favorite in Salem. The gal who runs things around here is so friendly, the service is wonderful. The food is great as well. The French toast is breaded in since kind of cereal or something and I just loved it! The eggs and bacon are delicious as well. Overall I highly recommend the place, go for your next meal!
(5)
Roger S.
people really enjoy this place and I go here once in awhile. there's nothing special here except it's been around for quite a while. it serves a decent breakfast and not much more. parking in the area can be a real pain. their prices are about average.
(3)
Michael W.
Okay, so it's a diner! If you don't like diners, then you probably want to go somewhere else. But for the classic old-school diner experience (which I love), you can't beat this place. The service is friendly, the food is fine, and the prices are reasonable. It's one of my regular breakfast and lunch stops in Salem. My only gripe is I often find myself wishing they were open on the weekend -- downtown Salem only has a few options for breakfast, and they tend to be either expensive or a bit crowded when we're in a hurry.
(5)
Eric E.
Nice older cafe. The ladies were very friendly and the food came out hot and delicious. I had the Tuna Fish with Tomato and it was pretty good. My mom had the Turkey Dinner special and she really enjoyed it. We will definetly be back.
(4)
Deann A.
Best lunch place in Salem! Avocado burger is my favorite, and you can substitute tots for fries! :) The tots are amazing! It gets busy during lunch, so it's best to come a few minutes before 1200. I could eat at this place forever.
(5)
C C.
Came just for a shake. Pretty good a bit runny, but really tasty. Friendly and fast service. I'd come back. Note: Old smokers joint - it still smells of cigarette smoke.
(3)
Aaron W.
Much, much better. It helps to be a huge breakfast fan. The inside hadn't changed since my previous experience last year. It still has this antiquated feel, especially with all the pictures and articles showcasing the restaurant's history. In particular, I got drawn to a local newspaper advertisement from many moons ago, showing Court St. Dairy Lunch moving to their still-current location. I also saw a sign in the window that Chef Brian was back in the CSDL kitchen. I knew then I didn't have to ponder what to get. I got a full order of "Brian's Mess" ($8.95): it starts with a bunch of soft, chunky cottage fried potatoes, browned up well on the outside. Add some sauteed onions and bell peppers, then two scrambled eggs. Can't forget the meat! Stick some diced ham, sausage, and bacon in there. Oh, and then you get the sexy food porn shot with the melted cheese. Didn't have to tell me twice to start eating. Perfectly cooked potatoes and a good portion of meat. While the vegetables add extra flavor, it's the melted cheese that unites everything together. It'd be a bit of a challenge, but I'd attempt to eat two full orders. Well, if someone else helps pay the bill. I'm not a rich panda. Really, I'm not. Merely a foolish, gluttonous panda who gets suckered into eating just about anything edible. The omelets and pancakes sound awesome here as well. Good service all around. It looks like I've found another nice breakfast spot after all. I'll try to come back for the omelets and pancakes.
(4)
Laura S.
Meh. Maybe this place would be better to try for breakfast. My father and I stopped in for lunch. The burger and fries I had were absolutely standard issue. Rather bland and came out medium temperature. This may have been because my father's sandwich took a little extra long to prepare, but, still. Likely will not be ordering a burger again from here. The shake was good, very rich, and I liked it a lot. I also liked the many old photos of Salem lining the walls. Service was about as good as one could expect from lunch rush hour in downtown, which was to say, we got our orders and one check in to ask if everything was ok. Guess I'll be back for pancakes or French toast and see if I can't give them a better review.
(3)
Angela P.
This place is hard to judge. It is exactly what it is meant to be: an old-style diner that would probably fit better in some dusty Midwest town instead of downtown Salem. The food isnt the best food in Salem, but its exactly what you would expect to find in a diner. I have only had breakfast here (served until 11am) but every time it is predictable and satisfying. Big, fluffy blueberry pancakes, diced ham and eggs, all the classics. The service is likewise old-fashioned. Really friendly banter with lots of regulars and a family-style feel.
(4)
Jake P.
Nice place, definitely feels like a diner. The people were friendly, the service fast, and what food I did get was tasty. I went there once by accident, and went back my 2nd day, so that's something. Problems: - Over $8 for 2 eggs, bacon, and hashbrowns? Really? I'd expect that in DC or San Fran... not *Salem*. - No dairy substitute creamers. I'm not asking for soy milk here, but really, no powdered stuff?
(3)
Avery N.
In my opinion, this is probably the nicest place to get a burger in town. The restaurant itself is in historic downtown Salem and looks as if it's right out of 1934. I like the cute decor though. It's quaint and has a homey feel. Cows, cows everywhere! But hey, it does say DAIRY lunch after all. ;) I always get the cheeseburger with grilled onions with fries. I might suggest ordering it dry or light on the mayo however. There's quite a bit of mayo on the burger. The shakes are made in the old fashioned style with a side for refills. Something that I really really enjoy because I think they are one of the rare places still serving them up like that! And they are probably the best milkshakes you can find anywhere. They always have daily specials which usually consist of a sandwich and a choice of a few soups. By far the best soup is probably the split bean and ham! The place is always packed between 11:30-1pm, so you're lucky if you can get in that time of day. But the bummer is that they aren't open past 2pm and only on the weekdays, so going there for me is a rare indulgence.
(4)
Mira N.
This is one of my favorite breakfast joints. While their lunch fare is fine, there's just something about sneaking in for breakfast mid-week (alas, the CSDL is closed weekends). Their bacon is thick and tasty - sure hits the artery-clogging spot. Their potatoes are fresh - not the grated frozen crap found in many a joint. Even the preserves, served with fresh toast or biscuits, is yummy. The people at CSDL really make the place - the staff, the patrons - like the other reviewer said, this place is an eavesdropping dream. From old timers to political players, you'll find an interesting conversation to listen to. Be sure to check out the old photos on the walls. There's even a stained glass window of the Capitol.
(5)
Jane S.
The Court Street Dairy Lunch has been in business since the 1920s, and aside from the prices very little has changed. The original chrome diner counters and stools are still there, as is most of the original decor. This is no Rock-n-Rogers style 50s diner - this is the real deal! Shakes and malts are the obvious draw at the Dairy Lunch. They mix them up right in front of you on an old-fashioned drink blender and serve them the old fashioned way - tall fluted glass, whipped cream on top, with the overflow served on the side in a tin mixing cup. There's usually a lot left over in the cup, so you may want to share with a friend. The food is alright. The Dairy Burger, which comes outfitted with bacon, cheese, and a fried egg, is a highlight, as is the super meatloaf sandwich. The fries are good and potato-y. For the most part, though, Dairy Lunch food is typical inoffensive diner fare: a bit predictable, a little too reliant on Sysco/Sodhexo preprepared ingredients. Don't get the pie - it ain't fresh. The best thing about the Dairy Lunch is probably its oldster clientele, many of whom have been regulars since they were kids. It's a good spot for eavesdropping and people-watching.
(3)
Robert L.
The food and service were above par for this area. The prices are good and you get large portions(especially the fries). I just wish they were open at night so I can hit them up after drinking.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Samantha H.
A wonderful diner, my favorite in Salem. The gal who runs things around here is so friendly, the service is wonderful. The food is great as well. The French toast is breaded in since kind of cereal or something and I just loved it! The eggs and bacon are delicious as well. Overall I highly recommend the place, go for your next meal!
(5)Roger S.
people really enjoy this place and I go here once in awhile. there's nothing special here except it's been around for quite a while. it serves a decent breakfast and not much more. parking in the area can be a real pain. their prices are about average.
(3)Michael W.
Okay, so it's a diner! If you don't like diners, then you probably want to go somewhere else. But for the classic old-school diner experience (which I love), you can't beat this place. The service is friendly, the food is fine, and the prices are reasonable. It's one of my regular breakfast and lunch stops in Salem. My only gripe is I often find myself wishing they were open on the weekend -- downtown Salem only has a few options for breakfast, and they tend to be either expensive or a bit crowded when we're in a hurry.
(5)Eric E.
Nice older cafe. The ladies were very friendly and the food came out hot and delicious. I had the Tuna Fish with Tomato and it was pretty good. My mom had the Turkey Dinner special and she really enjoyed it. We will definetly be back.
(4)Deann A.
Best lunch place in Salem! Avocado burger is my favorite, and you can substitute tots for fries! :) The tots are amazing! It gets busy during lunch, so it's best to come a few minutes before 1200. I could eat at this place forever.
(5)C C.
Came just for a shake. Pretty good a bit runny, but really tasty. Friendly and fast service. I'd come back. Note: Old smokers joint - it still smells of cigarette smoke.
(3)Aaron W.
Much, much better. It helps to be a huge breakfast fan. The inside hadn't changed since my previous experience last year. It still has this antiquated feel, especially with all the pictures and articles showcasing the restaurant's history. In particular, I got drawn to a local newspaper advertisement from many moons ago, showing Court St. Dairy Lunch moving to their still-current location. I also saw a sign in the window that Chef Brian was back in the CSDL kitchen. I knew then I didn't have to ponder what to get. I got a full order of "Brian's Mess" ($8.95): it starts with a bunch of soft, chunky cottage fried potatoes, browned up well on the outside. Add some sauteed onions and bell peppers, then two scrambled eggs. Can't forget the meat! Stick some diced ham, sausage, and bacon in there. Oh, and then you get the sexy food porn shot with the melted cheese. Didn't have to tell me twice to start eating. Perfectly cooked potatoes and a good portion of meat. While the vegetables add extra flavor, it's the melted cheese that unites everything together. It'd be a bit of a challenge, but I'd attempt to eat two full orders. Well, if someone else helps pay the bill. I'm not a rich panda. Really, I'm not. Merely a foolish, gluttonous panda who gets suckered into eating just about anything edible. The omelets and pancakes sound awesome here as well. Good service all around. It looks like I've found another nice breakfast spot after all. I'll try to come back for the omelets and pancakes.
(4)Laura S.
Meh. Maybe this place would be better to try for breakfast. My father and I stopped in for lunch. The burger and fries I had were absolutely standard issue. Rather bland and came out medium temperature. This may have been because my father's sandwich took a little extra long to prepare, but, still. Likely will not be ordering a burger again from here. The shake was good, very rich, and I liked it a lot. I also liked the many old photos of Salem lining the walls. Service was about as good as one could expect from lunch rush hour in downtown, which was to say, we got our orders and one check in to ask if everything was ok. Guess I'll be back for pancakes or French toast and see if I can't give them a better review.
(3)Angela P.
This place is hard to judge. It is exactly what it is meant to be: an old-style diner that would probably fit better in some dusty Midwest town instead of downtown Salem. The food isnt the best food in Salem, but its exactly what you would expect to find in a diner. I have only had breakfast here (served until 11am) but every time it is predictable and satisfying. Big, fluffy blueberry pancakes, diced ham and eggs, all the classics. The service is likewise old-fashioned. Really friendly banter with lots of regulars and a family-style feel.
(4)Jake P.
Nice place, definitely feels like a diner. The people were friendly, the service fast, and what food I did get was tasty. I went there once by accident, and went back my 2nd day, so that's something. Problems: - Over $8 for 2 eggs, bacon, and hashbrowns? Really? I'd expect that in DC or San Fran... not *Salem*. - No dairy substitute creamers. I'm not asking for soy milk here, but really, no powdered stuff?
(3)Avery N.
In my opinion, this is probably the nicest place to get a burger in town. The restaurant itself is in historic downtown Salem and looks as if it's right out of 1934. I like the cute decor though. It's quaint and has a homey feel. Cows, cows everywhere! But hey, it does say DAIRY lunch after all. ;) I always get the cheeseburger with grilled onions with fries. I might suggest ordering it dry or light on the mayo however. There's quite a bit of mayo on the burger. The shakes are made in the old fashioned style with a side for refills. Something that I really really enjoy because I think they are one of the rare places still serving them up like that! And they are probably the best milkshakes you can find anywhere. They always have daily specials which usually consist of a sandwich and a choice of a few soups. By far the best soup is probably the split bean and ham! The place is always packed between 11:30-1pm, so you're lucky if you can get in that time of day. But the bummer is that they aren't open past 2pm and only on the weekdays, so going there for me is a rare indulgence.
(4)Mira N.
This is one of my favorite breakfast joints. While their lunch fare is fine, there's just something about sneaking in for breakfast mid-week (alas, the CSDL is closed weekends). Their bacon is thick and tasty - sure hits the artery-clogging spot. Their potatoes are fresh - not the grated frozen crap found in many a joint. Even the preserves, served with fresh toast or biscuits, is yummy. The people at CSDL really make the place - the staff, the patrons - like the other reviewer said, this place is an eavesdropping dream. From old timers to political players, you'll find an interesting conversation to listen to. Be sure to check out the old photos on the walls. There's even a stained glass window of the Capitol.
(5)Jane S.
The Court Street Dairy Lunch has been in business since the 1920s, and aside from the prices very little has changed. The original chrome diner counters and stools are still there, as is most of the original decor. This is no Rock-n-Rogers style 50s diner - this is the real deal! Shakes and malts are the obvious draw at the Dairy Lunch. They mix them up right in front of you on an old-fashioned drink blender and serve them the old fashioned way - tall fluted glass, whipped cream on top, with the overflow served on the side in a tin mixing cup. There's usually a lot left over in the cup, so you may want to share with a friend. The food is alright. The Dairy Burger, which comes outfitted with bacon, cheese, and a fried egg, is a highlight, as is the super meatloaf sandwich. The fries are good and potato-y. For the most part, though, Dairy Lunch food is typical inoffensive diner fare: a bit predictable, a little too reliant on Sysco/Sodhexo preprepared ingredients. Don't get the pie - it ain't fresh. The best thing about the Dairy Lunch is probably its oldster clientele, many of whom have been regulars since they were kids. It's a good spot for eavesdropping and people-watching.
(3)Robert L.
The food and service were above par for this area. The prices are good and you get large portions(especially the fries). I just wish they were open at night so I can hit them up after drinking.
(4)