There’s something magical about a good old fashioned diner—the comforting vinyl booths, the hum of conversation, the hearty breakfast that counteracts the effects of a late night out with your buddies. But for fans of Twin Peaks, it’s a portal to another world (thankfully not the Black Lodge) where time slows down, the coffee is “black as midnight on a moonless night,” and the cherry pie might just change your life.
While most fans make the pilgrimage to Twede’s Café in North Bend—the real-life inspiration for the Double R Diner—Pierce County has its own gems that capture the same small-town charm, quirky atmosphere, and comforting eats. Whether you're craving a slice of homemade pie, a greasy spoon breakfast, or just a warm dose of Pacific Northwest diner culture, these spots are sure to satisfy.
Anglea’s
This makes the top of the list, and not because its name starts with an “A.” One may call Anglea’s a Double R doppelgänger, which, of course is very “Lynchian”. There’s vinyl seating, cherry pie, damn fine coffee and daily specials like a hot turkey dinner or meatloaf. Norma herself must be in that kitchen somewhere.
Little Jerry’s
Funny enough, this couldn’t be farther from Twin Peaks, but that’s because this little hot spot themes itself around another piece of legendary '90s television – Seinfeld. Hey, both shows were on the air at the same time… that counts, right? It’s fun, it’s quirky, and it’s all things Seinfeld, even the dishes, with names like The Cosmo, The Puddy, and The Georgy Boy.
Marcia’s Silver Spoon Café
This Tacoma institution has been serving up hearty breakfast and lunch offerings since 1988. The dining area is small and quaint. The dishes, on the other hand, are anything but. Once you finish a meal at Marcia’s you may need to face your “shadow self” because you won’t know how you could have possibly finished all that food.
An extra tip – hit up the ATM on your way, because Marcia’s offers 10% off your bill when you pay cash.
The Rose Restaurant
Nothing “blue” about this one. Walking through the front door of The Rose Restaurant feels like entering your favorite family member’s house. There’s a familiar, welcoming warmth to it, plus the TV that entertains all who enter with videos of dogs and cats will keep your serotonin levels at full peak. You could sit here all day, and they’ll happily keep the coffee flowing until you’re ready to float home.
Meridian Café
The Double R is where cherry pies go when they die and the same could be said about cinnamon rolls at Meridian Café. Bernadette’s Fresh Cinnamon Roll is an iconic mainstay of this downtown diner that dons a hip, historic vibe. Served hot and fresh and oozing with a slow, volcanic flow of cream cheese icing, we’re pretty sure the Log Lady would declare this “a miracle.”
Mrs. Turner’s Hometown Café
Known as Puyallup’s hometown café, Mrs. Turner’s assures you that “when you’re here, you’re home.” And this is what has kept people coming back again and again and again to this classic slice of Americana dining. Just like the Double R in Twin Peaks, Mrs. Turner’s is an automatic go-to for locals when they want a home cooked meal and delicious pies and cakes. It screams “hometown” if you live here and “welcome to our hometown” if you’re passing through.
Dixie’s Home Cookin’
Whatever your comfort food craving, you’ll likely find it at Dixie’s. They aim to offer something for everyone, and by the size of their menu, it seems they’ve got it covered. From their famous hobo hash and seemingly endless options for pancakes, waffles and crepes, to lunch offerings and desserts, Dixie’s is sure to satisfy. Visit this welcoming, quaint establishment or order online the next time you’re craving pretty much anything that can possibly be found on a classic diner menu.
Hungry Dawg’s Diner
Step inside Hungry Dawg’s for that 1950’s vibe that Mr. Lynch himself loved to portray in many of his films. Checkered floors, vinyl booths, and plenty of wall art, including framed photos of dogs. Lots and lots of dogs. There are even paintings of dogs portrayed as servers. One could perhaps call that Lynchian, too.
Agent Dale Cooper gave a great bit of advice while standing in the Double R – “once a day, every day, give yourself a present.” How about a trip to an area diner that’s welcoming, delicious, satisfying and always ready to keep your coffee cup full? If you’ve been to any of these Twin Peaks worthy diners or if there’s another you think should be added to this list, tag us @visittacomapiercecounty.
