Stepping back in time is as easy as pulling into the parking lot of Dan’s Drive-In, a Columbus institution located on South High Street. For years, this diner has been a local favorite, and my first encounter with it was during a drive down South High Street. A double-take and a mental bookmark later, I found myself drawn to explore this South Side gem, originally for a local magazine article back in 2010. What I discovered was a carefully preserved slice of Americana.
Walking through the doors of Dan’s Drive-In is like entering a time capsule, meticulously crafted with gleaming chrome and vibrant red pleather booths. The promise of a “classic American diner,” boldly advertised on its signage, is genuinely delivered. The atmosphere is palpable, though perhaps leaning slightly towards a pristine, almost too-perfect rendition of the past.
A quick glance around confirms Dan’s Drive-In’s status as a neighborhood hub. It’s clear this isn’t just a stop for passersby; it’s a regular haunt for locals. During my visit with my brother-in-law, we observed the familiar scene of a group of older gentlemen holding court at a table, engaging in lively conversation – a hallmark of a true old-school diner.
A plaque near the entrance offers a glimpse into Dan’s Drive-In’s rich history. Claiming the title of Columbus’ oldest drive-in, it was originally established downtown by Dan Manes in 1952. Later in the 1950s, it relocated to its current spot on South High Street. Over the years, ownership has changed hands, including a period under Nick Bergados, previously the chef of Taverna Opa. Bergados was reportedly instrumental in the diner’s impressive renovation.
The redesign is undeniably visually appealing. The space is impeccably clean and bursts with color. Everything is coordinated, down to the ceiling fans with counter-rotating blades…
…a prominent display behind the counter showcases a collection of model cars, vibrant neon signs, flags, and various pieces of brand-name kitsch…
…and the walls and shelves are adorned with an array of charming knick-knacks.
However, this meticulous attention to detail results in a diner that, while beautiful, feels somewhat sterile. While the building retains the classic diner shape and layout, the carefully curated decor can feel a little too staged, lacking the organic charm found in diners like Jack’s Sandwich Shop. Perhaps genuine artifacts from the 1950s are present, but they risk getting lost amidst the overall polished presentation.
The food at Dan’s Drive-In mirrors its decor: classic diner fare presented straightforwardly and reliably. The menu offers all the expected diner staples with a few Greek-inspired specialties adding a touch of variety. Notably absent are elaborate or trendy dishes, keeping the focus firmly on traditional diner comfort food.
Opting for the Traditional Breakfast, I received a plate with two eggs, bacon, home fries, and toast. The eggs were cooked perfectly, the bacon and potatoes were delightfully crispy, and the toast was buttery. While satisfying, it was a breakfast that benefited from a dash of salt and pepper to elevate the flavors beyond just “not-bad.” The meal was accompanied by a cup of decent, classic diner-style brown coffee.
My brother-in-law chose the Meat Lovers Omelet, intending to order the skillet version but receiving the omelet due to a slight misunderstanding with the server. Despite the mix-up, he enjoyed his meal, though he found it unremarkable, “nothing to write home about,” as he put it.
For those with a fondness for bologna, the grilled bologna and eggs is a must-try. This dish includes toast and a choice of potatoes, offering a hearty and savory start to the day.
The biscuits and gravy at Dan’s Drive-In are noteworthy. Chunky and well-seasoned, they are a definite win for anyone who appreciates this Southern-inspired diner classic.
One delightful and somewhat unexpected offering is Frostop Root Beer on tap. This adds a unique and nostalgic touch, earning Dan’s Drive-In extra points in my book.
During my visit, I had the chance to speak with the current owner, Lucky Sahota. His pride in Dan’s Drive-In is evident, and he shared ambitious plans for the future. With experience owning restaurants worldwide, including in New Zealand, Sahota envisions expanding the drive-in experience. He aims to reintroduce car service, complete with roller-skating servers delivering burgers and shakes – a vision that could truly revitalize Dan’s Drive-In and further embrace its historical roots.
Overall, Dan’s Drive-In is a worthwhile destination to experience a piece of Columbus’s culinary history and enjoy a solid, dependable breakfast. It’s easy to see why it has cultivated a loyal customer base, and for anyone with an appreciation for diner culture, Dan’s Drive-In on South High Street is definitely worth a visit.
