Rhode Island gave us the diner. Who knew? According to the New York Times, "The Naugahyde and Formica restaurants that sizzle with breakfast all day long, and where the waitresses call you 'Hon,' had their start in Providence more than 130 years ago."

Remarkably, "an estimated 75 to 80 diners and lunch counters still dot the state."
Not only are the three diners mentioned in the story old and cool-looking, but two are owned by serious cooks trained at Johnson & Wales. (Diner contact info after the jump.)

The Seaplane Diner
Address: 307 Allens Avenue, Providence RI 02905
Phone: 401-941-9547

The Modern Diner
Address: 364 East Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02860
Phone: 401-726-8390

Jigger's Diner
Address: 145 Main Street, East Greenwich RI 02818
Phone: 401-884-5388