Sparky's 24 Hour Diner   

A diner, in the classic sense, is more than just a joint that serves burgers, shakes and fries. If that weren't true, every Burger King and Carl's Jr. would be considered a diner. A diner requires a certain retro look and feel, preferably from the '50s or '60s, and the dining room should gleam with lots of chrome or stainless steel. Sparky's meets all the requirements. A quarter-century old, Sparky's evokes 'Happy Days,' 'Rebel Without a Cause' and poodle skirts. It features a large variety of burgers, breakfast 24 hours each day and nightly dinner specials, such as meatloaf with green beans and mashed potatoes. But this is a new century, so in addition to traditional root beer floats, cheese fries, tuna melts and vanilla Cokes, there is an espresso bar as well. For nighthawks, Sparky's delivers until 4AM. -- Scott Sax