Tommy's executes classics well
If you’re not familiar with Tommy’s Diner, you’re either new to Columbus or haven’t dined out in a couple decades. Owned by the Pappas family, the eatery is creeping up on 30 years of serving breakfast and lunch on West Broad Street in Franklinton. Tommy’s is as much of an institution as any restaurant can be, and it’s earned its customers’ loyalty through well-executed diner classics.
The decor features all the staples of an American diner: checkered floors, big booths, neon lights, posters of 1950s icons on the walls. The wall near the front door is adorned with photos of local and national celebrities who have graced the booths of Tommy’s through the years.
Breakfast is served all day, and the menu ranges from omelets to biscuits and gravy, French toast to steak and eggs. It’s worth keeping an eye on daily specials as well.
The omelets ($7.50 to $8.25) are a major feature on the menu, and the varieties include three cheese, veggie, meat lover’s and chicken fajita. The spinach and feta is a The waffle with maple syrup at Tommy’s Diner What: Tommy’s Diner Where: 914 W. Broad St. Contact: 614-224-2422, tommysdiner.com Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays
favorite combination; it’s loaded with cheese and greens, and served with a side of thinly sliced home-fried potatoes.
The eggs Benedict ($8.50) offers the traditional presentation of the dish: English muffins topped with Canadian bacon, poached eggs and a rich hollandaise. Each element is skillfully handled, and the dish is a delight to eat. The hollandaise is The spinach and feta omelet at Tommy’s Diner
pleasantly thick, and you may find yourself dipping your side of home fries in it.
The Belgian waffle ($6.50) is one of the best in the city. It’s served golden and crispy, with a small scoop of soft butter and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s lightly sweet and maintains its crisp structure. The accompanying warm syrup is a bonus, but you won’t need much — the waffle
tastes great on its own.
Guests are treated to friendly and attentive service at Tommy’s. When you’re finished eating, take your bill to the register near the front door. If you’re lucky, Tommy himself, or another member of the Pappas family, will be there to ring you up and give you a kind send-off.