Phoebe’s Diner (Oltorf Location)

January 4, 2023

Phoebes’ Diner is the quintessential diner experience. A quaint vibe with a fun twist on classic diner foods. When I walked in I was greeted by friendly staff, the gentle sizzle of bacon on a hot flat top, and the quiet conversations of fellow patrons. All it was missing was the cliche line cook at the food pickup window ringing the server bell and shouting, “Order up!”. It really was like something out of a movie.

To start, I had their cafe du monde ($4). For those who don't know (like I didn’t), cafe du monde is a dark roast coffee (usually of that brand) mixed with milk in a ratio of one to one. Another variation for a Vietnamese-style cafe du monde is to substitute the milk for sweetened condensed milk (this is what I had). Each sip started with a lovely sweetness that melted into the familiar bitterness of coffee. I REALLY wish I liked it more but my latte-loving, sweet-toothed, pallet just wasn’t the biggest fan. I recognize that it was a good cup of coffee but not my cup of tea.

For breakfast, I had their Deep Fried French Toast ($11.49) and they were monstrous. Two two-inch triangles of deep-fried sourdough bread, covered with a mound of house-made whipped cream and dusted with powdered sugar. It smelled like funnel cake and looked like a heart attack. I was a little worried about the deep-fried aspect, however, all worries were put to rest with that First Bite.

They were crunchy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside, and the whipped cream wasn't too sweet. I was pleasantly surprised, they were very tasty and didn't leave me feeling like I drank a gallon of oil. The flavors were classic and familiar but that extra crunch from being deep-fried was a fun and delicious quirk.

My server, Jared, was so friendly and attentive. He told me how they really have the “family aspect”, of what most restaurants lack, perfected and I’d have to agree. Jared’s favorite thing on the menu is their Fried Chicken Biscuit and recommends it the next time I (and you) eat there!

Phoebe’s Diner has one other location downtown and another one with a full bar coming soon.

Try Phoebe’s Diner at 533 W Oltorf St, Austin, Tx, 78704 for that classic movie theater diner experience with a twist.

Phoebe's Diner - (8.4/10)