Delicious Diner Delights on a Budget: Discover the Gems at Cheap Charlie’s!

Oct. 8—Have you been to Cheap Charlie’s lately? If not, it’s time to revisit this Rochester staple. Located at 11 Fifth St. NW, Cheap Charlie’s has been serving delicious, affordable meals since 1955. Originally, it operated under a different name and at a different location, but it has been at its current spot since 1969.

This diner has seen it all. Back when the train station was nearby, it quickly became a favorite—a reliable stop for hungry railroad workers. Known for its generous portions and wallet-friendly prices, Cheap Charlie’s still lives up to its name today.

Current owner Dave Tran took over in 1996. His goal has always been to provide simple, good food. While he has considered selling the restaurant, he’s looking for the right person to carry on the legacy. “Why mess with success?” he says.

As times change, so do menus. Cheap Charlie’s used to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner but now focuses on breakfast and lunch, closing at 2 p.m. This shift was partly due to the pandemic, which made dinner service less feasible. But don’t worry; you can find a range of breakfast items and lunch favorites. Tran kept the classic dishes customers love, adding only a couple of new items like eggs Benedict and chocolate pancakes over the years.

Many customers are regulars who come in daily. Tran knows their favorite orders and often has their meals waiting. The menu is extensive, featuring hearty choices like country fried steak and hot sandwiches, not to mention burgers and entrees like fried chicken and New York strip steak. Fun fact: Tran keeps some of his beloved recipes taped inside a closet door.

Beyond the food, Cheap Charlie’s is a community hub. For decades, it’s been a meeting place for local groups. Tran even lets some groups use the upstairs rooms for meetings when the diner is closed.

And you can’t mention Cheap Charlie’s without noting the iconic pig on the roof. It has a quirky history, including a brief theft that ended with its recovery by a local policeman. Initially painted black and white, high school students re-painted it brown and white, and it still watches over the diners today.

Despite its age, Cheap Charlie’s remains vibrant and welcoming. It may show signs of wear, but its charm is part of what makes it special. The familiar booths and counter add to the nostalgic experience, making it a rare gem in today’s fast-paced world.

For a taste of history and a hearty meal, stop by on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., or on weekends from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Have any great Cheap Charlie’s memories? Share them with others who appreciate this local classic!



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