Greasy spoon

Greasy spoon is a colloquial term for a small, cheap restaurant or diner typically specialising in fried foods. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the term originated in the United States and is now used in various English-speaking countries. Originally disparaging, the term is now more frequently used in an endearing sense.

The name "greasy spoon" is a reference both to the typically high-fat and oil , high-calorie menu items at such places, for example: eggs and bacon, hamburgers, fish 'n' chips etc, and to the supposed general standard of cleanliness. The term has been used to refer to a "small cheap restaurant" since at least the 1920s.

Many typical American greasy spoons focus on fried or grilled food, such as fried eggs, bacon, burgers, hash browns, waffles, pancakes, omelettes, deep fried chicken, and sausages. These are often accompanied by baked beans, french fries, coleslaw, or toast. Soups and chili con carne are generally available.

Since the 1970s, many Greek immigrants have entered the business. As a result, native Greek cuisine such as gyro and souvlaki meats are now a common part of the repertoire, often served as a side dish with breakfast and as a replacement for bacon or sausage.

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Wikipedia