Featured In the Pompano Pelican
Nelson’s Diner Featured In the Pompano Pelican:
Did you know that Nelson’s Diner was featured in the Pompano Pelican? Food writer Malcolm McClintock dropped in and wrote the article below. Take a look at the article to see what he had to say about our Family Diner.
Friendliest little eatery in Pompano, Nelson’s Diner serves up winners
By Malcolm McClintock
Food writer
Nelson’s Diner
438 S Cypress Rd
Pompano Beach, FL
Tel: 954-785-3646
Ensconced in the corner of the Garden Isles Shopping Center on South Cypress Rd,, Nelson’s Diner is a little place that leaves a big impression. In June Nelson will celebrate its first year. This impeccably clean eatery has already gained a remarkable reputation for its friendly atmosphere and affordable fare. Even the mayor of Pompano Beach drops in regularly to savor the food and, on weekends, to treat his kids to some of the best pancakes to be found in South Florida. When asked about the secret to his fabled flapjacks, owner Greg Nelson admits with a wry smile that his recipe calls for “a bit of malted milk among other things…” In fact, this fiercely gregarious South Carolina native has brought his own twist to many breakfast and lunch favorites.
Be it the homemade gravy prepared with fresh sausage and milk used in the “Country” Eggs Benedict or the smoked ham flown in directly from the mountains of Eastern Tennessee for the “Graceland” breakfast platter, Nelson has infused the menu with his unique brand of flavor profiles and showmanship. Passionate about Baseball, Elvis and GM cars (Nelson was a top salesman at Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet for 20 years before following his culinary passion), the diner oozes nostalgia. With pictures of the King, cars and related Americana adorning the walls, the look and feel of this restaurant is distinctly American. The food is as well.
“I make food the way I like it, and I hope people will agree with me” says Nelson as he delivers an order of his signature dish – the famed Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwich. Overflowing with juicy meat, the hand pulled pork is smothered in a rich, yellow mustard based BBQ sauce that will leave you licking your fingers with delight. Other lunch favorites include classic sandwiches such as Albacore Tuna, Baked Turkey, Slow Roasted Beef and Applewood smoked Bacon with Lettuce and Tomato. In an homage to Elvis, the voluminous ½ lb. “Hunka” Burnin’ Love burger and ¼ lb. “Hound” Dog with sauerkraut or onions will satisfy the most voracious of appetites.
The many freshly prepared salads at Nelson’s Diner are a must for those looking for healthy alternatives. The mouthwatering Caesar salad with grilled or blackened chicken is truly fit for a king. For some baseball metaphors, the dazzling Ty “Cobb” Salad features Romaine and Boston lettuce, baked turkey, crisp bacon, cucumber, tomato, egg and blue cheese. It is accompanied by a wonderfully tangy homemade Dijon vinaigrette. With this flavorful salad dressing, Nelson has definitely “hit one out of the park.”
When asked about other specialties, the affable waitress Candy opined “We have the best Philly Cheese steak in town and our chicken Cordon Bleu is amazing as well.” This sentiment had previously been echoed by Nelson’s effervescent right hand gal Carol. “We deliver and cater a lot of pulled pork and cheese steak” said Carol as the phone rang repeatedly. “I feel fortunate to be here. Business is very good because we care about the people in our community.” “We have pricing that reflects the state of the economy” says Nelson. With breakfast starting at $2.99 and lunch specials under $6, this is a great spot to drop by for a hearty yet affordable meal. There is plenty of free parking as well.
If you live in the community, Nelson’s Diner is a great place to get acquainted with your Pompano neighbors. If you are simply hungry for some good inexpensive food, grab your blue suede shoes and head for this haven of friendliness. It’s worth the trip.