Diner Takes a Step Back in Time...or is it Forward?
Becky Thatcher's Diner takes you back in time.....but not where you think. When you hear the name, you're thinking 1850's Mark Twain. Enter the diner and you'll not only find fabulous food, you will find 1950's retro decor.
Having just happened upon the diner during our Hannibal visit, it wasn't at all what we expected. However, it was a pleasant surprise for this 50's music lover.
And yes, classic 50's music filled the air as we dined making the atmosphere even more delightful.
"Diner" written in giant letters so you can't miss it.
Nothing I love better than a hand-pressed patty on a fresh roll.
Fabulous Homemade Food
Becky Thatcher’s serves breakfast and lunch. Their menu includes everything from eggs to omelets to waffles and pancakes for breakfast. Lunch offers burgers and sandwiches served with sides—several to select from. The diner prepares their food fresh and from scratch.
Whenever breakfast is available, that’s Tom’s go-to meal. He said the tasty waffle and eggs were perfect—plus the sausage was the best he had had in a long time.
I love a good all-American hamburger and fries (much to the chagrin of my cardiologist). This hand-pressed burger was big, delicious and served with a pile of fries.
Just a reminder on the wall.....if you forget why you are there.
Original counter stools in retro red vinyl await you.
Awesome Retro Atmosphere
If you tire of the 1850’s when touring Hannibal, step into the diner and time travel forward 100 years. It’s there a black-and-white-checkered floor set with chrome-trimmed tables and chairs greet every guest.
You can sit at the counter in original chairs. Or if you prefer, try a 50’s auto inspired upholstered booth and Formica table.
Be sure to check out the art, especially the mural with movie theater marquee and vintage cars. There are plenty of framed vintage photos and other décor that add just the right touch for a 50’s retro flavor.
Cityscape mural of life from the 50's era takes you back to a different time.
Fabulous Food...and More
Even though we were there the last hour before closing, we found happy, friendly staff. The service was prompt and food was delicious.
So, is this a worthy detour? Yes. We give it a hearty thumbs up. When in Hannibal, head over to Becky Thatcher’s Diner and enjoy some homemade food while surrounded by nostalgia.
I think Becky would be happy with her namesake diner.
Alfred E Neuman sports a space suit atop a pay telephone..
Framed photos of cars from the 1940's and 50's.
About the Diner
For more than 50 years, this location has been home to and a hot spot for Hannibal residents and tourists. Formerly known as the Third Street Diner, the building changed hands in 2015, reopening as Becky Thatcher's Diner.
Looking for more yummy foods to enjoy?
Head over to our "Places to Eat" page for other Worthy Detour stops.
