The origins of a diner can be traced in history to Walter Scott from Providence, Rhode Island who sold food to the Providence Journal newspaper office workers from a horse drawn carriage in the late 1800’s. Innocently, he inspired the origin of what was to become one of America’s icons…the diner.

The Kitt Shepley House 23 Division Street Newport, RI 02840 877.362.8664 Kitt1932@aol.com www.kittshepleyhouse.com

Diners, one of the staples of yesteryear and paired today with the knowledge and expertise of the Karousos family yields one of the newest eclectic retro eateries in Rhode Island, the Blue Plate Diner. Located at 636 West Main Road Middletown and dressed in the 50’s décor and style, the Blue Plate is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a full bar, coffee bar and wireless Internet access.

My husband Paul and I had the enjoyment of having dinner at the Blue Plate on their second night of operation. As we entered the parking lot about 6:30pm on Friday night we were amazed to see the lot full. We parked around the corner. When we entered, we were told there was a 45 minute wait. Good for us, we now had the opportunity to peruse the upbeat and electrifying interior. We decided to sit at the bar for a cocktail and view the sites and take in all the diner had to offer. We were pleasantly surprised to notice the staff in operation to be efficient and fast moving while offering the best of service.

With her Robin’s nest blue walls and cobalt and electric blue lighting, painted murals, stainless steel trimmed Formica tables and counters, basket weave floor tile, roomy booths and high back bar stools, the Blue Plate offers the finest in design and comfort. The atmosphere creates an aura of calmness bounded by the scenic blueprint throughout.

The menu is quite diverse. Breakfast offers dishes from Classic American Breakfasts, Eggs Benedict, to Spiced French Toast with seasonal berries. Breakfast items are priced from $2.95 to $9.95. Don't miss the “Design Your Own Omelet” for just $4.95.

From the lunch counter and starting from 11:00 am to close you can order starters of Portabella Mushroom Fries, Calamari, Home Made Flour Nachos and of course Buffalo Wings, Potato Skins and more, priced from $2.95 to $7.95. In addition there are Soups and Salads, Sandwiches, Platters, Specials and of course, Burgers. Don't forget to try the Snickers or Chunky Monkey Banana Shakes.

Since we were there for dinner, we choose to begin with a Starter. We ordered the Home Made Flour Nachos topped with Chili, Guacamole, Salsa and Spiced Cheddar at $6.95. An awakening taste for any pallet, the flavor of the Flour Nachos was the best I have ever had. We later found out from Kim our server that the Chef was honored at The Chili Cook-off in Newport for the delectable Nachos. I agree, they are a winner in my book too.

Just prior to our entrée being served we were joined by Kathy Karousos, one of the owners of the diner. She welcomed us and stated although being open only two nights, everything was going well. They opened sooner than anticipated due to the Blizzard. That was based on the other restaurants they own being closed and the produce and foods were delivered to the diner instead. We informed her that the food thus far was excellent and the service non parallel. The family has mastered the restaurant operation.

For our entrée, Paul ordered the classic, Fish and Chips served with tarter sauce and shoe string fries. The batter was light and the fish full of essence. I ordered the Pan Fried Apple Stuffed Pork Chops. The chops were complimented with candied apples and walnuts, mashed potatoes, pea pods, string beans and broccoli. The blending of tastes created a mouth-watering dish. Entrees are priced from $8.99 to $14.95.

Dessert was by far the highlight. Paul and I shared the Home Style Bread Pudding. It certainly was a nostalgic experience. Not only was it picturesque, but the taste and flavors worked so well together, you finished wanting more.

Overall it was a pleasurable experience with nostalgic atmosphere, great prices and fabulous food.

Bravo for The Karousos Family, they did it again!

About the author, Linda S. Manning: Linda S. Manning is the definition of a take charge person, continually seeking new avenues to expand her creative talents. In addition to a quarter of a century as a real estate broker, former elementary teacher and current Bed and Breakfast owner in Newport, Linda is also a licensed Captain, PADI Dive certified, artist and has written travel articles and short stories about life in Newport and beyond. A former runner up for Miss Rhode Island World, she was born in Providence has resided in Newport for 8 years with her husband Paul.

Photos by Linda S. Manning.

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