A diner's oversized booths and oversized pies have long been a beacon of hope for teens dumped after prom and frowny clowns looking for new novelty-sized props. Take refuge in the crispy crust of an old-fashioned eatery with today's Groupon: for $5, you get $10 worth of fresh gourmet diner fare at The Nook in Charlottesville.

Since 1951, The Nook has been serving up classic and creative diner fare in a historic building from the 1880s—adorned with mahogany booths, welcoming outdoor seating, and vintage charm inside and out. The pages of Nook's breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu are lush with tempting selections, such as thick apple-wood-bacon-covered burgers ($6.95), homemade twice-baked meatloaf ($9.95), chili-cheese-drenched fries ($5.95), turkey-stacked club sandwiches ($7.95), syrup-slathered pancakes ($4.95), and other meat-melded comfort fare. If an item can be made by hand, it is, and if a guest's tongue appears parched, the staff quickly whips up a sip—such as freshly squeezed juice, a thick and quick shake, or one of many artistic cocktails.

Reviews

Yelpers give The Nook a 3.5-star average. TripAdvisors give it four owl eyes.

• The wait staff was very friendly, and the food was very good. We had a side of onion rings (the side portion is smaller than the appetizer portion) and they were the best I've ever had, delicious and not at all greasy. We had the crab NookMac and the tuna NookMac, and both were good. they have a creamy sauce that is not too heavy with a mild cheese flavor, and a crunchy topping…We'll definitely come back the next time we're in Charlottesville. – Laura C., Yelp
• This week I went back with my wife and 2 kids and I was impressed how everything had stayed the same. The french fries were still amazing. Our server was very attentive and quick. The owner/chef even came out to check on us and refilled my ice tea. Very nice people. – TravelRevReview, TripAdvisor