Andy's Diner (Gone)
Seattle, WA
Photo courtesy John Spencer

You don't expect to find a Andy's Diner built out of railroad cars, which is exactly what made it such a memorable roadside stop. Parked alongside Seattle's 4th Avenue, the collection of vintage railcars and classic neon sign looked more like a train ready to depart than a neighborhood steakhouse.

Opening in 1949, Andy's grew over the years by adding more retired railroad cars until it became one of Seattle's most unusual restaurants. Inside, it was known for hearty steaks and generous meals, but from the road it was the train cars and glowing sign that made people hit the brakes for a closer look.

The diner closed in 2008, but the railroad cars were spared and found a new life as another restaurant. Although the original neon sign is gone, the distinctive train-car building remains one of Seattle's more unusual roadside landmarks.

UPDATE: Andy's Diner closed in 2008. The railroad cars survive as the Orient Express Restaurant, but the original roadside sign has been removed. 07-26

Old Diner
Portland, OR
Photo courtesy Jeff Raber

Sometimes the best roadside discoveries are the ones that leave you wondering. This abandoned diner in Portland had all the right ingredients, a weathered building, classic coffee shop styling, and the feeling that it had once served countless cups of coffee to travelers passing by.

UPDATE: The identity and current status of this former diner remain unknown. If you have any information, please let me know. 07-26

Bliss' Hot Rod Grill (Gone)
Florence, OR
Photo courtesy Matthias Tippner

If you liked old cars as much as old diners, Bliss' Hot Rod Grill was worth a stop. With classic automobiles perched on the roof and more vintage cars waiting inside as dining booths, it was the kind of place that made you do a double take from Highway 101. 01-09

Originally known as Bliss' Route 101 Restaurant & Lounge, the restaurant embraced a full-blown 1950s hot rod theme complete with classic cars, old-fashioned memorabilia, and even a few vintage kiddie rides. It wasn't just a place to eat—it was part diner, part car show, and part roadside attraction.

The Hot Rod Grill didn't last very long, but it certainly left an impression. It was one of those fun, quirky places that made a trip along the Oregon Coast just a little more memorable.

UPDATE: The Hot Rod Grill has closed, and the building is now home to Ichiban Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. The cars and hot rod theme are gone. 07-26