As a college student, it can be hard to leave behind the comfort of home-cooked meals and transition to dining hall food. Being a longstanding San Antonio staple, 410 Diner offers a homey dining experience with student-affordable prices.
The 410 Diner was acquired in 1982 by current owner, Dean Badri, who took the original five-item menu and transformed the space into a 50s-themed, classic American-style diner. Located at 8315 Broadway Street, this restaurant sits only 14 miles from UTSA’s main campus, and just south of the San Antonio International Airport.
One of the most commendable aspects of the 410 Diner is its commitment to authenticity and creativity; upon entering you will immediately notice the Betty Boop figurine greeting customers atop the bar countertop. The walls are decorated in a maximalist fashion with pictures, signs and other Americana paraphernalia that catch eyes and make fantastic small-talk prompts. Or, enjoy a meal while listening to memorable hits of the 50s and 60s coming through the vintage, nuclear-style speakers that adorn each wall.
The menu provides customers with the option to choose from a variety of classic American dishes in courses — appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts alongside lunch specials served weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
No matter the preferred cuisine, the 410 Diner is a must-try for affordable, classic American food that you will most likely be able to eat again the next day as the portion sizes are generous. If you have exhausted your local fast-food chains and do not feel like breaking the bank to get a quality meal, the 410 Diner is waiting.
