Franks Diner has been around long enough that there’s no longer a Franks in the picture. This way-cooler-than-your-average-diner – built in New Jersey by the Jerry O’Mahony Diner Company – was brought to Kenosha by railcar in 1926.
Owner Anthony Franks paid $7,815 (including shipping) at the time and grew the diner into a living legend for its monster “garbage” plates of egg, meat and hash browns; luscious French toast made with their homemade bread; and the friendly snark of its staff.
Kevin Ervin was a fervent Franks fan before becoming co-owner 14 years ago and says the mystique is the kind “you just fall in love with.” The place is just plain obligatory if you love breakfast. 508 58th St., Kenosha.
