Editors’ Choice
Trina’s Starlite Lounge
Amesbury
Anyplace that includes “love” alongside Ritz crackers in their mac and cheese description is okay in our book. Hot dogs and hamburgers are the stars, including a fun Dog of the Day, which could be deep fried like an egg roll or dressed up with melted cheese and fried sausage on top. The cocktails are as serious as the food is fun. If you’re not in the mood for classic comfort food, look to the Blue Plate Special or a rotating selection of more upscale entrées (think duck or rabbit). Save a couple of quarters for the pinball machines in the back.
37 Main St., Amesbury, 978-792-5746
Readers’ Choice
Agawam Diner
Rowley
Dishing up their famous chicken pot pie (with the crust on the bottom), corned beef hash, and delectable desserts since the 1940s, this diner is also on the National Register of Historic Places.
166 Newburyport Turnpike, Rowley, 978-948-7780