Wendy's Place

El Segundo’s nickname among locals is “Mayberry By The Sea” and spots like Wendy’s Place on Main Street are the reason why. The wood-paneled walls of this classic diner are covered in Norman Rockwell paintings and the plates look borrowed from grandma’s china cabinet. You'll sit next to regulars who've been occupying the same booth since the moon landing and wonder if you annoyed the waitress by asking for poached eggs. But that's all part of the charm. There's chicken fried steak for breakfast, and something called the Junior Club for lunch (a BLT with chicken salad on raisin toast). Expect to wait on weekends, and bring cash or have your Venmo/Zelle ready (no cards accepted).

photo credit: Garrett Snyder