Heisey's Diner

When one thinks diners, one thinks the state of Pennsylvania. And when one thinks of Pennsylvania, one thinks...diners. So it's without hesitation that many famished travelers will pull into the lovingly plump arms of Heisey's Diner, on route 72 (when talking diner talk, it's always good to throw in the route on which the diner is found; diner aficionados will perk up at this level of detail).

Overall, Heisey's is the kind of place that is perfectly suited for the likes of Jessica (go ahead and click-thru, it will add the proper ambiance as you read on), though the establishment did throw several curve balls with a few selections that strayed well beyond the mid-80s. Tsk tsk.

In terms of those good-old small town feelings of alienation, Heisey's had their act together, with plenty of cold stares, and that general solid feeling of uneasiness for the non-regular. The service happened, but it happened with just a dash of trepidation. This was well received, and made the experience all the more enjoyable, for one should never be 'welcomed' in a diner; its a place where you don't belong unless you've been gorging yourself at the establishment routinely for at least 3 years. Indeed, being shunned at a diner is in fact, an expected and necessary part of the process. It's what makes us Pennsylvanians, indeed Americans.

In choosing diner cuisine, it should be noted that going with a staple or two (burgers, fries) is probably a better judge of character, as picking anything that strays from grilled or fried delicacies is really not a fair first impression. In other words, ordering a chicken parmigiana sandwich here was a low blow, and for it, this reviewer sincerely apologizes. Delight was found in the attempt however - the desire to push beyond ones borders should not be overlooked, especially when it comes to central Pennsylvania cooking.

Will I ever order that chicken parmigiana again? Heavens no, but will I go back to Heisey's? Yes indeed, for there is comfort and awkwardness to be found between the vinyl seats, stainless steel, and steely stares of Heisey's. Oh, and the pies. Forgot to mention the pies. First rate. Shoefly is on the menu; again, the aficionado knows to look for Shoefly.

- AFN