We tried the new (but still retro) Chef-O-Nette diner
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An assortment of sandwiches from Chef-O-Nette, an Upper Arlington staple. Photos: Alissa Widman Neese/Axios
Upper Arlington's Chef-O-Nette diner was one of several local restaurants resurrected in 2025.
Dining the news: We recently visited for lunch and found it packed with customers, so it's apparently going well a few months after reopening.
The vibe: The diner is refreshed and under new ownership. But the interior still looks like you've been transported to the 1950s, the decade when it first opened.
What we ate: A variety of sandwiches — the BLT ($13), club ($13) and grilled chicken ($11).
- It was basic, no frills diner fare with a side of retro charm.
🤷 Andrew's thought bubble: I understand the allure of a classic diner vibe, but $13 for an incredibly mediocre BLT doesn't make me want to return.
😋 Tyler's take: I've long enjoyed this joint. It's a little expensive, but that's the price you pay for stepping back in time and supporting a local business.
- Now, if we could just get the 1950s prices back.
💭 Alissa's bottom line: This place is clearly serving up savory nostalgia for Upper Arlington residents, even if the food won't be winning any James Beard Awards.
- In hindsight, one of us probably should've tried its popular all-day breakfast.
Stop by: 7am-2:30pm daily, except closed Tuesday. 2090 Tremont Center. Menu.
