It’s great to eat with world travelers.

Me and my co-worker Thea talked about the delights and hang-ups of international flights (it been a long, long time since I left the US), cuisine, roommates and side trips. Thea was visiting both London and Paris, and had recently returned 2 weeks ago. Between the stories, we ordered typical American diner meals. Thea: Double cheeseburger deluxe (with extra crispy fries); Me: Chicken tenders deluxe (fries and side salad) with BBQ sauce and ice tea.

This will be my first trip to Europe in over 20 years. Already, I’m expecting delays with the flights to and from the US. I hope I do make my connections.

Thea told me: “One time, they told me to just run…I had under 30 minutes to make my connecting flight.” God, I hope that doesn’t happen to me this time around. (Knock on wood)

However, I had no issues with my lunch today, besides the almost empty bottle of ketchup. The chicken tenders were plump and fried golden, the fries were fresh and hot, and the salad was a cool palate cleanser with the grease. 

Thea, however, had some issues. She could only eat half of her burger today. “Just not feeling it,” she admitted, pushing her plate aside. She then told me about the best beef she’s ever had while in London, and showed its picture (magnificent!). It still haunts her, even perhaps spoiling her relationship with American beef.

(There are worst things, but I can’t think of anything right now….). 

The Van Dam Diner was the perfect place for a tête-à-tête with Thea, even on a cold, windy day like today.

Enjoy!