Penny’s Diner Is A Charming, Weird Little Spot Tucked Away In Santa Teresa

Hidden away deep in Santa Teresa between a random warehouse, a small Travelodge hotel, and a green field with a gorgeous view of the mountains is a diner that feels out of place yet right at home. The kind of diner that feels like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting, that feels comforting and nostalgic and like the exact place you need to go to get a damn fine cup of coffee. 

Grizz

Penny’s Diner is a national chain with about 15 locations in the US. As far as locations near El Paso goes though, Texas has 2 but they would be a drive for any locals. However, if ya find yourself itching to make the drive to Alpine or even a lil place further East called Hearne, well then you will have the luxury of enjoying a Penny’s. If you’re looking for a more reasonable day trip, then Santa Teresa in New Mexico is going to be your go-to diner destination. 

Grizz

Now, of course there are other diners with that nostalgic charm and the old school feel, but it isn't just the decor or the design of this particular Penny’s that made it feel so good. For me, it was the odd location that feels almost tucked into Santa Teresa. Past some long backroad that the GPS took me instead of the main highway, along the green trees and open fields and in a random parking lot attached to a little hotel. The diner just feels so weirdly out of place and it kind of made it even better. Because everyone knows the best diners aren't the ones that you can find easily, the best diners are the ones waiting to be found on rural side roads like diamonds in the rough.

Grizz

Aside from the fun location and the wonderful throwback design of a classic Diner, Penny’s also has some really delicious food! They have the diner classics like juicy burgers, big ole breakfast platters with pancakes and country fried steak! Craving some homemade American meatloaf? Penny’s has what ya want plus plenty more for dinner too. Personally, I love a hearty hashbrown skillet and the Penny’s Sunrise Skillet was filled with everything I love, though I gotta say the Jalapenos were not too strong so…plan accordingly and bring your own if that's the kind of person you are. No judgments. 

Grizz

I can’t speak for the rest of the Penny’s Diners in the world but one thing I can say about the one in New Mexico is that the crew was also very kind. The waitress was attentive and patient as my eyes became much bigger than my stomach, she explained the foods to me when I asked and kindly refilled my coffee as my good friend Christian and I continued to take in the ambience of the place. We sipped our mugs, talked about the golden years and how things used to be, then we rolled off into a Santa Teresa afternoon with full bellies satisfied in the way only a diner can deliver. 

Grizz