The Fifth Wheel Awards

The Fifth Wheel Restaurant Review:

An authentic diner that has operated in the same creekside location since 1946, The Fifth Wheel harks back to pre-freeway, pre-strip mall, pre-energy-drink days of yore when truckers pulled into truck stops to fill up not just their gas tanks but also their stomachs. Outfitted with vintage wood paneling, comfortable booths and a casual counter --- just like those seen in films noir --- this family-owned outpost offers huge, heart-stoppingly stick-to-the-ribs repasts without a hint of apology. Chicken-fried steak comes with eggs, toast and more. Pancakes half an inch high and six inches across pair with eggs and a choice of bacon, ham, hamburger, breaded chicken or one of seven different types of sausage. Grilled-cheese sandwiches --- especially tasty on sourdough --- soar skyward. The dainty can order salads or cottage cheese, and non-meat-eaters can substitute hash browns or fruit for flesh on combination plates.