As soon as you walk through the revolving doors of Allen’s Grill, located on the first floor of the Motor Hotel on the corner of Line Ave. and Jordan St., you are instantly transported to an old-school dive diner. Red and white checkered tablecloths, plastic chairs, and a big metal counter complete with chalkboard specials all welcome you as you are guided to your table. With quirky touches, like pictures of the entrees on the menu and a cozy atmosphere, it feels like you’re back at grandma’s place for a hearty meal.
The menu may be small, but the portions are fitting; and with breakfast served all day, it’s hard to complain about the limitations. Daily lunch specials include fried and baked chicken and pork chops, as well as the classic fried fish, served with 2 sides and a drink all for a measly $8. They also have chocolate and seasonal cakes to satisfy any sweet tooth cravings. With everything under $10 and cooked fresh to order, it’s easy to see Allen’s Grill becoming the new place for a breakfast meet up or lunch hot spot.
The grits are homemade, buttery goodness served hot and ready to mash in with your eggs. Home-style hash browns and thick slices of bacon are just begging to be scooped up with the fresh toast. Turkey bacon and sausage are also available if you’re feeling a little healthy. Or if you’re feeling a bit more scandalous, check out the country fried steak, because who could be in a bad mood after eating that for breakfast?!
While you’re enjoying your meal, gazing off into the downtown skyline, you most likely will get a nice stop and chat from the owner, Theudas Allen. A great cap on top of what was a nice way to start our morning.
Allen’s Grill is located at 729 Jordan St. in Shreveport; they are open Mon-Fri from 7:30 A.M – 4:30 P.M.
-Michael Chreene & Robyn Bradley