When the Silver Skillet opened in 1956, 14th Street wasn’t dominated by the skyscrapers that define it today. In those days, it was quite typical of restaurants in the area. Today, in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, it stands out. And it’s not just the Mid-Century diner architecture that gets noticed. The breakfast they serve is among the most famous in Atlanta and people navigate white-knuckle traffic on the nearby downtown connector just to come here.

Sara and Tommy Haygood opened The Silver Skillet in 1956, in an existing commercial building. Jimmy Collins, who helped design the original Dwarf Houses that became Chik-fil-A, helped transform the diner into its present appearance for the Haygoods. The interior is largely unchanged today. In May, 1967 George & Louise Decker purchased it and ran it until his death in 1988. His daughter Teresa Breckenridge, has kept it running ever since.

As seen above, the red-eye gravy and country ham are a big draw. If you don’t know red-eye gravy, you probably won’t understand, but myriad fans of this Southern staple seek it out at the Southern Skillet. Red-eye gravy is usually made by mixing the drippings of fried country ham with coffee. The Silver Skillet makes theirs by marinating the ham with soy sauce, brown sugar, paprika and Coca-Cola.

The classic diner ambience of the Silver Skillet has been quite popular with Hollywood producers, as well. Remember the Titans, Anchorman 2, and Ozark, are just a few of the movies and television programs that have used the restaurant as a set location. Travis Tritt shot his video for “Here’s a Quarter, Call Someone Who Cares” here, and TLC used the Silver Skillet for their video “Destiny”. Visit the Silver Skillet’s website for a complete list. And if you find yourself in the area, stop by for breakfast.