Welcome to Diamond Lake Junction Cafe
Tucked away on US-97 in Chemult, Oregon, Diamond Lake Junction Cafe offers an authentic diner experience steeped in warmth and nostalgia. This beloved eatery, known for its hearty burgers—highlighted by the legendary Big Ugly—and homemade fries, has earned rave reviews from visitors who appreciate its no-frills, welcoming atmosphere. While the menu caters primarily to those with hearty appetites, even non-meat eaters can find joy in the well-crafted fish and chips. The owner’s dedication to quality and community shines through, making each meal feel like a cherished moment. Whether you're passing through or planning a scenic stop, this cafe is a delicious detour worth making.
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94401 US-97, Chemult, OR 97731, United States Hotline: +1 541-205-8273
Welcome to the charming Diamond Lake Junction Cafe, nestled at 94401 US-97 in the serene town of Chemult, Oregon. This roadside gem may not boast an extravagant façade, but the culinary delights it serves are anything but ordinary. The cafe is changing the way travelers refuel—not just their vehicles, but their stomachs too.
As you step inside, you're greeted by an atmosphere that perfectly melds the nostalgia of an old diner with a hint of local warmth, courtesy of the dedicated owner. It's the kind of place where stories are shared over hearty meals, and where each visitor feels like family. Whether you’re a weary traveler or a local regular, the cafe promises a genuine experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Let's talk about the food, as it’s the true star of this establishment. The highlighted dish here is undoubtedly the burger. Customer review excerpts reveal a consistent theme: the burgers are thick, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying. Brian Wagner lauds a burger that’s “near a pound of meat,” making it a towering option for any meat-lover. And don’t overlook the home-cooked fries, which add a delightful crunch to every meal.
For those seeking something different, the fish and chips come highly recommended. Timothy McCloud describes a takeout experience that exceeded expectations, emphasizing both flavor and quality. The menu also features the mysterious “Big Ugly,” a burger that has achieved legendary status among repeat patrons, hinting at the creative spirit that permeates the kitchen.
However, this cafe is not just about indulgence. The owners prioritize using Oregon grass-fed beef, ensuring that your meal is not only delicious but also sustainable. H N's glowing review underlines the quality of the offerings, reflecting a commitment to local produce that resonates with conscious diners.
Yet, like any small establishment, there are a few quirks. As Matt Reason discovered, this is a one-man operation, driven by passion. The owner goes above and beyond, even returning lost items, showcasing an unparalleled dedication to customer service. Though the cafe might lack extensive vegetarian or vegan choices, the overwhelming satisfaction expressed by diners suggests that the focus here is on delivering big, bold flavors in a warm, community-oriented environment.
Whether you stop in for a quick bite while your electric vehicle charges or linger over a leisurely meal with friends, Diamond Lake Junction Cafe invites you to enjoy hearty food that nourishes both body and soul. Remember, it's more than just a meal; it's an experience you won’t soon forget.
The place don't look like much,but it was clean and the food was fantastic. If you're on a diet this ain't the place for you. I couldn't quit eating the burger long enough to get a decent pic. There must be near a pound of meat on that thing and it is 1 of the smaller ones on the menu. And did I mention the home cooked fries
As my EV limped into the adjacent Supercharger station I saw the sign “EAT”. My battery was empty so I strolled in hoping I somehow missed the outdoor patio where my 4-legged travel buddy could join me (spoiler: no such luck). Also missing were vegetarian/vegan options so, I settled on take away fish and chips. I don’t partake regularly, however, they were extremely tasty and would order again. Huge thank you to the restaurant proprietor for bringing my sunglasses out to my charging car.
The burger was great, fries could've been a bit better but we had a good meal. The owner seemed a nice guy. Good spot where we will for sure stop again when traveling north or south.
Try the Big Ugly! I didn't, but I've heard stories about it-it's a legend. I had to settle on the Mt. Thielsen. It was a perfect burger. They only use Oregon grass fed beef. I mean, I love to complain about businesses if they deserve it but it takes more motivation to leave a good review because businesses are supposed to do things "good" as they are taking our money as customers. I had to leave a review here where it was certainly due. One of a kind atmosphere you can only find in the middle of.... Nowhere.
I went in to use the bathroom. I was going to just get a soda and get more miles down but the old feel of the place made me decide to sit down and have a burger. It’s a real authentic old diner. The burger delivered big time. I was so hungry I forgot to take a picture so I’m glad to see how many are posted. The salad was well above what you’d expect. Owner is a great guy and he gave me an incredible new way to look at a Tesla Supercharger. He worked with Tesla on its design - he looks at it like this: will I be able to plow the many feet of snow out of the stalls? Tesla listened to him somewhat but there are angles he can’t get with his plow. This is a one man operation. This guy loves his business and makes good food. Please think twice before complaining about the snow or bathroom situation.