Shirley May’s

If your heart pines for the greasy spoon of your youth, this is your spot. Formica counter with stools, newspapers and random coffee mugs, and generous portions for cash only (no debit or credit). I ordered a single hotcake for my daughter, and they treated her to a wonderful candied smiley face. I had a tuna melt– processed cheese, but still very good.
We somehow joined in on someone’s birthday– the owner (also our server) waived the party’s bill; the party fed my daughter birthday cake. Felt like I was back in the café that was part of our family’s livestock auction in eastern Oregon so many years ago. Everyone was delightful and everyone seemed to know everyone.
Good food, even better feelings. Look for the fella holding a burger and root beer out front!

Great traditional food. Fantastic prices. Exceptional food portions. Pancakes are platter sized. Never received such a great meal for the price. We always go to Shirley May’s when we are in the area.

We had breakfast at Shirley May’s for the first time today, even though I’m a lifelong Lebanon/​Albany resident. I can’t believe I waited so long to eat here! We arrived at 8:00 AM on a Sunday and had no wait. Keep in mind, though, that there are only 6 tables plus a diner-​style counter, so this place defines «quaint». I personally loved the small, hometown diner feel!
The breakfast food was to die for. The soft, huge pancake was absolutely delicious. Perfectly golden brown despite its thickness, it was cooked to fluffy perfection all the way through. The maple syrup was warmed and delicious. Not too runny, and just the right amount of sweet.
The bacon was a thick cut, and not overly crispy; if you like crispy bacon, you could request it, but I love mine a little more chewy. Yum!
Finally, my eggs were scrambled, and they tasted divine.
Shirley May herself was our waitress, and she was attentive (kept the coffee coming!), sweet and spunky. We will definitely be returning!

Probably the worst breakfast I have ever ordered but if you love fake cheese and cold meals go for it.

Food is hot and traditional. I like traditional so for me it was great. Price was amazing. Only problem is you have a good wait if there are a few tables ahead if u. They seem to only have one cook and it’s pretty slow. But the service from Shirley was good and she kept the hot coffee coming!

I found out about this place through
. I was able to use a certificate, but the owner informed me they’re no longer with the program.
This place is cozy, which could be a turnoff for any large groups or people in a hurry. My gf and I came after the big breakfast crowd and it was a bit of a wait for our food, but we bellied up to the counter and enjoyed ourselves.
I ordered the bacon cheeseburger basket which came with crinkle cut fries. She ordered the patty melt and found it to be delicious. For dessert, we split a slice of lemon meringue pie, which was also very good.
We were waited on by Shirley, the owner, who is very friendly and conversational.
If you’re looking for a quaint diner with charm off the highway, Shirley May’s is worth a visit.

Just finished breakfast here and I have to say these pancakes are THE best I have ever had! This is a tiny little diner but wow the food and service is top drawer! I love Shirley May’s.

Just awful. The food was poorly-​cooked and served lukewarm. The service was terrible; it took an hour to get served and I got one (1!) refill on my coffee. When the food finally came, the chili omelet tasted like canned chili and not-​quite-​melted American cheese poured over dubious eggs. Stay away.

I would have given 2 stars as the food was ok but overall, the experience was not.
This place has 6 tables and a half dozen stools at the counter. This Sat morning (11:15) five tables were full, we took the sixth. It took 1hr and 1 minute to get our breakfasts (3 of us). Our coffee cups ran dry and Shirley attempted to refill with, yet again, the last of the pot which had coffee grounds. When I told her I would wait for a fresh pot she rolled her eyes. Then when the new pot was brewed, Shirley went to all the other tables before coming to ours. When my mom asked for a refill she said «I’m working on it.» Service with an attitude.
The coffee was ok, the hash browns were under-​cooked, the rest of the food was fair. And it did arrive hot. But then again it took over an hour to receive! While I was not in a hurry, I was hoping to get my breakfast before I died of old age! That just barely happened! Her tip reflected her attitude/​service and we will not return.