Charcoal Chef Sam-Mar’s Original

Service was very friendly: We interacted with several folks here, all of whom were quite inviting. Speed of service was mixed, but mostly good. We experienced some timing issues. Also, we had one mix-​up with our drink order, though it took our waitress longer than it should have to fix it.
The food ranged from fair to very good. We especially liked the deserts (we sampled two types of pie), which are made on-​premises. The weakness here is the grill: When the name out front is «Charcoal Chef», anything made on the grill should shine. In contrast, my burger was a bit bland.
The dining room was typical for a diner and was kept clean. The whole place has a fun, retro atmosphere.
The bottom line: Some flaws in execution left us a little disappointed, but we would certainly return when in the area, especially given the universally positive attitude of the staff (and the yummy desserts!).

Much improved since the new owners took over, but the service can be slow if you don’t sit at the counter. I left once, since I didn’t have time to wait for a server. All of the food I have had (from burgers to crab cake dinners) have been well prepared and was served promptly.
I normally don’t order anything that is described as «BBQ» at such a place, but the meals we’ve eaten here have been fine.

Grilled cheese, beef barley soup, and a great Chef salad– plainish food, but a little higher par than Wyo diner. Satisfying simple food. Charcoal Chef has a quiet atmosphere and a big fish tank in the middle of the room. Reminds me of the kind of place where AARP discounts are pretty common.