Scotts Diner

You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of classic small-town Americana by stopping by Scotts Diner. This cozy establishment in Merced is a textbook example of a roadside diner, where US hospitality is felt in every detail.

The restaurant's interior is designed in a nostalgic retro style: you'll find comfortable upholstered booths, high bar stools at the counter, and walls decorated with memorabilia. A special place in the decor is held by portraits of the legendary John Wayne and posters dedicated to the region's aviation heritage and Castle Air Force Base.

The establishment is famous for its honest "comfort food." The menu focuses on traditional American breakfasts and hearty lunches, offering guests everything from juicy burgers on brioche buns to signature steaks and tri-tip sandwiches. The warm atmosphere, where staff greet every guest like an old friend, makes Scotts Diner a popular spot for both locals and travelers.

To get in touch with the staff or clarify menu details, you can use the provided phone number. The establishment also keeps in touch with guests through its Facebook page, where you can find the latest news and photos of their dishes.

Below is the detailed contact information to help plan your visit.

The main reason to visit this place is, of course, the authentic American breakfast, which is served here all day long. You can order the famous New York Steak with perfectly cooked eggs and crispy hash browns, or try one of the signature burgers, such as the Western or Cali burger. For fans of the classics, the club sandwich is a must-try.

Besides tasting the dishes, it's interesting to just be in the diner and observe small-town life. You can examine the collection of memorabilia dedicated to Hollywood stars and military history, or join local fans watching sports matches on the large screens.

Thanks to the open layout and large tables, it's a great place for socializing with friends or having a family lunch. And if you're traveling solo, a seat at the bar will allow you to have a bite in an authentic setting while watching the fast and coordinated work of the staff.

Getting to this cozy spot in Merced is easy, especially if you are traveling by car. Scotts Diner is located at 2015 E Childs Ave, in close proximity to major highways and local hotels, making it an ideal stop for hungry travelers.

If you prefer public transportation, bus routes operate within the city; however, the most convenient way to get there from the Merced Amtrak station or downtown is by taxi or using rideshare services. For those staying at hotels near Childs Ave, the walk to the diner will take about 10–15 minutes.

For precise navigation, it is recommended to use GPS coordinates or online maps, which will easily plot a route to the establishment located near the former Castle Air Force Base territory.

The history of this place began not long ago, but it has already become an important spot on the gastronomic map of Merced. Scotts Diner opened its doors in early 2022, taking over the building where the popular Mexican restaurant Mi Casa Cafe had operated for 22 years.

The owner, Scott, brought over 30 years of professional experience in the restaurant industry to this project. His goal was to create a classic "old school" American diner that US residents in this part of the San Joaquin Valley were missing. The interior was completely reimagined: instead of Latin American motifs, photos of John Wayne and military aviation memorabilia appeared.

Despite being relatively new, the restaurant quickly earned a reputation as a place with the authentic atmosphere of mid-century roadside diners. Today, it is a thriving family business that honors the traditions of American hospitality and home-style cooking.

To fully enjoy your visit, most guests need between 1 and 1.5 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely browse the menu, wait for your food (which usually takes about 15 minutes), and appreciate the interior details.

If you plan to visit as part of a large group or want to watch a sports broadcast over a cup of coffee, you should budget a bit more time. The diner encourages a relaxed pace, so guests are rarely in a hurry here.

The diner is open to visitors daily, starting early in the morning, which is perfect for those who love a hearty breakfast. From Monday to Saturday, Scotts Diner is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Sundays, it closes earlier—usually around 2:00 PM.

As the schedule may change slightly on holidays, tourists are recommended to check the current opening hours on the official Facebook page or by phone before visiting.

A visit to the diner can be perfectly combined with sightseeing in the southern and central parts of the city. Exploring the surroundings will help you learn more about the region's history and see monuments dedicated to significant events and figures.

After a hearty breakfast or lunch, it’s worth taking a walk to the memorial complexes or admiring the historic architecture of residential buildings from the early 20th century. Below is a list of interesting sites located within a few kilometers of the restaurant.