I’m told the 1950s actually happened. I’m not sure, I wasn’t there. But it definitely exists as an idea, and the idea of a happy, friendly and filling diner is honored at Hendersonville’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, Pop’s Diner at Five Points.
“The hot-pink-and-turquoise color scheme, the bright neon sign, the chrome edging on the tables all speak to the Happy Days era, as does the music playing on the juke box.”
You’ll figure out the Five Points as you drive up and try to figure out which way to go at the convergence of Asheville Highway, Main Street and Church Street across from Hendersonville High School. The “Pop’s” part honors a fellow named David Seelig, the pop of founder Kim Burrell, who rechristened the former Carolina Diner in 2012 after her father passed away and who gave it its 50's-retro theme. Hendersonville locals have been eating there (in various culinary incarnations) since the actual 1950s.
As you would expect from such a place, the theme isn’t subtle - and that’s part of the fun of it. The hot-pink-and-turquoise color scheme, the bright neon sign, the chrome edging on the tables all speak to the Happy Days era, as does the music playing on the jukebox. The restaurant is frequently used as the backdrop for period photo shoots or as a film set.
Pop’s is only open for breakfast and lunch. I went for breakfast before a conference, took a seat at the counter, and ordered the Honey Nut French Toast which comes topped with warm honey and pecans. Yummy! The Peanut Butter and Banana version is popular too, both cost less than $6. Lunchtime sandwiches are around $7-$8, so it’s a pretty affordable place. No need to wear your Fonzie jacket when you go, but I bet they’d like it if you did!
How to Find It
Pop's Diner is located at 860 N. Main Street, just north of downtown Hendersonville.
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/BeDVCmRSBUM2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PopsDiner50s/