270 Western Ave. Allston; (617) 783-5844 People who are serious about diners hold one rule uppermost: A true diner must be in the shape of a railroad car, preferably in shining silver metal.
Mine is such a person, and Henry’s is such a place. The joint has been operating, under a succession of names, for over forty years on the same spot. Its current owners have jazzed it up with some kitschy neon, hip music, and a universal symbol sign out front a huge railroad crossing marker with a chef’s hat on it No words necessary; diner below.
Daily specials offer deals like roast stuffed pork, with potato and a vegetable, for $4.95. In fact, nearly everything seems to cost $4.95: Marinated sirloin tips, grilled, barbecued, or Southern fried chicken, marinated sirloin tips, meatloaf you get the idea. Some items are even lower, like a heaping plate of mac and cheese for $3.95.
Desserts feature a range of homemade bread puddings and pies. Henry’s is also a fun spot for breakfast or weekend brunch, with big, thick slabs of French toast and eggs any way you like em. Even a request for eggs done without the yolks, for a no-cholesterol diet, failed to raise an eyebrow.
Being a true diner, of course, seating is limited. They’ve packed a good number of counter stools and booths in, but at peak times you may have to wait It’s worth it Open from 6 a.m. daily.
