Eric Cantona
You walk in and immediately feel like you time-traveled.
Not in a trendy retro way. In a “McDonald’s still had a dollar menu and nobody remodeled anything yet” kind of way. It’s old-school diner energy. Worn booths. No frills. The kind of place where the coffee has been refilled 10,000 times and the griddle has seen history.
It’s cheap. Like actually cheap. The kind of cheap that makes you double-check the menu because surely that can’t be the price.
The lady working there told us it’s their 70th anniversary. Absolute legend. Fiery. Direct. The kind of personality that could absolutely tell a customer exactly what they need to hear. She mentioned she once chased down a guy who didn’t pay. I believe her. Zero hesitation.
But here’s the twist.
The French toast?
Hands down the best I’ve had. Crispy edges, soft center, perfectly sweet without being over the top. The kind that makes you pause mid-bite and reassess your expectations of diner food.
Cheap Charlie’s isn’t polished. It’s not curated. It’s not Instagram-ready.
But it’s real. And that French toast alone makes it worth the stop.
… moreAlaina Schleusner
This diner is fantastic. My boyfriend and I sat and talked with the owner for an hour, she was very friendly and attentive. Our first time eating there and we feel like we left with a new family of our own. The food is obviously homemade and absolutely delicious. I honestly could not leave a better review for this place, so if there’s somewhere new in town you’d like to try, let it be here.
… moreNed Pod
I love the small town diner feel of Cheap Charlie’s. It’s great they have survived downtown Rochester for decades, especially with mother Mayo gobbling up many of these establishments.
Daily specials that are creative and delicious.
If you are one that requires spotless, updated equipment/seating, this place is not for you.
Pictured is a French toast sandwich.
… moreA Dor
True family owned restaurant. One of few places open after a long night shift. The menu is full of great diner classics and fair priced. Also, this is huge for me, the food prep is consistent. You can be sure that you’ll get the same good quality of menu items every time. Very fond of this place. If you show up early, the owners can chat with you and you’ll gain an even greater appreciation for this business and it’s food.
… moreFinn Beruldsen
Nice staff, very accommodating of dietary restrictions with the chef coming out be sure that there weren’t any mistakes. The portions were generous and the french toast was especially good. The coffee was only ok and the food a little under seasoned. This place is worth checking out especially at their prices.
… moreJustin Teslow
Wow, was recommended to try out Cheap Charlie’s, that was several months ago. Regret not trying it sooner. Loved the place, cozy and comfortable, very friendly employees, and some of the best Cafe food I’ve tried. I would recommend it to anyone.
… moreGreg Eakins
This is a gem of a find right in the middle of Rochester. It looks pretty old from the outside. And on the inside. But that just adds to the charm. Their prices are low (as the name would imply) and the food was great. The waitress was really nice and took the time to tell us how old this place was. I had the Spanish Omelette and it really hit the spot.
I’m not sure what kind of pig is on top of the restaurant (I am not a hog caller), but it does look well maintained.
… morePhilip Ward
Local hole in the wall offering usual cafe menu with a larger breakfast selection at reasonable prices. Counter seating with a handful of small tables inside and out. Looks to be more seating up a flight of stairs but we found a table outside. The Meat Lovers omelette look to be a 3 egg omelette with some chunks of ham, sausage and bacon fat. A slice of American Cheese was melted on top and a side of white or wheat toast came with it. Waitress was friendly but as soon as the food and the bill was served, nonexistent. Another waitress stopped and asked if we needed anything else. Place was doable and prices very reasonable. #philoffoodreviews
… moreJet Bj
Great food, quiet place for breakfast but everything is absolutely home made.
… moreCandy S
I’d go 4.5 stars. It’s an old time diner and still has reasonable prices. Food is good. Service efficient. Place looks old and tired. Let that go, enjoy your meal!
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