A new restaurant opened in town called "Cranky Frank's."  Everyone is really excited about it because it's supposed to be a true "American experience" with the food and atmosphere of a diner.  I always find it super interesting and entertaining to visit a place that lets you visit your home from a foreign perspective and checking out this diner was no exception.

I met the owners when they bought bus tickets from me at the bottom of the mountain. The local Kiwi family came up with the idea of opening an "American" diner while they were on vacation in the States and found themselves constantly at places like Denny's which were open late and served good food in large portions.  They felt that Queenstown was missing American culture and cuisine and decided to open a diner of their own.



When I talk to Kiwis about the diner, here is what they are especially excited about:

- The genuine working jukebox
- Endless coffee refills (practically non-existent here)
- American food like hotdogs/chili dogs/chili cheese fries
- The milkshakes
- The uniforms (especially the hats)
- The atmosphere and decoration
- The diner/1960s theme

What do the Kiwis want?

- Entertainment (they wish the waitstaff would sing or be on rollerskates just like on TV or in movies)
- Better service
- Real Americans as staff



What do the Americans think?

Sean gives it 7 out of 10 stars; it was ok, but I don't think we'll be going back anytime soon especially since we'll be able to get the real thing in a few months anyway.  Denny's Grand Slam and Moons over My Hammy here we come.

2 comments

1. Dan on August 8, 2012 at 9:08 AM

   You would think it wouldn't be too difficult to be better than Denny's.

    
2. Anonymous on August 9, 2012 at 12:40 PM

   Ah hahahahaha. I love hearing what other cultures think it "typical american" I haven't been to a Dennies since...uhhh. Not sure when--drunk college night probably.