John’s Special, named after founder John Mangels and perhaps the dish most associated with the restaurant, is also featured prominently. The plate includes two eggs, home fries topped with cheese, grilled onions, and a choice of bacon, ham, or sausage.
The Corned Beef Hash Special carries over from the Central Coffee Shoppe era and remains a popular choice among guests.
Other customer favorites include French toast, egg sandwiches, and made-to-order omelets stuffed with everything from gyro meat to sausage.
For lunch, the eatery offers half-pound burgers, clubs, deli sandwiches, patty melts, tuna melts, and salads.
Central Diner’s menu is intentionally simple, familiar, and welcoming at a time when many new restaurants favor elaborate concepts and dramatic presentations.
The South Pasadena Central Diner is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For updates and daily specials, follow Central Diner on Facebook and Instagram.