Dinky Diner | Clarksburg, CA

Within the last few years, food trucks and sidewalk carts have been migrating out of their conventional sites such as construction zones, carnivals, and college campuses. Redefined and redesigned, these "meals on wheels" can now be seen popping up in high-frequency areas where even the most discernible diner isn't afraid to sidle up to the takeout window.

For example, just take a look at what's out there roaming the streets and parking lots in these select cities:

Portland - The Brunch Box, Dog Eat Dawg, Whiffles Fried Pies, The Curbside Grill, Creme de la Creme, and Big-Ass Sandwiches.

San Francisco - Amuse Bouche, Roli Roti, Adobo Hobo, Spencer on the Go, and The Mobile Pho Truck.

Los Angeles - The Grilled Cheese Truck, Coolhaus, Koji Korean BBQ, and The World Fare Bustaurant.

Now, if you're thinking that you need to travel to the nearest big city to sample such fare, don't. Because parked alongside South River Road in nearby Clarksburg sits the Dinky Diner, a converted travel trailer that's been a community destination for breakfast and lunch since 1998.

Founded by Carl and Viki Clayton, the Dinky Diner was created shortly after the two won the California lottery. At least, that's the local folklore as we understand it from bits and pieces heard here and there. But whatever their origins, the formula for success is simple in that customer satisfaction comes first and menu items are served hot, fresh, and lip-smackin' good.

Popular items include the Chili Cheese Fries, the Philly Cheesesteak Saute, the Deli-Sliced Pork Saute, and the Clarksburger, a no frills, two-handed signature sandwich that hits you with a flavor punch! And for those hot days, take the edge off with one of their real ice cream milkshakes or an old-fashioned root beer float.


Everything is made to order by a three-person crew, and they do their darn best not to step on each others' toes in the cramp quarters of the "kitchen." As one member commented, there's a methodical order to their madness "that's never dull."

The Dinky Diner is open between March and November, Wednesday through Saturday. So, you'll want to plan your visits accordingly.

And one other thing, be sure to dust off your social graces and polish up on your personal stories of the Delta when visiting the Dinky Diner. A communal environment is cultivated here, meaning that getting to know your neighbor is the norm under the shaded picnic tables and bench seating along raised flower beds.

Dinky Diner
36339 Riverview Drive
Clarksburg, CA