This is one of a full series of articles about interesting food locations along Route 66. See “related articles” or search “Route 66” for the full series.
It’s hard to miss the Galaxy Diner’s bold neon along Route 66 in Flagstaff, AZ—unless you stop too soon. When heading west, it’s on your way out of town, so stop earlier and plan to have breakfast at the diner. If heading east, you figure it out. The point is, don’t miss it! It’s under fairly new ownership with some big plans for renewal.
The walls of the Galaxy, in typical diner fashion, are lined with photos of movie stars from the 50s. There is a great old counter, with a genuine imitation jukebox playing music true to the era. “Bye, Bye Love” floats across the red leather-like seats and linoleum tiled floors while blue neon stars hang from the ceiling. All this, and good ol’ diner food, too.
The Galaxy is in a 1955 building, and has had two previous owners. The current co-owners are Will and Autumn Pillen, a father-daughter team who are working on a new menu and general spruce up in order to enhance the experience—because that is definitely what they are creating.
The restaurant is spotlessly clean and obviously a favorite of both locals and travelers along the Mother Road. It offers $3.99 specials and breakfast all day, or just stop in for a malt or root beer float. Just be sure you have a pony tail and a letter jacket handy if you want to really fit in!
