Mal's Diner - Vale

I 'm an Air Force veteran, globetrotter, and trained chef, with more than two decades of experience in the restaurant industry. From my beginnings as a short or... read more I 'm an Air Force veteran, globetrotter, and trained chef, with more than two decades of experience in the restaurant industry. From my beginnings as a short order cook in my grandfather 's cafe in the mountains of central Idaho, to the beaches of St. Johnsand the Michelin star rated Stone Terrace as part of the team who served one of my personal hero 's Muhammad Ali. My firsttrip to Vale, Oregon uncovered for me an absolute gem in Mal 's Diner. In the middle of a long road trip, and after an evenlonger night, I walked into an immediate throwback to my Grandads 1950 's era soda-fountain cafe. From the everyone is familyatmosphere, down to the stainless-steel dining bar records on the wall, to the ladies who greeted me with smiles and anattitude that they had known me for years. I just knew when I gave my name it wouldn 't be forgotten. The next day Emma and Mic,(the cook) served me a burger and hand cut fries that was easily the best burger that I have eaten in a half decade. This wasnot a small burger served in a plastic basket and paper, but 2 heaping double 1/4 lb. patties with thick sliced bacon smotheredin American cheese. I did not come up for breath until I had devoured the entire plate. (With no small urge to lick the plate).After I had regretfully completed my feeding frenzy, I was pleasantly surprised to find other similarities on the menu that Ihad not seen since I worked my grandfather 's flat top grill it filled up my heart as much as an already FULL belly... itemslike Moose and Elk burger specials, Rocky Mountain Oysters and items such as Kangaroo, Ostrich and even Alligator for the moreadventurous diner. Make no mistake, if you are looking to shed a few pounds, you might want to try further afield, but if youare looking for a fully satiated appetite, a completely satisfied pallet, and an atmosphere that invites you back with smilesand a yearning to see what 's next with zero doubt that they can deliver, then you can do far worse than M

If you're in Vale, this is a good place to eat. I was in a group of 7 people and we all got something different, yet everyone cleaned up and enjoyed the food. M... read more If you're in Vale, this is a good place to eat. I was in a group of 7 people and we all got something different, yet everyone cleaned up and enjoyed the food. My only suggestion is that the salads have spring mix or even romaine lettuce instead iceberg.

A true gem! This is just what we’ve been looking for—a nostalgic diner with amazing food. The menu was straightforward but incredibly tasty. The staff was upbea... read more A true gem! This is just what we’ve been looking for—a nostalgic diner with amazing food. The menu was straightforward but incredibly tasty. The staff was upbeat and welcoming, making it the ideal place for a quick break. If you’re ever passing through Vale, Oregon, make sure to stop in. Thank you all! Xxooxx

This lovely diner is situated right in the center of town. The menu showcases traditional home-style cooking, and the portion sizes are quite generous. The staf... read more This lovely diner is situated right in the center of town. The menu showcases traditional home-style cooking, and the portion sizes are quite generous. The staff is friendly, and the prices are excellent! I was pleasantly surprised to find a full breakfast for two for under $20.

The staff at this restaurant are very welcoming, and you can really sense the chef's enthusiasm for her cooking. The ambiance is so laid-back that you can't hel... read more The staff at this restaurant are very welcoming, and you can really sense the chef's enthusiasm for her cooking. The ambiance is so laid-back that you can't help but savor every bite of your meal. I'm fortunate that I have to visit my parents in the area, as it gives me a perfect excuse to return and sample the next burger on my list during my cheat meal next week! I tried the VIKING burger, and it was incredibly delicious! If you find yourself in Vale, be sure to swing by for a meal—you definitely won't regret it!