Maine Course: a smile at Bonnie’s
The next time you’re driving down Benton Avenue in Winslow on your way to Big G’s, just keep going.
A mile down the road you’ll find Bonnie’s Diner, a cozy family restaurant that prides itself on its hearty breakfasts, lunches and friendly service.
Although Bonnie’s has been around for over 40 years, Eva Turner bought the business from its previous owners in 2008 and dedicated herself to cooking and baking nearly everything on the menu from scratch.
After only one visit, it is obvious that Mrs. Turner has succeeded. Every morning, Mrs. Turner bakes the wide array of breads that find their way onto most dishes.
Her oatmeal bread and cranberry nut bread are two of the best breads in my opinion. The muffins, doughnuts and biscuits are all baked in-house as well.
Typical breakfast selections here like omelets, eggs prepared any way you want them, and breakfast sandwiches are staples on Bonnie’s menu. But a few items set this hidden gem apart from the rest.
The pancakes at Bonnie’s rival the size of Big G’s, but are lighter and slightly more buttery than their famous counterpart’s. One pancake at Bonnie’s is enough to be filling, but it won’t leave you overstuffed.
Almost anything here goes well with a side of bacon. It is always thick, crisp and generously portioned.
A dish unique to Bonnie’s is baked oatmeal. It comes served in a small crock with fresh berries and brown sugar mixed into the oats. A bubbling, sugary crust tops off this sweet delight.
Also, make sure to get a side of Mrs. Turner’s home fries, which are crunchy and have a distinct oniony flavor.
If you come to Bonnie’s with an appetite, don’t worry about taking a big hit to the wallet. A dish of two eggs, toast, and home fries costs $2.90. One of the most expensive options at the diner is the baked oatmeal with toast and coffee. It’s only $4.80.
Mrs. Turner said, “My passion is to deliver the best product at the best price.” Mrs. Turner, it looks like you have.
Take one look at the customers and it’s clear that they appreciate a place like Bonnie’s Diner.
Locals walk behind the counter and refill their own coffee cups. The two waitresses are always quick with a joke and Mrs. Turner often comes from behind the counter to chat with her customers.
The food and the service epitomize comfort. If there were more places like this, the world would be a better place.
Since the diner is always full on weekends, try to make it into Bonnie’s on a weekday when you can sit at the counter and talk to Mrs. Turner.
It feels a lot like you’re sitting at your grandma’s kitchen counter, waiting for your breakfast. Since 2008, Bonnie’s has been turning out classic dishes and it looks like it will continue to do so for a long time to come.