Athens popped my Coney cherry, and over the years, I've kept on coming back for more. Many years ago, my uncle brought me here and introduced me to the Coney, and when I reflect fondly on those summer vacation days I used to spend in Detroit, I always find myself thinking of Athens as some magical place where I experienced a major life milestone. It's where I had my first legit diner experience, and it's where I had my first experience of an All-American classic. Come here and have a hot dog, with fries and slaw, and maybe a shake. Nothing else. You won't be disappointed. They've always done it right, and I suspect they always will.

For a coney, this place is legit. I like the convenient location on Woodward & the fairly unique interior. My daughter loves eating up at the counter. I've had breakfast and lunch here and there are decent menu items. Super cheap breakfast specials from 8-11, weekdays. Yummy buttermilk pancakes. Good salads and soups for lunch. I've not tried lots if items on the menu, but I'd expect they'd be as good quality and taste. Service is fine--nothing spectacular. But what is, nowadays? :/

Athens are definitely a home town favorite. Their unique selling propositions are their chili and their location. The chili has very good consistency and flavor. They are located on historic Woodward Avenue which makes for great car watching in the summer months. They serve consistent quality, fast and friendly. They will build your order any way you prefer without hesitation. Great coneys and now a whole lot more.

This week's Fancy Breakfast Thursday was at the Athens Coney Island on Woodward south of 14 Mile. When you pull up it's a blast to the past. If you're like me the days of diners are seen only in movies, but it's almost like a movie set itself. It looks like the diner Steve McQueen gets trapped in the movie "The Blob". Luckily, I don't think you'll have to run here to escape the Blob. You'll run here to eat the good food. I've been to ACI several times. I like the Macaroni and Cheese, the Garlic Fries and the Greek Salads. The food is all reasonably priced and fresh and tasty. It's pretty much the typical Greek Coney restaurant in the Detroit area but with better food. Also, there is a lot of interesting variety beyond the typical coney dog and gyro. For example, the Swanky Frankie is a hot dog wrapped in bacon. One highlight is that ACI serves Strawberry Fanta! And breakfast is served anytime. Also, the dessert is really good. If you get dessert get the cinnamon roll covered with ice cream and Sanders hot fudge. It's huge and delicious, inexpensive and big enough to share. So if you want some comfort food and trip back to a 50s diner, run to Athens Coney Island. You will not be disappointed.