Franks Diner in Kenosha, Wisconsin, isn’t just a place to grab a bite; it’s a living piece of history, a registered historical landmark, and a beloved local treasure. For nearly a century, this iconic lunch car diner has been serving up its unique brand of hearty food and sassy charm. But for many outside of southeastern Wisconsin, their introduction to Franks came courtesy of the spiky-haired Mayor of Flavortown himself, Guy Fieri, and his hit Food Network show, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Not once, but twice, Franks Diner has rolled out the red carpet for the cameras, transforming a local gem into a national sensation.
The first visit from Guy Fieri came in 2007, a pivotal moment for the diner. At that time, Franks was under the ownership of Chris Schwartz and Lynn Groleau. Franks Diner was one of the early establishments showcased on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” helping to set the tone for the show’s celebration of authentic American eateries. The episode highlighted their signature “Garbage Plate,” a dish that instantly captured the imagination of foodies nationwide.
Fast forward to 2010, and the diner saw a changing of the guard, with longtime regulars Kevin Ervin and Julie Rittmiller stepping in as the new owners. They inherited not just a restaurant, but a legacy, already amplified by the initial Food Network appearance. Then, in 2021, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” came calling again for a “Triple D Nation” segment. This time, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Guy Fieri couldn’t be there in person, but a crew filmed new footage, with Fieri reminiscing over his past experiences and reacting to the updated offerings.
For Kevin and Julie, the return visit was a mix of excitement and nerves. “I’m excited and nervous,” Kevin Ervin admitted before the episode aired, as reported by Kenosha.com. “I don’t want to look like a goof or have it be a whole lot of hoopla over nothing. Still, it’s really exciting to be on national television and have our town highlighted.” Julie Rittmiller shared similar sentiments after the show, expressing immense pride: “I’m thrilled and proud. My staff, my customers, the community. We couldn’t have done this.”
The impact of these features on Franks Diner has been profound and multi-faceted. The most immediate and noticeable effect is the surge in customer numbers. After each airing, especially the first, Franks experienced a significant uptick of customers. People from all over the country, and even, as Kevin has noted, from places as far as Australia after seeing it overseas, make pilgrimages to Kenosha just to try the famed Garbage Plate and soak in the diner’s unique ambiance. This influx of new patrons has helped sustain the diner, bolstering its business and ensuring its continued operation as a local landmark.
Beyond the numbers, the Food Network exposure has had a remarkable effect on the restaurant’s morale and its place within the community. For the staff, it’s a validation of their hard work and the unique experience they offer. Kevin has praised his team, stating, “Right now, I have one of the best groups we’ve ever had. Everyone steps up when needed, and the vibe we’ve got going right now is fantastic.” The community of Kenosha, too, swells with pride, seeing their beloved diner celebrated on a national stage. “Kenosha feels like home. The community here is something special, and we love being a part of it,” Kevin added, emphasizing the deep connection between the diner and its city.
Guy Fieri himself has consistently shown affection for Franks Diner. On “Triple D Life,” the show describes Guy taking “a heaping mouthful of the famous Garbage Plate,” noting that “the signature dish… has made the Kenosha diner an institution since 1926.” He even mentioned in the 2021 segment that he “continues to show love to Kenosha” by highlighting other local hotspots, demonstrating the lasting impression Franks and its community have made on him.
For Franks Diner, being featured twice by Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” wasn’t just about television exposure; it was a validation of its enduring appeal, its unique character, and its integral role in the fabric of Kenosha. It cemented its status as a must-visit destination, drawing in new fans while reaffirming the love of its long-standing regulars, ensuring its sassy spirit and legendary food will continue to delight for years to come.
