Duration
45-90 minutes (longer during peak weekend times or if kids play arcade games)
Price
$9-15 per person for entrees, $4-6 for soups, free refills on drinks
Best For
Airport travelers looking for real food • Families with kids who love retro vibes • Burger enthusiasts seeking hand-pattied quality
Pro Tip
Order the custom Angus burger blend - it's made from ribeye, chuck, NY strip, and filet that they hand-patty fresh. Ask for the gluten-free bun if needed, but remember it costs extra and grilled buns aren't gluten-free even with the GF option.
About Hot Rods 50's Diner
Hot Rods 50's Diner in Alcoa has earned a loyal following over the years, establishing itself as a reliable dining destination near the airport. This family-owned establishment serves hand-pattied burgers made from a custom Angus blend that ranks among East Tennessee's finest.
The 1950s theme extends beyond mere decoration, featuring authentic pinball machines, neon lights, and classic car memorabilia adorning every wall. Children gravitate toward the arcade games while families explore the extensive menu offerings.
The menu lives up to its reputation for variety, encompassing burgers, hot dogs, blue-plate specials, and accommodating dietary restrictions with gluten-free options. The milkshakes achieve the perfect consistency - thick enough to support a standing spoon.
Timing matters at Hot Rods, as weekend dinner crowds intensify, particularly on Saturday nights. Weekday afternoons offer faster service and a more relaxed atmosphere for diners seeking efficiency.
Quality distinguishes this establishment from typical chain restaurants, with everything prepared in-house rather than following corporate formulas. The convenient location just minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport makes it an ideal stop for travelers beginning or ending their journeys.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Hand-Pattied Custom Angus Burgers
Their signature burgers use a custom blend of aged Certified Angus ribeye, chuck, NY strip, and filet that they grind and patty in-house. It's not your typical frozen patty - you can actually taste the difference in quality.
Authentic 1950s Atmosphere
Real neon lights, vintage car memorabilia, and classic hot rod theming throughout. It's not just painted walls - they've collected authentic pieces that make you feel like you stepped back in time.
Working Pinball Machines
Kids and adults love the actual vintage pinball machines scattered around the restaurant. They're well-maintained and add to the authentic retro vibe while you wait for your food.
Massive Menu Variety
We're talking way beyond just burgers - chicken burgers, pork burgers, hot dogs, blue-plate specials, salads, and desserts. They've got options marked for vegetarian, gluten-free, and heart-healthy diets too.
Thick Hand-Dipped Milkshakes
Old-school milkshakes that are thick enough to stand a spoon in. They use real ice cream and classic flavors that pair perfectly with their retro burger joint vibe.
Airport Convenience
Just minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport, making it the go-to spot for travelers wanting real food instead of airport fare. Many folks make it a tradition to stop here on every trip.
Know Before You Go
- Arrive early on weekends - Saturday dinner crowds can mean long waits
- Bring your ID if ordering alcohol - they card everyone regardless of age
- The menu is extensive and text-heavy, so bring reading glasses if needed
- Cash and cards both accepted, no reservations needed for normal-sized groups
- Restaurant has strong AC in summer, so bring a light layer if you get cold
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsHot Rods 50's Diner receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Alcoa, it's a solid choice for the area.
Hot Rods 50's Diner Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Hot Rods 50's Diner
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Hot Rods 50's Diner?
They're open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM. They close on all major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, so call ahead during holiday weekends.
How much does Hot Rods 50's Diner cost?
Most menu items run $9-15, with soups around $4-6. The average across their huge menu is about $5.80 per item. Gluten-free buns cost extra, but fountain drinks, tea, and coffee come with free refills.
Do I need reservations for Hot Rods 50's Diner?
Nope, they operate as a walk-in diner. Large groups sometimes call ahead, but most folks just show up. Expect waits on weekend evenings though.
How long should I spend at Hot Rods 50's Diner?
Plan on 45-90 minutes for a full meal experience. If you come during peak times or have kids who want to play the pinball machines, you might be there up to 2 hours.
Is Hot Rods 50's Diner good for kids?
Absolutely! They have a kids' menu, pinball machines, and tons of vintage car decorations kids love looking at. The casual atmosphere means you don't have to worry about them being too loud.
Is there parking at Hot Rods 50's Diner?
Yes, they have their own parking lot right on site. It's free and convenient - no hunting for street parking or dealing with meters.
Do they have vegetarian and gluten-free options?
Yes, their menu clearly marks vegetarian, heart-healthy, and gluten-free items. They offer gluten-free buns for an extra charge, but they can't guarantee 100% cross-contamination prevention.
How close is Hot Rods to McGhee Tyson Airport?
It's literally just a few minutes' drive from the airport. We see tons of travelers stopping here right after landing or before flights - it's become a tradition for many folks.
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We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Hot Rods 50's Diner receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Alcoa, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
373 Hannum St Alcoa TN 37701
373 Hannum St Alcoa TN 37701
Alcoa
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