Dinner at the Diner

Season 5, Ep. 513

Test cook Bridget Lancaster updates a classic recipe for Patty Melts. Then, tasting expert Jack Bishop challenges host Christopher Kimball to a tasting of mac and cheese. Next, equipment expert Adam Ried reveals his top picks for commuter mugs. And finally, test cook Julia Collin Davison reveals the secrets to making perfect Tater Tots.

In this Episode
  • Patty Melts RECIPE

    Patty Melts

    This big burger with caramelized onions and Swiss cheese on rye is a diner classic. So can you make it without a flattop griddle and a skilled short-order cook?

  • Crispy Potato Tots RECIPE

    Crispy Potato Tots

    We loved tots as kids, but frozen tots got an F when we revisited them. After 100 pounds of potatoes, we finally got a recipe for tots that adults can't get enough of, either.

  • Travel Mugs EQUIPMENT

    Travel Mugs

    The best traveling companion should open and close easily, seal tightly, and keep the contents hot. With hundreds of mugs out there, far too many miss the mark.

  • Macaroni and Cheese TASTE TEST

    Macaroni and Cheese

    We tasted 25 boxed and frozen versions of mostly clumpy, gloppy, wimpy mac and cheese. Were there any we’d actually eat?