When a restaurant has withstood the test of time, you know the food has to be good. That's exactly the case at The Pinon Café, a Payson icon that first opened its doors in 1951. One of the best small-town diners in Arizona, this humble, family-owned eatery serves up homestyle fare like burgers, chicken-fried steak, and breakfast all day. After just one bite, you'll see why it's been going strong for so long!

Next time you find yourself traveling through the small mountain town of Payson, keep your eyes peeled for The Pinon Café.

The first and oldest restaurant in town, this Beeline Highway gem was built way back in 1951. It has changed hands several times over the decades, but all of the owners have been local families committed to serving delicious, homemade food to the people of Payson.

When you step inside and see the red-and-white-checkered tablecloths and homey décor, you'll feel like you're sitting down to a meal in someone's very own kitchen - and in a way, that's exactly what you're doing. The current owners, the Conways, make it a point to treat everyone who comes in like a member of the family.

Breakfast is definitely the star of the show here, as evidenced by the fact that it's served all day long.

Chow down on biscuits and gravy, steak (or chicken-fried steak) and eggs, omelets, eggs benedict, and lots of other morning favorites.

If you prefer sweet over savory, the buttermilk pancakes are to die for. Pillow-soft and as big as your head, you can get them stuffed with blueberries, cranberries, banana, or chocolate chips.

Other sweet options include giant cinnamon rolls, muffins, oatmeal, granola, French toast, and Belgian waffles.

The Pinon also serves lunch, and the menu is equally as vast and varied as breakfast. From hand-smashed burgers to meatloaf to chili with cornbread, there's something to please every palate. Cap off your meal with a slice of homemade pie, and you'll leave the table a very happy (and full) camper.

Visit the Pinon Café website or Facebook page for more information, including current hours and a full menu.

Have you ever eaten at the Pinon Café? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for a breathtaking natural wonder to visit while you're in town.