Slim’s Diner Dumps Late-Night, Tweaks Menu

Overly ambitious Petworth newcomer Slim’s Diner, known for its boozy milkshakes, affordable omelettes, and retro vibe, has discovered that a late-night business model wasn’t in style after all.

The throwback establishment, which debuted to much fanfare last summer, has also experienced a shift in management, with the main chef and sous chef calling it quits. One of the remaining cooks has stepped up to oversee the kitchen.

The up-and-coming neighborhood had limited dining options before Slim’s showed up. Since then, the area has welcomed a slew of new spots — and new nighttime competition — including Taqueria Del Barrio, Himitsu, and Ruta Del Vino.

Beginning May 1, the diner slashed its dinner and late-night hours, opening now from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. “If we do get a lot of requests to open longer we might try to, but in the past it wasn’t beneficial to be open that late,” an employee told Eater on the phone.

Staff is currently voting on what to take off and keep on the menu, testing out new specials and recipes daily. One recent addition is a pastrami melt. Staff said existing breakfast options, like the Slim’s Breakfast (two eggs, meat, toast, potatoes, and three pancakes), will largely stay put.