What are Modular Diners?

Modular Diners are diners that are constructed off-site in a factory. They are designed around a steel and concrete building system so that the durability and flexibility is better than conventional construction. When completed, they are transported to your prepared site for installation.

What are the advantages of Modular-built diners?

The major advantages are: Rapid Construction; Fixed-Price; Factory-Controlled Construction; Totally-Integrated Construction; Use of Standard Building Materials; Relocatability; Steel-Framed Construction; Durability; and a stunning, eye-catching Stainless Steel exterior.

Can you see a difference between Modular and traditionally-built diners?

In most cases it is virtually impossible to tell the difference between modular and traditional construction. You also save time because you can be doing your site work while the diner is being factory constructed.

What if my town won't allow me to use a Stainless Steel exterior?

We offer alternative diner exteriors, including: Dryvit, Ceramic Tile, ACM (Aluminum Composite Material) in many colors, Paintable Molded Concrete Panels, Stone, Brick, Hardi-Plank or a combination of materials that will meet your requirements. Stainless Steel can be combined with any of these materials.

Do I have to use our standard floor plans?

Absolutely not. We can modify any standard floor plan or build to suit. We make the building fit your particular needs in both layout and equipment. Whether you want to add a drive-up window, move the counter, move the bathrooms from one side of the diner to the other, etc., just tell us what you want and we'll change it for you. The same applies to the total dimensions of the diner. We can design a diner to fit your particular site.

What about interior color choices?

You can choose any color combination you desire for the interior. Most purchasers are very happy with the traditional 1950's diner look of red seating and white counter and tabletops. We have hundreds of color combinations available.

What actually comes with my diner?

Your diner comes with all cooking equipment, refrigeration, seating, air conditioning, heating, handicap coded bathrooms, interior electrical and plumbing, and finished interior/exterior. Please refer to the diner model information sheets for more details. Your final plans will be complete and specific as to what is included in your diner before any construction is started.

Will your diner meet my State's building codes and local requirements?

Yes. Before we start any construction we obtain State certification/State approval for the building plans for your diner. We use an independent third party inspection agency to get this certification. You then take these plans to your local building department for their approval. Only when everyone has signed off on the plans do we start building your diner. During construction your diner is inspected several times by the independent third party inspection agency. When completed the diner carries your State's certification and approval.

Can I visit my diner while being constructed?

Yes. In fact, we encourage you to do so, especially for the rough-in stage of construction. We also want you to come and give your final approval to the diner before shipment.

What about delivery charges?

Delivery charges are based on the distance from the factory to your site, and the diner size. We do everything we can to make the delivery charges reasonable, not excessive, and will give you an estimate of the shipping costs before you sign a contract.

What about installation?

Our delivery prices include the placement of your diner from the delivery truck onto your prepared site. We bring the crane trucks and the crews to do the job. You are responsible to bring all utilities to the site, and the final hookups. All of this information is included in your plans and your sales contract.

Do I need a concrete slab for placement of the diner?

All of our diners come with a built in concrete floor supported with a steel structure. You will only need a small concrete slab if your diner includes a walk-in cooler/freezer. Your State certified building plans will include all of this information.

What if I want to have a basement?

We can design your diner plans to accommodate a partial or full basement. Just let us know what you want when planning your diner. There may be a small charge for structural changes to accommodate a basement.

What about financing?

Your best source for financing is usually your hometown bank where you are already doing business and have a personal relationship with a banker. You may also seek financing from private lenders, investors, family, friends or business associates. We can recommend independent sources for SBA Guaranteed Loans, or Lease-Financing for qualified buyers. Our experience shows that you are more likely to be approved for financing if you own the land, have a good credit history and have experience in the restaurant business or own an existing restaurant.

For Existing Diners or Restaurants Owners: an SBA 7-A Loan will finance up to 90% of your building, land and site costs, up to $1 million per borrower for up to 25 years. There are usually no pre-payment penalties after the third year.

For Start-ups: an SBA 7-A Loan will require up to a 30% cash down payment. Building, land and site costs can be financed, up to $1 million per borrower, for up to 25 years. There are usually no pre-payment penalties after the third year.

Please check our Helpful Links section of our web site for more SBA Lender information

Do I have to buy a franchise or protected territory to purchase a Dinermite Diner?

No. Dinermite Diners Inc. designs diners to suit your individual needs. We are not a franchise and do not require you to pay any franchise or marketing fees to purchase our diners. You can operate your diner any way you choose and serve the kind of food you want.

What if I need help or advice?

We have independent sources that can help you, from designing your menu to fully operating your diner. Just ask us and we will give you the names and numbers of very helpful sources.

How long does it take to get my diner?

It takes approximately 90-120 days from the time your plans receive final approval until we are ready to deliver your diner. Custom diners, and international orders usually take longer. You will have enough time to prepare your site and get ready for the delivery of your diner.

What's the first step in getting the process started?

Talk to us about your diner dreams. Decide on the size diner you want and send us your menu and Wish List. We will then have a food service engineer review it and make equipment and floor plan recommendations. When you are satisfied, have your location and financing in order, just sign a contract and pay a 10% deposit to get started. We recommend that you hire a local general contractor to be part of this process right from the start.