Technically not a real diner, but everything a diner should be. Recently Esther and I were visiting some caverns outside of Austin and I spotted a store that sold pecan confections (a weakness). We bought pecan syrup, pecan and strawberry preserves, cinnamon pecans and, since they wouldn't sell us just a slice of pie, a big pecan tart. Unfortunately, they didn't sell coffee...a must with such a treat.

I walked outside and spotted Abel's next door. We walked in and ordered one cup of joe each. I snuck the tart bag onto the table, each of us managing to sneak bites between sips. Finally, the waitress spotted us and immediately came to the table. I was frightened.

"Would you like a little plate for that?" she said with a sincere smile. We declined, but did order another of one of the smoothest cups of coffee I have ever had. She then told us the secret of the coffee.