**In an ongoing series of “bests” in Michigan, The Grand Rapids Press has identified the best craft beer, best burgers, best pizza and so on.When they turned their attention to diners, they produced a list of ‘must visit’ diners in each of Michigan’s 83 counties.

 

In Barry County, the Hastings State Street Diner was singled out as the diner to visit, “if you love fresh, hot food, in large portions, for a reasonable price, served by friendly local faces.”

 

 

A stop at the Diner is recommended when traveling or even if its right in the neighborhood.

Lee and Terri Campbell are owners of the former Big Boy restaurant at 1105 West State Street in Hastings. Lee is there most of the time, and Terri, a Librarian, comes in to help at times. Lee Campbell has been in the food service industry since he was a teen, starting as a dishwasher in Lansing while in high school.

 

Campbell opened a Big Boy franchise in Hastings in 1995, leaving the company in April of 2015, to become the State Street Diner.

“It was time for a remodel, a new menu. I think the public wants more of a local atmosphere.”

The change has been successful, with more flexibility on the menu and décor. Customers suggest sampling the Raspberry Crunch French toast or the eggs Benedict. The walls and menus are covered with photos of early Hastings and Barry County.

 

The restaurant has 50 part-time and full-time employees. “I have a great staff, they like working here; some have been with me for 10-15 years. Betty’s been here for 20 years,” Campbell said. The staff likes and caters to the regulars, and welcomes first time customers like regulars. And, there’s never much of a wait, he said.

 

“Our food is good, the price are reasonable. We haven’t raised pries in 2 ½ years,” he said. The Diner is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations are not needed, but if you have a large group, they ask that you call ahead. Telephone 269-948-2701.

 

Photo: The State Street Diner, 1105 West State Street, Hastings.