greasy spoon

noun

, Slang.

1. a cheap and rather unsanitary restaurant.

greasy spoon

noun

1. slang.
   a small, cheap, and often unsanitary restaurant, usually specializing in fried foods

Word History and Origins

Origin of greasy spoon¹

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25

Idioms and Phrases

A cheap restaurant, especially one serving short-order fried foods. For example, College students short of cash tend to eat a lot in that greasy spoon . This expression also implies that the restaurant is not very clean. [c. 1900]

Example Sentences

She maintains an eclectic list of favorite L.A. eateries, from greasy spoons to elevated Italian and American spots.

From Los Angeles Times

In a greasy spoon just off the New Jersey Turnpike, two men sit down for coffee.

From New York Times

Casual diners ordered meatloaf and burgers at the local greasy spoon.

From Los Angeles Times

The greasy spoon’s sandwiches are unexpectedly delicious, but as a workplace, it’s not healthy; in fact its toxicity is operatic in scope.

From Los Angeles Times

Do you prefer the convenience of interstate fast food or the authenticity of a local greasy spoon?

From New York Times