The Welcome Diner, the on-again off-again hipster hangout located on the outskirts of Downtown Phoenix has opened its doors once again. This time, the man working the griddle inside this 9-seat micro-restaurant is noted local chef, Payton Curry (most recently of Caffe Boa in Tempe). Now open 5 – 10 pm Sunday through Tuesday (open ‘til midnight Tuesdays) and First Fridays until the 4th of July, chef Curry and crew will be whipping up something different every night, using only local and organic products.

Arguably one of the Valley’s most talented (Editor’s note: and pretentious) chefs, Curry left Caffé Boa to eventually open his own restaurant. But in the meantime, he’s signed up for what he’s calling a three month ‘Therapy Project” to bring his talents to the Welcome Diner. After the diner’s fair share of ups and downs we’re hoping Payton can bring it an ‘up.’

Learn more after the jump.
The Welcome Diner was built in Witchita, Kansas in 1945 and operated on Route 66 in Williams, Arizona for 25 years. It took another 24 years to open after moving to Phoenix in 1980.  Since 2004, the diner has endured quite a bit—even a run-in with a car or two … but still up and running and ready for business.

Chef Payton Curry (Image via New Times)

If you decide to check out Payton’s delicious creations make sure to arrive early—seating limited (remember there are only nine seats) and the food will run out. The Welcome Diner is located at 924 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix, AZ 85006.

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