In 2022, our besties Mike & Steve told us about this hole-in-the-wall (ish) diner in Pataskala. They’d been going pretty regularly and we decided to join them one Sunday morning.

Since then, we’ve returned countless times, turned other friends on to it, and our son and his beautiful wife bought a house right down the street from it.

They’ve become regulars and enjoy Nutcracker Family Restaurant just as much as us. The decor is so much that it is almost cheesy, but in the best possible way.

Stroll on into Nutcracker Family Restaurant in Pataskala and you will be overtaken with the smell of a good greasy spoon diner. Checkered floors guide you to where you’ll wait to be seated and you are always greeted with a friendly smile.

The place is HOPPIN’. It’s not unusual to have to wait for a table, but it is definitely worth it. We’ve found the prices to be incredibly reasonable, too!

Y'all let us tell ya...This place is CLEAN. They take pride in keeping it spotless and shiny.

Mike always seems to gravitate toward the Skillet Breakfast. Scrambled eggs & sausage crumbles, topped with cheddar cheese, fried potatoes & a biscuit covered in sausage gravy served in a cast iron skillet. How can one go wrong?

Other honorable mentions include the massive 3 egg omelettes, pancakes, and “The Big Breakfast.” It consists of 2 Eggs, 2 slices bacon, 1 sausage link & 1 patty, 1/2 slice ham, home fries, biscuit & sausage gravy, with toast. You will definitely not be hungry after you finish that meat-filled beast!

Homemade Noodles: Chicken or Beef, both Crave-Worthy Winners

Craig and our son Dominic can often be found perched in front of a big plate of Chicken & Noodles. Amish-style noodles topped with chicken, blended in a chicken gravy, and served with mashed potatoes and an additional side. They also offer a Beef & Noodles variety that is equally delicious. Craig has been known to eat, say Chicken & Noodles plus order a Beef & Noodles to go for the next day's lunch!

Simple, Superb Perfection

It’s been impossible for us to find anything wrong with Nutcracker. It’s not too loud, it smells like bacon (mmm!!), the service is excellent, and the food is top notch diner fare.

Its location is great for heading out into the country for a little drive or ride, too. Just don’t overfill yourself on noodles… nobody needs a carb nap while behind the wheel!

We definitely recommend Nutcracker Family Restaurant for a little splash of simple and delicious!

Simple, Superb Perfection

It’s been impossible for us to find anything wrong with Nutcracker. It’s not too loud, it smells like bacon (mmm!!), the service is excellent, and the food is top notch diner fare.

Its location is great for heading out into the country for a little drive or ride, too. Just don’t overfill yourself on noodles… nobody needs a carb nap while behind the wheel!

We definitely recommend Nutcracker Family Restaurant for a little splash of simple and delicious!