Clarence's Friendly Lunch

Clarence's Friendly Lunch

1871 Norwood St SW, Lenoir, NC 28645, United States

+1 828-728-4343

Restaurant, Family restaurant
(245)
Share Your Experience

About This Place

Clarence's Friendly Lunch, nestled in the heart of Lenoir, NC, offers an authentic family dining experience that feels like coming home. This welcoming diner serves up classic American fare with a Southern touch, delighting locals and visitors alike with its thoughtfully crafted menu and inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the pristine, sparkling clean interior paired with charming blue-glitter tables and the modern glow of light-up LCD menus sets a cheerful and cozy tone.

If you’re craving dishes that evoke comfort and tradition, Clarence's Friendly Lunch excels with highlights like their signature Chicken Salad Sandwich and Peaches, a beautifully balanced combo of savory and sweet that lingers fondly on the palate. The Two Egg Breakfast Liver Mush is another standout, serving a hearty, satisfying start to your day with rich, perfectly cooked flavors that embody Southern morning classics.

The menu abounds with tempting options for every appetite. Sides such as Grilled Chicken Breast, Salt & Pepper Catfish Fillet Strips, and crispy Chicken Tenders provide delightful flexibility, while the assortment of potatoes—be it the golden crispness of French Fries and Onion Rings or the comforting, loaded baked potato bursting with toppings—ensures each plate is a savory symphony. Freshness is key here, as one customer raves about the “hottest fries I’ve ever had,” hot off the grill and bursting with flavor.

Salad lovers aren’t left behind either, with classic options like Chicken Tender Salad, Garden Salad, and Chef Salad crafted to fresh, crisp perfection. Whether you’re enjoying a lighter meal or need a refreshing complement to your entree, the salads are made with care and fresh ingredients that brighten the menu.

Breakfast at Clarence's Friendly Lunch feels like a warm embrace. As noted by satisfied guests, their ham and cheese omelet is arguably the best in town—generous, fluffy, and filled with savory goodness that recalls the best of Southern morning comfort food. The variety of cereals and oatmeal options also cater thoughtfully to a wholesome, wholesome start, from oatmeal with raisins to cream of wheat with toast or biscuit.

What truly sets Clarence's Friendly Lunch apart is the heartfelt hospitality. Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly, attentive staff whose genuine warmth transforms each visit into a cherished moment. Whether it’s the waiter anticipating your needs before you voice them or the welcoming hostess greeting you with a smile, every interaction exudes care and a commitment to making you feel valued.

Whether you’re a diner aficionado or simply seeking a hidden gem where great food meets authentic Southern hospitality, Clarence's Friendly Lunch beckons with its blend of delicious comfort food, welcoming vibe, and spotless ambiance. It’s not just a meal—it’s a feeling, a return to simpler, joyful dining where quality and friendliness reign supreme.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee Great tea selection Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee Comfort food Quick bite Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Quiet
Crowd
Family friendly Groups Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    06:00 AM - 02:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    06:00 AM - 02:00 PM
  • Thursday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Friday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Saturday
    06:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Julia Cockerham
    3 week ago

    I can't believe I've been missing out on this hidden gem! Clarence Friendly Lunch is so much more than your typical spot – it's a welcoming, pristine place where every detail shows how much they care. The staff went above and beyond, making sure I had everything I needed before I even had to ask. From the sparkling clean interior to the charming blue-glitter tables and modern light-up LCD menus, you can feel the thought and care that goes into the atmosphere. I ordered the fried chicken salad, and it was so fresh! The ranch dressing was spot on, perfectly complementing the crispy chicken and crisp greens. It really surprised me; I’d been hesitant to stop in before, thinking it might be like other greasy spoon places, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Clarence Friendly Lunch is something special, and I’m already looking forward to coming back for their ribeye special that everyone seems to rave about.

  • kenNyang
    1 month ago

    Friendly lunch lived up to its name. Our waiter, the hostess, and another man were all very friendly and welcoming. My husband and I both got burgers, all the way, Carolina style. They were very good! Prices are affordable.

  • Bush and Associates Inc
    1 month ago

    Hottest fries I’ve ever had meaning they were fixed fresh and hot off the grill and delicious! Friendly service is an understatement here and food is served quick and prepared after you order it. Lots of items to choose from!

  • Marshall Milbrath
    1 month ago

    This place is glorious. If you love diners, this is your place.

  • Susan Vishe
    2 month ago

    We have eaten breakfast there twice and enjoyed both. Best ham and cheese omelet in town. Great food and service at a reasonable price. Wish we had discovered this restaurant earlier. Small town hidden gem that's not fancy but serves great food!

  • Connie Bolick
    3 month ago

    I love going to Friendly lunch to eat. They are the only place in town who can get my country ham just right. The owners and staff are down to earth and very nice. It has that small town feel where friends and families can get together and enjoy a good meal around the table with that at home feel but with the blessing of others around you that you can laugh, talk, and just enjoy the moment with. Once you have been there a few times if you like to talk to people, you will become like family there.

Share Your Experience

Your Rating

Discover What Travelers Love About This Place

Real experiences, honest impressions, and insights shared by the Wherevi community to help you explore with confidence.