The Record Grill

[Rick Waldroup]

The Record Grill - Dallas, Texas - March 7, 2016

Built in 1947, this joint is a true hole-in-the-wall.  It has a counter with six seats and maybe five tables.  They sling the hash right behind the counter.  The name comes from the fact that is was built directly across the street from the old Records Building in downtown Dallas.  I cannot tell you how many times over the years I have eaten breakfast there whenever I visit Dallas for a bit of street shooting.



 

[Bjørn Rørslett]

Now I understand the concept "hole-in-a-wall" much better !! Thanks, Rick. This must be a place with a character you succeeded in conveying.

[Akira]

Looks like a very intriguing place.  All the compositional elements fit together really well.

What exactly is the "Records Building"?  A recording studio, or a record pressing plant?

[Rick Waldroup]

Thanks for the comments. 

Akira, the old Records Building was where all of the county records were kept.  Back before the advent of computer storage, all county records were paper based.  Birth certificates, titles to property and automobiles, deeds, and so on were kept there.  Also across the street from the grill is the local FBI office, so it is not unusual to see office workers sitting side-by-side with FBI agents having breakfast or lunch.  It is very rare when I shoot inside the place.  They have a sign hanging inside that states, "No Wi-Fi Available.  Try Talking To Each Other."

[Bjørn Rørslett]

"No Wi-Fi Available.  Try Talking To Each Other."

Modern man should pay heed to the implied wisdom in this statement ....

[armando_m]

Good timing catching the man going into the place

Their burgers should be good if they have stayed open for such a long time

[BW]

Nice scene. I bet the foods there is great. I´m always surprised how good the food is, in these smal authentic restaurants

[Akira]

Rick, thanks for your explanation.  So, it was "that" record and not "this" record. 

Offering no wifi and suggesting real conversations seem to well reflect the hidden integrity of this old joint。

[Gary]

I absolutely love the photo.  I would certainly try their hash.

[Anirban Halder]

"Ice cold Coca-Cola sold here" .. that's an old world sign. 
Beautiful shot Rick and great bw conversation. Love it.

P.S: reminded me of Matt's Bar & Grill of Minneapolis, established in 1954, cash-only beer & burger joint.

[Ron Scubadiver]

Nice gritty scene.  Rick, I am not brave enough to eat there.

[Rick Waldroup]

I want to thank everyone for the comments.

Aw, Ron, you would  be just fine in there.  Good, greasy, cheap food and lively banter.  Nothing beats it....

[Ron Scubadiver]

Aw, Ron, you would  be just fine in there.  Good, greasy, cheap food and lively banter.  Nothing beats it....

Probably beats the sawdust burgers at Micky D's

[RBSinTo]

Rick,
Excellent, gritty image, that exudes "feel".
A greasy-spoon joint if there ever was one.
Good stuff, my friend.
Robert

[elsa hoffmann]

And here I thought records meant long-players

great image Rick