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Welcome To The 88 Dip
The 88 Dip is a charming diner located in Marion, KY, evoking nostalgia with its retro atmosphere and diverse menu. Established in 1952, this local favorite began as an ice cream drive-in before evolving into a full-service eatery. Guests can indulge in a range of offerings from burgers and pizza to Southern classics like fried okra and bone-in wings. The standout feature is their extensive selection of milkshakes, reminiscent of grandma's homemade treats, rich and creamy. With friendly service and a welcoming vibe, The 88 Dip invites diners to relive memories while enjoying hearty, well-prepared meals.
About
The 88 Dip
Welcome to The 88 Dip, a beloved diner nestled in the heart of Marion, Kentucky, at 113 Sturgis Rd. With a charm that resonates through its retro aesthetic and a menu brimming with comfort food delights, this establishment captures the essence of a simpler time. Originally opened as an ice cream and shakes drive-in in 1952—an idea inspired by the nostalgic road trips to Chicago—it has transformed into a full-service diner and a cherished local staple.
As soon as you step through the doors, you're embraced by an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of classic diners from the '50s and '60s. The music, a lively mix spanning from the 60s to the 90s, enhances the overall experience, reminding patrons of carefree days gone by. Here, every visit feels personalized, as the friendly staff greets you with warmth and attentiveness that makes you feel part of the community.
The menu at The 88 Dip is a treasure trove of options. From their mouthwatering burgers, like the juicy Western Burger ($11.89) to the crispy Buffalo Crispy Chik Sand ($9.03), there's something for everyone. Diners rave about the Fried Blue Gill that tastes like home, and the incredible Mini Corn Dogs ($5.11) that evoke childhood memories. Each dish is crafted with love and a commitment to quality, ensuring flavor that resonates with every bite.
And we can't overlook the desserts! With sundaes and milkshakes made from what some customers claim is "home churned ice cream," every sweet treat is a delightful nod to nostalgia. The Butterscotch Milkshake has been described as tasting like "a creamy Werther's," reminiscent of cherished family recipes. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you back in time.
Reviewers consistently highlight the community vibe and exemplary service—where glasses are never empty and smiles are genuine. As one customer nostalgically noted, many aspects of The 88 Dip feel like stepping back into a place reminiscent of youth, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring country roads near Marion.
Whether you're stopping in for a casual lunch or indulging in a hearty dinner, The 88 Dip offers a delightful dining experience filled with delectable dishes and warm hospitality. So, when you're in the area, be sure to treat yourself to a meal here—it's not just food, it's a slice of Americana.
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“ Today we took a step back into the simpler life, similar to my early teens; a country Dairy Dip/Diner in Marion, KY. It gave us a Happy Days or Grease vibe; memories from our youth! Everyone was very sociable and courteous; greeting everyone. You'd think they knew us! Lol The music was a 60's - 90's mix and was fun to listen to, and think back on younger days. There were alot of options to eat; from burgers and fries, pizza, meat and 3 plate lunches, to shrimp, fish and even steak dinners...plus all the dairy dip favorites; cones, sundaes and milk shakes galore! Marvin had the large chocolate shake, I chose butterscotch! Omg, they tasted like grandma's, made with home churned ice cream and rich cocoa! Mine tasted like a creamy Werther's, in milkshake form. They were delicious...and huge! I think a small would have sufficed for me, had I know how big they were! I had fried Blue Gill, with fries and coleslaw. It was moist, flaky, not greasy and delicious! It tasted so fresh, I could almost imagine mom frying it up after a day of us fishing! Marvin got the Western Burger with fries and slaw. It was juicy and tasted awesome; like it just came off our back yard grill! Mom got the shrimp basket, with fries and slaw. She said it was really good, but she wouldn't share a piece, to let me find out for my self! Lol Our server was quick to respond; our glass was never empty and our service was great! It was a great afternoon; I highly recommend them, if you are ever out riding country roads near Marion, KY and looking for a great place to eat! ”
“ I really liked it for being my first time there the wings really were good they takes exactly like my favorite wings from Rally's my girl got the strawberry salad I like the chicken that was on it but for the price I paid I would have rather have the all you can eat crab oh well next time but I like the wings ”
“ We love nostalgic diners and this one suited us well. Named for the Oldsmobile Rocket introduced in 1952, the year the diner opened. At first it was an ice cream & shakes Drive In, which was a new style of dining that Jones & his partner observed on their driving trips to Chicago to pick up new Oldsmobiles for their car dealership. It quickly became a full service diner & a local favorite. The building was added to several times, overtaking most of the parking space for new Oldsmobiles at the dealership. There is no longer a dealership, just this quaint and very friendly diner. They have a huge menu and 8-10 daily blue-plate specials. Buddy got the Hot Brown with mashed potatoes (of course) & fried Okra. He said it was the best roast beef he had EVER had. I had the low carb chicken topped with Swiss, onions, & green peppers with a side of green beans (cooked with ham, naturally). Valerie topped up our teas several times and brought out the 2 page ice cream & shake menu. After difficult deliberation, he chose butter pecan. It was fabulous. We will return if we’re in Marion, KY again! ”
“ Delicious. All meals ordered were well prepared and flavorful. Pictured is the Tex Mex Salad. Shell was delicious. Vegetables were crisp. Meat was cooked perfectly. Parents, this restaurant does not skimp on kids meals. Restrooms and dining area were decently clean. Staff was friendly. ”
“ Last of a ("mom and pop") dying breed. Their softserve ice cream cones are a better deal than the Dairy Queen that's moved in almost on top of them(I can't stand people who rush to fish in your hole as soon as they see you catch something.) 88 Dip is a good deal, and an icon of an era gone by. ”
“ Went here for dinner and breakfast the next day while on a camping trip. What a wonderful place, the food was delicious, the service was great, and the vibe was very chill. Thanks for a great small-town experience! ”
“ This is an absolutely great place for a good diner type experience. If you’re looking for some good ole fashioned burgers and fries this is a great place to try. I had the Jumbo A1 burger with curly fries. It was amazing. Very big beef patty with plenty of A1 sauce. My girlfriend ordered the patty melt with pickle fries. The patty melt was cooked perfectly and the pickle fries were the best. Highly recommend 88 Dip if your in the area ”
“ Homey atmosphere, friendly service, varied menu, and delicious food. Even the bathrooms are pleasant! Definitely recommend stopping if you're wandering through that part of KY. ”