A Smithfield, RI, Diner With a Pleasant View
Article and Photo by Eric H. After finding no pleasant views from surrounding split level ranches and apartment buildings, I resorted to a personal rationale regarding the origins of the Pleasant View Diner's name. I figured the pleasant view at this Smithfield, RI, location came from the inside where locals happily conversed with one another over cups of coffee, hearty plates of eggs, and a glance at the local newspaper and the small screen television -- with Sen. Joseph Biden (D-Del. and Vice Presidential candidate), at this given moment, ironically talking about small town American values. The crowd included kindly old men and women, a tough-looking but equally kindly guy with a billy goat goatee, caffeinated moms with naturally caffeinated children and young waitresses with an innate sense of how to be successful diner waitresses through down-to-earth conversations and efficient service. They all knew each other and seemed glad to know each other. Sitting on a stool at the cou...