Van's Spa — Restaurant in Bristol

Moved up to Bristol from Jersey about 6 months ago. I don't know about Van or Spa, but I do know classic diners. Van's is as close to a diner or luncheonette as you will find around here. Especially within walking distance of Town Common. But, it really should be called Manny's Place. Yes, there is Hope Diner and the many cafes on Hope Street. They are adorable. But the vibe is just not the same as this historic and humble spot. You will bust your gut without busting your budget. Just be forewarned, the self-proclaimed 'grumpy old man' may bust you a bit though. It's all just part of the flavor. Burgers are big. Breakfasts are solid. The chili is pretty unique and the Portuguese soup is down home good. You must try this joint at least once to round out your...

let me start off by saying the owner Manny let me hang an ad for my rap mixtape in high school ten years ago, and that ad still hangs in that restaurant bathroom today.

cheapest, best value meal in the area. For the price, the quality will surprise you. Keep an eye out in your order of home fries or french fries, always a couple surprise treats in there. Manny is an original, he’ll start off haggling you but by the end of your stay you’ll be saying WOW too!

my grandfather stabbed manny through the hand with a pencil in elementary school, yet he still always throws me a couple grilled pastries whenever i pick up.

Thanks Manny & Rego Family for everything you do for me, and the rest of your adoring east bay community. We all love you...

The food is great. The service is great. The atmosphere is terrific. But nobody comes for that. You go to Van’s Spa to see Manny, and Manny did not disappoint. If you have ever worked in the food industry, you understand the disdain for your customers. Well Manny does not hold back the thoughts all food industry workers have had, which is terrific. He has no bureaucracy to report to. This is his restaurant and he can say whatever he wants to whoever and it is an awesome, humbling, and beautiful experience to see this angry...