The Gardiner, Maine diner opened for business in 1946. Originally, Bridge Street Lunch, then Heald's Diner, and since 1988, the A1.

The cook's gotta work fast.

Mike Giberson, the most active owner, is in the kitchen by 5am. He starts with dozens of biscuit. For the breakfast rush, he's pushing food out to the counter.

Here's what Mike sees, from the kitchen.

Coffee Break

This image was juried into the Maine State Photography Show, and bought by a consultant to the Portland Art Museum.

Neil Anderson, co-owner of the diner, gave the neon sign to Mike as a gift before they moved to Gardiner.  It came in handy.