Why the diner is the ultimate symbol of America

With its chrome counter and cherry pie, the diner is an icon of American culture. What's the global appeal of this humble eatery, asks the BBC's Stephen Smith.

Sitting in a diner, on the inside looking outside. 

This is a quintessential American experience. Add a booth, a Formica counter and a cup of joe - as diner patrons call their coffee.

Themed restaurants and burger chains from Mumbai to Manchester aim to replicate this chrome-flashed experience, and diner fare such as home fries and fluffy pancakes are now global fast food staples.

So why are these kerbside kitchens a landmark of US culture?     More Raed