Hidden inside the darker corner of downtown East Lansing is a restaurant with the potential to become the best.

There aren't a lot of eateries in the area that serve diner fare, which makes it different. But it's not a standout.

Tony's Restaurant is a diner, but not a stereotypical roadside joint. It is a standard restaurant to get together and watch the game on one of several mounted televisions or study for the next big exam. But be sure to have something to concentrate on, because the food won't be a distraction.

The restaurant, located at 350 Albert Ave., has been downtown for about seven years.

The restaurant is part of a large, family-owned business with 18 restaurants across the state.

"The names are intertwined, but I'm free to do what I want here," said Anthony Lagalo, who runs this outlet with a partner.

The restaurant has built its customer base among all ages, not just college students.

"During the summertime, when the students are gone, you've got to have a regular clientele," he said.

The menu has all-American cuisine, with mostly burgers, sandwiches, pasta dishes and breakfasts.

"What we've tried to focus on is big portions at a cheaper price," Lagalo said. "A lot of restaurants are either quality or quantity. I try to meet them right down the middle."

All of the dinners are less than $7. For coffee fans, a cup is 95 cents, and a cappuccino or a latte cost a little more.

The quantities are big, but the quality is average. There seemed to be something missing from the eggs and corned beef hash, which doesn't stand out compared to any other restaurant's.

Economics junior James Slack has been to the restaurant and has mixed feelings about his visits.

"The first time, it was definitely good," Slack said. "It wasn't as good the second time around."

Slack did, however, note the excellent customer service.

"People need a good place to eat breakfast around here, and this could be that place," Slack said.