WE GO WAY BACK!

Lou’s is a vintage family-owned and operated diner that serves up affordable homemade items and classic diner fare for both Las Vegas locals and visitors. The secret to our charm? We stick to our roots. Not much has changed since the diner first opened over 50 years ago in 1969 under the name Jo-Ells. 

We are proud to be a living slice of Las Vegas history, and we appreciate you taking the time to stroll down memory lane with us. 

Fall, 1969
the debut of jo-ells

Jo and Ellen Fallon put Jo-Ells on the map. Tucked away on the outskirts of Las Vegas near Alta & Decatur, the diner becomes the go-to spot as folks line up for the only restaurant off The Strip for miles.

July, 1972
lou joins the party

In walks the spunky, energetic Louise "Lou" Walters. Knowing a good thing when they see it, Jo & Ellen snatch Lou up on the spot. Lou and her three boys, Kip, Jeff, and Kevin, become part of the Jo-Ells family, with the boys growing up to bus tables and wash dishes as each comes of age.

1985
Jo and Ellen hand over the reins

Upon their retirement in 1985, Jo and Ellen sell their beloved restaurant to Kwak and Yee Ho. The restaurant again changes hands in 1994 when Chris Ells becomes the new owner. Lou continues to work at Jo-Ells throughout the years. 

November, 1997
lou's diner is born

25 years later, Lou finally decides it’s time. She and hubby, Jim Lauber, take a a leap of faith, putting a mortgage on their house to purchase Jo-Ells. Lou’s Diner is born and quickly becomes a family affair as everyone, including the kids and grandkids, proudly put in the elbow grease to make it a success.

December 9, 2015
lou's legacy lives on

After 18 years at the helm, Lou and Jim are ready to hang up their aprons - but they’re not passing on their cherished diner to just anyone. Enter Brian and Julie, a dynamic duo determined to keep Lou’s legacy alive. After imparting their thriving diner wisdom, Lou and Jim place the spatula in Brian and Julie's capable hands. And the rest, as they say, is history!

MEET THE OWNERS

Brian and Julie are the hardworking and proud owners of Lou’s Diner. They are also dedicated parents to their son, Matthew, a budding NHL star!