Even months after its doors closed, Prince Al’s continues to hold a special place in London hearts. The beloved downtown diner left behind a legacy of comfort food that locals still dream about, from their legendary garlic chicken burritos to those unforgettable milkshakes that could be spiked with a little something extra.
Recent online discussions among Londoners reveal just how much this Richmond Street institution is missed, with people sharing memories, favourite dishes, and even attempting to recreate recipes at home. The nostalgia runs deep, with many describing Prince Al’s as more than just a restaurant – it was a gathering place, a late-night refuge, and for some, the backdrop to life’s big moments.
The Garlic Chicken Burrito (GCB)
This was the dish that had people absolutely hooked. The GCB featured marinated chicken breast that was impossibly garlicky, wrapped in a grilled tortilla with melted cheese, romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, and covered in a creamy garlic dressing that some swear was unlike anything they’ve tasted elsewhere. Served with a dollop of sour cream and a dusting of paprika, it was often paired with rice and became the go-to order for countless regulars.
One former Prince Al’s employee shared what they remember of the recipe: chicken breasts marinated in oil, diced onion, lemon, and garlic powder, then cooked and broken into chunks. The secret creamy garlic dressing combined mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon, salt, and pepper. Many locals are still trying to perfect their own versions at home, though most admit nothing quite compares to the original.
The Wally Burger
This wasn’t just any burger – the Wally Burger featured peanut butter as a key ingredient, creating a combination that sounds unusual but was apparently mind-blowing. The burger gained such a reputation that it was even featured on the Food Network for being exceptionally good. Londoners still talk about catching a show at Call The Office, then heading to Prince Al’s for a Wally Burger and boozy milkshake combo.
The peanut butter element became so iconic that some locals still add peanut butter to their homemade burgers, inspired by their Prince Al’s memories. For many, it was their regular order for years, representing the kind of creative comfort food that made the diner special.
Deep-Fried Pierogis
Prince Al’s took the humble pierogi and elevated it into something extraordinary. These weren’t just any pierogis – they were deep-fried to golden perfection and often loaded with chili and cheese. They became a post-bar favourite, the kind of indulgent comfort food that hit perfectly after a night out downtown.
The pierogis were such a standout that they’re among the most frequently mentioned items when locals reminisce about the restaurant. While some point out they were likely frozen pierogis that were fried, the preparation and toppings made them something special that people still crave.
The Milkshakes
Prince Al’s milkshakes were legendary for multiple reasons. First, you could mix any two flavours – popular combinations included chocolate banana, strawberry banana, and peanut butter chocolate. But what really set them apart was that you could add alcohol to them, turning a simple milkshake into a boozy treat perfect for late-night dining.
Flavours like banana mint became cult favourites, and the thick, creamy consistency was exactly what you’d want after a night out or during a casual afternoon visit. Many locals describe these milkshakes as part of Prince Al’s charm – they were indulgent, customizable, and perfectly suited to the diner’s relaxed atmosphere.
Swiss Mushroom Burger
Another burger that earned its own following, the Swiss Mushroom Burger combined classic ingredients in a way that kept people coming back. Local food enthusiasts now recommend trying similar versions at other London restaurants like Burger Burger, though they admit it’s not quite the same as the Prince Al’s original.
Supreme Fries and Loaded Options
Prince Al’s fries weren’t just fries – they were an experience. The Supreme Fries were loaded with toppings that made them a meal on their own. The restaurant also served cheese fries that became a favourite among groups who would share a plate along with bottomless coffee while hanging out and socializing.
These loaded fries represented the kind of generous, no-holds-barred approach to comfort food that defined Prince Al’s. They were the perfect shareable option for groups of friends, especially during late-night visits.
The Heatwave Burger
For those who liked their food with a kick, the Heatwave Burger delivered the spice. This was another signature burger that earned its own loyal following, representing Prince Al’s ability to cater to different tastes while maintaining their comfort food focus.
Caesar Salad
Even their salads earned raves from customers. The Caesar salad featured exceptionally crisp lettuce and generous portions of croutons, proving that Prince Al’s attention to quality extended beyond their famous burgers and burritos. Locals remember it as surprisingly excellent, with some calling it the best Caesar salad they’d ever had.
Where You Might Still Find Prince Al’s Flavours
For those desperately missing their Prince Al’s favourites, there might be hope. The original owners, Betsy and Bill, now run Hi-Lunch next to Beal Secondary School, where their mom Pat had originally started. Locals report that you can still get the famous pierogis there, and sometimes they even run a Prince Al’s ghost kitchen operation.
While Hi-Lunch operates in a different location and setting, some of the same recipes and cooking techniques continue there. For those willing to make the trip, it might be the closest thing to reliving those Prince Al’s memories.
The ongoing conversations about Prince Al’s on local discussion boards show just how deeply the restaurant was woven into London’s social fabric. From proposal sites to regular family traditions, study spots to post-concert destinations, Prince Al’s was more than just a place to eat – it was a community cornerstone that locals clearly aren’t ready to forget.