0 commentsThe American Heritage dictionary defines a Greasy Spoon as "a small, inexpensive, often unsanitary restaurant." The term "greasy spoon" speaks to careless dishwashing practices, hence grease on the cutlery. And, indeed, a certain level of carelessness is inherent to the Greasy Spoon tradition. Greasy Spoons are low on frills -- frills cost money, frills raise prices.