50 Best Diners in New York

“I really enjoyed this place. It has some retro charm. It even had a Photos booth and the food was good. The desserts were amazing. Largest milkshake I’ve ever seen in person and the staff was really nice and friendly and Alfredo the manager was really good guy.“

“1st time visiting,the staff were lovely and food amazing On my next visit I will be back“

“Happened by this place while exploring SOHO. The service was great, we moved from the bar to a table to get a little more comfortable and the staff were really accommodating of that. We ordered the cheeseburger and a French Dip and a side fries. Both were amazing. The cheese was pouring off the burger in the most delicious way. The roast beef and baguette for the French Dip were exceptional quality and flavor. The fries were seasoned with garlic oil. Both dishes came with absolutely delicious pickle chips. We would definitely go back the next time we're in the area.“

“directly around the corner of hotel 17, joe jr is not a hot spot or insta worthy eatery. it is jus a regular diner for everyone. diverse menu, affordable prices and a quality you’d miss at a regular fast food stop. you dont have to rush or push to get what you want.
if you wanna feel the true spirit of eating out in nyc.
dont stress yourself, ny has a lot to offer, and not everything that yells for attention is worth the effort, otherwise you d miss out on true nyc institutions.“

“We just had brunch in West way Diner and it was 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Choosing was really difficult as I wanted a bit of everything - really extensive menu, so so good! Servers were fab, attentive but not intrusive. Refillable drinks were available . Highly recommend,. definitely worth a visit 🌟❤️“

“Excellent diner overall. Highly recommend.“

“GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE+1(8O5)-41O 5OO2 NO NONSENSE AND GREAT ASSISTANCE!!!“

“I’ve spent untold thousands of dollars on NYC cuisine; truly amongst the best in the world. Townhouse Diner, however, sticks out as truly one of my most memorable dining experiences. The owner, John Vouvoudakis, is a national treasure and an icon of the Greek/diner tradition. Since 1986, he has been in everyday welcoming customers with warmth, hospitality, and a smile. I loved chatting with him and hearing about his story and his multi-generational restauranteur journey. His sons are also in the business and roast the beans that make his coffee. The waitress was happy, cheerful, helpful, and my coffee was topped off before ever getting halfway empty. This place is an actual time capsule. The family and history behind it make this a must-stop if you’re in the area. For as classic a NYC diner experience as you can get, this is your place.“

“I first went here before a show a few years ago and I had a phenomenal experience then. I had a braised short rib dish of some kind, and it was delicious.

On my birthday, I had plans to see a movie at the AMC and this restaurant was the first place I thought of for a late breakfast/lunch. I got the mushroom/spinach omelette with their potatoes (which I specifically ordered well done, and they did it PERFECTLY), and a side of their sausage. DELICIOUS. The black and white malted milkshake was as satisfying as I could’ve expected.

I went again a couple weeks later for another lunch, and had an even better experience. The corned beef hash and eggs was truly incredible. My partner also loved her huevos rancheros. Benny at the bar remembered us from our last visit, and gave us the best service you could ever ask for both times.

Edit: This has been our new go-to spot. So I’ve added more photos from our visits.“

“Delicious food. You get a lot of food for the price. Great NYC diner!“

“I didn’t expect a full blown broadway show experience in a restaurant! If you want show tunes and pop music served with a plate of great food then this is the place for you! Our server Brandi M. belted out a wicked version of The wizard and I! I ordered the BLT with avocado and waffle fries and my friend ordered the chicken and waffles. Both were delicious.“

“Thanksgiving Day Special was amazing !!!! If you come to NYC, you better eat at this place !!!! Off the hook…… Amazing !!!!!“

“Fantastic food awesome service. 10/10 from me“

“The food isn’t exceptional, the atmosphere is basic at best. BUT for a local diner that essentially caters to seniors, this place is both affordable and offers the right amount of service. They’ve been around forever for a reason!“

“Amazing food as always. Been three times so far and I will be back again this week for more 👌🏻“

“I was recommended this diner by a family member, and it didn't disappoint.
Just a short walk from one of the staircases on the High Line, The Empire Diner is a great place to eat, a lovely timeless place ( Manhattan seems to have lost so many since my last visit ), lots of stainless steel features. They also play some lovely relaxing music in the background that just compliments the whole experience.
I didn't have a reservation, but they were able to accommodate me immediately.
I was there for breakfast and chose smoked salmon pastrami.
It comes with poached eggs, which I'm not a fan of, but the waiter was more than happy to switch that for scrambled eggs instead.
The food was lovely, and the service was brilliant.
Once you're done, it's just a short walk back to rejoin the High Line.“

“Amazing breakfast and we where very well looked after👍💵good price“

“Ask for John at John’s Coffee Shop! 🙌🏽 He was an excellent server and charming! 😊 Just like the diner. Trust me, get the pancakes!! They’re so thick and delicious! 😋 I’ll be visiting my son, John, who started college here so I’ll be back again and again! Til next time!“

“This diner is excellent. Food and service fantastic. Great vibe! We came to NY from London for Christmas and my son's 40th and wanted an iconic diner. Thank you to Genevieve and staff for your fantastic welcome! Sarah“

“The stuff are accommodating and nice.“

“Great service, food and atmosphere“

“Gracie Mews Diner is an exceptional restaurant that truly embodies the essence of a classic American diner experience. From the moment you walk through the doors, you are greeted with warm hospitality and a charming retro ambiance that instantly transports you back in time. The menu at Gracie Mews Diner is a delightful fusion of traditional diner favorites and innovative culinary creations. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty stack of pancakes for breakfast, a juicy burger for lunch, or a comforting plate of pasta for dinner, fish and steaks, there is something to satisfy every craving. What sets Gracie Mews Diner apart from other establishments is their commitment to using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. The staff at Gracie Mews Diner are friendly, attentive, and always ready to go the extra mile to ensure your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you'll be treated like family from the moment you step foot in the door. In addition to the delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, Gracie Mews Diner also offers a wide variety of beverages, cocktails and decadent desserts. Treat yourself to a creamy milkshake or indulge in a slice of their homemade pie - you won't be disappointed. Overall, Gracie Mews Diner is a hidden gem that deserves all the praise it receives. With its delectable menu, friendly service, and charming ambiance, it is the perfect place to gather with friends and family for a memorable dining experience. So, don't wait any longer - head to Gracie Mews Diner and prepare to be wowed!“

“Maria was a wonderful waitress. The food was excellent. Thanks for a memorable dinner“

“Great traditional diner, nice atmosphere albeit we went outside the busy time. Clean , cool (it was mid summer hot outside), service efficient , helpful, and friendly. Food good & tasty and as you would expect in a diner. Easy to get to, prices reasonable for NY, especially compared to central Manhattan. I liked this place, try it, I think you will too.“

“Great food and service, highly recommended“

“Among the best oatmeal I’ve ever had! Request they make it with almond milk. Theirs is smooth & creamy.
Staff are extremely attentive & accommodative.
The place is modern, bright & cheery and not too loud.“

“Stopped by Tria Bakery Cafe Diner while waiting out a 2-hour wait at Golden Diner. We were starving and didn’t want to stand around in the cold, and this place ended up being the perfect move. It’s only about a 6-minute walk from Golden Diner, and we were able to sit down, stay warm, and enjoy good food and coffee while we waited. Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and exactly what we needed. Definitely glad we came here.“

“Loved it here! the vibe is cute and chic, the music is on point, the drinks are perfectly balanced, and the rooftop has stunning views. Aryn was super attentive when I came here with my girls in July and we’re coming back again to close out the summer over another Passion Bloom with our brunch🍸“

“Please make your next night out at Crispin's. I came here on a Friday night on a fluke because it was raining and got sangria to pass the storm. It quickly turned into wine, free bread, and the best pappardelle bolognese I've had (and priced so well at $18 for fresh pasta). The owner was so great, and I genuinely hope his business succeeds as much as he was so nice to me. Definitely worth a visit!“

“Everything I've had here has been amazingly good. Best Gyro platter. Good pastrami sandwich. Meatloaf dinner was great. Fries are awesome. What's best is the courteous and fast service.“

“The beste place for breakfast lunch and dinner. Fast and friendly staff and great food. My go to place when visiting New York“

“We found this special place about 15 years ago and have been going here ever since, mostly recently on September 10th. The food is always good and the service is great. Wish there was a Nashville location 😄 The owner is super nice. My husband and I told him this last time we were there how long we’ve been coming and how we always enjoy it so much. We talked to him for probably 5-10 minutes and he is the friendliest guy! Applejack is somewhere we always look forward to going to when we’re in the city and always recommend to anyone going to NYC!“

“This place is a real gem. It’s quick, the service is great and it’s very efficient – exactly what you’d expect from a breakfast spot“

“Loved Jean’s. Such a great vibe, really fun energy, and the food was so yummy. Service was also excellent — everyone was super nice, attentive and made the whole night feel easy. Just a really great dinner and overall experience. Will definitely be back.“

“BEST TURKEY CLUB IN THE WORLD!!!“

“I’ll start by saying this place was so delicious! I got the chicken wrap and my grandma got the Rueben and we both loved it! And the staff was soooo nice like such amazing people. I wish I knew the servers name cause she was amazing so nice. And the manager or owner even gave us 2 free cookies! I would definitely come back next time I’m in nyc!!“

“le brunch le plus incroyable de New York, Des pancakes exceptionnel en quantité gargantuesque Beaucoup de choix et un service très sympathique“

“Great food. Nice staff. Great family environment.“

“Hospitable staff. Great Cheeseburger Deluxe. Fries weren't greasy. Lettuce and tomato was fresh. Coffee was good. Bathroom was clean.“

“Ate here several times with a friend a few years ago and just walked by yesterday and was reminded. It is good for what it is: diner food. I always get the eggs and hashbrowns—no nonsense and good. I think it is better and I’m pretty sure it is more expensive than the more famous Washington Square Diner across 6th Ave.“

“Always heard about NY diners and we were told this was one of the most authentic old school ones. We certainly loved it. I had a standard cheeseburger. So much better than the ones in our hometown. She had waffles. She loved them. They were huge!!“

“Great food, friendly service, generously poured Long Island Iced Tea. ❤️“

“Had a lovely waiter and enjoyed my first visit at the Gemini diner! my boyfriend took me and I smiled at everyone there 💯 lovely vibes & atmosphere would come again. P.s I expressed great thanks to people there (this is my first review) and was so kind to me🥹“

“Originally went to Diner 24 but left to how busy and
Wait times were. Googled other diners and decided to come here! Best choice we made. This diner is calm, friendly , and very nyc. The food was delicious! I’m a sticker for diner food and when the toast is delicious , you know the food will be amazing. Got the brunch deal that brings 2 drinks (I chose mimosa) and steak + eggs. I left supremely satisfied and highly recommend this diner“

“Good Old-Fashioned Hamburgers with fries and onion rings. They also make incredible milkshakes. Love this place.“

“All Jimbo's are great. This one is the Leader of them All in every way!!! And they have a good relationship between each other and their customers! They treat customers special, like family! It's across the street from Harlen Hospital, which is good for people coming to visit from far away and need somewhere good to eat nearby.“

“Dudamos pero la comida estaba muy rica . Muy recomendado !!!“

“Went there on a nite break and it was amazing!!! Food,staff, service friendly place. Watched baseball while I was eating a giant price of cake. Delicious food,nice an fresh. I wish I didn't have to leave. I was so comfortable. Would b back anytime I'm in the area!! Salute!!“

“This Place Was Phenomenal Great Portions I Recommend The Steak Diner The Amount Of Food For The Price Was Amazing !“

“It's great, but it's SO expensive. I got an omelette which came with hash browns and toast-- $35 after tax, tip, and fees!!!

The chorizo omelette was very tasty. Staff was kind.

I would go again, but only occasionally because of the price. The reason is there are other high-end restaurants where I could have a fancier meal for a similar price, but that said I did still enjoy the food and the experience.“