New York City undergoes constant evolution, yet its traditional greasy spoon diners remain steadfast. When seeking respite from the upscale dining establishments that populate the bustling metropolis, one can find solace in the timeless ambiance of an old-fashioned diner. These establishments offer a nostalgic experience complete with indulgent milkshakes and hearty dishes like oversized burgers accompanied by crispy home fries. For those exploring Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, consider visiting some of the city’s top diners for a taste of classic American comfort food.
Waverly Restaurant
Old school to the last drop, this corner joint is set in the West Village, serving triple-decker sandwiches, B.L.T.’s and vanilla milkshakes. It’s cash only, so don’t bring plastic, but it’s open 24 hours and breakfast is served at all times. Worth a visit for late at night or early morning.
Katz’s Delicatessen
This Brooklyn hotspot is classic New York – order a pastrami sandwich on rye bread with pickles and a celery soda. In this same location since 1888, this is one of the shooting locations from When Harry Met Sally, starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.
Tom’s Restaurant
This old Brooklyn establishment set on Washington Avenue is just a short walk from Prospect Park. What sets it apart from the other diners is its old school tradition of serving free coffee to its customers and free snacks for those waiting in line to be seated. It hasn’t been redesigned for decades, so the decor is filled with kitschy art and string lighting. Try the whole wheat pancakes and chocolate French toast.
Long Island Bar
This classic bar from the 1950s is like a walk back in time. Set in the heart of Brooklyn, they have a wild cocktail list and bar food that ranges from nachos to home fries. The vinyl booths are over 50 years old and the wooden bar is the same, too. Just look for the right neon sign, which casts a glow onto the city street.
Nectar
Just a block from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this Greek diner is known for their greasy hashbrowns, which comes as a side dish to many meals. They also have several Milanese dishes, from pasta to pizza. For dessert, indulge in the chocolate lava cake. Be prepared to sit at the counter if it’s busy, though the stools are super comfy.
Lexington Candy Shop
Looking for an authentic milkshake? Stop by this Manhattan classic restaurant in the Upper East Side to try out some vintage classics, from a vanilla milkshake to hamburger and fries. Stop by for Sunday brunch to have pancakes with maple syrup and bananas.
Cafe Sabarsky
For a taste of Europe, try this Austrian café and diner, Set in midtown, it’s founded by Serge Sabarsky, an art gallerist who wanted to bring a Viennese cafe to the city, the interior design brings a bit of the Old World to Manhattan with European furniture by Josef Hoffmann and Adolf Loos. Try the traditional Viennese coffee paired with desserts that includes the classic apple strudel drenched in vanilla sauce.
Bel Aire Diner
If you’re in Queens, stop by this legendary Art Deco-designed diner, which is owned by the local Dellaportas family. Since 1972, they’ve been providing Greek-inspired fare on their enormous menu, which boasts over 900 items: including spinach pies, moussaka and the insatiable Greek salad.
Square Diner
Sitting in this aluminum-clad diner makes you feel like you’re sitting on a train car. Even though it’s in the pricey TriBeCa neighborhood, this 1920s diner hasn’t changed much. While it’s known as the filming set for TV series like Gotham and Daredevil, try the classic hamburger with homefries followed by the fluffy carrot cake.
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