What's not to love about the best diners in NYC? The hustle and bustle of a busy city, music from a distant jukebox and the smell of freshly brewed coffee are enough to call any passer-by through the door. The best diners in NYC provide an iconic American feel that can make anyone feel nostalgic, plus they're known for serving up some incredible comfort food and cozy vibes.
Whether you're looking for classic burgers and shakes, homemade steaks and mashed potatoes, or a hearty breakfast with a twist, it's hard to beat a traditional diner. Check out our selection of the 15 best diners in NYC to discover your new place to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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- Find the best places to eat in NYC
- Best diners in NYC
Find the best places to eat in NYC
There are so many wonderful diners and restaurants in NYC, it would be impossible to list them all. They say experience is the best teacher, so discover the best diners in NYC by signing up for a food tour. Withmadture i NYC, you'll be able to explore the city, taste new foods, and learn about the rich history behind many of New York's most famous eateries.
Best diners in NYC
1. Jackson Hole
Its name might make you think of a hole-in-the-wall type of restaurant, butJackson Holeis actually one of the best diners in NYC for traditional American food in a snappy retro atmosphere. Jackson Hole was founded in 1972 and is located in Astoria Heights near LaGuardia Airport. Diner, who was briefly in the hit filmGoodfellas, also has several spin-off burger restaurants located around New York City.
Vibe
From the moment you set eyes on the shiny aluminum exterior and intricate neon signs, you'll be charmed by Jackson Hole. Inside, you'll find classic checkerboard tiles, vinyl seats, a jukebox, a life-size Betty Boop and much more. Jackson Hole is one of the best diners in New York for mid-century nostalgia.
What to order
If you are looking forbest NYC burgerSome would say Jackson Hole is where you get it. This is the place to go if you enjoy a thick, juicy beef patty with extra American cheese and all the fixin's. Pair your lunch or dinner with a classic Jackson Hole milkshake made with vanilla ice cream, banana, peanut butter and caramel sauce.
Jackson Hole| 69-35 Astoria Blvd., Jackson Heights, NY 11370 | $$
2. Times Square Diner & Grill
Times Square Diner & Grill, located in the theater district, is a beautiful contemporary dining room serving classic classics. Famous for their brunch and breakfast, Times Square Diner is one of the best places to eat in NYC to greet the day with friends or fuel up for a big day in the Big Apple.
Vibe
Times Square Diner offers a classic experience with an art deco feel that sets them apart from the other top diners in NYC. High teal ceilings feature arched architecture and rows of hanging bulbs. The restaurant also features a lovely full bar, booth seating and dark subway tiles to create an understated yet glamorous ambiance, perfect for a hearty brunch.
What to order
The Times Square Diner serves three meals a day, but you won't want to miss out on their breakfast options like stacked French toast, buttermilk pancakes, and omelets. The classic eggs Benedict is a popular choice here, served with hollandaise sauce, ham, English muffin and hash potatoes.
Times Square Diner & Grill| 807 Eighth Ave., New York, NY 10019 | $$
3. Waverly Diner
A local favorite since 1980,Waverly Dineris located in the West Village and is one of the bestplaces to eat in NYCfor a classic hearty breakfast or burger. Fans have flocked to the Waverly Diner for decades for its cozy hometown atmosphere and extensive menu options. This is one of the best places to eat in NYC if you want to avoid the overpriced and overdressed brunch crowds and dig into a tasty meal at home.
Vibe
Waverly Diner feels both retro and timeless. Customers say they've had the same cozy wooden walls, red leather booths and antique light fixtures for years, and the ambiance is sure to make everyone feel at home, no matter where you're from. This is one of the best places to eat in NYC for everyday meals that never get old.
What to order
Waverly Diner has an impressive 24-page menu, including dozens of omelet options sure to please any sweet breakfast lover. Try the classic Western omelet with green peppers, onions and ham or a Canadian bacon and Swiss omelet served with hash browns and toast.
Waverly Diner| 385 Sixth Ave., New York, NY 10014 | $$
4. Veselka
Merry Christmasis a very well knownEast Village restaurantserving traditional Ukrainian soul food in a classic diner atmosphere. Here you can find a welcome break from your typical burger and fries and instead treat yourself to dishes such as pierogi, holubtsi and chicken schnitzel. Open for three meals a day, Veselka is one of the best diners in NYC that thinks outside the red, white and blue box.
Vibe
Veselka feels a lot like any of the other top diners in NYC, with ample tables and chairs, checkered floors, a laminated menu and Coca-Cola memorabilia. However, Veselka is also elaborately decorated with Ukrainian artwork, trinkets and artefacts. This diner truly celebrates America's melting pot experience and encourages visitors to enjoy and learn about Ukrainian culture.
What to order
Holubtsi, or stuffed cabbage, is a go-to dish here, filled with tasty butternut squash and rice or beef, pork and rice, and topped with tasty mushroom gravy or tomato sauce. Veselka also offers a special "Stand With Ukraine" bowl, the proceeds of which are donated to Ukrainian relief efforts.
Merry Christmas| 115 Delancey St., New York, NY 10002 | $$
5. B&H Dairy
Ask anyone about the best diners in NYC and you're bound to hear backB&H Dairymentioned a few times. This quaint restaurant opened in 1938 and has reigned as one of the best and only kosher vegetarian restaurants for decades. Stop by B&H Dairy whenever you're craving comforting deli foods like challah bread, matzo ball soup, pierogies and tuna sandwiches.
Vibe
B&H Dairy is a small restaurant with a few wooden tables and chairs, limited dining space at the bar and a small covered terrace. This is one of the best diners in NYC to enjoy a delicious, no-frills meal with a friend or grab a quick lunch before exploring othersthings to do in NYC.
What to order
You may have tried French toast, but what about French toast made with challah bread? B&H Dairy gives this classic breakfast product a twist that will warm you from the inside out on the coldest New York days. If you're more in a savory mood, grab the warm and crispy tuna meal or a cup of their fresh matzo ball soup.
B&H Dairy| 127 Second Ave., New York, NY 10003 | $
6. Toms
Tomsis not only one of the best diners in NYC, it's also a pop culture icon. This restaurant in Prospect Heights served as the muse for the song "Tom's Diner" by Suzanne Vega and the beloved exterior filming location for early episodes ofSeinfeld. Besides being a must-see famous New York eatery, Tom's is also a great place to enjoy reliable American cuisine, breakfast and brunch.
Vibe
While you're "waiting for the man to pour the coffee," take a look around Tom's eccentric and eclectic dining room. Artwork, news clippings, stained glass windows, checkered floors and vintage wood paneling surround this cozy establishment. This so-called "greasy spoon" is one of the best diners in NYC to enjoy a casual, comforting lunch or dinner with friends. Tom's does not accept credit or debit cards, so be sure to bring plenty of cash!
What to order
If you eat at Tom's, order a cup of their fresh coffee. In addition to a great cup of coffee, Tom's also serves up some incredible pancake varieties, including unique options like lemon ricotta, mango walnut, and cranberry sweet corn. Is it too late? No problems; Tom's serves breakfast all day.
Toms| 782 Washington Ave., New York, NY 11238 | $$
7. Johny's Luncheonette
After serving the city for over 20 years,Johny's Luncheonetteis arguably the best diner in NYC for a quick, no-frills bite to eat. Johny's Luncheonette is located in Chelsea and serves a selection of hearty breakfast plates, sandwiches, wraps and salads at modest prices. If you forgot to pack a lunch for the office, or you need cold cuts after a long walk in the park, Johny's Luncheonette is the place to go.
Vibe
Johny's Luncheonette may seem unassuming from the outside, but this narrow alley kitchen is one of the best eateries in NYC that remains a local secret. Inside you will find tin ceilings, patterned tiled floors and a long bar where you can watch the chefs grilling fresh food. Johny's has limited bar stools and a few small tables, so it's great for enjoying a solo lunch or grabbing a sandwich.
What to order
Johny's is one of the best diners in NYC for a classic grilled cheese sandwich with tomato, bacon or ham, perfectly gooey cheese and crispy browned edges. Pair your sandwich with a side of onion rings, fries or coleslaw and a house lemonade for a delicious homestyle lunch.
Johny's Luncheonette| 124 W. 25th St., New York, NY 10001 | $$
8. Eating place
We didn't forget to include the name of this one! Simply called "Diner, "this best diner in NYC serves upscale takes on South Williamsburg crowd favorites, including grass-fed beef burgers, frittatas, yogurt parfait and cocktails. This is the best NYC diner to go to when you're craving a step up from your neighborhood greasy spoon .
Vibe
Diner has a very unique interior that feels like an old converted subway car. Aluminum and vinyl bar stools, bench booths, vintage penny tiles and a full bar will welcome you as soon as you walk in the door. The restaurant is both cool and classic, especially in the evening when it is lit by candles and perfect for a uniquedate night i NYC.
What to order
For brunch, you can go for a tasty egg sandwich with scrambled eggs, havarti and Calabrian chili aioli or brioche French toast with whipped butter, rhubarb jam and maple syrup. If you fancy dinner at the Diner, you can't go wrong with a classic grass-fed burger with white cheddar, pickled onions and lettuce on a potato roll.
Diner| 85 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$
9. Mom's Kitchen & Bar
Mac and cheese, mocktails and milkshakes galore -Mother's Kitchen & Baris the place to go for homestyle comfort foods with a grown-up twist. Mom's Kitchen & Bar is one of the best places to eat in NYC to find fun and funky dishes like chicken and waffles, the "pancake burrito" and infamous candy-laced cocktails. With two locations in Astoria and Midtown, there's no excuse not to visit your mom.
Vibe
While this top NYC diner was established relatively recently, Mom's Kitchen & Bar gives off decidedly retro vibes. Both locations feature funky zigzag tiles, colorful artwork and whimsical decor such as plastic flamingos and vintage trinkets. This is the best diner in NYC to meet up with friends who are forever young at heart.
What to order
The pancake burrito is like the breakfast food of dreams, and you can only find it at one of the best eateries in NYC: Mom's. Imagine scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, sausage and bacon rolled into a large buttermilk pancake and drizzled with generous amounts of maple syrup. Be sure to treat yourself to a giant bubbly milkshake or decadent mocktail here too!
Mother's Kitchen & Bar| More places | $$
10. Bonbonniers
Out of everyoneWest Village restaurants, La Bonbonniere is one of the best diners in NYC to enjoy a hot and hearty breakfast and a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Despite being located in a trendy and popular area,bonbonniershas great prices, with many dishes falling under $10, ensuring that no one has to walk away still feeling hungry.
Vibe
La Bonbonniere is one of the best diners in NYC to lift your spirits on a cold, groggy morning. Inside the dining room, you'll find retro red barstools, chairs and tables, and the walls are decorated with vintage art, photographs and news clippings. La Bonbonniere is a relaxed homely diner through and through, with a relaxed atmosphere and food that impresses.
What to order
La Bonbonniere has an extensive menu, so feel free to browse their options, but if you're looking for a go-to dish, opt for the classic two-egg breakfast served your way with ham, bacon or sausage. Paired with a fresh cup of joe, this plate from one of the best diners in NYC is sure to fuel you through the busiest of days.
bonbonniers| 28 Eighth Ave., New York, NY 10014 | $
11. Old John's Diner
Old John's Dineris one of the best diners in NYC to relax and unwind after attending an exciting play or performance. Old John's Diner was originally established in 1951, but moved to its current home in 1998. Although the restaurant has moved, reopened and renovated since its birth, Old John's has always maintained its reputation as one of the best diners in NYC.
Vibe
After a temporary closure during the Covid-19 pandemic, Old John's Diner was renovated by a former employee who made it his mission to preserve as much of the old vintage charm as possible while giving the restaurant a refreshing facelift. The result is a bright and charming dining room with white walls, a full bar, leather booths and art deco details. This is the best dining room in NYC to bring friends or family for a cheerful and nostalgic dinner.
What to order
There's nothing better than your own mom's meatloaf, but "My Momma's Meatloaf" at Old John's Diner certainly comes close. This dinner plate includes two generous slices of meatloaf served with mashed potatoes, French beans, brown butter, almonds and brown gravy. After dinner, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with an ice cream sundae or sour cherry sorbet. For breakfast or brunch, avocado toast is a must.
Old John's Diner| 148 W. 67th St., New York, NY 10023 | $$
12. Golden Diner
If you're looking for the best diner in NYC in the Two Bridges area, look no furtherGolden Diner. This highly acclaimed restaurant serves traditional dinner fare and some unexpected and Asian-inspired options, such as vegan nachos, lemongrass avocado toast and Thai Cobb salad. While their menu may be unique, the restaurant itself provides the same classic American diner vibe we've all come to know and love.
Vibe
Golden Diner's dining room is about as classic, warm and cozy as you can get. Surrounded by clean white walls, exposed brick, and large front windows, Golden Diner features several retro bar stools, booths, and tables, making it one of the best NYC eateries to accommodate you and a date or a small group friends.
What to order
The chicken katsu club sandwich is a very popular option here, with chicken cutlets, bacon, lettuce, tomato, red cabbage slaw and Bull-Dog Tonkatsu sauce served with fries. The Thai Cobb Salad is also a hit for something on the lighter side. If you're more in a breakfast mood, try the Chinatown egg and cheese sandwich with scrambled eggs, American cheese and a hash brown patty on a sesame seed bun.
Golden Diner| 123 Madison St., New York, NY 10002 | $$
13. Lexington Candy Shop
Lexington Candy Storeis one of the best diners in NYC for that "time capsule" experience. Since 1925, this iconic soda fountain shop and famous New York eatery has been serving up delicious treats to locals and tourists alike, and they're as relevant today as they were nearly a hundred years ago.
Vibe
Barely touched in the last century, the Lexington Candy Shop still has a long soda bar and several green vinyl booths, making them one of the best places to eat in NYC for that "old New York" vibe. In the large shop window, the store displays vintage soda bottles, and many of the milkshake and ice cream machines look like they did back then. If you have elderly friends or relatives, they will definitely get a kick out of this time capsule restaurant.
What to order
The Lexington Candy Shop serves up lovely lunch and breakfast options, but if you're going to make the trip out to this Upper East Side restaurant, order a drink special. Try an iced soda, creamsicle freeze or malted milkshake made with real malt powder. This is the best diner in NYC for old fashioned drinks that are sure to bring back memories.
Lexington Candy Store| 1226 Lexington Ave., New York, NY 10028 | $$
14. Clarks Restaurant
If you're on the hunt for the best diners in NYC's Brooklyn area, you'll definitely want to hear about itClarks restaurant. Clark's has been serving patrons from Brooklyn and beyond for over 30 years. Fans of Clark's rave about their large portions, friendly staff, and old-school New York atmosphere.
Vibe
Clark's captures the old New York feel with dark wood beadboard, large glass windows, vaulted ceilings and vibrant plants. Shades of red, brown and beige create a warm, cozy environment perfect for gently easing into the day or relaxing with a comforting dinner. With ample indoor and outdoor seating available, this is the best diner in NYC to bring a small group for a healthy and filling brunch.
What to order
Clark's has an impressive breakfast, lunch and dinner selection, but one of their most famous dishes is their classic eggs Benedict with poached eggs, hollandaise, Canadian bacon and an English muffin. Pair your breakfast with a macchiato, Americano or iced caramel mocha for the best morning ever.
Clarks restaurant| 80 Clark St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 | $$
15. Grand Canyon Restaurant
If you are ready to take a break from your typicalNYC foods, grab a bite from south of the border atGrand Canyon Restaurant, one of the best diners in New York. Grand Canyon Restaurant in Brooklyn Heights serves your favorite American diner fare, but many with a Southwestern or Mexican flair, like scrambled eggs with chorizo, chilaquiles or a Montague sandwich.
Vibe
Like their menu, Grand Canyon Restaurant's dining room is your classic American-style space with touches of Mexican and South American decor. Inside, you'll find a full wine bar, bar stools, wooden tables, and wall art by Mexican artists. This is among the best diners in NYC to fuel up for a busy day or unwind with a casual dinner.
What to order
Cure your morning pig at the best diner in NYC with a big plate of huevos rancheros, two eggs over medium with fried corn tortillas, refried black beans, rice, sauce, sour cream and cotija cheese and your choice of avocado, chorizo, steak or chicken. Alternatively, try a Western breakfast wrap with eggs, ham, green pepper, onion and cheese. And if you somehow have room to spare, grab a slice of cheesecake!
Grand Canyon Restaurant| 143 Montague St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 | $$
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The best diners in NYC do more than just serve delicious meals; they are also icons of their communities and important places to relax and absorb the New York cultural experience. Whether you're craving a fresh cup of coffee, a quick and tasty lunch, or just a few minutes to rest your feet, you can count on the best diners in NYC to have everything you need and more.
For even more ways to explore NYC and beyond, check out other experiences happening at Cozymeal.