Best of 12 diners in Midtown NYC
Diners in Midtown NYC are a quintessential part of the city's culinary scene. These establishments, known for their cozy atmosphere and comfort food, offer a wide variety of options to satisfy every craving. Whether you're looking for a classic breakfast spread, a hearty sandwich, or a delicious dinner, diners in Midtown NYC have got you covered. With their affordable prices and friendly service, they are the perfect spot to grab a bite and experience the Big Apple's charm.
1. Murray Hill Diner
A true taste of American diner classics.

Murray Hill Diner is an excellent choice for a satisfying breakfast experience. Its consistency in providing high-quality diner-style food over the past 18 years has earned it a positive reputation. The staff is known for their politeness and friendliness, creating a welcoming atmosphere despite the constant crowd.
Visitors looking for an authentic American diner experience while in New York should consider Murray Hill Diner. Its breakfast offerings are top-notch and reasonably priced, featuring large portions of potatoes and toast served with most dishes. The diner is a hidden gem that serves as a delightful culinary discovery for tourists staying nearby.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
2. Brooklyn Diner USA
Celebrating American ethnic dishes from Brooklyn.

This establishment offers a delightful step back in time, reminiscent of traditional American diners. Patrons will be pleased to find a wide selection of classic diner fare, such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, complete with gleaming chrome and vintage decor.
The service is consistently friendly and attentive, adding to the overall charming experience. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast or a leisurely meal, this novelty diner is sure to transport you to a simpler, bygone era. With its authentic diner vibe and delicious food, it's no wonder this place is a local favorite.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
3. The Red Flame in Midtown
Real home-style and gourmet food at great prices.

The Red Flame Diner, situated near our hotel, has been a convenient choice for breakfast during our stay. The diner was bustling with both locals and tourists, giving it a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Our meal consisted of fried eggs, bacon, and fries, accompanied by orange juice and coffee. While the coffee was merely adequate, the rest of the meal was quite satisfying. The quality of the food and the quick service have convinced us to return for breakfast the next day.
The Red Flame Diner has proven to be a reliable spot for us over the past couple of years. Although the diner is not spacious, the consistent customer turnover ensures a quick seating, even on busy days. We've visited during the Tartan Day Parade in the past and didn't have to wait for a table, which speaks to the diner's efficiency. The menu offers a wide range of classic diner items at reasonable prices. The breakfast options, in particular, are delicious and portioned just right to satiate your hunger. The service is prompt, but the speed might vary depending on the complexity of the orders. The staff members are generally friendly and welcoming, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Lunch
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
4. The Comfort Diner
Time to eat good food!

The food at this establishment is consistently described as standard and delicious, offering good basic diner fare that is both hearty and comforting. Reviewers often mention the home fries as a standout, with cut potatoes seasoned and cooked with peppers and onions for an extra burst of flavor.
The staff is friendly and attentive, providing great service to go along with the tasty food. With reasonable prices, this is a place that many people enjoy returning to for more of its delicious diner offerings. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking out a quality diner experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
5. Applejack Diner
A taste of Greek hospitality in the heart of NYC.

A wide range of breakfast options are available for customers at any time of the day, prepared and served quickly. The establishment's staff are courteous and welcoming, consistently greeting patrons as they enter for their morning meal.
The food served is not only delicious but also plentiful and varied. The speed at which the orders are fulfilled is commendable, and the service is both friendly and attentive, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for guests.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
6. New York Luncheonette
All-American diner open 7 days a week.

An unexpected discovery, this All American Diner provided a memorable experience during our final night in New York. The staff members were not only welcoming but also efficient, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The food served was more than satisfactory, offering a true taste of American Diner cuisine.
During a recent Sunday morning, we opted for breakfast at this same establishment around 10 o'clock. Despite a queue and a short wait, we were quickly seated at the counter, demonstrating their effective seating system. This diner is highly recommended for anyone seeking an authentic American Diner breakfast experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Mid-Range
7. Tick Tock Diner NY
The largest diner in New York City.

A delicious and affordable dining experience awaits at this establishment, conveniently located near Penn Station in New York. The menu offers a wide selection of tasty dishes, making it an excellent choice for any meal of the day. The staff is friendly, contributing to an enjoyable atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
The level of service at this diner is truly outstanding. On a recent 18th birthday celebration, the staff went above and beyond, surprising the birthday girl with a slice of Oreo cake and singing happy birthday to her. This thoughtful gesture added a special touch to the occasion and demonstrated the restaurant's commitment to providing exceptional service. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply enjoying a night out, this diner is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
Relate link
8. Carnegie Diner & Cafe
Classic American diner charm with a modern twist.

This establishment offers a high-quality dining experience with excellent food and reasonable prices for its prime location. The staff are known for their friendly and welcoming demeanor, providing great service during our multiple visits, despite our accommodation being some distance away.
Diners have consistently praised the service as being pleasant, efficient, and helpful. However, some have noted that the pace of service can be slower when eating outside. Nevertheless, the overall experience remains positive, with most reviews highlighting the prompt and attentive nature of the staff. Whether inside or out, customers enjoy the quick service provided by the restaurant's team, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
Relate link
9. Empire Diner in Midtown
Classic American fare with a refined twist.

The Empire Diner, now under the leadership of Chef John De Lucie, has reopened its doors to the public. Known for his exceptional culinary skills at The Bedford, De Lucie brings a more upscale feel to the diner's decor and simplifies the menu. The food served is less experimental than before, catering to a straightforward palate.
During a recent visit to NYC, the Empire Diner was chosen for its diner-style offerings. However, the establishment deviated from typical diner expectations. Despite its small size and crowded atmosphere, the diner boasts a limited menu and a cozy side room with a few extra tables. While the waitstaff is friendly, they maintain a quick pace, similar to other diners. Despite its limited offerings, the diner received high praise for its high-quality food. Particularly, the crispy chicken sandwich and herbed fries came highly recommended.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
- Social Gatherings
10. Del Frisco's Grille
Modern American grill with a vibrant bar scene.

A recent visit to New York City, which has been portrayed negatively in the news, proved to be a positive experience. A friend who works at SAKS 5th Avenue recommended Del Frisco's Grille for dinner, located conveniently across from her workplace. Upon arrival at 6pm, there was no wait time and the greeting was prompt and welcoming. The restaurant's ambiance was pleasant and the layout well-designed.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
11. Astro
Iconic NYC diner since 1980 with diverse menu.

This establishment is an exceptional dining destination for any time of the day, offering delectable breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The staff are not only quick and efficient but also delightfully friendly, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. It has become my preferred dining spot when visiting New York City.
For breakfast and lunch, this restaurant excels in providing scrumptious home-cooked meals that satisfy even the most discerning palates. The Egg White Omelettes are a must-try, bursting with delicious flavors. The attentive and amiable staff ensure that every dining experience is enjoyable, adding to the overall appeal of this popular eatery.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
Relate link
12. USA Brooklyn Delicatessen
Serving comfort, memories, and nostalgia.

A highly recommended destination for delicious lunches and breakfast sandwiches is this establishment. The sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich is a superb choice for those seeking a savory and filling meal. On another visit, the hot pastrami sandwich proved to be equally delightful, showcasing the restaurant's ability to deliver excellent flavors and satisfying portions.
The hot pastrami reuben and corned beef sandwich are two other popular choices on the menu. The freshness of the ingredients used in these sandwiches is evident in their taste, making them a reliable and delicious option for patrons looking for a flavorful meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
Relate link