5 Best Diners on the Upper West Side

One of the key things to know about your neighborhood (or the one you may be visiting) is where to find a good diner. Diners have long been a part of the American landscape for good reason. What’s to do if you are ravenous, early or late? Perhaps you have that sudden craving. For something just right, that’s not going to break the bank. What’s your fancy? Burger?  Milkshake? Waffles? Eggs your way, with a side of hash browns?  Craving Tuna melt with French fries? A huge serving of pie with coffee that keeps on coming? We’ve got you covered. Head on over to your local Upper West Side diner. It’s good for what ails you, guaranteed!

Although New Jersey claims the title of Diner Capital of the US, there are excellent diners in New York City. And some really good diners on the Upper West Side. If you need somewhere unassuming, with an extensive menu that won’t leave your wallet a lot lighter, here are some of the best diners on the Upper West Side.

Old John’s Diner

This classic neighborhood diner is located at 148 West 67^th Street between Amsterdam and Broadway. Open since the heyday of the diner in 1951, it has changed hands only one time in 70 years, following a pandemic shutdown. Today it is owned by a former employee. The food is good, and the longstanding staff provides friendly and speedy service. Recently named by Eater’s as one of NYC best brunch spots (among twenty others on the list).

Utopia Diner

This diner has been a neighborhood staple since it opened in 1983, located at 267 Amsterdam Avenue between 72^nd & 73^rd   Streets. While it’s a heady title for a dining establishment to co-opt, this spot lives up to the quintessential diner must-haves.  There is ample seating space at the counter, booth, or table. And, of course, a lengthy menu, speedy service, breakfast specials, and invariably interesting conversation at the neighboring table!

Viand Café

It is in the well-known Beacon Hotel at 2130 Broadway, between 74^th & 75^th Streets. Open early till late, it has been serving locals and hotel visitors alike for several decades. You really can’t go wrong.

City Diner

This diner is further uptown at 2441 Broadway, between 90th & 91^st Streets. This eatery has changed hands and names a few times over the years.  The food, however, remains consistently good. From bacon and eggs to burgers to ravioli, the menu has plenty of choices. 

Metro Diner

With the look of a vintage diner, this establishment is located at 2641 Broadway and the corner of 100^th Street. With its neon sign, tiled floor, counter, retro booths and lamps, and friendly service, you could be in a bit of a NYC time warp. The food, ambiance, and overall experience make it worth the visit.

Finally, no mention of Upper West Side Diners is complete without a nod to Tom’s Diner at 2880 Broadway and the corner of 112^th Street. This diner provided the exterior for Seinfeld’s Monk’s Café, where Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer solved many of their dilemmas.  (Seinfeld fans should know that the interior bears no resemblance to the one on the long-running show). However, Tom’s Diner continues to serve good old-fashioned diner staples.  

So next time you’re in a retro mood and looking for some comfort food head out to one of these Upper West Side best diners.