TLDR
Iconic NYC diner, famous as the "Seinfeld" spot & Suzanne Vega inspiration [1]. Classic American fare like crab cakes & eggs, plus milkshakes [2], [3]. A must-visit for pop culture fans!
Details
This classic American diner, a 60-year-old family establishment, holds a unique place in popular culture as the inspiration for Suzanne Vega's song "Tom's Diner" and the filming location for "Monk's" from Seinfeld [1]. Beyond its iconic status, it's known for diner food, with specific mentions of crab cakes and eggs, and a cherry lime rickey [2]. Visitors can expect a classic NYC diner experience, potentially with signed memorabilia and a lively atmosphere conducive to conversation [3], [4].
Food Overview
This American diner offers classic fare, with recommendations for crab cakes and eggs, and a cherry lime rickey [2]. It's also known for diner staples like pancakes, disco fries, and milkshakes, making it a quintessential NYC late-night food experience [8]. While generally well-regarded, one commenter found it to be just 'alright' [7].
Caveats
One reviewer felt that Tom's Restaurant was only 'alright' and that better, more easily accessible diners were available [7].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About TOM'S RESTAURANT
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: What Is The Best Nyc Food After A Night Of
"The commenter asks if the previous user was a Columbia student, referencing Tom's and College Inn as past late-night spots."
NeutralFrom post: What Is The Best Nyc Food After A Night Of
"Diner food, specifically at Tom's or similar establishments, is considered a classic NYC late-night experience, with options like pancakes, disco fries, or a grilled cheese with a black and white shake being personal favorites."
PositiveFrom post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc
"Asks if the Broadway Milkshake at Tom's Restaurant is still good, referencing past enjoyment."
NeutralFrom post: Friday Lunch In Prospect Heightscrown Heightspark
"Tom's Restaurant was recommended as a lunch spot in the Prospect Heights/Crown Heights/Park Slope area, with specific mentions of their cherry lime rickey and crab cakes and eggs."
NeutralFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User adds that Tom's Restaurant is also mentioned in a Suzanne Vega song."
PositiveFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User states Tom's Restaurant in the UWS is the Seinfeld diner and is good."
PositiveFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User points out Tom's Diner near Columbia is from Seinfeld and the Suzanne Vega song, and that it's good."
PositiveFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User notes Tom's Restaurant in UWS is the actual diner from Seinfeld and the Suzanne Vega song, featuring signed memorabilia."
PositiveFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User notes Tom's Restaurant in UWS is the actual diner from Seinfeld and the Suzanne Vega song."
PositiveFrom post: Only Here 3 Days Need Pizza Breakfast Lunchdinner
"The commenter found Tom's to be just alright and suggested there are better, easier-to-access diners available."
NeutralFrom post: Broadway Walk Recs
"This user recommended Tom's Restaurant as a spot to visit."
PositiveFrom post: What To Eat On Coney Island Boardwalk That Isnt A
"Tom's is described as more of a sit-down restaurant on the boardwalk, which might offer to-go orders and has a broader menu including wraps and sandwiches."
Neutral