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LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP LUNCHEONETTE

Updated

Phone: (212) 288-0057

Address: 1226 LEXINGTON AVENUE 10028

TLDR

Vintage 1925 NYC luncheonette famous for nostalgic soda fountain drinks, classic pancakes, and old-school diner vibes.

Reddit Sentiment for LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP LUNCHEONETTE(based on 26 Reddit opinions)

77% Positive15% Neutral8% Negative

Tags

american 21diner 4soda 6milkshake 5pancakes 4View All

Neighborhoods

Upper East Side

Instagram Posts References

The video features the traditional method of making a Coca-Cola beverage at Lexington Candy Shop, showcasing the syrup and soda being mixed directly at the counter. A person is then seen enjoying the freshly prepared drink, which is rated 8/10.

The Lexington Candy Shop & Luncheonette is highlighted as an iconic New York City establishment renowned for its authentic, old-fashioned soda fountain experience. The post specifically features their Coca-Cola soda, prepared using traditional methods reminiscent of those from a century ago, involving a combination of Coca-Cola syrup, carbonated water, and a scoop of whipped cream or ice cream, creating a nostalgic beverage that draws visitors seeking a taste of classic Americana. The restaurant itself has been operating for over 100 years, maintaining its vintage charm and service style.

Other Article Mentions

Lists, round-ups, and guides where this restaurant is featured.

Mentioned In
The 21 best diners in NYC
positive

Despite its fancy Carnegie Hill location, this diner remains a working man's spot, serving usual fare alongside old-fashioned items like lime rickeys and egg creams.

Rachel Pelz • Jun 24, 2024
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
NYC’s Classic Diners Are The Best Diners In The City
positive

Kate Previte revisits Lexington Candy Shop, an establishment since 1925 on the Upper East Side, still serving reliably buttery tuna melts and fluffy pancakes, now with added popularity from its viral hand-mixed Cokes and egg creams.

Willa Moore • Date unknown
Read More →
Infatuation

Details

Established in 1925, this historic luncheonette on the Upper East Side offers a nostalgic, time-capsule experience [1], [2]. While celebrated for its authentic vintage atmosphere, the restaurant specializes in classic diner staples like pancakes and tuna melts alongside old-fashioned soda fountain drinks [2], [3]. Although many patrons cherish the traditional charm, others find the food quality inconsistent and the experience overpriced compared to the novelty [1], [3], [4].

Food Overview

The menu focuses on classic American diner fare such as burgers, tuna melts, and pancakes [2], [3]. While the breakfast and lunch items are often praised [5], some diners find the standard food quality to be 'meh' and suggest visiting primarily for the novelty of their traditionally prepared sodas, egg creams, and milkshakes [3], [4].

Customer Sentiment

Feedback is sharply divided; many visitors love the charming, authentic atmosphere and historic feel [1], [2], while others warn that the food is mediocre and the service can be poor [3], [4].

Most Mentioned Dishes

  • 01
    milkshakes
    2 mentions
  • 02
    egg creams
    2 mentions

Reddit Opinions & Reviews

Top Reddit Posts About LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP LUNCHEONETTE

This post highlights the spot as a top-tier choice for pancakes in the city, second only to another famous bakery.
Users highly recommend the shop for its traditional chocolate milkshakes and old-fashioned atmosphere.
A discussion describing the shop as a authentic 1925 vintage luncheonette that feels like stepping back in time.

Recent Reddit Mentions

From post: Best Diners In Nyc Preferably Old School Style

"The atmosphere is fantastic, though the commenter notes the food is not great."

Neutral
Sep 1, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Diners In Nyc Preferably Old School Style

"Recommended."

Positive
Aug 31, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help With Casual Spot For Dinner After The Met On

"The commenter suggests visiting only for the novelty of the soda, as other food is mediocre and service is poor."

Negative
Jul 17, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help With Casual Spot For Dinner After The Met On

"The commenter notes the restaurant closes by 6pm, making it potentially unsuitable for dinner plans."

Neutral
Jul 14, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help With Casual Spot For Dinner After The Met On

"The commenter mentions the restaurant prepares soda using traditional methods."

Positive
Jul 14, 2026View Comment →

Often mentioned with Lexington Candy Shop Luncheonette

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