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LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP LUNCHEONETTE

Updated

Phone: (212) 288-0057

Address: 1226 LEXINGTON AVENUE 10028

TLDR

Vintage 1925 luncheonette serving classic diner comfort food and nostalgic, hand-mixed fountain sodas in an authentic, time-capsule setting.

Reddit Sentiment for LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP LUNCHEONETTE(based on 33 Reddit opinions)

73% Positive12% Neutral9% Negative

Tags

american 20diner 4soda 6pancakes 4luncheonette food 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.

This establishment is recommended as part of the GoCity New York Mini Guide for its classic American sweet treats and diner fare.

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 PelzJun 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 MooreDate unknown
Read More →
Infatuation

Details

Established in 1925, this Upper East Side institution remains a beloved working-class luncheonette that transports visitors back in time with its vintage decor [1, 2]. While it serves classic diner fare like tuna melts and pancakes [1, 2], the establishment is equally famous for its traditional soda fountain, churning out authentic egg creams and hand-mixed sodas [1, 2]. Despite its viral popularity, it retains a charm that keeps locals and travelers returning for a quintessential New York experience [2].

Food Overview

The menu focuses on traditional American diner staples such as tuna melts, burgers, and fluffy pancakes [1, 2]. The soda fountain is a primary draw, noted specifically for its egg creams, lime rickeys, and chocolate milkshakes [1, 2, 4]. While many consider the food amazing and nostalgic, some critics feel the items are overpriced for the quality provided [3].

Highlights / Recommended

"The blueberry pancakes, tuna melts, and traditional fountain-style milkshakes and egg creams are frequently cited as the must-try items [1, 2, 4]."

Customer Sentiment

Visitor sentiment is generally highly positive, with many diners praising the authentic atmosphere and classic treats [1, 2]. However, some recent feedback suggests that increased popularity and tourist traffic have occasionally impacted the food quality and overall vibe for some patrons [1, 3].

Reddit Opinions & Reviews

Top Reddit Posts About LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP LUNCHEONETTE

This post serves as a strong entry point, highlighting the restaurant's reputation for authentic, traditional chocolate milkshakes in a historic, old-fashioned soda shop setting.
This thread provides a balanced perspective, featuring both enthusiastic recommendations for the historic atmosphere and critiques regarding modern, viral-driven tourism.
This discussion clarifies the nature of the soda fountain drinks, distinguishing that while they are not made with house-made syrups, the floats are still highly regarded.

Recent Reddit Mentions

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 →

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

"The commenter notes that the restaurant has the best milkshakes."

Positive
Jul 14, 2026View Comment →

From post: Any Pancake Recommendations On Uws Ues Or Midtown

"This commenter considers Lexington Candy Shop their second favorite place for pancakes in the city, after Clinton Street."

Positive
Jun 26, 2026View Comment →

From post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now

"This comment recommended Lexington Candy Shop for its egg creams, noting it as a place for classic soda fountain drinks."

Positive
Jun 8, 2026View Comment →

From post: Another Pancake Question I Know Dont Hate Me

"Lexington Candy Shop is ranked as the commenter's #2 choice for pancakes, with Clinton Street Baking being their #1 choice."

Positive
May 5, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc

"Reiterates the recommendation for Lexington Candy Store, noting it's an old soda shop with original interior, similar to a place they lived near previously."

Positive
Apr 21, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc

"Also recommends the Lexington Candy Store."

Positive
Apr 21, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc

"Simply recommends the Lexington Candy Store."

Positive
Apr 20, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc

"This user recommends Lexington Candy Store for a traditional chocolate milkshake, highlighting its old-fashioned soda shop atmosphere."

Positive
Apr 20, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Restaurants Around Memorial Sloan Kettering

"Lexington Candy Shop was identified as the best spot for breakfast and lunch."

Positive
Mar 28, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To

"User describes Lexington Candy Shop as a vintage 1925 luncheonette that makes you feel like you've gone back in time."

Positive
Mar 20, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To

"User states the food at Lexington Candy Shop is bad and tourists have ruined the vibe."

Negative
Mar 19, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To

"User provides a map link for Lexington Candy Shop."

Positive
Mar 19, 2026View Comment →

From post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To

"User provides a map link for Lexington Candy Shop."

Positive
Mar 19, 2026View Comment →

From post: Lunch Ues

"This commenter enthusiastically recommended Lexington Candy Shop, stating 'Nothing Beats Lexington Candy Shop.'"

Positive
Jan 9, 2026View Comment →

From post: Very Good Pancakes Recommendation

"Lexington Candy Shop on the Upper East Side is highly recommended, coming in second only to Clinton Street Bakery. Their blueberry pancakes are specifically praised, and everything there is described as amazing."

Positive
Dec 12, 2025View Comment →

From post: Homemade Root Beer In Nyc

"This user clarified that Lexington Candy Shop has fountain soda but not homemade syrup."

Neutral
Nov 28, 2025View Comment →

From post: Homemade Root Beer In Nyc

"This place was recommended for authentic homemade root beer. While they have fountain soda, it's not made with homemade syrup. However, a root beer float here was delicious."

Positive
Nov 27, 2025View Comment →

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