Iconic diner known for viral, fluffy Honey Butter Pancakes & Korean/Japanese-inspired dishes like Chicken Katsu Club. Expect a hip vibe & long waits, esp. on weekends.
Golden Diner in Manhattan's Two Bridges neighborhood offers a unique blend of classic American diner fare with Korean and Japanese influences. Helmed by a Momofuku veteran, the menu features popular items like viral Honey Butter Pancakes, a standout Chicken Katsu Club sandwich, and Crispy Korean Fried Chicken Wings. The diner is known for its hip, local vibe and attracts a significant crowd, making reservations highly recommended, especially for weekend brunch.
Golden Diner is celebrated for its modern take on diner classics, blending American comfort food with Korean and Japanese influences. The Honey Butter Pancakes are a viral sensation, described as fluffy and decadent, though some find them too sweet or heavy. Other highly recommended dishes include the Chicken Katsu Club, Korean Fried Chicken Wings, and the Chinatown Egg Sandwich. While many dishes are lauded, some reviews suggest certain items might be overhyped or not worth the extensive wait.
"The Honey Butter Pancakes are a must-try and widely considered the signature dish, though some suggest pairing them with berry compote for balance. Other highly recommended items include the Chicken Katsu Club, Korean Fried Chicken Wings, and the Chinatown Egg Sandwich."
Customers generally praise Golden Diner for its unique fusion of flavors and its popular dishes, especially the pancakes and Katsu Club. However, the significant wait times, particularly on weekends, are a common point of frustration for many.
Important Note
The most significant caveat is the extremely long wait times, especially on weekends and during peak brunch hours, which can deter some diners. Some reviews also mention the pancakes can be too sweet or heavy for some palates.
"This user recommended Golden Diner's pancakes."
Positive"In response to the Golden Diner recommendation, this user expressed excitement because it's vegan, which is accommodating for their vegetarian diet. They specifically mentioned getting bacon removed from other salads and are looking forward to this option."
Positive"This user simply recommended Golden Diner."
Positive"The pancakes at Golden Diner were specifically mentioned as being great."
Positive"This restaurant was mentioned as a suggestion for a place that is usually packed on weekends but easier to get into on weekdays."
Neutral"Golden Diner is mentioned as a place that has great vegan options."
Positive"The trick for Golden Diner is to go for dinner and have their famous pancakes for dessert, as they are served all day. This can help avoid the brunch rush."
Positive"This user had no problem walking into Golden Diner on a weekday by sitting at the bar."
Positive"This user was able to walk into Golden Diner by sitting at the bar and arriving earlier in the service."
Positive"This user walked into Golden Diner during off-peak hours and had to wait about an hour. They put their name in and were able to get a table after walking around."
Positive"The commenter believes the pancakes at Golden Diner are elevated to deliciousness primarily when paired with the berry compote. Without it, they are above average."
Neutral"The author enjoyed the honey butter pancakes and especially the scallion egg sandwich at Golden Diner, although they felt the service was rushed, aiming to churn tables quickly. They recommended the egg sandwich as a standout item."
Positive"Golden Diner is listed as a recommendation for the best crumb cake in NYC."
Positive"This user advises always checking bills for errors and speaking up, as mistakes happen and can be corrected. They believe the pancake charge was likely an error, not malicious."
Neutral"This commenter responds to another user, suggesting they relax and that the original poster was simply asking a question."
Neutral"As an NYC restaurant manager, this commenter suggests contacting the restaurant directly to explain the mix-up and request a card transaction adjustment, assuring that it's a viable option."
Neutral"This user simply advises to speak up next time."
Neutral"This commenter reiterates that 'on the house' means free and that the restaurant made an error."
Neutral"This commenter explains that it's common practice for restaurants like Golden Diner to prepare pancakes in advance and offer extras to guests, similar to how other establishments handle popular items."
Neutral"The author raved about the pancakes, calling them incredible and worth the long wait. While the wings were good, they found the chicken quality inconsistent and too oily, though the flavor was good."
Positive
