Singing servers entertain with Broadway tunes at this classic American diner, offering a unique, albeit tourist-focused, Times Square experience.
Bryan Kim reviews Ellen's Stardust Diner, a touristy but entertaining NYC spot where singing servers perform Broadway hits, offering a unique experience that's perfect for out-of-towners or those craving a dose of theatrical kitsch.
Experience a unique slice of New York at Ellen's Stardust Diner, where the waitstaff are aspiring Broadway stars who serenade you with show tunes while you dine. This iconic establishment offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families and tourists seeking a dose of theatrical fun. While the food is classic American diner fare, it's the singing performances and energetic ambiance that truly make this a memorable spot.
The food at Ellen's Stardust Diner is generally described as standard American diner fare. While dishes like burgers and nachos are available, customer feedback suggests that the culinary aspect is secondary to the entertainment. Some reviews mention specific dishes like the 'Stardust Nachos' and 'Yankee Doodle Burger,' with opinions on taste varying, but the overall consensus is that the food is not the main draw.
"While specific dishes are not heavily recommended, the experience itself, centered around the singing waitstaff and the lively atmosphere, is what draws patrons. Classic diner fare like burgers and sandwiches are available."
Customer reviews for Ellen's Stardust Diner are mixed. While many appreciate the unique entertainment provided by the singing waitstaff, often describing it as a fun and memorable experience, others find the food to be mediocre and overpriced, viewing it primarily as a tourist attraction.
Important Note
The food is generally considered mediocre and overpriced, and the establishment is often described as a tourist trap. Expect long lines, especially during peak times.
"The commenter suggests embracing Ellen's Stardust Diner for its unique feature of singing servers, a novelty not found elsewhere."
Neutral"The commenter realized from another post that Ellen's Stardust Diner is recommended to visitors on other platforms, expressing surprise and dismay."
Negative"The commenter found Ellen's Stardust Diner to be 'pretty awesome' but advised against ordering much food as it 'sucks'."
Negative"Responding to a comparison, the commenter preferred Ellen's Stardust Diner for its 'in your face' performances, emphasizing that visitors should not expect good food."
Neutral"The commenter expressed unfamiliarity with Ellen's Stardust Diner and its location, indicating it's a place they haven't experienced despite living in NYC."
Neutral"The commenter mentions that a Facebook group called 'What to do in NY' features tourists discussing how great Ellen's Stardust Diner is."
Neutral"The commenter preferred Gayle's Broadway Rose over Ellen's Stardust Diner for its better food and vibes, suggesting it as a compromise for Times Square singing waitstaff."
Positive"This commenter agrees with skipping Ellen's, citing long lines, overpriced food, and poor quality, suggesting that the singing waiters are the main draw but can be experienced better elsewhere."
Negative"The commenter advises skipping Ellen's, suggesting that the experience with singing waiters is not worth the long lines and poor food quality, recommending a concert or Broadway show instead for singing."
Negative"This commenter advises skipping Ellen's, stating that the food is not good by New York standards, unless visiting for tourist reasons, primarily for the singing waiters."
Negative"The commenter describes Ellen's Stardust Diner as a "special place" due to its unique experience, even though its food quality is generally acknowledged to be poor, suggesting that overall dining experience can outweigh culinary merit."
Neutral"Ellen's Stardust is considered popular for a reason and highly recommended if the kids enjoy Broadway or pop singing due to its unique entertainment."
Positive"Ellen's Stardust Diner offers a unique experience where staff aspiring to Broadway perform while you dine."
Neutral"Ellen's Stardust is considered a great option, especially if the wait line is small, suggesting it's worth visiting."
Positive"Ellen's Stardust Diner is suggested as a place for the previous commenter, implying it has pancakes and syrup, along with entertainment."
Neutral"This diner is recommended for its unique entertainment where the waitstaff, who are aspiring Broadway singers, perform for patrons."
Positive"Ok_Way_9634 loved Ellen’s Stardust Diner, clarifying that one doesn't go for the food."
Positive"grimly59 states that Ellen's Stardust Diner is not about the food but about having fun, and they love going before shows."
Positive"NaplamDeath did work in Ellen's Stardust Diner's kitchen once and received a free burger, which they found worse than Applebee's."
Negative"The commenter mentions Ellen's Stardust Diner as a potential recommendation but expresses personal dislike for it."
Negative
