Dine with singing servers! Broadway hopefuls perform while you eat in this iconic, high-energy diner.
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 slice of Broadway right at your table at this iconic diner, where talented servers, aspiring performers, serenade you with show tunes and popular hits. While the food is typical diner fare, the lively atmosphere and unique entertainment make it a must-visit for tourists and theatre lovers alike.
The food here is standard American diner fare, with dishes like burgers and nachos being mentioned. While some find the food to be overpriced and not spectacular, the main draw is the entertainment provided by the singing waitstaff, which is consistently praised.
"While specific dishes aren't highly recommended, the experience of diner food like burgers and nachos is part of the overall package. The main recommendation is to go for the singing entertainment rather than the food itself."
Customers generally agree that the food is mediocre and overpriced, but the exceptional entertainment from the singing waitstaff makes it a worthwhile experience, especially for families and tourists.
Important Note
The food quality is often described as mediocre and overpriced, and long lines can be expected, especially during peak times. It is primarily an entertainment venue, not a culinary destination.
"The user recommended Ellen's Stardust Diner for a unique dining experience."
Positive"Ellen's Stardust is recommended as a perfect option, followed by Serendipity or other suggestions for dessert."
Positive"The commenter strongly recommends Ellen's Stardust Diner for the user's daughters, noting that the line is not as bad as it looks."
Positive"This commenter enthusiastically recommends Ellen's Stardust Diner, stating that young tourist friends' children love it and noting its location near Times Square."
Positive"If the teen girls enjoy Broadway singing, this diner is recommended. The commenter also defended the recommendation against perceived "downvoters"."
Positive"Suggests Ellen's Stardust Diner as a place a 12-year-old might enjoy, focusing on the experience rather than fine dining."
Positive"Lists Ellen's Stardust Diner as a potential restaurant choice."
Neutral"Ellen's Stardust Diner is described as campy and fun for kids due to its talented singing staff."
Positive"Ellen's Stardust Diner is mentioned as a classic option for dining."
Positive"Ellen's Stardust Diner was mentioned by the author, Bryan Kim, as a reviewed establishment. He is the editorial lead for Infatuation in NYC."
Neutral"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
