TLDR
High-energy Times Square hotspot where singing waiters perform Broadway hits; a campy, tourist-favorite experience.
Reddit Sentiment for ELLEN'S STARDUST DINER(based on 28 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
The user posted pictures of Mexican food. The first image shows tacos, and the second image shows a dish with rice and beans. The user also posted a picture of a quesadilla. The hashtags indicate that the food is from New York City.
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.
Details
Renowned for its vibrant theatrical atmosphere, this iconic destination features a waitstaff of aspiring Broadway performers who belt out show tunes while serving customers [1]. While the food is generally considered standard diner fare, the high-energy entertainment and festive ambiance make it a unique Times Square spectacle [1]. Visitors are encouraged to prioritize the experience, as the lively performances often overshadow the culinary offerings [1].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic American diner food, with dishes like the "Stardust Nachos" and the "Yankee Doodle Burger" topped with mac and cheese serving as signature items [1]. While many guests find the food acceptable, it is widely regarded as ordinary and not the primary draw, with some critics describing it as unremarkable or even poor [1].
Highlights / Recommended
"Recommended items for the full experience include the "Stardust Nachos" and the "Yankee Doodle Burger" [1]."
Customer Sentiment
Visitors consistently praise the restaurant for its exceptionally fun and unique theatrical environment, often recommending it as a memorable experience for families and teenagers [1]. However, many acknowledge that the food quality is secondary to the show, and some characterize the establishment as a tourist trap with high prices [1].
Caveats
Potential visitors should be prepared for long wait times, as it operates on a walk-in-only basis and is frequently crowded [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ELLEN'S STARDUST DINER
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For Restaurant Recommendations Similar To
"Suggested as a themed restaurant alternative, characterized by its 1950s retro diner and disco bar theme."
PositiveFrom post: I Want Dinner With An Experience Any
"Ellen's Stardust Diner is mentioned as an option for those who enjoy Broadway, though it's noted that the experience is prioritized over the food quality."
NeutralFrom post: Places To Eat Near The American Girl Doll Store
"Ellen's Stardust Diner is suggested as a touristy but fun option with singing waitstaff, decent food, and reasonable prices."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations
"The original poster expressed that Ellen's Stardust Diner was exactly the type of experience they were looking for."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations
"This user suggested Ellen's Stardust Diner, describing it as a very touristy diner in Times Square where the waiters perform show tunes while serving customers, which might appeal to teenagers."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For Taking Out Of Tower Family
"This commenter emphasizes the extremely fun experience at Ellen's Stardust, noting that while the food isn't memorable, the overall experience was the best."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For Taking Out Of Tower Family
"Ellen's Stardust is mentioned as a fun experience, though the food itself is described as ordinary diner fare."
PositiveFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User suggests Stardust Diner is for vibes and entertainment due to Broadway songs sung by staff, but notes the food is not good."
NegativeFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User describes Stardust Diner as a tourist trap with terrible food and Times Square pricing, where waitstaff sing Broadway songs."
NegativeFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User notes Stardust Diner on 51st and Broadway is always crowded with a long line, questioning if it's worth it."
NeutralFrom post: Help Us Find The Best Diner In Nyc We Want To
"User notes Stardust Diner on 51st and Broadway is always crowded with a long line, questioning if it's worth it."
NeutralFrom post: Replacement For Lillies Victorian Establishment
"The original poster adds that Ellen's Stardust Diner is being considered for its theatrical environment for the picky eaters, and is being added to the list for potential diner meals."
NeutralFrom post: Replacement For Lillies Victorian Establishment
"This commenter suggests Ellen's Stardust Diner as a theatrical option, but notes it's walk-in only with long lines, making it difficult for pre-show dining."
NeutralFrom post: Judge My Restaurant Choices
"This commenter found Ellen's Stardust to be acceptable for its classic diner fare, noting it's better than other places in the area. They also mentioned that lines can get long."
PositiveFrom post: Best Cantbemissed Eating Experience In Manhattan
"Ellen's Stardust Diner was listed among kitschy options that some people enjoy, aligning with the user's interest in entertainment during a meal."
NeutralFrom post: Kids Birthday Near Times Square
"Ellen's Starlight Diner was suggested as a dining option for a child's birthday, with a note that there might be a line."
PositiveFrom post: Best Iconic Times Squaretouristycant Miss
"The original poster mentioned Ellen's Stardust as a planned lunch location for their family's first-timer Times Square experience."
PositiveFrom post: Dinners With A Show Or Unique Dinner Experiences
"The user recommended Ellen's Stardust Diner for a unique dining experience."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting For A Day Between Xmas And Nye Looking
"Ellen's Stardust is recommended as a perfect option, followed by Serendipity or other suggestions for dessert."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting For A Day Between Xmas And Nye Looking
"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