TLDR
Singing servers & Broadway tunes meet diner eats! A must-see, energetic spot for a truly unique NYC experience.
Reddit Sentiment for ELLEN'S STARDUST DINER(based on 40 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
Ellen's Stardust Diner offers a uniquely theatrical dining experience in the heart of the Theater District, where aspiring Broadway performers serenade guests with show tunes as they serve American diner fare [1]. While the food is described as average, the energetic atmosphere and entertaining performances make it a popular, if somewhat touristy, destination [1], [2]. The diner is especially recommended for families and those looking for a memorable, albeit kitschy, New York experience [1].
Food Overview
The food at Ellen's Stardust Diner is consistently described as standard American diner fare, with some reviewers even calling it 'not good' by New York standards [1], [2]. While dishes like the 'Stardust Nachos' and 'Yankee Doodle Burger' are mentioned, the focus is rarely on the food quality itself, but rather on the overall entertainment [1]. Some suggest it's best to embrace the experience and not expect a gourmet meal, with a few finding it acceptable for a diner in the area [3], [4].
Highlights / Recommended
"While specific dishes are rarely highlighted for their culinary merit, the diner's visually appealing milkshakes are mentioned as part of the experience. The focus remains on the singing performances rather than specific menu items [2], [1]."
Customer Sentiment
Customer feedback is mixed, with many acknowledging the entertainment value of the singing waiters while often noting that the food quality is secondary and can be subpar for the price [1], [2]. However, some find it a fun experience that prioritizes performance over culinary excellence [3].
Caveats
The food quality is frequently cited as a drawback, with several reviews suggesting it's mediocre or not worth the price, and that the primary draw is the entertainment value of the singing waitstaff [1], [2]. Long lines can also be a deterrent, especially for those on a tight schedule or looking for a quick meal before a show [3], [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ELLEN'S STARDUST DINER
Recent Reddit Mentions
From 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."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting For A Day Between Xmas And Nye Looking
"This commenter enthusiastically recommends Ellen's Stardust Diner, stating that young tourist friends' children love it and noting its location near Times Square."
Positive