Diner eats meet Broadway dreams! Servers sing their hearts out while you dine. A true Times Square spectacle.
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.
Step into a quintessential New York experience at this iconic diner, where the food is classic American fare and the entertainment is straight from Broadway. The energetic waitstaff, comprised of aspiring performers, serenade diners with popular show tunes and hits, transforming a meal into a lively performance. While the culinary offerings are standard diner fare, the immersive, theatrical atmosphere and the talent of the singing servers make it a must-visit for tourists and families seeking a memorable, high-energy dining adventure.
This establishment offers classic American diner food, with mentions of burgers, nachos, and pancakes. However, the consensus is that the food is not the highlight; it's generally considered to be average or even subpar by New York standards. The focus is clearly on the entertainment rather than culinary excellence, making it a place to go for the experience, not necessarily for gourmet meals.
"While specific dishes are not heavily recommended, the general consensus is to focus on the experience of the singing waiters rather than expecting culinary highlights from the diner fare."
While the food quality is often described as mediocre or overpriced, customers overwhelmingly praise the unique entertainment value provided by the singing waitstaff. The energetic performances are seen as the main draw, making it a fun and memorable experience for many.
Important Note
The food is generally considered to be mediocre and overpriced, and lines can be long. It is primarily recommended for the entertainment value rather than a high-quality dining experience.
"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."
Positive"Ellen's Stardust Diner was listed among kitschy options that some people enjoy, aligning with the user's interest in entertainment during a meal."
Neutral"Ellen's Starlight Diner was suggested as a dining option for a child's birthday, with a note that there might be a line."
Positive"The original poster mentioned Ellen's Stardust as a planned lunch location for their family's first-timer Times Square experience."
Positive"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
