What should I order at Carnegie Diner & Cafe?
Carnegie Diner & Cafe
Pastrami Sandwich
Frequently highlighted as the standout dish, praised for its authentic New York deli flavor, generous portion size, tender and well-seasoned meat, and served on excellent bread.
Pastrami Reuben
Recommended for its substantial amount of juicy pastrami combined with perfectly melted cheese and tangy Russian dressing on toasted rye, making it a flavorful and satisfying sandwich.
Pancakes
Mentioned multiple times as a breakfast favorite, with the 'pancakes on a stick' being a particular hit, noted for their delicious taste and generous portion.
Fettuccine Alfredo
Praised as a creamy and comforting pasta dish that pleased diners alongside other menu items, highlighting the variety and quality of offerings.
Chicken and Waffles
Recommended as a perfect sweet-and-savory combination that stands out on the large menu, appealing to diners looking for comfort food with a twist.
French Fries (including Truffle Oil & Parmesan Fries)
Celebrated for being crispy, flavorful, and addictive, with the truffle oil & Parmesan fries specifically noted as outstanding and a great upgrade.
Wings
Described as amazing and a must-try appetizer, with plain wings and sauces on the side appreciated for their flavor and generous quantity.
Cheesecake (Classic New York Style with Strawberries)
Highly recommended dessert that leaves a strong positive impression, considered soul-satisfying and a perfect ending to the meal.
Vegan Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Recommended for vegan diners as a filling and tasty option, showcasing the restaurant's diverse menu catering to different dietary preferences.
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
| Thursday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
| Friday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
| Saturday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
| Sunday | 7 AM to 1 AM |
About Carnegie Diner & Cafe
Carnegie Diner & Cafe is a diner and American restaurant in New York, New York, with breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and cafe service. Reviewers consistently describe it as a classic, energetic Manhattan diner with generous portions, fresh food, and fast, friendly service. It is especially noted for pastrami dishes, burgers, breakfast plates, and desserts, and it is convenient to the theatre district, Radio City Music Hall, and Rockefeller Center. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and busy, with reservations recommended for brunch and lunch.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Frequently asked questions
What is Carnegie Diner & Cafe known for?
It is best known for pastrami dishes, especially the pastrami burger and pastrami sandwich, which reviewers call rich, filling, and satisfying. The diner also gets strong praise for big portions, fresh ingredients, and quick service in a busy Midtown location.
What dishes are most recommended at Carnegie Diner & Cafe?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the pastrami burger, pastrami sandwich, eggs Benedict, pancakes, french toast, omelettes, buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks, and the strawberry cheesecake. The burger and pastrami items stand out for flavor and size, while the dessert case and breakfast plates are praised for being fresh and generous.
What is the atmosphere like at Carnegie Diner & Cafe?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and lively, with a classic old-school diner feel that can get loud when it is busy. It works well for groups, tourists, and solo diners, and reviewers mention it as a good stop before or after Broadway shows or other Midtown events.
Is Carnegie Diner & Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is about $20 to $30, and reviewers generally say it is reasonable for Manhattan because the portions are large and the food comes out quickly. Some items, like the 18-ounce pastrami sandwich, are described as not cheap but worth it for the size and location.
When is the best time to visit Carnegie Diner & Cafe?
It gets crowded at brunch, lunch, and before or after shows, so reservations are recommended and can mean no wait even on busy nights. Several reviewers say earlier visits or booking ahead helps, especially on weekends or during theater season in Midtown.
Is parking available at Carnegie Diner & Cafe?
Yes. Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Carnegie Diner & Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, Carnegie Diner & Cafe offers vegan options.
Is Carnegie Diner & Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, Carnegie Diner & Cafe is good for kids.
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