Square Diner Reviews

Walking in I liked the feel. Def old school nyc diner. However, experience was all downhill from there. Worst diner food I've had in nyc, the pancakes were decent. I got the lumberjack, and all other items were awful. Most tasted burnt like the griddle hadn't been cleaned all day. It was so bad I couldn't even finish it, and I always finish everything. They were out of home fries and hash browns, so they gave us fries. And to make it worse the waitress was the worst, I had to ask her for more water as we were both empty, she rolled her eyes, "ya, ok...sigh". This is the first time I've ever given a 1 on tripadvisor, but this was one of the worst dining experiences I've had in nyc. Go to another diner for your own sake.

We went here for lunch and it was exactly what you want from an American diner. The menu was extensive. I had the ATBLT (avocado, turkey bacon, lettuce and tomato) sandwich which was really tasty. The burgers were also good. The food is fresh and tasty and very reasonably priced. The service is efficient and what you expect from a diner. We would definitely return.

Stopped off for a New York breakfast, not the best looking place but the staff were very friendly and the food was wonderful we will be going back again before we go home, they do endless coffee

Friendly local diner very near The Roxy hotel . Good breakfast choice and lunch options and friendly staff.

This is the diner experience I wanted to show to my son. Perfect atmosphere, excellent burgers, nice service for a fair price. A corner-store of American culture. We will be back 🤩

Breakfast was excellent, huge choice, good quality, and plentiful portions of breakfast yummyness!...

Ate here twice. As noted in other reviews, it is cozy, nostalgic, and seems beloved by the locals. 1st visit: had a Friday 'lunch special': Tuna on rye with avocado and cup of chicken soup; wife had salad with warmed goat cheese. 2nd visit: had an omelette (large, fluffy) with usual diner potatoes and toast; wife did an encore of the salad with warmed goat cheese. Warning: CASH ONLY.

This is a true old-style diner with an extensive menu. The staff is prompt and pleasant. Great food. Quick service. Pretty decent coffee. Good value for the dollar. I would definitely eat here again. We were in the vicinity for five days and ate at the diner twice during our trip. Note, the establishment is cash only.

I travel to New York City quite frequently. I love to eat, but I’m very careful about what I eat. It’s got to be clean, wholesome and delicious. Came upon this place while staying in Tribeca, and was delighted. Delicious food, warm, authentic atmosphere. The pecan bourbon pie is heavenly!

We went here specifically because they catered for Gluten free. Both the GF and normal pancakes were made fresh and tasted amazing. The coffee was also good. Quite pricey but very large portions. Enjoyed the old fashioned diner decor.

We found this great little place after wondering around near our hotel one evening (it was closed) it looked the epitome of an American diner so we decided to go back for breakfast. We went here twice, it was great value and great food - so much choice! They have very friendly staff, we think the manager was a native new Yorker, he was very welcoming. Be aware - it does get busy!

Nice little diner not to far away from the lower part of Manhattan. Just had a quick stop and a beer, but the locals and the waitress were nice and service minded. The price range was medium but affordable. Cleanliness was good to. Walking distance is about 20 minutes from ground zero.

The square sits on a corner and looks like it was just plonked there from the 70's - just what we were looking for in NYC ! HUGE MENU - great prices - good food and down to earth- worth the visit rather than a soulless hotel buffet!

Spectacular to say the least!!! What you think of America for breakfast!!! The place is welcoming and very characteristic, the staff very kind, professional and attentive to the customer. The menu is vast and also covers lunch. Every type of sweet and savory breakfast you can imagine... with 25 euros each we left satisfied and it was enough for the whole day!!! An absolute must try!!!!

Very different establishment from most of the other eateries in TriBeCa! We loved our visit. One of had French toast and one of us pancakes. Both fantastic. Very generous portions. Service very warm and attentive and there's just a real character about the place. A good vibe! If we lived in NYC (even if not in the neighbourhood) we'd be regulars. There's a Starbucks right opposite but give it a swerve and try the square diner you won't regret it!

Excellent small diner in TriBeCa. Split pea Beef Barley soup is good. Few celebs live in the area ( Deniro) (Taylor Swift) Short walk to SoHo art Galleries and Canal St Chinatown shopping.

My husband and I went for breakfast We have been there many times on visits. Always excellent and fantastic service would highly recommend

Came here after hearing its one of the last old time diners it certainly was. I got the corned beef hash with eggs the size wasn’t as big as other places I visited but the meal was enjoyable and service friendly.

We stopped here on our way through Soho, coming across it by chance and I'm very pleased we did. As Brits, we found the Square Diner to very authentic and had a warm, friendly atmosphere. We both had the chicken noodle soup which was delicious, especially on a cold day in January. I had the philly cheese steak sandwich which my mouth is watering just thinking about. My husband had something which I can't remember as I was too focused on how lovely my own was. We will definitely try to find this place again when we come back.

Proper, no frills, get what you ask for, real tasty reasonable food. Food was great, my husband had a Bloody Mary, he said it was the best he'd ever had, and trust me we have had a fair few in our time. If we ever come back to NYC we'll be back.

We had a dinner here in a cold evening of April. We were the only customers in the restaurant: probably this place deserves a visit more for breakfast than dinner. Some of the benches were wet paint and the smell was not very nice. In the menu all american classics: on our order nothing bad but also nothing to call home. They don't accept cards that in US is something pretty unusual.

Just amazing - assuming you want an authentic experience, not some homogenised chain affair - great food, clearly many local repeat patrons which tells me it is also decent value.

Good breakfast, fast service, endless coffee, affordable. Tables are small but it wasn't busy so easy to spread out. Nice decor - a proper diner, ideal place to start the day.

Went with the eggs Benedict which was very large and pretty tasty. The potatoes that came with it were also solid. The coffee was very good. Pretty cool little diner.

Diner’s typical New Yorker. Great for breakfast with pancakes and American coffee. Very welcoming family run service.

A traditional New York diner is what we wanted and Square Diner delivered! When there is a queue for a table I think that’s a good sign it’s enjoyed by many! We throughly enjoyed our breakfast, a table of 5 had a range from the menu including some pancakes, eggs, waffles, bacon sandwiches and french toast. Would recommend if you are in the area.

Me and my partner come here whenever we visit the city! The food is always amazing! Can never pick any faults with it! Look forward to visiting again soon!

Waiters really helped us make our food choices even though it was really busy and every table occupied. Really brilliant breakfast brunch spot. Would love to go back.

Loved this little gem of a diner. It is in an original old railroad car, all wood and traditional inside. It is the quintessential Americal diner car. They reckon it is over 100 years old. The menu is varied, with many Mexican flavoured dishes. We had burgers with guacamole and sweet potato fries and they were gorgeous. Pretty easy on the pocket too. They have a small selection of very well chosen liquor too (Tanqueray and Hendricks were the gin selections for example) I would definitely go back here next time I'm in New York.

We stumbled on this diner accidentally whilst exploring the city, but what a lovely place it was. Very traditionally American and as a British tourist this was a great old fashioned diner in comparison to the more modern diners in the city. The food was reasonably priced too and delicious. Only negative is that the diner was slightly dirty, especially toilet area and some chipped cups etc, but generally this all added to the experience!

We had a really great breakfast in a typical diner. The service very friendly and attentive. A flair as you wish.

The classic NY diner breakfast experience with attentive and friendly service from Louis. I didn’t realise they still had diners like this in Manhattan - I’d recommend it to anyone looking for the authentic in preference to the dismal uniformity of the many chains that try and fail to achieve what the lovely team at The Square Diner achieve with such ease.

We stopped by on our first night in NYC, suffering from jet lag and hunger pains (we were staying at the Roxy around the corner). What a delight. Served by Luis who welcomed us warmly and was friendly throughout. The food is sooo tasty. Real comfort dishes in a period setting. Cheap too - $29 plus tip for two main dishes, chips and coke. We left very happy and stuffed !

We stumbled across this place as we were looking for somewhere to eat a typical American burger. What a good find. Everything we were looking for, good food, atmosphere and cheap prices. The staff were helpful and friendly too, even though it was very busy. Loved it.

We had lunch here. Don't be fooled by the building, which looks a bit tired. The place is full of charm. Good selection on the menu, here everyone will find something to eat and drink. Portions are large, as they usually are in the US. Pleasant service. Recommended!

We live nearby and usually see people there in the morning. less crowded for lunch and dinner,,, likely because they only take cash. both inside and outside seating on West Broadway. We ordered eggs, toast and fruit salad. The eggs were fine,,, as were the potatoes, but the fruit tasted spoiled. Don't think we will go back again.

It's an old school diner, with some good healthy options on the menu, including plenty of choices for vegetarians. The staff were very nice, and the place is clearly popular with the locals. It's a cash only establishment, but the prices are low anyway.

I'd read up on the Square Diner before arriving on holiday in Manhattan. My partner and I were staying in Soho and we wanted an authentic American diner. Well, let me tell you: this is the best ever! The staff were so nice and friendly, I mean incredibly nice. We always got the table of our choice. The coffee just came on being served with a smile. We ate a lot of omelettes during our fortnight stay in Manhattan and nowhere came even close to the lovely, light and airy food that was served to us time and again on each visit to the Square Diner. Their breakfasts became the standard against which I judged everywhere I ate during my holiday and nowhere came close. It is incredibly cheap. On average a meal for two: that's fruit juice, coffee, omelettes and toast came to $30 + tip. for me, this was the breakfast discovery of my holiday and I will definitely return on my next visit to Manhattan.

Breakfast in America is a cultural institution in the USA not just the title of the epic Supertramp album of 1979. For any visitor to NYC who wisely choses to base themselves in atmospheric Tribeca, Square Diner is the mid century modern American dream personified. Established in 1922 it is hard to find a more authentic ambassador of an American classic. The Square Diner a cash only institution serving a menu that would make other places blush but truly rekindles the dream. Families, couples and friends settle in to traditional fare in this railway carriage diner that brings all of us truly 'Back to the Future' In the words of the great Lee Greenwood: 'God bless the USA'.

Step back in time and enjoy dining at a true Old School diner, conveniently located near subway stops in Tribeca. Danny and his team are incredibly friendly, attentive, conversational - and they serve up fabulous food, fresh hot coffee and tempting desserts! I can't wait to go back the next time I'm in the neighborhood!

If I could give negative stars I would. We got sat down by a nice waitress during rush hour, and the OWNER comes to our table saying there's a line and he just lost a table of 3 "because of us." He kicked us out in a rude, public way because he failed to communicate to his staff prior to accusing us or pay attention to his own restaurant. Will NEVER eat or order from this diner again.

Great little authentic diner, great staff and lovely food. We visited NY for a week at beginning of april and used this diner for breakfast each morning to start the day. Staff all very friendly and food was fab. We loved the Yoghurt Parfait. Pancakes and omelettes are lovely as well. Proper old school diner and only 7 min walk from hotel so ideally postioned. Definitely recommend it.

This diner looks really traditional and added a special vibe to our first American holiday. The coffee was very tasty and kept being refilled. The extensive menu caters for everyone's favourite breakfast. I had eggs with bacon which comes with toast and these delicious fried potatoes! The staff was very friendly - not easy to find in New York! It was a wonderful experience which led us to come back here for breakfast on our last morning in New York.

It's nice to know there are still old style diners aro u nd where you can get a good meal quickly for a fair price. Hamburgers, open face turkey sandwiches, fries, salads, rice pudding...good coffee and more. Cozy and comfortable place for meet ups and rendezvous. Open late most nights.

I planned a special day in the city with my dad and our morning was filled with downtown activities, so I shouted out this place on TripAdvisor. He loves a good old fashioned diner, so I knew this would fit the bill. Much to my delight, when we walked up to the corner he said, “I can’t believe it’s still here!” It turns out... he had been there once before, almost 50 years ago!!!!!! The food was spot on perfect. I had the big fish sandwich on a sub roll and he just wanted a classic burger. Both were perfect. Service was excellent, as well. Thank you for such a great lunch and a perfect place to relax for the afternoon.

My girlfriend and I are from overseas and wanted to experience an American diner. This was our first one together and it didn't disappoint. Huge menu which does take some time to get through but my sandwich was tasty and the fresh lemonade was delicious. Really enjoyed the atmosphere and the staff. Cash only an issue for us but could be a problem for others

Went there with Portuguese friends who were looking for a typical Diner. Very great moment. Food is fine and service is excellent. We recommend

I was visiting Manhattan for the Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend with Family & friends, we were staying on Canal Street & Grand, a few blocks away from the Square Diner, great service in an original Train Dining Car, wood paneled walls and Ceiling with stainless steel trim, service was fast & friendly, I ordered the classic Egg's Benny, with a small tomato juice & coffee.. the tables are close to each other, it's Cozy.. Coffee is not included with the breakfast entre, also an outside sidewalk terrace patio..

We came here in the afternoon, away from the rush hour. Consequently it was not at all crowded and the service was relaxed. The food was typical diner fare, pretty good if that's your preference (it is ours). The Philly Cheese steak sandwich was particularly good. Recommended.

breakfast of this trip to New York... there are no words you just have to come and try for yourself... pancakes to capsize!!❤️❤️

Menu choices galore. As for the vegan breakfast options though, I could only find avocado on toast. There is a really cool vibe with American pop & rock music playing in the background, and an outdoor sitting area. They only take cash payments, which we had on us fortunately, (as we didn’t see the sign telling us this before we ordered).

You can't beat a little converted railroad carriage diner, you just can't ! It's old school, cosy, full of locals and really nice staff. We loved the food, the staff and the prices so mucg, we came back again two days later and brought our friends. There's just something familiar and homely about it that we really took to, we were also made to feel welcomed and not rushed out the door. It's also real close to the Ghostbusters firehouse and a short walk from most of central manhattan. The tribeca area is definitely our kinda place, just feels more real to us and not as crazy as other parts of the city.

We always head here for breakfast when in NYC. Great menu, great service, friendly team and delicious freshly prepared food. An authentic taste of NYC!

Many of the stand-alone diners have closed, although the Empire Diner at 10th and 22nd has re-opened again. They often look very odd next to large buildings. This was once a wooden triangular building, back in the 1920s. The train-car itself was made by Pullman Dining Car Company of New Jersey in the 1940s, but Square Diner as we know it today dates back to 1945. Inside its familiar blue, chrome fitted exterior, you’ll find red vinyl booths, wood-paneled walls decorated with pictures of celebrities, and a menu of Greek and American fare. Food is pretty good; service is fast and very professional, especially breakfast. Very good cleanliness.

Very kind staff, we took die soups a caesar and a sandwich. The owner gave us a taste. The lentil soup though but to order it! Super abundant portions, affordable price!

Good service, tasty ans wholesomr food, congenial surroundings equal America Diner as I knew it. All what we ordered was plentiful and clean looking.

Stumbled across this gem of a place on the way to one world observatory. Authentic, relaxed, well priced, very good food and service. Loved it.

My go-to breakfast spot in TriBeCa. Classic, old school NYC diner. Good service, prices and quality. Recently featured in the TV show, “Ray Donovan.” Around the corner from the famous “Ghostbusters” fire station. Right by the 1 subway station and very close to A-C-E lines.

We've walked by here a number of times and even though our hotel included something they called "breakfast" we came here yesterday, instead. "sit anywhere" we were told so we grabbed a booth, menus appeared immediately, followed quickly by eggs, pancakes, home fries and great rye bread toast. Is it overpriced? It's NYC so yeah, it's overpriced, but not as badly as it would be in the more touristy areas. It's been there forever and hopefully it stays there forever.

Great little find, with excellent service. We had the pancakes and French toast with bacon. I ordered maple syrup, not realising that it was already served with a different kind of syrup. Was lovely food though.

Well located inexpensive (by NYC standards) diner with a large selection of breakfast/lunch options. Capuccino was decent(!!), lemonade freshly made was good. The deluxe chili was simple but very tasty and comforting, would order it again. Eggs Benedict were well prepared, but the Hollandaise could use more work and the muffins were a bit overdone, nothing spectacular but decent. Overall a fine visit and might come again if in the neighbourhood. For the mgmt: replace the soft forks, they bend!

We had a week in New York city and this was the only really authentic traditional American eating experience that we had in the city. It is a delight. The food is generous, tasty and the whole experience was very enjoyable.

Great find - proper old school US Diner - amazing breakfasts - bottomless coffees and fast polite service. Be warned BIG portions; the Lumberjack would serve two easily

Such a cool spot inside and out and truly authentic but it was way overpriced. A coffee & an iced tea Pancakes breakfast Fruit salad Nearly $70 We appreciate the space as much as the next person but not for a cafe/diner breakfast should it be costing $70, a shame.

Stepped in here to have a coffee and a cheese and ham omelette at the counter. The guy in charge was friendly, but - again somehow authentically - brusque as well. Coffee was great, ambiance incredible. I wish they had these places everywhere. The omelette was OK, perhaps slightly pricey. The one thing is did HATE is that you can’t pay by card. I get the whole authentic thing, heck it’s why I came there in the first place, but only accepting cash payments is utterly annoying and stubborn.

I took a bottomless coffe andthe lumberjack plate for 14 dollar. It included 2 toasts, 2 pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, sausages, potatoes, jam, butter, syrap etc. It's not the best ever but it was what I was looking for at the moment - something typical USA.

Food was good and portions were huge. Service was friendly and we ate outside so got lots of atmosphere. Lovely diner for breakfast.

This is a solid, unassuming neighborhood diner in Tribeca, a hood that has strayed far from its modest roots. Other than service that is small town friendly, the most pleasant surprise at this folksy diner is the home made corned beef hash. If you are a devotee of this cousin of spam, you will barely recognize Square Diner's version of the meat dish Americana; but you will forever consider all other hash to be a weak imitation. If you are downtown in the morning, stop by for breakfast. I'd skip Sunday brunch, though. The power scion strollers are out in force at that hour.......

Great place to eat. Friendly staff, nice selection. Pleasant, easy going atmosphere. Nice representation of a NY diner.

all very good! typical diner frequented by local. io food is very good and the staff very nice. wide choice on the menu.

Really enjoyed this place for breakfast. No nonsense American diner with friendly staff and good coffee. Went a couple of times as it was a few mins walk from our hotel and def the best breakfasts we had all week. Would recommend. Loved the omelettes and the French toast with maple syrup and bacon.

This is a nice little diner serving all the classics you'd expect. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy. It’s a small place, but there are always seatings available. During my visit, I wasn’t offered a coffee/water refill, even while sitting at the counter. I also noticed that the waiter mentioned to the customer next to me that his tea refill is considered as a separate order.

I'd done some research before we visited New York as I wanted to visit what we think of as an authentic diner. This place didn't disappoint. Relaxed friendly atmosphere and good service. It had a comfortable well used feel but without being too scruffy. It felt less touristy than any where else we tried but we didn't feel unwelcome. This was just what I was looking for. My first taste of corned beef hash didn't disappoint. Shame this place wasn't closer to our hotel or we would have been back for sure. Oh and for any Ghost Busters fans it's just down the road from the fire station that features as their base in the film.

Over 100 years old and still putting out great food and exceptional service... close to Canal street, this is an institution. Give it a try if you are in the neighborhood

Best milkshakes ever!!! We loved the square diner so much we visited twice in our 5 day trip! First time we had the chicken wings and a portion of nachos- soooo good!!! And the milkshakes were actually the best we have ever had! Lovely atmosphere to the place. Staff were fab too!

I learned that this diner was very popular and was often a location that film crews would hire. It is very close to the Franklin Street subway station. The diner is very traditional American in both atmosphere and menu selection and I loved it. It isn't fancy but the food is good. Service is effective in a typical New York way. I had the Turkey Club Sandwich and this was large, delicious and very fresh. This was an excellent experience

Pretty cool finding this small diner in the Tribeca corner of Manhattan. Breakfast was good; some unique omelets; I had the pastrami omelet with endless coffee. Waitress was very good. Prices were somewhat reflective of real-estate-rental for this tiny facility. Some comparisons say not bad cost... just don't compare with Cracker Barrel or Bob Evans for amount and price. But again, the unique varieties make this place worth checking out. Some big folks may have a challenge just getting through the front door...and good luck with the restroom space. Again, worth the time and money... if you can fit through the door ...and fit in the space.

Pastrami was a little saltier then it should have been. But over all not too bad. Wife said the gyro was decent. Service was good!

We were looking for an authentic American diner - as authentic as the come in the middle of NYC and Square Diner provided that experience for us. Tiny little place with friendly staff and good, honest (diner) food. Had breakfast there several times and will defo come back next time we're in the big apple. Fair prices too.

10/10. Food was excellent, service was brilliant, great classic diner. The pancakes, omelette and fruit salad was absolutely delicious and tasted so fresh. A must visit spot!

A lovely interior with wooden ceiling and you can sit at the counter or in booths. Great food and service and it lived up to the recommendations of where locals go to eat.

We were recommended to come here for an authentic diner experience and we weren't disappointed. The food was good and cheap, waitresses were friendly and the decor was what I imagined a traditional diner to be.

Came here with my wife for breakfast . Wow what a place . Old school American diner with stools at the bar and booths. We sat at a booth and were served in moments with coffee and water. Our order was taken swiftly and ohhh what a selection. It has every thing you could wish for . The food came in good time and was excellent . Coffee topped up regularly overall a fantastic experience . I would highly recommend and the prices are ok too .

My wife and I had lunch here on 29 August 2017 and dinner on 1 September 2017. We stumbled on the Square Diner while looking for the Ghostbuster firehouse and it was a great find. The food was great and the service friendly. The portions are generous and has an authentic feel that you don't get from chain restaurants.

Arrived before they opened but they welcomed us in early. Service, food and atmosphere was fabulous. We all thoroughly enjoyed our breakfast - teenage boys were in heaven! Definitely worth a visit for American diner experience

The service was efficient and friendly. Our food served to us quickly and quite good. Lots of options on the menu.

We ate here twice, the breakfast is very good. I had eggs Benedict which was cooked perfectly and French toast with loads of syrup provided. Eggs were well done as was the bacon. Serving team though are let’s just say not a happy cheery bunch.

Just wandering around like you do spotted this.quirky traditional decor.we only had a drink but the food looks great.very friendly staff on approach.spotless clean...tip...customers look really happy with their food.omg..gutted i didnt eat here but im coming back

We wanted to experience an old school diner in New York and thats exactly what we got. Great service, great food at great prices. Very clean and we were well looked after. Will definitely return.

My partner wanted to visit a traditional New York diner for breakfast & as the Square Diner was minutes from our hotel - this is where we came! Traditional diner with a good menu & endless coffee. I ordered the avocado toast with poached eggs & my partner the French toast with bacon. We both agreed that the food was very good & really set us up for a day of sight seeing. Very reasonably priced & good attentive service. Definitely worth a visit.

Superb fun diner. Clean and good service. Typical diner fare and endless coffee. Ideal for breakfast and brunch. Not had dinner here before. Take out too!

We love the Square diner, guaranteed a warm welcome, hot tasty food, great service and terrific value for money!

I was a little concerned when I saw the prices on the menu, BUT you get enough food for 2 meals, and it was delicious. I had the spinach pie (came with a salad that took up half the plate also) and another girl the chicken pot pie. Both were very tasty, and did I mention, HUGE portions. They serve breakfast all day, and there are quite a few Greek foods on the menu, since the owners are Greek. They also have a wide variety of items on their menu.

Great diner experience with massive portions of freshly cooked food. Friendly staff and very reasonable prices.

Huge choice on the menu. Service was a little slow but very friendly staff and delicious food. I had the fresh fruit salad followed by an omelette with potatoes. Was all really good! My brother in law had the pancakes and they were amazing! Very convenient location and a great pit stop.

My favorite breakfast of the trip; a real classic diner, with a huge menu, free coffee refills, wholegrain pancakes, lovely staff. No frills, great prices. Would become my local!

Had the "Square Diner" on the list and as it wasn't too far we set off to find it down West Broadway/Leonard St. TBH when we set off, I couldn't actually remember why I'd listed this place on my map as I looked at the little Google pin marker ..... Had I read a good food review ? . As we turned the corner of Leonard and came across it, I immediately knew why - it's one of the few typically retro style diners, but this one looked like an original and not a tourist mock up of an authentic diner. It had a single line of four seater booths down the right hand side lining the windows,Formica table tops and red leatherette seating , and chrome and red leatherette bar stools lining the counter on the left. I love finding places like this - after doing ones homework at home and on Tripadvisor, it's like a little treasure hunt once you get to nyc and start seeking these places out. Loads of choice on the menu for brekky too.

This is a great spot for a fast and very filling breakfast. Large portions of tasty food, and a huge selection.

Great quality food, presented well, and tasted great. Served in super quick time and piping hot. Special dietary requests, such as gluten free was addressed and catered for, certainly something for everyone.

My daughter and i was at the diner 4 times, for breakfast, lunch and diner... 2 times for the breakfast... Great place, with no fuzz, and gentle handling of the customers... you actually fejl welcome. Great place, we Will be back 😊

went 3 times during our stay in NY. Tried other diners but this was easily the best. Real old school - looks like a converted rail carriage. Lovely, friendly staff and food was just fab. The portions are just enormous. Best pancakes. Eggs benedict also a major hit. Wonderful place.

Visited here today, family of 4 searching for a real old style diner, the building itself did not disappoint, the food and service were ok but whilst we were seated I noticed a male member of staff enter the only ladies toilet, now desperate for the toilet myself it was quite some time before he came out and when he finally did he gestured to his colleague who was sat outside ‘clearly not to go in’ I then waited another 10 mins or so dreading to use the facility but had to when we were leaving and the stench then was shocking so I would hate to think what it was like earlier, this then totally made me feel ill about what I had just eaten!!!

I was googling diners in New York as the breakfast has changed from diner to cafe since my last visit. This is an old-fashioned diner and we had excellent breakfast there twice.

If you're Coeliac then boom this place is gold. My wife is and we went here twice in 6 days. The place is just like you see on TV, I think it's an old railway carriage. A bit cramped for that reason but an absolute belter. A piece of American history. Food was great, large portions, good price and the staff / owners were very good.

Lovely. Goodfellas vibe! Loved it! Jusy what we wanted after a bike ride! Nice spot on upper east side. What else can I write to get to the 100 letters this review needs. Go there!

For our first morning in NYC we wanted to experience the classic US diner for breakfast. There is an outside terrace, but we wanted a booth, we wanted corned beef hash with easy over eggs, we wanted our coffee refilled, we wanted pancakes and bacon and syrup, we wanted toast and jelly. That is exactly what we got as well as really friendly service and we loved it!

Fast New York City get to the point service, good food, bottomless coffee. Interesting decor, quiet, friendly and comfortable.

We were wandering around the area when we happened on this place. Being open for 100 years we thought it must be decent. Inside is very original. We were shown to a booth by a window. The yound lady who served us (we didnt get her name), was polite and helpful and fast at service without rushing anyone. She recommended the pecan pie. Oh wow! Best I've ever had by far. You could taste the bourbon in it but it wasnt overpowering. The price was decent for our food and drinks. Service fantastic. The place was very clean and tidy. Well worth a visit.

We came to New York as a surprise visit over New Year. Staying in the Tribeca area we were keen to avoid going uptown or eating at chain restaurants. This place is great, full of locals, its small, busy, loud and clearly popular. We came for breakfast and were disappointed, the staff are attentive and keen to look after their customers. Portions are great and the food is fresh and served quickly. Between us we tried the steak and eggs, pancakes, lumberjack breakfast, omelettes amongst others - all excellent. Even though we were only there for 4 days we came back for more. Definitely worth a visit.

The place is great, a typical American diner in downtown nyc. The food is very good, with plenty of choices. The service is kind and very quick. Highly recommend if you’re looking for typical american breakfast/lunch for a reasonable price in the city.

It is like eating in a diner on a film set, the food and atmosphere are great. We loved the feel of an old fashioned American diner.

I was there three weeks ago and 5 of us had a great meal and it was fun and good hearty food and reasonable prices for NYC. I went back today after the lunch rush and the proprietor was holding court loudly in an almost empty restaurant, spouting his views about Chicago gun violence and even making racist overtures. It was pretty disgusting. Plus they forgot an ingredient from my salad and the waitresses left and I was abandoned as a patron.

Really old style diner right in TriBeCa, good choice of breakfast options and the food was typical of the place, large portions and friendly staff. Nothing fancy but if your looking for something traditional old school NY it's worth a visit.

I made an effort to try something new, but this place has average coursing through its veins. It is completely charmless. Barely a welcome. Sullen service. And three women chatted away while taking payment, not even bothering to speak to customers. I just have no time for that nonsense. The menu has far too many items on it, and like all places that do, the fare is average. In 2016, they're playing the cash only game. Do they think the IRS is that dumb? Or do they not understand that 'cash only' makes for more work, and kills customer spending? Anyway, absolutely no need to return. This is a tourist trap, run by people that don't understand diner culture, or that a welcome/manners goes a very long way.

Just how I imagined a diner in NYC would be. Lively, good coffee, huge platefuls of pancakes, sandwiches, amazing chef salad. Worth seeking out.

This was my third visit over the years and i took my wife and a friend on his first visit and we were not disappointed great breakfast was had by us all and they reduced the bill because my friend couldnt eat the bacon because of dental work he had done service was great

Typical diner, small but take over 100 years and that shows They know what they do, typical prices and very fast service, recommended

My son. my granddaughter, and I, loved going to the Square Diner. The waiter is very helpful and pleasant and the service fast and good. My granddaughter's favorites are the mashed potatoes (so creamy and delicious) and broccoli. The soups, salads, burgers, meals are all fabulous and fresh. One lingers at this Diner as it is a comfortable place to hang out. We often go back to the Square Diner in Tribeca; try it and you'll want to keep going back as well.

Visiting the area and I would 100% come again, such an amazing experience! the staff were more than helpful and gave us a warm welcome, food was absolutely amazing and massive portions as well! Definitely recommend.

Cute little diner across the street from the New York law school, definitely a rare find in NYC. However, wasn't crazy about the food. I had the French onion soup and it was really sweet. Like the broth didn't quite taste like French onion soup. Everyone else's meals looked great though! And I would definitely come back and try something else

Had a very late Saturday night and needed some comfort food that would restore my equilibrium for the day. Nice little two person table and a hearty breakfast of poached eggs and a hash. Washed down with some medicinal coffee. The sun was shining outside and the buzz and hum inside was making me glow. The perfect NYC brekkie joint!

Food was Terrible I asked for pancakes and scrambled eggs, they brought a messy and descanting scrambled eggs. When I asked the waitress if this is the scrambled egg she said that this is what you get for….

Food does not look like the pictures you get on the online website. No-where near. It’s lovely looking old diner, but for the money being charged, (Tribeca prices regardless), it’s very poor. Burnt waffles had to be sent back, portion sizes very small at breakfast. Ingredients seemed cheap. Service ok. But wouldn’t go again.

We stumbled upon this fabulous little diner en route to the 9/11 Memorial. Great brunch/lunch, excellent service and realistic prices! Loved the quirky decor and everything else about this place. Generous and tasty meals. Do yourself a favour and put this place on your list for a great New York diner experience!

I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich and it came with a side order if diarrhea. It activated instant upset on my tummy. The furniture, look and feel is old. I guess the food too. Staff was okay though.

We found this place just a 5 minute walk from our hotel offering a better breakfast at far more reasonable prices. An old-school railway-style diner with booths and stools, friendly staff (they got to know our orders after day 2!) and traditional American breakfast fayre.

What an amazing little place. An American dinner with everything you could want. Great service, clean and good food. It has a warm and welcoming feel

now this is a real, authentic old school american diner, like straight out the films. i had pancakes and there were fresh and amazing and my fiancee had a salsa filled omelette. food was so tasty before a day of sight seeing and the staff were so welcoming and friendly.

We were eating here in March 2024. It is an authentic small diner with all its atmosphere. We had 2 burgers, 2 sandwiches and 4 drinks for $103

This is an easy review to write. The diner quality strong coffee and your cup gets refilled before it is half empty. There are super delicious breakfast option with generous portions. The service was exceptional. Highly recommend Square Diner for breakfast.

Delicious breakfast, friendly staff and reasonable prices inTribeca. Not to be sniffed at. Thoroughly recommended.

This was a nice place to sit and eat breakfast, good food at good prices and in a train car! There was seating outside which would be better in hot weather and the staff were really friendly too!

Been going to this diner nigh on 30 years and always our first stop on the first morning of our trips to New York. Never fails to impress with a vast array of breakfast choices although the infamous Lumberjack at $26 is hard to beat. Bacon, sausage, two eggs Canadian ham, home fries, 2 of fluffiest pancakes you will ever have, and toast with butter and grape jelly. Along coffee that’s rocket fuel, there’s not better way to start a New York visit. A great example of the dying art of the New York neighbourhood diner, if you are in TriBeCa I cannot recommend this place highly enough.

When in the US we are always looking forward to have breakfast - nothing fancy, but typical! On the TA forum we have got the advise for this diner - and it was exactly what we were searching, Great staff, great food, lots of refills of our coffee cups - perfect in all ways. We came back the next day to enjoy breafast here again!

Probably one of the few true diners left in New York. The food is basic diner fayre, good portions, and good quality. The staff are friendly and the service was good. Next time we are in downtown NYC we will revisit. One note of caution, this is a cash only establishment. It is not expensive anyway and you get good value for your buck.

Finding authentic experiences in this world is not easy, everything is over thought and contrived. Not at the Square Diner! This genuine! Genuine NYC diner with real staff and an owner who works the counter. The staff are attentive and polite. The food is real and a menu that is huge! If you cannot find something you would like you are way too fussy! Pancakes, waffles, eggs, burgers, quesadillas, paninis and dozens of other choices! Coffee is good but for those that like espresso or Lattes they are better than most places. The building is original - 100 years old, in the style of a railway carriage! The decor is cool and well suited. If you want a genuine, authentic NYC experience then Square Diner is what you have been looking for.

Food was actually pretty good but waiter service was snotty. I sent back my home made corned beef hash because it had no corned beef and was mostly hash potatoes. Different Waiter came back with a complimentary order of corned beef hash which then appeared on bill. Original waiter gave attitude. Unnecessary drama ensued. Otherwise, decent breakfast.

Amazing authentic American diner - we had 3 breakfast dishes and some sides between us and everything was delicious. The staff were super friendly and helpful with everything. Don’t hesitate to go here!

Cash only diner, but there is a convenient atm machine located outside :) I usually eat here after class and they have a student discount so that's a bonus! Great staff and was offered a free meal when I didn't get what I expected during one visit

Terrible service! They forgot to put syrup in my order. So i had dried french toast. I would rather buy my food at Cafe de Novo. This is the first and last time i order from here.

A friendly welcome was provided by the staff at the Square Diner on both our breakfast visits, with the opportunity to sit inside or out. On both occasions, we chose inside to take advantage of the air conditioning as the temperature and humidity were already on its way up the dial on these June mornings. Across our visits, we enjoyed the waffles and pancakes with generous fresh fruit salads, the lox and cream cheese bagel, and the corned beef hash with eggs. The food was freshly prepared and served in generous, tasty propositions. For drinks, we had orange and apple fruit juices, which were both of were refreshingly chilled, and coffees, with refills, which were the perfect set up to our day of sightseeing around Manhattan. The prices were around $55 to $60, which we found was very good value for breakfasts for two in New York and as good as this.

Well we stumbled across this place and what a gem, typical diner with great cheap food especially breakfast. As usual with these type of places to much food and it actually keeps you going for the whole day. If you are staying in the south of Manhattan look this place up

A 100 year old trailer diner in @tribeca , @squarediner ... something out of a movie or television show! Food was a perfect diner lunch, and service was so much fun! It was a fun experience!

This is (what I perceive to be) a traditional diner. We wanted to experience a diner breakfast despite breakfast being included in our hotel room rate. We didn't regret the decision as the service was fast and friendly the menu huge and the quality of the food was delicious. I'd highly recommend eating here.

Great service and very good food. I went with my children there, they were also welcomed. Only minus-point: you need to pay cash only!

We ordered the cheese sandwich and pancakes with bacons and eggs for breakfast. Service was fast and good. The food tastes well and loved the cozy atmosphere inside the diner. Price was alright for the food and portion in New York.

Great Diner! The All American experience with fantastic food, friendly waiters and great ambience. Can highly recommend the Ham & Cheese Omelette!

Great staff and amazing food, highly recommended and lots of gluten free options avalible. Great everyday America venue

We went into this typical looking NYC diner for breakfast. We loved the traditional look and decor. The food was good, I wouldn't say amazing but definitely no cause for complaint. The service however wasn't great and it definitely felt as though the locals get a much warmer reception than the tourists.

This diner is one of the few inexpensive places to eat in TriBeCa. It has the potential to be a great "go to" spot but the food is always hit or miss. The staff seems uninterested in providing friendly and welcoming customer service. My last visit was with my daughter for some brunch. We ordered two eggs over medium, toast, bacon, and OJ, everything bagel with cream cheese, and mozzarella sticks. The mozzarella sticks were served cold. The eggs tasted watered down. The yolk was light yellow and tasted like nothing. The toast was barely toasted and the butter provided for the toast was solid cold and unable to be spread on the bread. The bacon was delicious. The OJ is not fresh squeezed. The bagel was warm with a huge slab of cream cheese that wasn't even spread on the bread. I would only recommend this place as a quick cheap eats location but not a must visit.

Went here with friends. A huge menu. The ambiance not in our likings. I had waffles which were offered without any condiments. I ordered blue berries as extra. The rest of the breakfasts ordered were in my view very questionable and we will not come back.

We were in the US for the first time and we wanted to try a classic diner. And Square Diner was exactly what we know from American movies. Diner, where you get an excellent breakfast. Diner, where the waitress returns and refills the coffee. Diner, which is not much bigger than a train coach. The food was excellent and the service was nice. Payment in cash only, but there is a ATM right in front of the diner. We'll definitely be back when we visit New York again.

The experience with Square Diner was not good. We had a waiter who tried to rip us off, and was far from nice. He was eastern european and acted like a thug. The food was also nothing to brag about. Stay far away from this place.

Popped in for breakfast on our way to the Ghostbusters fire station. Everything I would imagine an American diner to be. Friendly service, food was out quickly and delicious (French toast with crispy bacon and eggs Benedict). If you go then one thing to know is that it's cash only.

Cash only alert! But they have an ATM which is humorously located in some bushes next to the place. I went here because I wanted a good diner breakfast. I usually go to Remedy Diner (see my review), but I was feeling lazier than usual, so walking "all the way" cross town seemed untenable. This place seemed to get some good reviews, and I was hopeful (this was back when hope still sprang eternal). I found Square Diner to be almost as good as Remedy, but seemed the tiniest bit lacking overall in courteous service, atmosphere (I know, it's a diner, but everything has an "atmosphere"), and most importantly, food quality. As I said, it's not terrible by any means, and actually pretty good - you would not go wrong coming here. I just found, being fresh off my experience at Remedy, that the staff at Square were a little less friendly, the location a little grim (not Square Diner's fault, that's just NYC and it's endless construction), the interior a little cramped (not a bad thing in itself, but some people may not like it), and the food seemed somehow not as fresh as Remedy and had a bit more of that sort of rancid taste that you might find at a regular cheap diner. But I'd go again, and it's still miles above the typical cheap diner that many of the actual old school diners in the city (which I used to frequent) seem to have become.

The waitress was nice, but everything took forever. The food was alright but not more than that. I guess they had a busy day and no organization!

Great little place, not the friendliest staff but a huge menu of eggs, omelettes, pancakes, all sorts of toppings, juices etc. Big portions, good prices, kept us stocked up till a late lunch. Nothing fancy but we loved the old school feel of being in a proper US diner, leather banquettes, coffee on tap etc. If you are near great but not worth travelling to, I am sure these are in every neighbourhood

I came here for breakfast with my boyfriend as he is a huge Daredevil fan and this place features in the 2016 series. It's everything you would look for in a traditional NY diner. The young girl who served us was super friendly and helpful. I'd been in NY for a few days and had eaten so much heavy food that I decided to go with the yoghurt with granola and fruit. It turned out to be one of the best breakfasts I had all week! The menu was pretty extensive, so there should be something for everyone. Highly recommended!

When we decided to go to NYC I decided I wanted to go to an old school diner. After a lot of research & watching US drama programmes it had to be Square Diner. We had a both just inside the door so I had a great view down the diner. The staff & I assume manager were great, never made a fuss because some old Brit was in their diner with cops, families & workers. I went for the Lumberjack which was huge & nicely cooked, I enjoyed every mouthful, if we come back to New York again I'd certainly go there again, maybe John Rees & Harold will be having a meeting in there next time.

The service was very slow but the staff were kind. There was a bug in my food which was disgusting. The food tasted normal nothing special about it.

Had breakfast at the Diner 3 times while on holiday in New York. The breakfast as well as the coffee was so yummy we had to keep going back. Friendly and welcoming staff. I couldn’t recommend this place enough, it’s too good. If I lived in New York I would go there everyday.

I have been eating at the square diner for years and it’s always the same great food, great service and value. In a neighborhood that in my opinion has very little good food to offer the Square Diner is an oasis. I most typically eat breakfast at the Square but all the meals there are good and I have yet to not find something that hits the spot regardless of the time of day. My favorite meal though, regardless of the time, is their Corned Beef Hash and i request it be served with 2 Poached Eggs, Rye Toast and Home-fried Potatoes. They always cook it exactly as I like it with the Hash arriving crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside, and the Poached Eggs, which can be a problem in many places if they will cook them for me at all, always have velvety whites and a gooey running yolk that compliments the Hash perfectly. Couple this with a bottomless cup of coffee and I can’t think of a better way to start my day. During the warmer months it’s nice to sit outside and in the sun and people watch as I enjoy my meal. 2 other meals I am fond of are their Goat Cheese Omelet and their Burger. In a world that is drowning in mediocre burgers the Square’s is a departure from the fast food ones that offer very little taste or substance. The Square is a neighborhood eatery and the atmosphere and hospitality reflect that. The owners who are there almost every time I have eaten there (which to me means that they really do care), and all the staff are cheerful and smiling and do all that they can to give great service and make you happy. Not all NYC restaurants can do this, or even care to do this. So if you want to enjoy the true NYC Diner experience, have some good food in good portions, and be served with a smile check out the Square Diner the next time you're in the neighborhood … FYI: it’s only a few short steps from the Franklin Street station.

We came here on the way to the ghostbusters firehouse. The breakfast was the best I had whilst in NYC. I opted for the lumberjack breakfast which arrived very quickly. It was so big we didn't need lunch!

Nice cozy place. Only few tourists. Good and service was good. Breakfast was lovely . Worth for money is excellent. Will be there again

This place - amazing, just amazing. The food is excellent, well priced for New York and the staff are lovely. I think we may have walked past this had we not done our research, so glad we did. A real must when in New York. We went very early at around 7.30am on a Sunday so it was quiet but when we passed later in the week it was very busy so go early. Really friendly staff and a great mix of locals and tourists, not intimidating in any way. Go in and enjoy!!