Townhouse Diner Reviews

Breakfast was great!! Best frittata I’ve ever had, and my wife is a chef!! Service was attentive and caring, just like mom when she isn’t mad at you!! Go and support this place!!

After a busy morning walking and visiting the UN we were starving. Found The Townhouse and what a relief to rest our feet and have a cold drink. We both ordered sandwiches with a side of fries. Also coleslaw and pickles served with both sandwiches. Staff were friendly, service was quick and the food really good. Very good value and the servings generous.

Party of 4 for lunch on a weekday. Food served hot and tasty. Portions good. Service very good. Prices reasonable. Thank you John and Mitch!

Amazing place with amazing staff! Sara was so friendly and made the best food for me swapping fries for tomatoes with my omelette. If Im back in NY this will be go to place definitely. Coffee is amazing there and the atmosphere is very pleasant just loved this place. Thanks guys for having me!

Small diner straight out of the 60’s. Great coffee and I loved the gyro+feta omelette. Big portions. Go off peak- not a ton of room to wait if tables are busy.

Party of five for breakfast on 5 July during our trip to New York. We came to this place by chance but it turned out into really good experience. The diner feels very cosy. The food was great and reasonably priced. The service was friendly and. The waiter forgot to bring us the fruit salad my child ordered and in a way of apology we were given an extra one free of charge and a cookie.

This diner was my home away from home while living in Midtown New York. I went there for great food, and my daily cappuccino. It is a great place any time of the day, the staff, Steve, Irene and Benny were like family to me. When I did not show up for a few days, the staff even brought me chicken soup, because they knew that I was sick... In one word, "unique" friendlyness and great feeling to habe the townhouse diner as my daily hangout. Whenever I will be in New York in the future, it will be the first place I go. Thanks everybody!

Our concierge told us we'd have a real New York diner experience here, and he was right. There are many breakfast specials to choose from, and they all come with more than enough food. The waitress, Irene, is attentive and will bring you whatever you ask for. All of the customers, as far as we could tell, were locals and regulars. The food is not fancy or trendy, but it is correctly prepared and delicious. The owner is friendly.

Only diner in NY i've been to several times. Why? Because its worth it! The staff is nice, and the prices are some of the better on Manhattan

While visiting our Son and Daughter who both live within Mid-Town, we decided to have breakfast here. There appears to be a name issue on Tripadvisor vs Yelp. Our receipt states Townhouse Cafe but here it's call the Townhouse Diner--both are located at 696 2nd Ave. NY, NY, so it's one and the same. On November 26, 2012, my Wife and I arrived here for a late morning breakfast. The owner or manager was holding the door open and several groups of two entered. He yelled in, " see what happens when I hold the door open!" We were seated right away and given menus. My wife had over easy fried eggs with bacon while I ordered a Swiss cheese/bacon omelette. Both items arrived faster then I thought. Everything was served hot including the buttered toast. The total cost was $21.35 + tip which was reasonable for the quality of what we ordered. We shall return upon our next visit.

The Townhouse is a Greek Diner, and they cook delicious dishes (try Lamb Shank with Rice) and delicious soups (try chicken noodle soup, or any other). Breakfasts are not special and coffee is the same as any coffee is in NYC, so go there for lunch or dinner.

Wow this place is amazing amazing breakfast. Order the big breakfast you won't be disappointed. Will set you up for a long day In new york. Massive portions. Such friendly staff. Been here twice now for my short trip. Hot tasty food. Next time in new york... Will defo come again and again. Thank you guys x

It's like coming home. The service feels like you are a family member. The 3 Greek brothers who who owns and run the place see to it you are well treated. And the food: It is the taste of Greece. Healthy and hearty, you know you can't go wrong stepping into this "Townhouse".

We felt like Diner tonight - and Townhouse Diner did it all for us. We were greeted warmly on the entrance and enjoyed the whole stay very much. From Milkshake over Pancakes, Spaghetti Meatball and Tuna Club Sandwich - the perfect di(n)ner experience. The owner and his team were very warm and welcoming - and we can leave New York, saying we had the black and white. Thank you for the great time <3

Went here twice during our stay. Staff were brilliant, food superb. If you want the proper diner experience come here.

Welcome to your typical neighborhood diner where the owner greets you by your name, and if he doesn't know you - he will make you comfortable and welcome. I love this place because it's one of the true old NYC places where hipsters don't go (yet) and I have a feeling that when the menu gets reprinted it's just the prices not the list of dishes. They don't rush you, ever.

This is an excellent diner. The staff is very friendly and helpful. You can tell they have many repeat customers. Their food is delicious. Cute little diner right on 2nd Avenue. Breakfast, lunch and dinner food items all delicious.

We love US Diners and this one is up there with the best. A huge menu choice, fast and friendly service and fair prices. All that, and excellent coffee.

Of our 5 days in NYC, we had breakfast here three times. We tried 2 other diners close by, but Townhouse was our favourite. On our first visit we were warmly welcomed and looked after. The second, we were remembered from our first visit, and by the third we were welcomed like old friends. Lots to choose from on the menu, all cooked fresh and fast, and brought to our booth by a smiling waitress.

We spent 5 days in NYC from Denver. We ate at very expensive restaurants. This diner was out favorite (and super affordable) because of the owners and staff. You will feel like family here!

By far the best coffee shop/diner on a wide swath of Midtown East (23rd to 50th, Lexington to First): A disconcertingly huge menu, but it's best to stick to the standards, which cannot be improved on---spectacular omelets, for example. Service is homey and friendly and attentive; this is a nice place to while away a little time reading the paper and watching the passersby.

They have a good solid breakfast. The staff is exceptional. We will eat breakfast here when we visit the area next time.

Town house diner located between 38th and 37th street 2nd ave. It’s a family owned diner Serving great dishes from there full menu. (Breakfast/lunch/dinner) the owners and staff are all happy and helpful. P.s must try there 7 layer cake !

The townhouse diner reminds me why I fell in love with NY when I used to come here in the 90’s. Old school diner with personal welcome and character.

We came across this place for breakfast on our 3rd morning in N Y. We couldn’t believe the choice on offer. The food was delicious & the service was excellent. We liked it so much, that we returned the following morning for more. Unfortunately, that was our last day, and I’m sure we would’ve had breakfast there again. Highly recommend 😀

I've stopped by this place a few times during lunch hours and also dinner hours when I've been in the neighborhood only to find it closed and without any signs. When it is open, the place is empty but has an unusually high number of staff. The atmosphere is average but a bit dated. The food prices are high considering the food isn't that great. The food is pretty much average or below average so I don't know why there are great reviews for this place. I ordered a burger today and it tasted defrosted while the bun was stale or previously frozen. The food, pricing, high staff and empty location makes me feel like this is a "laundromat" if you know what I mean.

We were staying in the same block and couldn't be bothered to make breakfast. We were recommended this place by the reception in our block and we were not disappointed. Staff/Service and food were excellent and plenty of it. I think all four of us had something different everyday. Very reasonably priced and good quality. We only ate at breakfast so cannot comment on other foods but if the quality is the same as breakfast i think it would be very good.

My girls and I love the waffles and pancakes, big servings, family atmosphere, friendly staff. This is a regular treat for us.

This is the kind of place a visitor to NYC might never look to. It’s probably not going to be on Tic Tock, or Michelin guide, but it’s the sort of place that has been feeding locals as a neighbourhood fixture for 40 years. It’s hard working people serving their community food that most everyone can relate to. It’s comfort food across an extensive menu that includes a huge all day breakfast list. It’s the type of place where locals might talk to you and give you tips. If John the owner is there to speak to you, it’s a treat. He is what made our visit memorable. Most of all it’s worth a try for an authentic NYC diner experience.

Stopped in on a Saturday morning on way to midtown tunnel. People moving about but room for our 5. The menu is expansive, breakfast, lunch or dinner all day. We had eggs with corned beef hash, omelletes, club sandwich, meatloaf on roll and a full turkey dinner with all the fixing. Waitstaff were friendly and attentive with great suggestions. Met John the owner and exchanged pleasantries. Great experience, will definitely return. Enjoy!

Great breakfast , staff are friendly . Food is very nice in a chilled environment. Locals frequent for eat in and takeaway, always a good sign.

Breakfast with my teenage kids - we all loved it . Great food , service and reasonable price and exactly the old style diner i wanted to show them .

We arrived 3 days ago, this is our place to be for breakfast Delicious Top welcoming They are fast The dishes are sublime

Typical and cozy dinner! Staff very helpful! Hearty plates, fresh fruit, beautiful choice. A very good address!

We are here twice while staying in New York and it was fantastic. On the first visit we both had Reubens which were to die for and huge portions, my husband managed to knock over his beer but the staff we wonderful and even gave me candy and a cookie when I left as it was Halloween. On the second visit I had a corned beef hash and my hubby french toast with bacon. I wish we were there longer because the menu had some many tempting things on it. Overall a great place to eat with lovely friendly staff

We had a really good diner breakfast, but special touch by owner who gave us complimentary fruit cup. Cozy space, very good breakfast sausage.

We were staying about a block away so popped in here for breakfast on the Sunday morning. As I was following a restrictive diet I asked for certain things to be omitted, everything was done to the letter. From bagels to fried food, omelets to fresh fruit salads everything was made to order and well presented. The coffee was strong and the tea was hot, everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meal, huge portions and not at all expensive by New York standards, give it a try!

I craved a good, basic diner breakfast and this place was perfect. No line, no tourists, no fuss, I wasn’t rushed, and the pancakes and eggs were delicious. Service was friendly and fast and the coffee was fantastic. When I left they even sent me on my way with a to go cup of coffee. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start my day. If I’m in this neighborhood this will be my go-to.

Sort of a mixed bag. Had two salads tonight. One was Greek with chicken souvlaki on top. The other was spinach with grilled chicken in top. The chicken on top of the spinach was dried out and tough. The spinach was fresh but dressing was basically balsamic vinegar and oil, which had separated entirely. The souvlaki on the Greek salad, on the other hand, was moist and tasty. However, the ingredients in the Greek salad were not satisfying. The feta was very sparse and dry. There were only 4 olives and two small grape leaves. The Greek salad was basically lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Again, the dressing was poor and detracted from the salad.

I enjoyed the lunch here. We were traveling to New York on business, and this diner was near one of our locations. It had a nice feel to the place. It was older, but you could tell all of the locals come back again and again, which was nice. The owner walked around, and was engaging, especially with his regulars. The food was a little pricey, but not crazy for New York. The food was good, but not great. I would go again if I were in the area, or lived nearby for sure.

I am not into fancy restaurants and much prefer to find a locals place and this ticked my boxes. Ate there twice. First time had pancakes with bacon and maple syrup. In a fit of greed also ordred French Toast and realised once it all arrived it was WAY too much food for me to eat. Second time I decided to try Eggs Benedict......OMG...whre have you been all my life. Died and gone to heaven! My cup of coffee was kept regularly topped up and the staff couldn't have been nicer. Thoroughly enjoyed soaking up the atmosphere and listening to the locals. Looking forward to heading back there in a week or so.

I just ordered takeout from here and everything was delicious! I’ll definitely be back! I got the chipotle chicken wedge with fries and Mac n cheese bites

Popular with the locals, and for good reason. Authentic diner offering a very wide range of breakfast options at a reasonable price. Great food, friendly staff with great initiative. Would certainly recommend!

We visited her was recommended via google as it was close to our hotel. And are we glad we did! Had an old school feel, welcoming, very well priced and the food was unreal, Definately recommend steak n Eggs, nothing was too much trouble, coffee was kept filled up and waiting time for food was quick and we will definately visit again!

I stoped in for Breakfast on the way to a meeting, and as usual found the service excellant, and the food equally so. It is an affordable place, that does not rush you.

I'd always wanted to see inside a diner in New York, this was building not a "trailer style diner" of the movies. We got seated quickly and asked if we'd like water, while we given menus, the water arrived and we has a little time to read through what was on offer, Id settled on a Breakfast sandwich with eggs & sausage, my partner wanted to know " what are silver dollar pancakes?" to which we heard , that they were small pancakes and you got 6! She picked the regular pancakes with sausage & an orange juice, a ordered a coffee. The best point about this place was not the above average food and service we got, but it was that an older lady who was also dining, who was born & bred on 2nd Avenue, got chatting with us both, and while I went to the rest room, as I'd finished my food, I discovered when i returned, that this lovely lady had PAID for OUR BREAKFAST! What. a sweet and generous woman, she'd been eating there for along time I'm certain.

Round the corner from the hospital where my son was having surgery-what a find...it was a step back in time and the food was outstanding in terms if quality, quantity and nostalgia! Pancakes with way over eggs and bacon. Pure indulgence and great coffee, served by long serving waitress. Quirky owner,staff and clientele made for a memory provoking experience. And all for under $16!!

We had breakfast here several times on our recent trip to New York. The staff were friendly, the food excellent. There's a wide choice on the menu so we tried something different ea h day and weren't disappointed.

Found this diner on our first morning for breakfast. Breakfast was good and had plenty of choices. Staff were friendly and helpful. We went here every morning for breakfast. Tried various breakfasts. We were not dissappointed with any of them

We choose this diner as it was the nearest to our hotel. Eat there the first morning and loved it but tried a different one the next day just to venture around. We were sorry we did and went back to the Townhouse every day for the rest of our trip. The food was great and lot's of it but just as important the staff were brilliant creating a relaxed atmosphere. They remembered us too from our first day and thanked us for coming back. We would recomend it all day long.

This is what diners should be with good coffee, great breakfasts, home baked desserts. And meat loaf. It smells good and service is efficient And snappy. Located on the east side it is busy in the mornings with early morning breakfast crowd.

Great family run diner that was close to our hotel. The place felt very authentically New York. Friendly staff and good range of choice on the menu.

Love to eat where the locals go when on holiday and this was really evident here. My husband has a dairy allergy and while the server was a little hesitant on adapting the order, the owner was very reassuring that his meal would be dairy free. We both had the big breakfast (although hubby couldn’t have the pancakes) and the portions were huge. A great way to fill up before a day exploring NYC.

Every time we're in NYC we head to Townhouse Diner for breakfast. Actually, we head there EVERY morning (with few exceptions) every time we're visiting. The food is comfort food at its best and lots of it. My husband loves their lox. I think I've tried every omelet. But the best part is that they're a neighborhood diner and know their customers and treat them well. The owner and his staff have even gotten to know us and we're warmly welcomed back every time.

Found this diner by chance today on our last day in NY between 37th & 38th Streets on 2nd Avenue. Menu was huge, service was great, & food was tremendous. They had everything from snacks to full meals.Large portions, very tasty, coffee refills, & straight over with iced water as soon as we sat down. Prices very reasonable, & a choice of food to suit everyone. Only downside was finding it on our last day. Highly recommended & we'll definitely go back.

We had breakfast here , food was good service quick . We had refills of coffee after the meal and were given the check which we paid .we sat planning the rest of our day when another waitress came up and shouted at us because we had not left a tip. We were still drinking our coffee and intended leaving the tip when we had finished our coffee . Aparently if you do not leave the tip with the bill you get shouted at. We will not return.

Who can guess how many diners of this sort exist in NYC? On the surface they all appear to be pretty much the same but, they of course, are not. This little place excels at the basics. Greek owned & operated so a slight slant in that direction on the menu but for the most part just straightforward diner/NY deli fare. What really stands out here is the smiling faces of the genuinely friendly staff. The owner & I would suppose some of his relatives are there as well as an ethnically mixed group of other staff - all happy to see you. We went a bit out of our way to go back here a couple of times & will return when in the city.

Excellent service and good hearty and wholesome food. Had peasant omelette which was delicious and really fresh. The lady who served us was great and they do free refills of decaf which is unusual in NYC

I popped by for lunch one Saturday. Ordered the Rueben. It was fine, but I bet not New York's best. Service and price were OK.

My BLT with excellent baked beans (side dish) was on my table in five minutes. Perhaps it was the hour (10 am), but I like fast service. Is BLT typical of the menu? Not sure. I shall try again.

A basic and very good NYC diner with an extensive menu! The owner is a character and the servers were delightful. I had the fried chicken sandwich with fries and it came with a bowl of gravy for dipping! Husband had a Greek salad with grilled chicken. Very good food, and loved the atmosphere!

Nice little diner within walking distance of Grand Central. Standard diner fare. The Bacon Egg and Cheese sandwich was good.

Whenever we are in New York, if we stay Midtown, we have breakfast at the Townhouse Diner - after a few times it just feels like home. Their breakfasts are quick, delicious, and filling. The staff is fun and friendly, and they offer delivery. My only negative comment (my biggest restaurant pet peeve) is having to pay for each cup of hot tea if you get a new tea bag. It is so unappealing to take a cold, soggy tea bag and reuse it - does anyplace re-brew their cold, soggy coffee grounds? Lipton tea bags are cheap, so I really think this is inexcusable - sadly, it is very common. Other than that, Townhouse is wonderful!

Lovely food and very friendly staff. We went back the 2nd day too as was so good. Pancakes, Waffles, French Toast, Bacon and Coffee are all fantastic. Must visit if in area.

The moment you step off the street, you are greeted like family. John and his staff defy any big city stereotypes, make you comfortable and feed you… A LOT. Fair prices and generous plates of comfort food. Most familiar and some with distinctive Greek flair. I expected at any moment to hear Opa! as a plate crashed to the floor, but no… and no disappointment. Friendly, clean… just a great meal. Tell John Steve and Jenn sent you. Grab a cookie the size of a dinner plate on your way out!

We were looking for the perfect place to have our first American breakfast and we found it! The menu is just wow, there is so much choice, there really is something for everyone! And taste-wise, quite frankly, eggs can seem like eggs and yet...we really enjoyed ourselves!! The little whipped cream on the hot chocolate, the very friendly welcome, the speed with which we were served, everything was perfect!

After walking by the UN Building on the way back to our hotel, we were looking for a place to have dinner and by chance just happened to come across this place. We walked in at about 4 PM on a Monday afternoon and saw a menu that seemed to offer every breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu item possible. There was something for everyone in our 5 person party (2 adults, 3 kids in their teens). The food was very good, hot, and promptly served. Prices were very reasonable. Now on to the best parts of our visit. When we arrived, we were greeted very warmly by a lady who seemed to double as hostess, server, and maybe part owner??? Any way throughout our stay, she was very friendly and struck up several conversations with us and the kids about anything and everything. A visit to the table by the chef and the owner during our meal; both wanting to make sure our food was good, was very welcome. For the 5 of us, our dinner bill including tip was about $125.00. In addition to the food we actually paid for, the lady brought out a couple extra bowls of chicken noodle soup for our table because she overheard my wife and kids ranting about how good the 1 we actually ordered was (we each took a spoonful out of the bowl my wife originally ordered). At the end of our meal, she also brought out 2 small plates of fresh fruit which was a welcome sight after going the previous couple of days without any fruit. Lastly, when she found out we were in NYC celebrating my daughter's 13th birthday, she must have told the owner because as we were walking out, he handed her a 'huge' chocolate chip cookie and repeatedly wished her a happy birthday, etc. I cannot recommend this little diner enough. I only wish a place like this existed back in our hometown ..... If ever in this part of NYC (Murray Hill), find this place and enjoy!

Reasonably prices food and beverage, reasonably sized servings and out of this world friendly service!!! Highly recommended!!

Had breakfast here following a recommendation from a fellow Brit. It was a little dated and tired looking inside, but this added to the experience as it felt very ‘old school New York ‘. French toast was delicious, as were the eggs, bacon and sausages. Tea and coffee were topped up without even asking. Waiting staff were friendly and very efficient. Highly recommended.

Based on two separate visits for breakfast only, this diner is a classic Greek eatery with the nicest owner and waitstaff. Everybody's happy, helpful, and attentive and really contributes to a pleasant dining experience. The food was good, the coffee cups were filled as soon as they were half empty, and a good time was had by all.

This mid town diner is a stand out for the way the staff and owners treat you. The owners make you feel like an honored guest or one of the family. I stopped in for lunch after a doctor's visit close by. Currently I'm walking with a cane and as soon as I walked in, one of the owners took me to a table close to the door, but away from the cold and sat me down. As I was leaving, he came over again and helped me on with my coat and held the door for me. I noticed that I was not the only one to get this kind of treatment. I also noticed that any regulars were greeted by name and welcomed back. The menu, like any diner has a large selection of breakfast and lunch items along with daily specials. There is also a large selection of dinner items from which to choose. On top of this the wait staff is polite and fast. My lunch choice was a Cobb Salad with grilled chicken. The salad was large and filled with greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, walnuts and cranberries along with a large serving of chicken. It was on the lunch specials and I has a delicious pea soup to start. It was very tasty and reasonably priced. This was my first time here but certainly will not be my last. I look forward to return visit and trying many more of their menu items.

I came here for a late afternoon dinner with my mother. Service was very friendly and fast. And above all the salads, lamb chops and vegetables were very fresh. Would I go back, yes!

Diners are a dime a dozen in NYC, but I would have to rate this as one of the best. Met friends here for dinner and could not be more pleased. The place was very clean, the service efficient and courteous, and the food was excellent. Prices average for NYC diners. Tables and chairs and booths available. One step up for wheelchairs. Menu is extensive, with breakfast available all day. Had moussaka, a Greek specialty and it was tasty. Burgers and pasta equally as good. Would recommend if on the east side as it is on Second Ave, between 37 and 38 sts.