Empire Diner: A Must-Visit Spot in NYC!
When you think of a diner, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the classic train car-style diner. There’s something about that nostalgic, almost historical vibe that makes me feel like I’m stepping into the past.
I love visiting these kinds of diners because they have that charming old-school feel. But the place I visited this time? It’s a diner, but different—and in a good way!
Empire Diner: A Classic with a Twist
The diner I checked out today is Empire Diner, located right in the heart of Chelsea at 210 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011.
📸 [Location]
Empire Diner has been around since 1946, built by the Fodero Dining Car Company. It’s one of those classic, retro-style diners that used to be everywhere in the U.S. Over the years, it’s changed owners and gotten a few makeovers, but it still has that old-school charm.
Back in the late '70s and early '80s, it became a trendy hangout for artists and creatives, turning into a bit of a cult favorite. It even made appearances in movies, TV shows, and ads, making it a small but memorable part of NYC’s pop culture
I’ve been to many diners, but Empire Diner has that special something—it feels like actors and celebrities are drawn to these kinds of places. Maybe part of me just hopes to casually bump into a celebrity while I’m there? 😂
If you’re planning a date, definitely make a reservation and check this place out. Even if it’s just with friends, you might end up being the designated “restaurant picker” for your group after this visit. (Is that a good thing or a bad thing for you? 🤔)
The Wait Was Worth It
I went during the dinner rush, and since I didn’t make a reservation, I had to wait 30-40 minutes. Waiting isn’t my favorite thing, but honestly, it just built up my anticipation.
Luckily, Empire Diner is right next to the High Line, so we walked around while waiting, and time passed by quickly!
From the outside, it looks like the classic train car-style steel diner I love. But once you step inside…?
A Diner That Feels Like a Modern Restaurant
Inside, it’s a completely modern, upscale restaurant. The staff were super professional—you can tell they’ve been well-trained.
And the bar? It looks nothing like a typical diner bar. It felt like something out of a high-end cocktail lounge! Seeing how cool the bar was, I had no choice but to order a drink. I mean, come on, how could I not? 😂
Drinks & Starters
We ordered:
- “Sesamiso!”
- “Autumn Manhattan”
Oh, and since the menu literally puts an exclamation mark next to Sesamiso!, we made sure to shout it out loud while ordering: Sesamiso! 😂
I usually drink Old Fashioneds, but for some reason, I was in the mood for a Manhattan that day. My girlfriend Jenny ordered Sesamiso!, but… she didn’t love it.
It had a strong cucumber taste, which isn’t really my thing either. (If you love cucumber-flavored cocktails, you might love it though—so no offense! 😅) Jenny mostly ordered it because she thought the name was cute, but in the end, she only drank half… and, of course, I had no choice but to finish it for her. Such a sacrifice! 😂
Before the main dishes arrived, they brought out scone-like bread with salted butter, and oh my god… it was SO GOOD. I could’ve just eaten that and left completely satisfied. 😂
The Food
I’m that person who always orders whatever dish has the restaurant’s name in it. If the name is on the menu, it has to be their signature, right? So naturally, I went with the Empire Cheeseburger.
I ordered it medium-rare, and it was cooked PERFECTLY—exactly how I like it. Honestly, it’s been a long time since I’ve had a burger this good.(sorry, I messed up cutting it into half 😅)
You know when you order medium-rare or medium, and it comes out totally wrong? Yeah, I was a little worried about that. But thankfully, they got it just right.
The fries were great—not too salty—but I was a little disappointed that they only gave two slices of pickles. For some reason, I always prefer pickles over fries when I’m eating something greasy.
The Tuna Tartare had a strong ginger aroma, but in a good way. The frizzled shallots on top had a nice crunch, and the flavor balance was perfect.
The potato chips that came with it were lightly salted, which made them extra tasty. The tuna itself was great, but honestly, the combination of toppings was what really stood out.
You can never go wrong with shrimp. I didn’t really check the description before ordering, but when it came out, it looked just like Spanish gambas al ajillo.
Actually… now that I think about it, maybe they just renamed gambas al ajillo in English? 😂
Final Bill
Here’s what the total came to: $113.22 (before tip).
Breakdown:
Autumn Manhattan Cocktail – $19 Sesamiso! – $17 Sauteed Garlic Shrimp – $22 Tuna Tartare – $22 Empire Special Blend Burger – $24 Subtotal – $104 + tax Total – $113.22
Final Thoughts: Should You Go?
If you’re in NYC, Empire Diner is absolutely worth a visit. I care about both the theme and taste of a restaurant, and this place delivers on both.
It’s a unique spot that feels special from the moment you walk in. The food is amazing, and the atmosphere makes it a great place for a date.
If you’re seeing someone (or want to impress someone), plan a visit here and take a romantic stroll along the High Line afterward. Who knows? Maybe something good will happen. 😉
Anyway, I’ve talked way too much. That’s it for now—catch you later! 😆
Retro but modern, classic train car looking diner in heart of Chelsea.