Breakfast, lunch and dinner come with a show at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, home to The Original World Famous Singing Waitstaff™. The Stardusters sing for guests as they serve, and many have gone on to Broadway in shows like Wicked, Jersey Boys and The Lion King. Every meal comes with the chance to hear a future star before the rest of the world does.
A Theater District tradition since 1987, Ellen’s opened at 1650 Broadway at 51st Street as New York City’s first 1950s-themed restaurant. Owner Ellen Hart Sturm, Miss Subways 1959, filled it with nostalgia and heart, from the retro memorabilia to the drive-in screen. Named The City’s Best Diner every year since 2023, Ellen’s is grateful to every guest who comes for the food, stays for the Stardusters and helps keep the place shining.
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Diner
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Best Diner Winner
Ellen’s Stardust Diner combines a 1950s-themed diner with live musical performances from its singing waitstaff, known as the Stardusters. The restaurant opened in 1987, serving American fare daily from 7 a.m. to midnight. Its retro setting includes Miss Subways memorabilia and a screen designed like a drive-in theater. The talented singing waitstaff perform throughout the day, making the restaurant a destination for both everyday meals and group occasions, as well as private parties and corporate events. And thanks to both the musical component of the meal and the restaurant’s proximity to Times Square, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is also the perfect place to enjoy a meal before a show. In fact, several former Stardusters have gone on to Broadway and other musical-theater careers.
Diner
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Best Diner Winner
Where classic diner fare meets Broadway flair, Ellen’s Stardust Diner, the 2025 Winner in the Diner category, delivers an experience that’s as entertaining as it is delicious. Famous for its singing waitstaff and retro 1950s vibe, this iconic spot turns every meal into a show. Guests enjoy hearty American favorites—think stacked burgers, creamy milkshakes, and golden fries—served with a side of show tunes and smiles. The lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, capturing the spirit of New York in every note and bite. With its blend of nostalgia, talent, and great food, this beloved diner keeps the city’s heart—and appetite—happily singing.
Diner
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Best Diner Winner
You haven’t experienced quintessential New York City until you’ve been to Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The 1950s-themed eatery in the Theater District employs a singing waitstaff, often up-and-coming Broadway stars, for an exciting dining experience. The restaurant has an all-day breakfast menu and everyone’s favorite American bites. Both New York locals and tourists have come here before or after seeing a Broadway show for an enjoyable time and good eats, including burgers, sandwiches, pasta, mac and cheese, salads, and more — plus plenty of fun cocktails and milkshakes to choose from. This beloved spot with storied history, stellar food, and the most talented actor-singer waitstaff was destined to be voted as the best diner in the city.
Diner
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Best Diner Winner
You haven’t experienced quintessential New York City until you’ve been to Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The 1950s-themed eatery in the Theater District employs a singing waitstaff, often up-and-coming Broadway stars, for an exciting dining experience. The restaurant has an all-day breakfast menu and everyone’s favorite American bites. Both New York locals and tourists have come here before or after seeing a Broadway show for an enjoyable time and good eats, including burgers, sandwiches, pasta, mac and cheese, salads, and more — plus plenty of fun cocktails and milkshakes to choose from. This beloved spot with storied history, stellar food, and the most talented actor-singer waitstaff was destined to be voted as the best diner in the city.