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Ellen's Stardust DinerCWorth Trying
1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
· Diner, American restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (23394 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Go for the singing show and lively vibe; expect average diner food, long lines, automatic 20% service, and frequent tip solicitations.
Why it gets a C for overall quality
Ellen's Stardust Diner delivers what it promises: Broadway entertainment with diner food, not culinary excellence. Food quality is average with inconsistent execution, while tight seating and crowding detract from comfort. However, the destination appeal of live-singing servers and Times Square location make it a legitimate NYC experience for families and musical fans willing to pay premium prices for the show rather than the plate.
Restaurant Summary
Step off Broadway and into a bright, retro room where servers belt out show tunes between refills and check drops. The vibe is warm and bustling, the energy is non-stop, and many diners say it feels like a bite of Broadway. One guest summed it up: "The show made lunch unforgettable, even with a wait." However, there are moderate authenticity concerns mainly due to tourist-volume noise, not manipulation. The culinary approach leans classic American diner with big-portion comfort staples more than culinary fireworks. Think burgers, chicken and waffles, onion rings, and milkshakes; several items hit the spot, others land as just okay. You are paying for the lively entertainment and Times Square address as much as the plate. Expect an automatic 20% service charge and roaming performer tip buckets. For families, this is a crowd-pleaser thanks to a full kids menu (nuggets, spaghetti, cheeseburger, mac and cheese) and a show that keeps children engaged. Portions are shareable, shakes are a spectacle, and breakfast sweets abound. Noise and tight seating can challenge strollers and sensitive kids, but food familiarity makes it easy for picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Uniquely fun live-singing servers with Broadway energy
- Big portions and kid-friendly menu options
- Long lines; no reservations; crowded seating
- Auto 20% service plus frequent performer tip solicitations
- Tourist-trap dynamics; food quality varies from solid to disappointing
What Sets It Apart
- singing_waitstaff_broadway_style
- theater_district_icon
- kid_friendly_menu_with_show
What People Love
- Electric show vibe that feels like a mini Broadway
- Friendly, enthusiastic performers
- Generous portions for sharing
- Memorable birthdays and first-time NYC moments
Points of Concern
- Lines of 20–90 minutes and seat prioritization by party size
- Food quality inconsistency; some dishes arrive cold or over/undercooked
- Automatic 20% service and additional bucket tips can feel pushy
- Basement overflow seating offers diminished experience for the same price
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (tourist volume, marketing tone) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For kids: Dino Nuggets or Spaghetti ($17.95). For value: Basic Big Bopper burger ($24.95) plus a shared dessert. For brunch-fans: Morning Glory corned beef hash ($23.95).
Perfect For
- Musical lovers seeking dinner-and-a-show in one stop
- Birthday breakfasts with over-the-top shakes
- Families who want easy kid options and entertainment
- First-time NYC visitors collecting iconic experiences
Location Insights
Area: Tourist-heavy Theater District hub with bright lights, pre/post-show crowds, and constant foot traffic.
Safety: Busy, well-lit, high police and pedestrian presence; typical big-city pickpocket awareness advised.
Nearby: Steps from Broadway theaters, Times Square, hotels, and transit; lines form outdoors along Broadway.
Theater DistrictThe Theater District is characterized by its concentration of Broadway theaters, lively nightlife, and a wide range of dining options catering to visitors and locals. The area is busy throughout the day and night, offering everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, often frequented by tourists attending shows and professionals working nearby.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–00:00
Tuesday07:00–00:00
Wednesday07:00–00:00
Thursday07:00–00:00
Friday07:00–00:00
Saturday07:00–00:00
Sunday07:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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