Ellen’s Stardust Diner: A unique restaurant in New York

What is Ellen’s Stardust Diner?

• Opened in 1987 on Times Square at the corner of Broadway and 51st Street, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is arguably New York’s most entertaining restaurant. Here, servers don’t just bring your food—they sing!
• The servers perform hit songs from Broadway musicals. There’s no set schedule; staff members break into song whenever inspiration strikes. You’ll hear numbers from Mamma Mia, The Lion King, and Chicago on Broadway.
• The menu features classic American fare, with burgers as a standout. The food is straightforward diner fare—you come for the experience and the unique energy of the place.
• To get a sense of what awaits you, Stéphanie Attia captured the atmosphere of an evening. Watch the video below to experience Ellen’s Stardust Diner for yourself.

What visitors say about Ellen’s Stardust Diner

• Marine España Valencianista: “It was amazing!! The servers are real artists!! A must-see spot in New York.
• Claire Cléris: “A fantastic restaurant you have to visit in New York.
  
• Martine Ernandez Perenon: “Fabulous. Amazing. An atmosphere like nowhere else. Definitely worth a visit.
• Stéphy Carey: “We went there exactly a year ago (feeling nostalgic…). Beyond being friendly servers, they’re excellent singers!!! If you want a quiet, peaceful breakfast, skip it. Otherwise, go for it!!!
• Valérie Clary: “It’s fantastic. Great memories of this place. The servers are top-notch.
• Isabel Varela Flamant: “Restaurant just steps from Times Square!! The servers are real singers. They take turns at the mic!! A must-do in New York.
• Cécile Lauféron: “The atmosphere is fantastic, the servers are really friendly, and the food is great! Worth doing during your visit.
• Nathalie Charras: “It’s fantastic. A memorable moment with my daughter.”
• Sandra Lopin: “1950s diner décor, the food is excellent….. the milkshake!!!!! And this wild atmosphere, the singer-servers are truly talented. You eat and move to the beat of the songs in your seat. Absolutely worth doing!!!!
• Sylvie MICHEL: “The singing servers are excellent. They’re talented and efficient. But the food is pricey and mediocre, and it’s run like a factory. The owner is at the entrance, watching the register and running the place like an assembly line. Not friendly either. He doesn’t like it when people linger after their meal.”
• Jo-Ann Lemyre: “Great place. We got a show worthy of Broadway.”
• Elysabeth Demaria: “The best of the best!!! Every time I get to New York, I go straight there.”

For more great diner recommendations in New York—restaurants that bring back the golden age of 1950s America—check out the New York restaurants guide.
If you have videos of New York, feel free to send them to me by email or WeTransfer so I can share them on this site! 🙂