Introduction to Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Times Square, New York City. Known for its vibrant energy and retro style, this diner brings together classic American food and live Broadway performances.
The main attraction is the team of singing waitstaff who entertain guests with show tunes and pop songs while serving meals. The interior feels like stepping into the 1950s, complete with neon lights, vinyl booths, and checkered floors.
Whether you love musicals or just want a fun place to eat, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is the perfect spot. Learn more and plan your visit to Ellen’s Stardust Diner.
The History and Legacy of Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Founded in the 1980s by Ellen Hart Sturm, a former beauty queen and Broadway enthusiast, the diner was created to celebrate theater culture. It quickly became a home for aspiring performers.
Many staff members have gone on to perform in top Broadway shows, including Wicked, Hamilton, and Rent. This tradition of nurturing talent makes the diner more than just a restaurant — it is a launchpad for stars.
With its deep roots in New York’s theater community, Ellen’s Stardust Diner remains a beloved institution for locals and tourists alike.
What Makes Ellen’s Stardust Diner So Unique
The main reason people flock to this diner is the entertainment. The waitstaff are trained performers who sing live while working. The atmosphere feels like a mini-Broadway show happening all around you.
The design also stands out. It has a 1950s theme with bold neon signs, classic memorabilia, and upbeat music. Guests enjoy the immersive blend of food and performance.
Families, tourists, and theater fans all find something to love. It is fun, energetic, and unforgettable.
Ellens Stardust Diner Menu
All Day Breakfast
From the Griddle
| Item | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Challah French Toast | Add fresh berry sauce (+ 3), Vermontmaplesyrup(+ 3),Vermontmaplesyrup(+2), 2 eggs + bacon/sausage (+ 8), bananas/strawberries(+ 8), bananas/strawberries(+3) | $18 |
| Belgian Waffles | — | $17 |
| Buttermilk Pancakes | — | $17 |
| Short Stack* (2 pancakes) | Substitute Showstoppers (+$2) | $15.50 |
Classics (Served with tater tots)
| Item | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Bacon & Eggs* | 2 eggs any style, 3 slices of bacon | $19 |
| New York Schmear | Whipped cream cheese, smoked salmon, chives, jumbo bagel with red onion, capers, tomato, lettuce | $21.50 |
| Breakfast Burrito* | Flour tortilla, scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, peppers, onions, jack/cheddar, salsa | $19.50 |
| “Morning Glory”* | Homemade corned beef hash + 2 eggs | $23 |
| Bacon, Egg and Cheese* | On a potato bun | $17.50 |
| Eggs Benedict* | English muffin, Canadian bacon, poached eggs, hollandaise | $20 |
| Brooklyn PRIDE* | Scrambled eggs, American cheese on rainbow bagel | $19.50 |
| Breakfast Burger* | Sunny-side-up egg + bacon | $24.75 |
| Steak & Eggs* | Strip steak + 2 eggs | $32 |
| Lenox Ave Chicken + Waffles | Fried chicken strips, waffle, maple syrup, hot sauce | $28 |
Egg-Citing Omelettes (Served with tater tots)
| Item | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| The Fab Four* | Spinach, mushroom, bacon, mozzarella | $20 |
| Mexican* | Pico de gallo, jack cheese, corn tortilla, guacamole | $20 |
| The Denver* | Ham, peppers, onions | $20 |
| Create Your Own* | Choose 3 toppings | $20 |
Showstoppers
| Item | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Holy Moly French Toast | Mascarpone, strawberries, caramel, vanilla crème, coconut | $20.50 |
| Confetti Pancakes | Fruity Pebbles cereal + whipped cream | $19 |
| Cinnamon Roll Pancakes | — | $19 |
| Maple Bacon Pancakes | Maple bacon jam | $19 |
| Chocolate Chip Pancakes | — | $18.50 |
Not So Guilty
| Item | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| “Hart”-Healthy Avocado Toast* | Sourdough, avocado purée, poached egg (add bacon + 3,smokedsalmon+ 3,smokedsalmon+8) | $20 |
| Fresh Fruit Yogurt Parfait | Strawberries, cantaloupe, honeydew, grapes, pineapple | $17 |
Bakery
| Item | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Canal Street Bagels | Plain, whole wheat, or sesame (add cream cheese +$3) | $8 |
| Joseph & The Technicolor Bagel | Rainbow bagel + cream cheese + tater tots | $16.50 |
Side Orders
| Item | Price |
| Canadian bacon, bacon, tater tots, ham, sausage patty | $7 |
| Avocado | $5 |
| Toast | $3 |
Booze Glorious Booze
| Item | Price |
| Bloody Mary, Bellini, Mimosa, Tequila Sunrise, Screwdriver | $15 each |
Lunch and Dinner
Appetizers (Available at 11 AM)
| Item | Description | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Chicken Matzo Ball Soup | Homemade matzo balls, pulled chicken, egg noodles, carrots | — | $14.50 |
| Soup of the Day | — | — | $14 |
| Mozzarella Triangles | Breaded, served with marinara | — | $16 |
| Mac ‘n Cheese Bites | Breaded American mac ‘n cheese, sour cream on the side | — | $16 |
| Stardust Nachos | Jack + cheddar cheese, pico de gallo, black beans, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream | Add chicken (+ 4),chili(+ 4),chili(+4) | $17 |
| Crispy Wings | Fried wings in buffalo, BBQ, or honey mustard sauce, blue cheese on the side | — | $19.50 |
| Great Bowl of Turkey Chili | Black beans, cheddar, sour cream, onion, tortilla chips | Add bacon (+ 3),avocado(+ 3),avocado(+5) | $15 |
| South of the Border Quesadilla | Flour tortilla with jack + cheddar cheese | Add chicken (+ 4),blackbean/pico(+ 4),blackbean/pico(+3), chili (+$4) | $18 |
Salads
| Item | Description | Add-Ons/Options | Price | Notes |
| Stardust Signature Salad | Grilled chicken, bacon, corn, cucumber, tomato, cheddar + blue cheese, mixed greens, balsamic | Add chicken (+ 10),salmon(+ 10),salmon(+12) | $25 | Gluten-free |
| Caesar Salad Romero | Romaine, kale, garlic croutons, parmesan, Caesar dressing | — | $23 | — |
| Mexican Quinoa Bowl | Mixed greens, avocado, chicken, corn, onion, tomato, cheddar, cilantro lime dressing | — | $26 | Gluten-free |
Pasta
| Item | Description | Add-Ons/Options | Price | Notes |
| Rachel’s Mac & Cheese | Cheddar, American, Velveeta™ | Add chicken (+ 10),salmon(+ 10),salmon(+12) | $23 | — |
| Penne Alfredo | Parmesan + Romano cream sauce, garlic, broccoli | — | $23 | — |
| Pappardelle Bolognese | Homemade beef ragu, Parmigiano Reggiano | — | $32 | — |
| Gluten-Friendly Pasta Primavera | Cherry tomatoes, broccoli, peppers, squash, garlic, olive oil | — | $23 | Gluten-friendly |
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches (Served with waffle fries)
| Item | Description | Price |
| Grilled American Cheese | White bread, American cheese | $18 |
| Grilled Cheese, Tomato + Bacon | White bread, American cheese, tomato, bacon | $20 |
Classic Sandwiches (All served with waffle fries)
| Item | Description | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Ruby Reuben | Corned beef, Swiss, sauerkraut, rye, Russian dressing (or sub turkey + slaw) | — | $25 |
| The Duke | Cornflake-crusted chicken, pepper jack, frizzled onions, potato bun, hot sauce | — | $25 |
| Spicy Black Bean Burrito | Flour tortilla, black beans, cheese, onions, peppers | Add chicken (+ 10),steak(+ 10),steak(+12) | $26 |
| Philly Cheesesteak* | Sliced steak, onions, peppers, mushrooms, mozzarella on a hero | — | $25 |
| BLT | Bacon, lettuce, tomato | Add turkey (+ 6),avocado(+ 6),avocado(+5) | $20 |
| Hot Diggity Dogs | 2 hot dogs with sauerkraut + waffle fries | — | $20 |
Burgers (Served with waffle fries, pickle, lettuce, tomato on brioche)
| Item | Description | Add-Ons/Options | Price |
| Our Basic Big Bopper* | Ground beef, lettuce, tomato, pickles | Make it a double (+$8) | $24 |
| Yankee Doodle Burger* | Topped with mac ‘n cheese | — | $26 |
| Black Bean Burger | Lettuce, tomato, pickles, chipotle mayo | — | $25 |
| Be Bop a Lula* | American cheese, bacon, sautéed onions + mushrooms | — | $29 |
| Add-Ons | Bacon, cheese, mushrooms, onions, frizzled onions (+ 3)/chili(+ 3)/chili(+4) | Upgrade fries to onion rings (+ 3),subveggies(+ 3),subveggies(+5) | — |
Blue Plates
| Item | Description | Price |
| Love Me Tenders | Breaded chicken fingers, waffle fries, onion rings, honey mustard, slaw | $27 |
| Chicken Parmesan | Breaded chicken cutlet, mozzarella, tomato sauce, spaghetti | $30 |
| Mamma Mia Meatloaf | Mashed potatoes, string beans, carrots, roasted pepper relish | $30 |
| Lenox Ave Chicken & Waffles | Fried chicken strips, waffle, maple syrup, hot sauce | $28 |
| Roasted Salmon | Teriyaki, basmati rice, garlic spinach | $32 |
| Skirt Steak* | Mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables | $39 |
Sides
| Item | Price |
| Waffle fries, tater tots, onion rings, mashed potatoes | $7 |
| Seasonal vegetables, sweet potato fries | $8 |
Kids Menu (For ages 10 & under)
| Item | Price | Notes |
| Cheeseburger* & Fries | $17.00 | — |
| Mozzarella Triangles (4) & Fries | $17.00 | — |
| Spaghetti with Butter or Marinara | $17.00 | — |
| Dino Chicken Nuggets & Fries | $17.00 | — |
| Hot Dog & Fries | $17.00 | — |
| Rachel’s Mac & Cheese | $17.00 | — |
Note: As a convenience, we add a 20% gratuity. We are happy to remove it upon request.
Drinks Menu
Cocktails ($19 each)
| Cocktail | Ingredients |
| Persephone’s Punch | Bacardi light & dark rum, Cointreau, orgeat syrup, orange juice |
| Pineapple Under The Sea Margarita | Patrón Silver, triple sec, lime juice, pineapple, Tajín rim |
| Miss Saigon Sling | Bombay gin, Grand Marnier, pineapple, bitters |
| Pink Ladies Martini | Tito’s vodka, triple sec, cranberry, lemonade |
| Music Man-hattan | Jack Daniel’s bourbon, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters |
| Old Fashioned | Bulleit rye, Angostura bitters, simple syrup |
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
| Category | Options | Price |
| Soda | Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Starry, Ginger Ale, Pink Lemonade, Lipton Iced Tea | $4.50 |
| Bottled Water | Sparkling or Still | $7 |
| Juice | Orange, Apple, Pineapple, Cranberry, Grapefruit, Tomato | $6 |
| Milk | Regular | $5 |
| Chocolate Milk | — | $6 |
| Coffee/Tea | Cup of Joe or Tea | $5 |
| Espresso | Regular/Decaf (Double +$2) | 5/ 5/7 |
| Cappuccino/Latte | — | $8 |
| Hot Chocolate | — | $7 |
Desserts
Stardust Desserts
| Dessert Item | Description | Price | Add-Ons/Options |
| Carrot Cake | Lightly spiced with malted cream cheese icing | $12.50 | – |
| Ellen’s Stardust City Brownie | “Best in the city” (nut-free) | $12.50 | Add vanilla ice cream + hot fudge (+ 4)= 4)=16.50 |
| Rainbow Cake | Moist multi-layered rainbow cake | $12.50 | – |
| Ice Cream Dish | 2 BIG SCOOPS: vanilla/chocolate/strawberry/coffee/mint chip/cookie dough | $9.50 | – |
| Homemade NY Cheesecake | Plain or with strawberry topping | $14.50 | – |
| Barbarino’s Banana Split | 3 scoops, 3 sauces, bananas, walnuts, whipped cream, strawberries, sprinkles | $16.50 | – |
| The Kitchen Sink | Serves 6: rainbow cake, 6 ice cream flavors, toppings galore | $45.00 | – |
Signature Shakes ($17.50 each)
| Shake Flavor | Description | Boozy Options |
| Cookie Monster | Cookie dough ice cream + chocolate chips | +$7 (rum/bourbon/fireball/rumchata) |
| S’MORE | Chocolate + vanilla ice cream, graham crackers, marshmallow | +$5 floater |
| Tiramisu | Coffee + vanilla ice cream, espresso, white cake | – |
| Mint Cookies + Cream | Mint ice cream + Oreo crumbs | – |
| Salted Caramel Pretzel | Vanilla ice cream + caramel + pretzel | – |
| Triple Chocolate | Chocolate ice cream + chocolate milk + brownie chunks + chocolate shavings | – |
| Hot Fudge Milkshake | Vanilla ice cream + chocolate sauce | – |
Frozen Cocktails ($21.50 each)
| Cocktail | Ingredients |
| Mudslide | Vanilla ice cream, vodka, Kahlúa, Baileys |
| Strawberry Daiquiri | – |
| Piña Colada | – |
Tin Can Alley ($14.00 each)
| Shake Item | Description | Boozy Options |
| Old Fashioned Milkshake | 3 scoops (choice of 6 flavors) | +$7 |
| Black N’ White Shake | 3 vanilla scoops + chocolate syrup | +$5 floater |
| Stardust Sundae Shake | 3 vanilla scoops + hot fudge + whipped cream + sprinkles + cherry | – |
| Jimmy Fallon Shake | Bananas, wheat germ, skim milk, non-fat frozen yogurt | $15.00 |
Note: As a convenience, we add 20% gratuity. We are happy to remove upon request.
The diner caters to all ages and tastes with hearty portions and plenty of variety.
Prices and Value for Money
General Price Range
- Breakfast items start around $12
- Burgers and sandwiches range from 18 to 25 dollars
- Main entrees range between 22 and 32 dollars
- Shakes and desserts start at about 10 dollars
While the prices reflect the Times Square area, you also get high-quality entertainment with your meal. Compared to Broadway shows or themed restaurants, Ellens Stardust Diner offers great value.
Dining Experience and Atmosphere
Guests enjoy a continuous stream of live performances while they dine. The vibe is high-energy, fun, and spontaneous. Waitstaff interact with the audience and often sing right at your table.
The colorful lights, vintage decor, and classic diner seating add to the charm. Every visit feels like part of the show.
Best Times for Shows
- Peak energy is during evenings from 6 to 9 PM and weekends
- Mornings are quieter and more family-friendly
- Arrive early to get the best seats near the central performance area
Quick Guide About Ellen’s Stardust Diner
| Category | Details |
| Rating | 4.4 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (21,183 reviews) |
| Price Range | $20–30 per person (reported by 5,240 people) |
| Type | 1950s-themed diner |
| Highlights | Multi-level, singing servers, American classics, memorabilia |
| Service Options | Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery |
| Address | 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019, United States (Floor 1 · Gershwin Theatre) |
| Hours | 7 am–12 am |
| Website | ellensstardustdiner.com |
| Phone | +1 212-956-5151 |
| Nearby | Q268+PJ New York, USA |
| Attributes | LGBTQ+ friendly · Identifies as women-owned |
Location and How to Get There
Address: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Located between 50th and 51st Streets, just steps from Times Square
Subway Directions:
- N, Q, R, W lines to 49th Street
- 1, B, D, E lines to 50th Street
The diner is a short walk from many Broadway theaters. An accessible entrance is available for guests who need it.
Location on Map:
Reservations, Wait Times, and Pro Tips
Ellens Stardust Diner does not accept reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served.
Peak Wait Times:
- During lunch and dinner rush, wait times can be 30 to 90 minutes
- Arrive before 11 AM or after 3 PM for a shorter wait
Pro Tip: Have someone hold your place in line while others explore nearby shops or grab a coffee
Ellen’s Stardust Diner Merchandise and Souvenirs
Inside the diner, guests can buy themed souvenirs like:
- Stardust mugs
- Branded t-shirts
- CDs of past performers
These items also make great gifts for theater fans. Official merchandise is also available online through the diner’s website.
Reviews and Real Customer Experiences
Overall Rating: (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (4.4/5) based on 21,183 reviews
i) Christina Vandette: 5/5 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (03-27-2025)
This was a truly fun and memorable experience. The performers were full of energy and talent. I expected one or two songs, but the show kept going non-stop for the entire hour we stayed. It felt like dinner and a full concert rolled into one.
The food did not disappoint either. My Caesar salad was fresh and flavorful, and my husband enjoyed his Philly cheese steak. The waffle fries were crispy, and the IPA was a great match.
Everything from the service to the atmosphere made this visit special. Thank you for making our evening so enjoyable.
Rating:
Food: 5 out of 5
Service: 5 out of 5
Atmosphere: 5 out of 5
ii) Ben Morrison: 3.5/5 (⭐️⭐️⭐️) (04-01-2025)
We stopped in for lunch to check out the famous singing waitstaff, which is definitely the main draw. Throughout the meal, staff performed hit songs and even a few originals. Some voices were impressive, others just okay, but the vibe was upbeat and fun.
I ordered The Ruby sandwich. It looked appetizing but unfortunately did not sit well with me. The food prep could use some attention. My coffee also tasted burnt, likely from sitting out too long. Service was a bit slow overall.
My wife had the bagel with salmon, and she enjoyed every bite. The waffle fries and tater tots were also solid choices.
Rating:
Food: 3 out of 5
Service: 2 out of 5
Atmosphere: 5 out of 5
For more reviews and ratings, visit Google Reviews.
Ellens Stardust Diner in Pop Culture
Ellens Stardust Diner has been featured in numerous travel shows, food series, and social media posts. Viral videos show staff performing songs like Let It Go and Bohemian Rhapsody.
It is also a favorite stop for visiting celebrities and Broadway actors. The mix of food and showmanship has earned it a pop culture following.
Why You Should Visit Ellens Stardust Diner
If you are in NYC, this diner is a must-see. It is not just a meal; it is a mini Broadway experience.
Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. It is ideal before or after seeing a show.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday, exploring Times Square, or just love musicals, Ellens Stardust Diner offers fun you will not forget.
FAQs About Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Do I need a reservation?
No, the diner operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekdays before noon or late in the afternoon.
Can I just watch the show without ordering?
No, dining is required to stay for the performances.
Do they offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, several menu items cater to those preferences.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, children enjoy the performances and the kids’ menu.
How long is the average visit?
About one to one and a half hours.
Do waitstaff sing specific songs?
Songs rotate and include pop hits, Broadway classics, and Disney favorites.
Are tips included?
No, gratuity is not included. Tips are appreciated as the servers are also performers.
Can I celebrate a birthday there?
Yes, let your server know and they may announce it during the show.
Where can I buy official merchandise?
At the gift area near the entrance or on the website.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Visit to Ellen’s Stardust Diner Today
Ellen’s Stardust Diner blends tasty American food with Broadway-style flair. From the first note to the last bite, the experience is fun and full of life.
Make it part of your New York City adventure. Arrive early, bring your appetite, and enjoy the show.
For menus, hours, and more info, visit ellensstardustdiner.
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I’m Sada, the founder of TripGuiderz.com. Since 2019, I’ve been crafting travel guides and blog posts to help readers plan smarter adventures. Let’s explore the world together!
