It is shocking news to me, that I learned in July 2023, that this place charges by-the-cup for coffee refills. They used to be free coffee refills. Every other coney island restaurant offers free coffee refills. Not anymore at Athenian in Novi. It wasn't imaginable to me that such a policy to charge on coffee refills would ever exist. I must say, this is a huge blocker in the way of my decisions of continuing to be a returning customer in the future. If I ever go back, Im only ordering water. And then they start charging for water, never will I return. As far as food, it was okay. Not great, not bad. read more

We stopped in with the kiddos in tow after checking out the Plymouth Ice Festival. This coney is located in the large shopping/restaurant section of Novi so it was easy to get to from main roads and the freeway. It was quiet when we walked in for lunch, we were seated right away. We ordered standard coney fare- greek salads some chicken lemon rice soup, burgers. Our food didn't take long but one soup was forgotten. Refills on our waters weren't very timely. Overall the food was okay and the service was okay, but it was more expensive than a Leo's and that turned me off a bit. read more

After a morning full of errands, we were running on empty and needed food stat. We were in town for a wedding and wanted to experience a local spot. We are so happy that Yelp put the Athenian Coney Island on our radar! It's tucked away in a shopping center and a super family-friendly place that seems to be popular among locals. They even have outdoor seating which is what we opted for since it was a nice day outside. We ordered giant portions of Corned Beef and Hash and a Gyro Omelette = filling, comforting, delish, and everything tasted so fresh! Service and coffee were also good. Being an out-of-towner, I'm a little unclear about all the different Coney Islands in the area, but I'd be surprised if any are better than the Athenian location - it gets my vote! read more

Athenian - Corned beef and hash - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

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My daughter used to work here and we've been semi-regulars ever since. This is a typical Coney with typical Coney food, albeit always high quality. If you like Coney's you won't go wrong here, service, food, cleanliness are all consistently good. read more

It was okay. Decent coneys but I have had much better. Mediocre fries. decent Greek salad. Service was decent. Prices a bit on high side but it's Novi. read more

Quick, cheap and pretty good. I tried the healthy start omelette and made it unhealthy with gyro meat instead of the chicken. How do you go to a coney place and not have something Greek? Close to the mall and not far off the highway. Looks like they have some limited pastries and pies for next time. read more

Athenian - Gryo in my omelette. - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

Upscale Coney Island! Nice ambience. I picked up carry out today (hence why my food is on my own plate at home) and it was delicious! The French toast was buttery, a great balance of crunch and softness in the bread. I'll definitely be eating here again read more

Athenian - Carry out breakfast plated at home - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

The food is good, the fish sandwich is what I always order, also the Greek fries are a must have but I will say sometimes the fries and plate are drenched in grease. The reason I'm giving this place a 3 star rating is because the service is HORRIBLE! You constantly will find the waitresses laughing so LOUD in the back and chillen while customers seem to have to constantly ask or call their waitress for a refill ect. The owner needs to step in on this because this issue has made neither of my friends or me want to come anymore. read more

Athenian - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

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Great little spot for breakfast or lunch. Friendly staff. Clean bathrooms. Reasonably priced food. read more

Athenian - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

The healthy omelette is my go to after a good morning workout! I would recommend this place for breakfast!

What a nice surprise. It is a diner but it does not feel like a diner. They are located at the end of a strip mall and the inside is very updated and clean. We were seated right away and had hot coffee delivered to us right away. Our server was attentive, the food was great--huge portions, piping hot and not too greasy. Definitely a great place to go for brunch! read more

I really like this Coney Island. It is clean, the decor is updated and clean and the food is really good. The menu is standard Coney fare, reasonably priced. The service is what you'd expect, efficient with a just enough attitude to feel comfortable giving them a playful hard time. Parking and navigating the parking lot can be a challenge as it is in a large shopping center that houses a Walmart, but once you find parking, you won't be disappointed. My only negative comment is the booths seem really low compared to the table. This could be a good thing if you are a messy eater but it just makes me feel short. read more

This place has great food I have not had anything that I did not like.Some of the waitresses are better then the others. Does not disappoint

Was looking for a non-chain place to have breakfast when in Novi for a conference. Athenian was a great find and very close to my hotel. Had the corned beef hash with eggs. It was awesome. Very healthy-sized portion. Will definitely come back. read more

Athenian - Corned beef hash and eggs with rye toast - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

Service was quick! The food was just fair. I ordered the clam chowder it was delicious but you can tell it was pre-made in a can. I had the fish and chips but substituted my French fries for veggies. The vegetables may have had more flavor than the fish! read more

Athenian - Fish and veggies - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

One of my favorite Coney Island chains. Delicious food and pretty decent quality with a cozy interior. Their fries are my favorite!

Yes, I am indeed a fan. I felt like a traitor going here instead of my usual coney at lunch time but on a 78 degree perfect Friday of being stuck in the office, you go where you can eat outside and that is what I did. Outdoor seating=awesome. I never thought much of this place until I was bullied into going...and a pleasant surprise it was. For the price of 3.95 I got a HUGE egg white veggie pita sandwich, it was so big I was kicking myself for the side of cottage cheese I ordered with it...but for 6.97 it was a great, filling, healthy lunch. However, the pita is not homemade like at my #1 place! I will go and try the greek salad which could boost the star rating...but holy hell, my dining companion ordered one and they do NOT skimp you on the chicken here and it's real chicken not the manufactured spongy frozen chicken. The fries were also SOLID, thicker, but delish. Anytime a coney island has healthy options, is a winner in my book...food is authentic and the service is excellent. With an outdoor dining an option-granted, it overlooks one of Novi's many mini-mall parking lots, it's still outdoors for an hour of 7 others that are spent indoors...I highly recommend a trip here for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or dinner....later summer hours as well. read more

Why do Coney Islands have such great coffee? I don't know the answer but here is another example. Great coffee and service, very roomy and huge variety on the menu. Large portions, maybe a little pricey but all in all a worthwhile experience. I had an omelet which came with hash browns and toast and honestly it was just too much food. What a complaint right? read more

So bummed. This place is really hit or miss lately. I was there today - ordered the Nutella crepes and a side of hash browns. My food had obviously been sitting in the window awhile because it was not even warm when I finally got it. The crepes were burnt and we're basically pancakes rolled up with a spoonful of Nutella in the middle. The hash browns were a plate of mush. There was also a piece of old grilled chicken in them. So gross. The waitress left my check on the table as the food was brought to the table and didn't come back to check on me until I was getting up to leave. At that point she only asked if I wanted a box. When I told her no and that I was happy with the food she just said ok and walked away. When I went to the front to pay, the woman running the register was so busy talking to someone else about the layout of her house that she did not say a word to me. She put her hand out for me to give her the bill and then again to take my cash. What a huge disappointment. read more

Probably the most expensive coney I've ever been to - strike one. Skimping on the jelly packets and the napkins - strike two. Really bad food - strike 3. My husband insists that they're a 4 star but need to be knocked down to 3 for the price. I don't know how we can disagree so much on the food, when we got the exact same breakfast. He admits the potatoes were too greasy, but I though they were egregiously so. My bacon had a gamey taste and was overdone to boot. The only positive things were that they got my well-done eggs right (even though they were bland yet greasy - how is that even possible?) and the food came out with lightning speed. I'm pretty sure they are trying to control costs, but it's weird to me that they do not have napkins in a dispenser at the table, and that they bring out two jelly packets per toast order. They were nice enough to swap my grape out for strawberry jam, but seriously, you can't leave the grape at the table and just bring additional strawberry? Also, terse signs on every booth indicate that they are for 2 customers or more from 11:30 to 1:30. My husband posited you have to do that in a densely-populated town like Novi, but I've never seen anything like that anywhere else in the area. I just got a really unfriendly vibe from the place. Positives were nice decor and coffee in huge bowl-shaped coffee cups. Too bad the coffee was beyond weak. Ugh, I'll give this place a pass for any future breakfasts. read more

Will never eat here again took my two kids and fiancé here for lunch my sons got dog was orangeish yellow in color and was nasty my other sons grilled cheese was gross the cheese was sour and my chicken stir fry was absolutely disgusting. The rice tasted like I poured a ramen noodle packet in my mouth. Server was nice owner was not. Will never be back read more

I've visited this coney multiple times and each time its just, eh. Pretty typical coney...food is always decent but Im never blown away by much of anything. Wait staff is good, food is ok, restaurant is clean, coffee is served in bowls with handles (bonus!). if you're looking for something quick, this place will get the job done. read more

I've been to Detroit about a dozen times in the last 3-4 years and have seen Coney Island this or that but had never been in one. They look like a hot dog joing but I prefer not o eat in those places (often). They're EVERYWHERE!!!!!!!!! I tried this one out with a friend as it was close to where my last meeting was and then off to the airport. Inside, normal looking place. Very, very clean though. Had a Greek salad and a soup. Salad was good and I'm almost ashamed to say this, the avgolemono soup might be the best I've ever had. It was freakin' incredible. The only negative is that I believe they were keeping it hot in Hell because the bowl almost melted from the heat it was giving off. Damn. Overall, nice simple place, cheap prices but that soup gives them a 4.9. read more

I'm not sure there's a huge differences in metro Detroit coney islands, there's just so many of them to choose from, so I guess that make the little things stand out, First off you never have to wait long for a seat, they sit you down as soon as you walk trough the front door, they'll also get your drinks right out to you. The one thing that impresses me is how clean this place is, I mean the kitchen is in plain sight, and the stainless steel shines and is spotless. The food is just a little bit better than some other Coneys I've been to, and the staff is extremely friendly and quick. your coffee will always be refilled. read more

Athenian - Diners Near Me - Novi, Michigan

This is where my family goes every Sunday. The food is fantastic. I would say it's an upper scale Coney Island with excellent quality food. The owner greets everyone that walks in and is so friendly. I love supporting small businesses especially when they are as kind as the gentleman that owns this restaurant. I usually get. Greek skillet when coming to Athenian and it's my favorite skillet I have ever eaten. Everything is so fresh and tasty. Not to mention, the service is fast and the staff is very welcoming and very pleasant. Next time you're in novi, enjoy Athenian! read more

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The staff is friendly which is why the 2 stars; otherwise it would be 1 star. Ordered their Meatloaf special - unfortunately, not a good choice. The meat was very pale looking and no sauce whatsoever. Took a couple of quick bites and was not appetizing at all. The mashed potatoes were cold. Also came with green beans that had a funky taste. Overall, definitely not an item that should be on their regular menu. read more

Came here for breakfast today Amazing food, friendly servers and great atmosphere. Been here for lunch as well and quite honestly they have the best Gyro's in town. I simply love their food. Keep up the great job. read more

Its been literally ages since I've been back to Athenian and today I found out why... they are slow and expensive as heck. I stopped by for some quick breakfast carryout. The various breakfasts combos are all probably $2 to $3 more expensive than most any other Coney Island joint. The one thing I do love and have always loved was that The Athenian was always smoke free. Even before the 2010 Michigan Smoking Ban, I could goto the Athenian and sit down without gagging. But those memories can't change my mind about my recent visit. Currently Novi Town Center which the Athenian is a part of, is under de-construction. Literally over 1/2 the place is being torn down for some new Wallymart. IMHO thats a bad idea. Anywho back to the review... They have friendly staff although sometimes to me it seems people are standing around - especially the cooks. If you are not cooking to me they should be doing something like prepping or cleaning. But no these guys like to stand there and watch tv and talk at each other. I got the big mans bfast special combo this time for carryout. the worst part is the price - almost $8 for a breakfast - although it is full with 3 eggs cooked to order, hash browns, 3 sausage links, 3 bacon strips, a side of ham, and toast. I asked for over hard eggs and I got in my togo box - eggs a little underdone (runny) - meaning they are not over hard. the bacon was crispy the sausage however not done enough for me. the ham - hmm mostly fatty and over salted - yuck. the toast was almost mush cuz they do not wrap it separately. I should of got pita bread instead. the hash browns needed salt however. weird. Because of the construction, IMHO the Athenian should offer some lower prices to bring people in. I hate having to re-do my food when i get carryout... at least I have a microwave. read more

It's an okay place - that about sums it up. Its been around for a number of years, and recently they updated the interior and got them some railings to make an outside patio. Its a typical dinner, breakfast specialist on weekdays. Smallish menu for a dinner, but they cover the basics. Decent food - its tough to screw up breakfast. Not a lot of charm, More of a professional crowd, while in other places you see more blue collar people. Wait staff is young and sleepy, at least for breakfast. Interesting that they make you ask for non-sugar products - you need to ask for them, and they give you the jam for your toast - most places have a jam carrier. Either you trust your customers or you don't. read more

I want to rate this place higher but I can't. The food has slipped in the last few years but is still decent. I usually go for a pita sandwich and they are good but not great. It's almost like Athenian is trying to shed the Coney Island image but are struggling to do so. I will continue to eat here because the GF likes the salads. read more

This is a staple for my family in Novi, and now that I live in Los Angeles, it's a must when I come home for visits. When I come back for a week, I go to Athenian Coney Island at least 2 or 3 times while I am back in Novi. When I need to get my Coney Island fix, this is Coney to go to. There is always plenty of parking, and although it's busy during the main meal hours, we never have to wait very long. They turn tables around quickly, and the wait staff, bussing staff, and cooks are always on point. When my dad was still alive he always enjoyed going to Coney Island, and he always felt welcomed and knew he could get a great meal there. John the owner knows us all by name, and always stops and has a friendly word when he sees us, and asks after us. As far as the ambiance, the place has always gradually gotten more and more updated every time I come back in. It's a really pleasant, clean place to dine, and the food is always fresh and fast. I love the breakfast, and of course the coney's and greek salads. The coffee comes in a large cup, almost a bowl, which is fine with me, because I can't get enough coffee. The servers are all fantastic, and they are all very attentive, nice, and treat us well. Michelle was our waitress recently, and she always does a great job, and just like John, she's always friendly, attentive, and remembers us and asks after us. I figured since I can't miss this place when I'm home, I had to give it the glowing review it deserves! Thank John, and Athenian for the years of great food and service! read more

Ordered a texas French toast and that were the worst French toast I had in any restaurant . The restaurant service was fast. Ambience is good . But won't come back again here I guess read more

Not my favorite Coney. The staff (owner maybe?) is really nice. Plenty of outdoor seating and I like how they put pillows out for you on the chairs because let's face it, whoever bought the outdoor chairs obviously did not sit in them first - NOT COMFORTABLE! Food was quick and good but higher priced than other coney options, serving not as grand either. read more

I purchased a Cobb salad. It had bacon, lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and shredded yellow cheese. That is not a Cobb salad!. Very very very disappointed. Was charged additional for chicken which was bland and dry. Again, the salad was very very disappointing. Stick with ordering breakfast. read more

My favorite coney to go to for breakfast. One of the more pricier coneys to go to but it's really good!

This is your average coney. The portions are large and the food is good. I got a giant spinach and feta omlette and it was delicious. They only bring you out 2 jellies for your toast, and they bring the crappy flavors (grape and mixed berry) so I had to request blackberry. I hate when places keep the good stuff hidden! The booths were a bit small too. We had 3 people and my mom and I (neither big people) were awkwardly leaning away from eachother the entire meal. A good place to go if you're in the area! read more

Great coney island... Like Sarah mentioned I also was a bit hard pressed to go to a new coney island, but I'm glad I did. I had the standard coney with everything and a mini Greek. It was great! The mini Greek is a pretty decent size for a side salad. My wife had the gyro and mini Greek and we both loved her gyro. The meat was very soft and quite delish. If I'm back romping around near 12 Oaks again I'll be sure to stop in. read more

Very friendly service. Busy but service was fast. Chicken gyro was good. Plenty of chicken - not skimpy or too much. The chicken was a bit bland. The gyro sauce wad good and plenty. Son had the chicken strips. Cooked to perfection and tasty. We shared an order of fries. Yummy- hot- crisp.. I got a chili special for my husband to go. Yummy!!! I thought the prices were a bit steep in comparison to other coney restaurants, but it's Novi and I'm sure rent is expensive. The prices on the online menu aren't accurate. I'm looking forward to returning and trying some of their salads and sandwiches. read more

Worst coney dog ever and the owner was nasty and he embarrassed me since I didn't like his coney. He's was loud and states he has been in business 19years. Instead of just apologizing. I will say the salad was excellent just stay away from the hot dogs. Though I will never return poor customer service and not by the waitress. read more

Pick up 4 Coney's and large fry. 13 and change take out. 1 mile away lives my sister. She's 77 I'm 72, I bring different food to condo. Never again this Coney island. Coney's no onions or mustard, it's not a Coney without mustard and onions. My sister started pucking 10 minutes after eating Coney. read more