We enthusiastically recommend EC Diner. The menu is extensive, and the food is delicious. We are extremely grateful to Catering Manager Chris Galanakis for his thoughtful generosity in helping us, an out of town couple, express condolences to our family living in the area. Not only did Chris extensively research delivery options, he also included a condolence letter from the diner. Chris' help was beyond measure and his thoughtful note was appreciated by the family. We commend Chris, have recommended EC Diner to friends who are traveling, and EC will now be a regular stop on every trip to Maryland! read more

My daughter had the day off from school so we decided EC Diner for some pancakes would be a great idea. We were promptly sat and our server came by quickly to get our drink orders. We decided on pancakes for her and corned beef hash eggs Benedict for me. Her portion of silver dollar pancakes was humongous! My dish was full of corned beef chunks and I had a huge portion as well. The atmosphere is very laid back, the restaurant is very clean and there is something here for everyone. Give them a try! read more

EC Diner - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Date enter facility: May 4, 2026 Number of guests in my party: 2 Meal ordered: Japanese french toast, coffee Seating timely fashion: we was seated immediately, no wait time to be seated Service: service was ok, At least the waiter checked on us frequently Cleanliness: The diner was pretty clean Ambiance: there was quite a but of a old fashioned diner feel with a modern touch Food Wait Time: It was very poor, took almost a hour to get our food, we was ready to just pay for our coffee and leave Food correct: they did mess up on my coach's eggs Food quality : food tasted very good, I enjoyed the Japanese french toast Food Portion: huge portions, I've couldn't finish it it was so big Price: they screwed up and charged me for my coffee separately when it was supposed to be included with the Japanese french toast according to the advertisement on their menu so i got ripped off a bit Overall: it was a nice experience other than getting ripped off by getting charge separately for coffee as stated earlier read more

EC Diner - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

See all

Parking lot was packed you'd think inside was filled with folks waiting for a table, but not the case! A fan of country fried steak and I'd rate it equal to iHop's, College Park Diner, Denny's, Cracker Barrel caliber, but what I appreciated was the sausage gravy was kept separate in a bowl and I will say, what sets EC Diner apart from those establishments I mentioned...is the sausage gravy!!!! It was sooo good I had to ask for a biscuit! That bowl of gravy was enough to slatger the chicken fried steak and all over both sides of the biscuit. I was kinda disappointed that I opted to not having eggs and yet I got charged for a second biscuit...so next time I'll know to save my biscuit for the gravy rather than having 2. Womens and mens bathroom were separate and clean. Service was friendly and efficient. Sweet tea was as yummy as the sausage gravy. read more

EC Diner - Country Fried Steak - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Came here on a Sunday afternoon. They were very busy. It took a while to place an order and get water. But once drinks and food was placed it came out rather quick. They bring good portions of food. Lots of items to pick from on the menu. Food was good. I look forward to coming back. My only complaint was Golf and Nascar on TV read more

EC Diner - Irish Reuben Sandwich - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

See all

Not my first visit and I've tried a different entree each time...I have not had a bad meal yet and the portions are great. It is absolutely a family friendly diner full of more entrees and desserts than you could imagine. (I have not tried the desserts). Everyone has always been so pleasant, especially this visit's server, Maria. She was wonderful from suggestions to checking on us and getting our drinks refilled. I asked about the shrimp bisque not being the soup of the day (my absolute favorite) and now I know that's a Sunday deal. I've been seated in multiple areas and prefer the booth seating to the left of the entrance door as you walk in. Visited midday Monday and it wasn't too busy at all. Overall good experience this trip without emptying pockets and wallets. Everything made it to the table hot and fresh and the wait wasn't long at all. read more

This place was BUSTLING on a Sunday afternoon following church services. The hosts were efficient and pushed through the waitlist like true pros. The service was a bit sporadic but ultimately we were pleased with the attention received and the food selected! Would return if ever in the area again read more

See all

I needed some healthy protein in my life the other evening and the normal diner I go to got that was closing early so EC was the closest. It wasn't that far of a drive and I was familiar with it, having driven past it before and have visited other establishments in the same plaza multiple times before. I looked at their website for my specific dish and was overjoyed seeing it and quickly ordered. I really appreciate they didn't add an upcharge for pickup or for their platform usage. I parked and waited a few minutes before calling to see if my order was ready although they told me it would take up to 40 minutes. I was instructed that it would be ready in less than five and was overjoyed to head inside to grab it. The restaurant was about at 40% occupation and I saw a pair of ladies walking out were dressed interestingly, a tutu and some other accessories which signify they were celebrating something but that they also had a really good time. They have a full bar and there was a TV playing the football game which I was watching a little bit from inside my car before coming in. I was greeted by two people and when I gave them my name for the pickup order I was instructed it was being put together at that moment. I grabbed my order after looking at the TV and searching their bar to see which brands they use and headed out the door before being thanked by the host. I got to my car and drove off although I wanted to open the bag and eat it immediately. It's a diner in all sense and if you're ever craving diner food this is a good spot to try. Make sure expectations are set on diner. read more

EC Diner - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Hidden gem of this whole area. Food is spectacular. Service is always great. Crab soup is legit Maryland style, any of the breakfast foods are great, for dinner I get the hot turkey. As far as ambiance, it's a classic 50s style diner look. I just wish the jukeboxes still worked... read more

Great diner with extensive menu. Kids have a variety of pancakes and waffles to choose from. Service was fast and friendly and could easily accommodate our group of 7 for breakfast on a Saturday morning. read more

I must say, it was hard to sit down, as I was totally distracted by the smell as soon as I walked in-dirty port-a potty, is the best description. I kept it simple and just got eggs, with potatoes and toast. The "toast" was more bread, not buttered, and cold... so it's not like you could apply it yourself, unless you're looking to tear your bread slice to pieces. My "scrambled" eggs was one large piece... which is a plain omelette... with the burned side down, as a hidden (disgusting) surprise. The potatoes were colorless, flavorless and had an ODD super grainy texture. I told the waitress and she goes "you have to tell the woman up front." Yet immediately takes the full plate of food. After waiting a minute up front for the manager(?) she comes over, and got more rude & indignant than I have ever seen an employee be, in my life. It was kinda shocking. All around disappointing experience. read more

This place is as solid as it gets. All food is good and servers are always attentive. We've been a lot but the last time I got the Reese's pancakes and they were so good. Maybe don't eat for three days prior though. read more

EC Diner - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Cozy Spot with Tasty Breakfasts. Stopped in for a casual breakfast and was pleasantly surprised. The garden omelet was excellent--well-cooked, and generously filled with fresh ingredients. We also tried a toasted bagel with cream cheese. It came with a tiny bit of cream cheese- had to get a little bit more which we got charged $1. The bacon was cooked inconsistently. Service was friendly and quick. The only downside was the noise level--it got pretty loud. It's a typical diner with satisfying omelet. read more

See all

This strawberry cheesecake milkshake was absolutely amazing. It was so huge but it tasted so good. I had lamb chops which were delicious. The fried pickles were okay the aioli sauce was better than the fried pickles. Great service as well. If you're in the area check out this diner. read more

EC Diner - Strawberry cheesecake milkshake - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Was finally able to check out the Ellicot City Diner. Went for dinner on a Saturday around 6pm. We were promptly sat on the booth side of the diner. It took about 5 mins for a server to come over and get our drinks and then another ten or so to bring them, there were two of us and I got a water. We ordered the shrimps bisque as an appetizer and it was really good! Would highly recommend. My girlfriend ordered the seafood pasta which came with large pieces of shrimp. The pasta dish itself was huge but lacked any serious flavor, it tasted like heavy cream. I ordered the bbq burger with egg. The patties were awesome and fresh but the bbq sauce was very runny and sweet. Not quite sure it was bbq sauce. The side salad was big and full of fresh veggies. We noticed a massive case of desserts on our way out and will try them next time! Overall, you get a ton of food for the money. read more

EC Diner - Seafood Pasta - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

See all

I am very new to diner culture so throwing out that caveat! But from what I know, this place hits all the major must-haves and gets 5 stars for that. - Good amount of food options for breakfast and lunch - Decent amount of dining space and family friendly - Big portion sizes - Friendly "down home" service This review will be on taste of food: I went her with my girls and we had a good time! We ordered the cheeseburger from the kids menu and it was nearly a plate of fries and 2 medium size burger sliders. And my other daughter had the pancakes which included about 9 mini pancakes. Needless to say we left with leftovers which I didn't expect for a $9 kids meal!? I ordered the buffalo chicken and cheddar stack with bleu cheese on the side. And instead of buffalo sauce, I asked for the hot honey sauce on side. This was surprisingly good. I really wanted something different and a savory leaning pancake with cheese, bacon, and jalapeños were right on track. I really enjoyed it and didn't finish it BUT my only complaint was the chicken. It was frozen chicken tenders that were soo tiny on top of my 3 mega pancakes. I was hoping for something more than store bought chicken which is why I can give this a higher rating. Again, this is a great diner but you have to want diner food. This isn't your fancy sit down brunch but it is a good chill breakfast stop. read more

EC Diner is right off the Pike and has its own parking lot. Busy and limited during peak hours, nearby shopping blocks make for a walkable option. Arriving after the lunch rush, there was no wait and were seated in a booth near the entry. Greeted with a smile, our server Ms. Joy was a sweetheart. The menu is extensive and there's everything in between for everyone. The place is loud and bright! For this visit, fried burrata, tuna melt with fries, fried chicken Benny and waffles, brownie shake, and Cinnabon shake. The fried burrata was yummy. While the arugula was a bit wilted, the vodka sauce and balsamic made for a delicious pair. I could've had this as a meal with a side of toasted foccacia! The tuna melt was a massive sandwich. I prefer mine with red onions, and the toasted rye and warm tomato was a surpise. The American cheese was the standard, would've opted for Muenster or Gruyere. It also came with coleslaw but it remained untouched. The fried chicken Benny and waffles came with warm syrup, chicken was crisp, Benny was perfectly runny, and it was inhaled. Both shakes were ordered after the meal and definitely wow factor. While the presentation looked incredible, it fell short in taste. I am team thick milkshakes, I like them decadent and malty. This wasn't it. It was liquidy and the "Cinnabon" was a stale minibon impaled in the spoon. The description got me though ha! The brownie milkshake also was liquidy, however the double brownie and ice cream sandwich were reported delicious. Ask for a to go cup if you wanna take it for later! Overall, EC Diner was great. It could use a nice clean down. An option if you have time and in the area! read more

See all

I love EC diner! The staff are always welcoming, the place feels like a second home, and the service is great. I have to start by giving a shout out to our waitress, Jo. She took special care of my kids. Whatever they whispered at her, she ran to get it and that made my night at a restaurant with kids survivable. The food is also just down right, spot on, perfect diner food. Most diners are meh. EC diner is the diner to go to and sets my standards for finding a good diner. The food is always tasty, the options are endless, and the dessert case is just fun. Even my salad was unbelievably good. A salad! read more

See all

Diner is not my norm scene, came with kiddo upon request and overall experience was not bad. Atmosphere: a typical diner setting; even the landline ringtone matches it. Fairly clean and comfortable inside. Service: wonderful. Jorene was great, friendly, and attentive. Food: chicken quesadilla - was fully loaded with chicken and delicious. Maryland crab soup - the flavor was tasty and not too salty, but it could use more crab meat. Watermelon burrata salad - sounded interesting, so I had to give it a try. It turned out surprisingly delicious and refreshing. Sweet watermelon and soft creamy burrata cheese paired perfectly. Penne alla vodka with shrimp was delicious, not overly sauced, and the seasoning was just right. Fried chicken - the meat was very dry, the batter was thick and hard, do not recommend. Milkshake - thick and yummy. Chocolate brownies - dry and hard to eat, we had a difficult time using a spoon to take a piece off of it...ugh. Given the numerous dessert selections, I wasn't expecting something this bad. Thought they will be good at them. Value: Given that the portion sizes and taste of the menu items are mostly tasty, the pricing is very reasonable and affordable. parking: plenty Do recommend for casual dining and takeout. read more

See all

I've been here twice before and always had a good experience, which is why I recommended it to a friend for lunch. Unfortunately, our third visit was incredibly disappointing. When we arrived, the restaurant was a bit busy, but nothing out of the ordinary. We were seated quickly, but things went downhill from there. We were initially given the wrong menu and had already placed our order--both of us ordering steak and eggs--before the server came back to tell us about the mistake. Not a big deal, but it set the tone. After that, there was a lot of confusion. I was repeatedly asked if I was sure about my order, and each time I clearly confirmed the same thing: an 8 oz steak and eggs, along with extra eggs. Despite confirming this multiple times, the order still seemed to be an issue. Then we waited. About 25-30 minutes later, our appetizer (grits) finally arrived, along with drinks that had also taken a while. At that point, the delay was noticeable but still manageable. However, things only got worse. After waiting nearly an hour, our meals finally came--and mine was completely wrong. Instead of steak and eggs, I was served what appeared to be undercooked hamburger meat, and my extra eggs were missing. Before I could say anything, the server had already walked away. From there, it became extremely frustrating. I waited another 30+ minutes trying to flag down our server and even asked two other staff members for help, but she never returned to check on us. Meanwhile, I noticed other tables receiving much more attentive service. At nearly the 1 hour and 40 minute mark, I still hadn't received the correct meal or even had the issue acknowledged. My colleague had already finished most of his food, while I hadn't eaten anything. At that point, I noticed multiple customers complaining to the manager, so I joined them. They did mention--after I raised the issue alongside several other customers--that the section may have been overcrowded for the waitress. While I understand that staffing and workload challenges happen, this went far beyond a section simply being busy. The level of inattention, lack of communication, and the amount of time that passed without any follow-up can't reasonably be explained by that alone. Even in a busy section, basic service expectations--like checking on a table, correcting an incorrect order, or acknowledging an issue--should still be met. Unfortunately, none of that happened here. To the manager's credit, they were polite and comped my meal, which I appreciated. They also offered to remake my steak and eggs to go, but after nearly 2.5 hours, I simply couldn't wait any longer--I had to get back to work. By then, the experience had gone far beyond a simple mistake. The most frustrating part was that our server barely checked on us at all during the entire visit. Even if there was a mix-up in the kitchen, a quick check-in could have fixed the situation much earlier. Instead, we were left waiting with no communication. In the end, I didn't pay for my meal--but I also didn't eat. After spending nearly three hours there, I had to go elsewhere just to get lunch. It's incredibly disappointing because this used to be one of the best diners in the area. Something has clearly changed, and not for the better. Based on this experience, I won't be returning, and I can't recommend it to others. read more

This restaurant always hits the spot. The staff is very friendly and the service is quick. This is a classic diner with better food than the old school diner. The true underrated unsung hero is the breakfast gyro. Everything is cooked to perfection and there's something special about warm feta cheese inside a wrap that makes it ultra satisfying. The gyro meat adds a savoriness that makes you want more as well. After your meal, don't just pay the bill and leave, check out the dessert case and get something special. My families favorite is the peanut butter cup mousse. It delivers on all the chocolate and peanut butter taste that will make you happy the rest of the day! read more

EC Diner - Peanut butter cup mousse - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

See all

Man I love this place. Food is great and the owner is hands on and always here! Place is clean and everyone is friendly. Best Hamburger steak around. You get a full pound with 2 eggs, fries/home fries, and toast for $20.99. Sheri was my waitress at the counter. Always great service! read more

The food was delicious and the customer service was out of this world. We had chicken and waffles definitely a 10 out of 10. One of my children had the omelette and the other child had the strawberry banana waffle fully loaded. Definitely a place where you want to come back and enjoy your food. My waitress was amazing very helpful very patient and very kind. read more

The service was decent, not disappointing. I ordered the eggroll sampler, and my wife chose a burger. Nothing extraordinary enough to take home. The egg rolls were average at best. I didn't appreciate the sauce smothered over each egg roll. I expected it on the side, I should have asked. My wife's burger was nothing special, and her onion rings were underwhelming. Glad to have tried the place, I probably won't return. read more

This was a great breakfast spot. The food is good and the service is quick. As for ambiance, it is a standard diner. No bells or whistles. read more

First time and I definitely will be back when I come back home. The waitress did the one thing I wish every establishment would do, they paid attention to the "asks" of my family. The food we had was great, my granddaughter loved it. Very clean, good portions of food and they treated my "girls" well. Definitely coming back. read more

Our first visit to EC Diner was an absolute dumpster fire experience- ordering to-go we had incorrect orders, bad food (no seasoning, soggy), bad attempts at recorrecting our order, and with that bad staff interactions- but we've heard friends loved their dine in experience, so we decided to give them another shot during RW- we each ordered a 4course tasting menu-selecting different dishes to run through variety- I ordered: feta salad, falafel bao bun, stuffed soft shell, and cannoli Husband ordered: ceaser salad, crab hushpuppy, crab cake & lamb, and hazelnut cannoli the experience was better than our first, food as well- staff was very friendly, very attentive, checking in on us frequently the food was also better than our first visit- the crab hush puppy was the only item I didn't care for- I felt their sauce was way too mayo based giving an oily sickening taste- but other than that everything was well seasoned, with delicious bold flavor- their crabcakes are very hearty, thick crab, not too much filler- the lamb chops were cooked perfectly-moist juicy- the salads were massive-we actually ended up just boxing them up for lunch the next day- full meals on their own! the stuffed soft shell was well stuffed-with a unique sauce the cannoli would have been better if they filled their shells to-order, they were a bit soggy from being pre-filled but the flavor was good though they lacked the delectable crunchness we would go again to try other unique menu items- definitely sticking with dining in only read more

See all

I came in early on a Saturday, and it wasn't that busy. Plenty of empty tables. But, the service just wasn't great. Very slow on the refills and check-ins. There's also no reason for a waitress to only talk to me twice my entire visit. The two times I talked to my waitress was to order drinks and order food. I would like to be attended to more than that. But the food was delicious. read more

Awesome old school diner right in Ellicott City. I stopped in to meet my co-workers for breakfast during a snowy Wednesday morning. It's a traditional style diner with counter seating or you can choose a table. It wasn't too crowded and they had the lot cleared so there was ample parking. The waiter we had was friendly and he immediately brought out water and took our drink orders. I just wanted a black coffee. For my breakfast a chose the pancakes with a meat of your choosing. I got the scrapple. The food came out pretty quickly but we all just ordered simple breakfast items. My order came with 3 page pancakes, more than enough to fill me up. The scrapple was thick cut, crispy on the outside. I know some people prefer thin cut so just be aware if you come here they don't have it that way. Price was cheap, my meal was around 15 with the drink included. I had plenty leftover so took a mall box to take them home. Definitely my go to spot when I want diner food. I only ever go for breakfast but may try their lunch or dinner menu one day. read more

This establishment is hit or miss. They have some great specials, but a big menu and not everything is decent. You can't go wrong with breakfast items and the desserts, but lunch and entrees are all over the place...as is the service. Tonight I had the french onion soup. The dish was hot as was the melted cheese, but the soup was luke warm. I ordered the hot roast beef platter and it also came out also luke warm. The waiter was helpful and said crap, they've been doing this all day (the kitchen), they aren't paying attention to detail. If you are a regular and know what is good for you, then you're ok. But until you find that sweet spot, beware of inconsistency. read more

Solid diner food. Even the pickiest of eaters can find something on their huge menu. I got the Gyro platter and WOW!!! So much food. My husband got the liver and onions. The liver was perfect. Buttery mashed potatoes and a thick beefy gravy. The diner was packed so service was a bit slow. Our waitress was super friendly. Parking was easy. It was a bit loud but, Friday night. We will be going back. read more

Visited EC diner today and was very unimpressed. I ordered the chorizo skillet and my potatoes were hard, green onions were uncooked. When I sent it back and asked it to be removed from the check because I did not eat it. I was told that they could remove half. I will not be back. read more

I come here for breakfast regularly. During the week it's a little cheaper than during the weekend for two eggs, meat and potatoes with coffee. Service is quick. Coffee gets the job done. I always have leftovers of potatoes and toast. read more

Eggplant parmigiana sandwich definitely not worth the money. One skinny slice of extremely overcooked eggplant about the thickness of a McDonald's French fry breaded thicker than the eggplant slice then smothered by cheese so thick I couldn't bite OR cut through the serving. Very little taste at all. Son and husband said their Cajun chicken penne and tuna club were okay, but not really good. First time we've come in about ten years, and will probably never return. read more

EC Diner - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Update: Tried the latte--- highly recommend! Unlike many places suffering from inflation and worker shortages, the prices at EC Diner have not gone up and the quality of food and service has not gone down. Miss Fussy-Pants asked for her Florentine crepe to be made of buckwheat, to add ham, and to cook it well-done because she likes the cheese to be all melty and the crepe to be nicely browned... success! My complicated order came out perfect! Thank you, EC read more

EC Diner - Latte served in a large mug. Quite good! - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

I am a diner snob! And, man o man, this was a good one! I had their St Patty's Day special-open Reuben & potato leek soup. I devoured it so quickly and unfortunately forgot to take a photo. The service was exceptional!! Despite having a busy night, the food came out pretty quickly and as described, a testament to the diner's fantastic operation. I am in town for the weekend but will make every effort to return on Sunday for breakfast. read more

The service was pretty good for an Easter Sunday. Food was good overall. The rockfish could have been cooked a little longer. The MD crab soup was very tasty. Seafood deviled eggs were solid but not amazing. Would definitely go back and try one of the burgers and the elaborate shakes I saw people getting. read more

EC Diner - Crab and Rockfish Succotash - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Every time I go to EC Diner, I walk away impressed. I recently celebrated my birthday and it will now become my traditional birthday dinner destination. I feasted on 3 tender lamb chops with a huge crab cake. One of the best so ever had. It came with two sides and I recommend the Athenian style green beans and mashed potatoes. Enjoyed a chocolate mousse dessert to top off the evening. Brendan L was our server and he was busy with many stations but always made time to make sure we were happy. He went above and beyond. One of their owners, Spiros, also stopped by to make sure we were satisfied with everything. As a fellow Greek, I appreciate a good Greek owned diner. read more

EC Diner - Lamb chops with a crab cake - American Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

See all

My husband and I tried this restaurant a few times prior to being a Yelper and the food and most importantly the service has always been on point. We always came to this restaurant for breakfast because that is the most important meal of the day. I have also turned my parents on this diner and now they frequent this restaurant more than I. My parents chose this restaurant for a birthday celebration for our family and the food and service did not disappoint. Everything was fresh and bought out very quickly. My parents drinks tons of coffee so their cups were always filled. The waiter was very attentive to our table while the restaurant was extremely busy. The best part was the entire restaurant experience was the entire restaurant joined in to wish my dad "Happy Birthday ". It was the best birthday experience we could ever ask for and I really appreciated it. The smile on his face was the icing on the cake. The restaurant has a busy parking lot especially on the weekends during breakfast hours. 10/10~ My entire family will be back. read more

See all

Food- large portions as you want out of a diner Big taste and satisfying. Ambience- the diner was packed. Luckily a table was being cleaned when we walked in just before the rush. Amazing place for a weekend brunch. read more