In the fall of 2008, on my first morning living with a stranger I had met through Craigslist, we walked a few blocks to Square Diner for breakfast. Nearly 20 years later, after traveling the world together and navigating every imaginable high and low, he will be a lifelong friend. Had I not met him, my trajectory in New York would have been profoundly different. Unbeknownst to us, we were living through one of the greatest financial collapses in modern capitalism. We understood that something consequential was unfolding, but as junior employees at the very bottom of the hierarchy, we had little status, capital, or security to lose. That was both a blessing and a curse: we were insulated from certain consequences, yet too deep in the trenches to understand the full scale of the devastation unfolding around us. That history fits this family-owned diner because Square Diner does not care whether your fund has returned billions or whether your dream has completely fallen apart. It offers the same counter seat, unlimited coffee, quick service, and delicious breakfast either way. A great friend does something similar by seeing the person underneath the success, the failure, and the noise. The space itself is small, with a short counter, a handful of booths, wood paneling, vinyl seats, and more character than many restaurants with 10 times the square footage. The Lumberjack Breakfast is almost comically large, the classic diner staples are handled with competence, and the people-watching is excellent. The outdoor seating is equally no-frills and just as charming. At the counter, you will find print copies of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and other periodicals being read by locals who have read them for decades. These are not props arranged to manufacture nostalgia. They belong to the elders who built the neighborhood's social fabric and made it possible for later generations to enjoy Tribeca as we do now. Growing up in Chicago, I became familiar with the Greek diner tradition that runs through so many American cities. Square Diner is operated by a Greek family, and it reflects a long Greek tradition of hospitality, with the short-order kitchen offering an especially enduring expression of that tradition. New York may be filled with world-renowned experts and industry leaders, but Square Diner gives them a place to drink coffee, eat eggs, and set aside their names and reputations for an hour. For all the bright lights and ambition, this simpler side of the city is what keeps New York authentic, humane, and worth loving. read more

Great food, ordered the Lumberjack breakfast, everything was fantastic down to the warm butter. 10/10 would go back

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Cramped, and mediocre lol.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Came here for a brunch meeting with some friends that recommended this. Nothing special. [[HIGHLIGHT]]But it's quite packed.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place is very tight and small.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food is okay. The corn beef hash is tasty, but the wraps and the pancakes are a little bland, and unremarkable. Would say, just go to IHop lol read more

Square Diner - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

rubin - 4/10 but 7/10 when sandwiched quantity is amazing but strange because there's no top toast for the sandwich. there's two on the bottom but because it's not sandwich the cheese doesn't melt. would taste better if u pull the bottom toast out and sandwich it yourself. would not order again soup of the day -- 7/10 very hearty and a good recovery soup. wish it had more liquid. would not order again hot chocolate - not too milky/ creamy but still good. not powdery so that's good. probably would order again beautiful bowl of fruit avacado toast was great. would order again read more

See all

Solid diner in a neighborhood that has either overpriced trendy restaurants or fast food. There's no middle ground but Square Diner sort of fills that gap. The prices are high - but what diner isn't price gouging these days? [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space is small and a relic of a past time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Service is attentive. They have a $15 per person food minimum which is just silly and un-diner like but that's more a problem of the economy and less of their own choice. I had the grilled cheese with sweet potato fries and it was just as expected. Seems like the TikTok monsters haven't discovered this place yet, so enjoy it while it lasts. read more

A great selection of classic diner breakfasts, each of which is worth the visit. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Deep in Tribeca which is a terrific nyc neighborhood.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]It is a small diner.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Everyone is friendly. Before 3pm, it is busy. Wait time is about 15-20 minutes when I got there at 1pm. There were two servers. Service was great. Chicken pot pie - really good. Fresh, big, and warm. You can chose two sides. I chose manhattan clam chowder and side salad. $21 Turkey Meatloaf - it tastes good but needed more gravy. You can choose two sides. I chose spinach with mushrooms. $22 Both the pie and meatloaf were servings for about two people. read more

Square Diner - Chicken Pot Pie - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Truly one of the best places in NYC -- a total hidden gem! The food is absolutely amazing, fresh, and full of flavor every single time. The staff is incredibly kind and welcoming, and you're seated so quickly, which is always appreciated. They make sure your coffee is always fresh, and the food comes out fast without ever feeling rushed. You can really tell how organized and attentive everyone is, which makes the entire experience seamless and enjoyable. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I visited during the Christmas season, and the atmosphere was especially magical wholesome decorations, classic music playing, and such a cozy, festive vibe that made the experience even more special.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] On top of all that, the people working there are just genuinely wonderful. [[HIGHLIGHT]]This place truly has it all: amazing food, great service, and a warm, welcoming environment.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Can't recommend it enough! read more

Square Diner - Chocolate chip pancakes, fruit, coffee, sausage! - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

[[HIGHLIGHT]]This place is as old school urban city as it gets. And it's awesome![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Traditional breakfast with cup a Joe! Pancakes and eggs with bacon [[HIGHLIGHT]]But it's the ambience, service and old school it's a wonderful life throw back feel that makes it a 5 for me![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It's reasonably priced too compared to New York in general. Go here when in New York for breakfast!! read more

Your typical diner which is a good thing. They had outdoor seating set up so I decided to go with that on this visit. It wasn't too busy but the service was still a little slow. The food was good and I would be back if I'm in the area but definitely not my first choice. read more

Square Diner - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Just happened past this place coming from my union office. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Tiny place, limited menu but omigod! Huuuuuge portions and DELICIOUS!!!!!!!![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] So glad I found it! read more

My cousin had her birthday party at Square Diner last night and it was amazing. The venue has so much character! The real standout was the staff...exceptionally efficient but always smiling as though they were also having a great time! This place must be managed really well. read more

We stood in line for 45 minutes because our hotel nearby recommended this place -- what a mistake. The manager couldn't have been more unpleasant if he tried. He was shockingly rude and dismissive, and seemed to seat people at random regardless of how long they'd been waiting. At least eight people were taken ahead of us for no reason other than his whim. The entire experience was unprofessional and uncomfortable. I wouldn't eat here again if it were free and came with a coupon for another meal at a later date. read more

Absolutely the worst dining experience I've had in a long time. After standing in line for 45 minutes, we were never served at all. The owner openly ignored the line and let people skip ahead three people were seated before more than 20 of us who had been waiting. We stayed quiet out of respect because an elderly woman was with them, but the behavior only got worse. When the owner finally acknowledged us and asked our party size, we said six and even made it clear we were willing to sit at separate tables. That didn't matter. Instead, he told us to wait longer and proceeded to seat eight more people ahead of us. The lack of fairness, basic organization, and respect for customers was unbelievable. Save your time and your patience this place clearly doesn't value either. read more

Visited Square Diner for brunch on the weekend and it filled my no-frills, diner craving to a tee. My friend and I ordered the tuna melt & chicken pot pie -- a bit out of our typical brunch wheelhouse, but perfect for the rainy cold day. Both dishes were tasty, well portion sized and above all, affordable. Staff was super friendly, joking around with us and providing suggestions which completed the overall experience. If you're looking for a classic diner to visit in NYC, Square Diner is the place to go! read more

Square Diner - Tuna Melt Sandwich & Chicken Pot Pie - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Great old-school, no-frills diner![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I really miss these places. My breakfast was delicious and our server was awesome!! read more

The food was really good, [[HIGHLIGHT]]it was super busy but the staff were so welcoming and nice![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Also, the iced latte was good as well! read more

See all

I kept meaning to write about this place after my first few meals here. The kitchen creates good flavors with reliable service. Some choices are superior but all are acceptable. The workers handle any issues immediately. Entirely enjoyable! read more

A great NY Diner experience. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Good food, great service, terrific "diner" ambiance.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Apart from the electronic cash register, this is like stepping back into the 1940s...in a good way.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Highly recommend for breakfast or lunch (I haven't been there for dinner). It's also a short walk from the "Ghostbusters" firehouse. read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Wow!! What an awesome diner!![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The owner is super nice, the restaurant is a bit tight, but they make it work, service was outstanding.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But most importantly, the food was out of this world!! I had the California Eggs Benedict!! Fresh avocado, ham. Was so delicious!! We also got the avocado toast, yummy!! Coffee was also delicious!! Highly recommend!! read more

See all

Food was very average diner food, the tuna melt was really good. Found a piece of bacon in my vegetarian omelette which was upsetting but they did take it off the bill which was nice. There was about a 25 min wait for this place and I don't think it was worth it, prices were also pretty high for a diner $21 for a tuna melt. And no hot coffee refills! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Place was old school diner vibes very cute but very tight![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I'm assuming a lot of people were in a similar boat to us which was that the bubbys line was too long and this was around the corner read more

See all

Food - 4 Service - 5 A nice, fast and casual local tribeca spot. It's great for a quick and classic American breakfast. The service can be slow but they are very friendly and obviously working so hard. The chocolate chip and banana pancakes are good, bacon is always crispy and the corned beef hash and western omelets are great when you're in the mood for a more savory breakfast. I've always eaten outside but inside has a very classic, diner feel. read more

Square Diner - Cappuccino - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

We only ended up at Square because we couldn't get into Bubby's--and we won't make that mistake again. The food was disappointing and seriously overpriced. I ordered French toast and was served two slices of what looked like Wonder Bread, barely coated in egg. When I mentioned it, the server brought out what he said was Challah, but it was thin, white, and bland--definitely not real Challah, which should be thick and eggy with a yellow hue. My wife had a cheese omelet $ 19 which was fine--hard to mess up--but nothing special. Overall, not worth the price or the visit. Plenty of better diners in the area. The manager was very disgruntled because they are overpriced and serve less than average food at least. read more

We only ended up at Square because we couldn't get into Bubby's--and we won't make that mistake again. The food was disappointing and seriously overpriced. I ordered French toast and was served two slices of what looked like Wonder Bread, barely coated in egg. When I mentioned it, the server brought out what he said was Challah, but it was thin, white, and bland--definitely not real Challah, which should be thick and eggy with a yellow hue. My wife had a cheese omelet $ 19 which was fine--hard to mess up--but nothing special. Overall, not worth the price or the visit. Plenty of better diners in the area. read more

Everything is always delicious thank you for cooking amazing food every time we love eating here Need cots so much great food Service is always great [[HIGHLIGHT]]They updated the booths looks nice[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Back for dinner OMG Chili over pasta with cheese onions Service is exceptional friendly and prompt service thank you we will definitely be back read more

See all

I understand why they have been open for so long lol it was the perfect diner food. I don't even like corned beef hash and after I had theirs I immediately went and got some more the day after. the waitress was so sweet and friendly. they were very busy on the saturday morning we came but they still were timely with their service. read more

I love me a good diner. Thus is a rarity in the city as it's not a Greek joint but a good old fashioned American diner. Tin can look on the outside, but upstate/New England feel in the inside. Menu of classic diner options - breakfast, burgers, sandwiches, entrees. Wood lined walls and ceiling. Funny signs and items to put a smile on your face. Plenty of seating crammed into this small space, and outside seating too. Pleasant service and food arrived quickly. My cheese omelet was huge. The potatoes cooked crispy as requested. Tasty. Good hot coffee too. Pricey but large portions and they accept credit cards. You will get some sticker shock when seeing the prices but it is Tribeca after all. read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Exactly the kind of classic NYC diner vibes I was looking for.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Perfect amount of rude servers and a bomb breakfast sandwich. We weren't a huge fan of the home fries potatoes and they gave you a can of Coke instead of having a fountain machine or else would have given 5 stars. read more

See all

Great service! Great food! With the five of us we had breakfast, quesadilla, mozzarella sticks, and a Caesar salad. Everyone was happy! read more

Square Diner - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I absolutely adore old style diners, and they have quickly become an uncommon sight in New York City. Located in downtown Manhattan, Square Diner is one of the few left in the area. Despite its name, this train-car style diner made by Kullman Dining Car Co. of New Jersey is actually triangular in shape measuring at about 1000 square feet. It has been in the area in some form for about a century now, making it a Tribeca institution, so I knew I had to check it out. To adapt to difficult pandemic times, the diner has created an outdoor dining area, allowing it to accommodate about twice the number of customers it would otherwise. I wanted to sit inside and absorb the atmosphere. I'm so glad I did! The interior is long (hence the "train-car" style) with a beautiful wood ceiling, ceiling fans and booths everywhere that looked like they came from another era. There is also a counter with bar stools, but due to the pandemic you can't sit there at this time. I wound up sitting at a tiny booth next to the kitchen (which was fine by me). Service was great. My waiter was at my booth very quickly and my food came surprisingly fast considering the diner was completely full the day I went. I ordered an egg white omelette with swiss, mushrooms and spinach. It included toast (I chose rye) and home fries. I also had some (surprisingly good) coffee. The omelette was great. Big, plenty of filling and not overcooked. The toast was not buttered and I was okay with that (you get to do it yourself). The home fries had both crispy and not-so crispy parts which is also cool by me. I really enjoyed my visit to Square Diner. If you're looking for reasonably priced eats in a classic environment, this is the joint for you. read more

See all

If you don't eat meat - be careful here. Came here on 10/6 and ordered an Anna's Egg White Wrap for breakfast, as I am a vegetarian. I was dismayed to bite into a piece of bacon in my wrap! I told the waiter and he didn't even apologize, just said "the kitchen is busy right now so it must have gotten in". Really upsetting, I haven't had a bite of meat in 6 years before this. Side note, we also ordered blueberry pancakes and they forgot the blueberries lol. That wasn't a big deal tho, but altogether a bad experience. read more

Square Diner - Stray bacon in my Anna's Power Wrap - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

Favorite diner in NYC Really really nice staff Quick food, huge portions Have only had breakfast foods here, but never had a bad meal You can apparently rent it out for parties I need to know more, always so intrigued when I walk by and there's a party read more

Diners are always a great place to grab breakfast without having to worry about reservations. Square Diner was no exception! Diner's always give a homey vibe which I love. I got the eggs Benedict and coffee. Food came quickly and we were served quickly too which was great. Food was delicious and reasonably priced as well. Side note: this diner was featured in the Netflix Marvel show Daredevil!! read more

Square Diner - Coffee - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I have used Hercules cleaning service for several years and have always been 100% satisfied. They are prompt and do an excellent job.

Not all diners are alike, and I truly love a good Diner. The diner is warm, inviting, and really nice inside. Well kept wood paneling and everything was so clean. It doesn't look old and worn like so many do. It is small, but we were able to be seated very quickly. Usually, I stick to Eggs in some form and potatoes, and was absolutely delighted to find out that they also had Gluten Free pancakes!! Be still my heart! I love breakfast with pancakes and to find them here was just incredible. I had all three! Service was top notch and they even cooked my fried eggs just a little bit more for me without missing a beat. The food was GOOD and abundant. The coffee, delicious. I loved their mugs so much that I asked if I could purchase one and I did. Again, great service, good food. Next time I am in NYC I will head over for breakfast again. read more

Taste good but wait too long. It was super busy but the staff were nice! It will be great experience if service timely.

I love me a good diner experience. And this place to not disappoint. What makes us a really classic diner or the people that work there in the mix of people that Diamme there of the overall neighborhood feel of the spot. I had a Mexican omelette, which had a spot and had all the right Fixin's. it was a nice fall day and you can just see everyone decompressing after a long week at the diner like a typical Seinfeld episode. Lol. read more

Square Diner - Jalapeno Omelette - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Super cute old-school diner. I felt like I was in a movie and loved the ambiance. The food was delicious, but the service was not great. Our waiter was not at all friendly and it was almost impossible to get the staff's attention (to be fair it was super busy). read more

Square Diner - Pancakes with Meat - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

Food and service are good and ambiance is cool Food and service are good and ambiance is cool read more

Such a cute diner in the middle of Tribeca which totally hit the spot! I ordered the tuna melt with sweet potato fries and an iced coffee. A very homey, comfort meal which was exactly what I was looking for! The interior of this joint is quaint and cozy. I loved the vibe. I'd definitely come back to have some other classic American diner dishes. read more

Square Diner - Diners Near Me - New York, New York

See all