Empire Diner Hicksville
Empire Diner Logo

Empire Diner

@

4.51204 reviews

The Empire Diner welcomes diners to experience a slice of nostalgia. Located at 42 Jerusalem Avenue, this cozy diner offers classic American comfort food. Known for its warm ambiance, it is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, it is the perfect place to unwind.

The menu ranges from hearty breakfast options to delightful desserts, each dish crafted with care. The diner does an excellent job of serving classics like pancakes, omelettes, and burgers. It caters to all ages, making it ideal for families and groups. Each visit guarantees a comforting experience, whether taking a seat or ordering for takeout.

Accessibility is also a huge plus here, with features for wheelchair users. Perfect for solo diners or family groups, the diner exudes a welcoming vibe. Enjoy a meal while listening to the sounds of jovial conversations. It's a spot where locals and tourists gather and share our love for good food.

About

Empire Diner has stood the test of time, providing delicious meals for over 60 years. Its charm lies in its decor, reminiscent of classic diners with jukeboxes at every booth. The atmosphere is welcoming, often filled with laughter and lively conversations. Staying true to its roots, Empire preserves traditional recipes and friendly service, creating lasting memories.

Situated conveniently close to Hicksville LIRR Station, it attracts both regulars and newcomers. Visitors effortlessly stroll in for a meal while enjoying the local buzz. The diner showcases local art and features vibrant community highlights, reinforcing its role as a genuine neighborhood eatery. It's more than just a diner; it's a place to gather.

Visitors often share stories of memorable meals and friendly exchanges with the staff. The diner acts as a social hub, where locals eat, laugh, and celebrate everyday moments. Echoing nostalgia and community spirit, dining at Empire fills the heart as much as the stomach.

Get in Touch

42 Jerusalem Ave, Hicksville, NY 11801, United States

Opening Hours

  • Monday 07:00-16:00
  • Tuesday 07:00-17:00
  • Wednesday 07:00-17:00
  • Thursday 07:00-20:00
  • Friday 07:00-20:00
  • Saturday 07:00-20:00
  • Sunday 07:00-17:00

Where to Visit

Get Directions

Customer Reviews

"Old fashioned diner. Small and cozy. Excellent, attentive service; everyone was very warm and friendly. Sat in a booth by the window (we were free to choose), and wee served quickly. Food was just okay. Bathrooms were spotless. I would return. "

- PhilYouIn

"A good, old-fashioned diner. Excellent staff and a good variety. One of the few earing places that you can actually drink the water without the nasty aftertaste. I'm definitely coming g back to this hidden gem."

- Angel L.

"EMPIRE (diner) STRIKES BACK At least for me, I mean between the movie and this restaurant; I was full like a wookie. I would highly recommend the Spinach Fedda Cheese Omelette with home fries, delicious. Omelette looked like a painting (photo enclosed). Seating tables arrangements and booths comfortable. *Men's Bathroom, clean with one urinal and one tolid. Ample size parking lot. Steps from the HICKSVILLE LIRR STATION and NICE BUS N80. I actually had a nice delicious experience. Come hungry and tell them the Guru sent you The Review Guru* Long Island NY"

- The G.

"Absolutely stunning diner, the decor was both nostalgic and classy, down to the individual jukeboxes at the tables. (Wonderful sight, incredibly awesome to be able to flip through the selection! They're incredibly well maintained, despite their age.) As for food, we had ordered the super breakfast, and I personally had a two egg meal, over easy, with home fries and bacon. The yolk ran perfectly, and they took great care not to burn the edges, something that happens often when judging a food establishment for the first time. My date said his meal was amazing as well, and all we took home was toast. (A rarity for me, as I'm a light eater!) The staff are warm and welcoming, and it's clear they care about their regulars. I instantly felt relaxed and excited to eat since reception, and the ambiance was soothing, hearing the regulars chat and laugh amongst themselves. The staff were also more than understanding about me wishing to finish a coffee I had picked up earlier, and I fully intend to return to try theirs as a thank you. You don't find that hospitality often! All in all, this was a wonderful experience, both for a date, and I imagine for a family meal as well. My brunch was amazing today, thanks to Arlene, so if she serves your table, you're bound to leave full and happy. I'm dying to bring my parents here for a meal, so I'll let that excitement speak for itself. It's a one of a kind experience, one that I recommend everyone try at least once."

- Jesse H.

"We enjoyed the food. The service left alot to be desired. There is a lady at the bar that seemed to be very sweet. Luckily she saw a sausage on the floor and asked our waitress if she dropped one. She went to the back and brought one out right to our table. She knew she had dropped it but had no intention of bringing me another one. If the young lady at the bar had not spoken loud enough for us to hear, she probably would not have. The dry "sorry" let me know that she could not have cared less. I will give it another try but that waitress will be off limits."

- Wendy M.

"My father and I visited for the first time. We live very locally and have been curious to try it. We were not disappointed. We were greeted warmly and served attentively. The atmosphere is charming and kept very clean. My dad ordered the French toast deluxe and truly enjoyed it. It was fluffy, juicy, and satisfying. I had the Mediterranean omelette. It was very flavorful and fluffy as well. Not every diner is created equal. The lovely woman behind the counter told us this establishment is at least 60 years old. It's such a slice of nostalgia. We had an even better experience than we anticipated. I hope they are a mainstay for years to come. What a treat. Really looking forward to our next breakfast there!"

- Lisa G.

"Came here for lunch the other day and was really impressed by the service and taste of the food! Our server was really nice and the food was good. I'll definitely be coming back!"

- K
Write a Review

Why Visit

Visiting Empire Diner should be on any foodie’s list. First off, breakfast is served all day. Indulge in their famous Spinach and Feta Cheese Omelette, lauded for its flavor and fluffy texture. Pair it with crispy home fries for the perfect start to any day.

For lunch and dinner, classic American dishes shine. Burgers, hearty salads, and sandwiches are served fresh and hearty. Try their towering triple-deckers or flavorful soups. Don't miss out on local specialties either; each dish tells a story.

A unique feature of Empire Diner is its accessibility. It provides wheelchair access and ample parking for everyone. Families appreciate kid-friendly meals and the joy of dining together. Enjoy casual outings with friends or romantic dinners; the atmosphere accommodates all.

Parking outside is convenient. The staff is genuinely friendly, fostering an inviting environment. Breakfast hours can be busy, especially on weekends. To avoid crowds, early visits are recommended. Enjoy leisurely meals while soaking in a cozy yet vibrant ambiance.

Most Liked things

Patrons love the all-day breakfast menu, which includes crowd favorites like pancakes and omelettes.

The friendly staff consistently garners positive remarks for their attentive service.

The diner’s nostalgic decor, with individual jukeboxes at each booth, creates a unique dining experience.

Visitors often mention the delicious desserts, with customers raving about the rich cakes and pastries.

Most Disliked things

Some diners mention occasional service inconsistencies, specifically during peak hours.

Certain reviews highlight a need for improved table turnover, especially during busy breakfast times.

A few guests have noted that the food can sometimes be average and not as memorable as expected.

Occasionally, the diner can feel cramped during peak periods, affecting the overall dining experience.

FAQ

What dishes should I try at Empire Diner?

Try the Sausage Omelette, Ham Omelette, or the Tomato and Onion Omelette. The breakfast menu shines here. Don't miss their desserts and coffee too. Perfect for a casual meal.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Empire Diner mainly offers indoor seating but provides takeout options. Enjoy the comfortable dining environment after you pick up your order.

What are the opening hours for Empire Diner?

Empire Diner is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They serve meals until late at night. Visit any day of the week for a tasty bite.

Can I make a reservation at Empire Diner?

Yes, reservations are accepted at Empire Diner. It's a good idea to book a table during busy hours, especially on weekends.