ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Upper West Side
Best Breakfast in Upper West Side
Best American in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Metro Diner
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Group Dining Gatherings
A big-menu, old-school diner that wins on range and late-day utility—breakfast plates, comfort-food apps, and no-frills satisfaction when you need something fast and filling. The sweet spot is picking one classic and sticking to it, because the menu is designed to tempt you into over-ordering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Disco fries, Cheeseburger, Pancakes
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: A classic diner menu built for fast, filling comfort-food coverage.
Who should go: Diner loyalists and hungry groups
When to visit: Off-peak hours for quickest service
What to order: Disco fries, cheeseburger, pancakes
Insider tip: Split one appetizer if you’re also doing a full breakfast plate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive, especially evenings and weekends. Most locals walk or use transit.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, hoodies, and work clothes are all normal.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — fine for groups, a little loud during rushes.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or under 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — eggs, pancakes, grilled cheese, salads, and veggie sides.
Vegan options: Very limited — mostly sides (home fries, toast, salad with modifications).
Gluten-free options: Limited — some egg plates and proteins work, but no dedicated gluten-free prep.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable comfort food with a huge menu when everyone wants something different.
Skip if: You’re looking for elevated brunch, quiet conversation, or strong dietary-specific accommodations.