Golden Diner: A Modern Twist on a Classic New York Eatery

Golden Diner Introduce

Step into Golden Diner, a local favorite that's redefining the classic American diner for the modern New York City palate. Situated in the vibrant and bustling neighborhood of Chinatown, Golden Diner is much more than just a place to grab a quick bite. It's a culinary destination that merges the cozy, familiar feel of a traditional diner with an innovative, globally-inspired menu. This unique approach has quickly made it a go-to spot for food lovers seeking a fresh take on comfort food classics.

Unlike your typical greasy spoon, Golden Diner offers an elevated dining experience without losing its casual, welcoming charm. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of trendy and cozy, making it an ideal setting for any occasion, from a solo meal to a get-together with friends. The menu is a testament to the restaurant's creative vision, featuring a delicious array of dishes that pay homage to diner staples while incorporating bold, international flavors. From the crowd-pleasing pancakes to unique sandwiches and thoughtful vegetarian options, there's something to satisfy every craving.

Golden Diner has quickly garnered a reputation not just for its food, but for its exceptional service and vibrant energy. While it can get busy—and a wait is common, especially during peak hours—the experience is consistently praised by diners who appreciate the attentive and friendly staff. It’s a testament to the fact that great hospitality can make a good meal truly memorable. This diner has become a staple for locals and a must-visit for tourists exploring the city's diverse food scene.

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Location and Accessibility

Golden Diner is conveniently located at 123 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA. This prime spot places it right on the border of Chinatown and the Lower East Side, making it easily accessible from many parts of Manhattan. The neighborhood itself is a destination, full of rich culture, history, and a diverse range of shops and eateries.

The diner is easily reachable by public transportation. Several subway lines and bus routes serve the area, making a trip to Golden Diner simple and straightforward. For those driving, both free and paid street parking are available, though it's always wise to check for local regulations and be prepared for the typical challenges of parking in a busy city neighborhood.

Golden Diner is committed to accessibility for all guests. The establishment features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring a smooth entry for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Inside, you'll find wheelchair-accessible seating and a gender-neutral restroom that is also wheelchair accessible. These thoughtful amenities contribute to a welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable and catered to.

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Services Offered

Dine-in: Enjoy the full Golden Diner experience by dining in. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect setting for a relaxed meal.
Outdoor Seating: When the weather is nice, take advantage of the outdoor seating option to enjoy your meal with a view of the vibrant neighborhood.
Delivery: Can't make it to the restaurant? Golden Diner offers delivery, bringing its unique menu right to your doorstep so you can enjoy their food from the comfort of your home.
Takeout: For a quick meal on the go, takeout is a convenient option. Simply call ahead or place your order online for pickup.
Table Service: The professional and attentive staff provides excellent table service, ensuring your dining experience is seamless from start to finish.
Reservations: While the diner is popular and can have a wait, it accepts reservations for brunch, lunch, and dinner. It's highly recommended to book ahead, especially for larger groups or during peak hours, to secure your spot.

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Features and Highlights

Innovative Menu: Golden Diner stands out with its creative menu that offers a modern twist on classic diner fare. From the Matzoh Ball Soup to the Thai Cobb Salad and the uniquely delicious Chinatown Egg Sando, the offerings are a delightful surprise.
Serves Local Specialties: The diner is known for serving dishes that reflect its local surroundings, blending classic American diner food with the culinary traditions of Chinatown and the Lower East Side.
Great Coffee & Cocktails: Whether you need a morning pick-me-up or a drink to wind down, Golden Diner has you covered. They are known for their high-quality coffee and a fantastic selection of cocktails, beer, hard liquor, and wine.
Outstanding Desserts: Make sure to save room for dessert! The Thai Tea Tres Leches and Green Tea Coffee Cake are just two of the standout sweets that have earned the diner a reputation for great desserts.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: The menu is inclusive and offers a wide variety of vegetarian options and some vegan choices, like the Vegan Caesar Salad and Vegan Breakfast Burrito, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Fast Service: Despite its popularity and frequent crowds, Golden Diner is praised for its fast and efficient service, ensuring you get your food in a timely manner without feeling rushed.
Family-Friendly: With a "Good for kids" rating and amenities like high chairs and a dedicated kids' menu, Golden Diner is a welcoming spot for families.
Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The restaurant strikes a perfect balance between a cozy, classic diner and a trendy, modern eatery, making it a comfortable and stylish place to dine.

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Contact Information

Address: 123 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Phone: (917) 472-7800

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What is Worth Choosing

Golden Diner is worth choosing for a multitude of reasons, but what truly sets it apart is its ability to seamlessly blend the nostalgic charm of a diner with a modern, inventive menu. The dishes aren't just food; they are a unique culinary experience. The Honey Butter Pancakes are a must-try, with many customers hailing them as a highlight. The Korean Fried Chicken Wings are another standout, offering a savory and flavorful appetizer that's perfect for sharing.

Beyond the food, the service at Golden Diner is consistently a major highlight. The staff's attentiveness and welcoming demeanor create an atmosphere that is truly exceptional. This level of hospitality, combined with the cozy and trendy setting, elevates the entire dining experience. Even if you encounter a wait, the friendly service and lively environment make it worthwhile.

For a unique dining experience that feels both familiar and new, Golden Diner is the place to go. It’s a great option for a satisfying breakfast, a leisurely brunch, a quick lunch, or a lively dinner. The commitment to quality, from the food to the service, makes every visit a memorable one. If you're looking for a spot that breaks the mold of a traditional diner while delivering on flavor, hospitality, and a great atmosphere, Golden Diner is the perfect choice.

Golden Diner Menu

Coffee Beans
Golden Diner X Unity Coffee - 12 Oz $18.00
Enjoy your favorite diner coffee at home! An exclusive blend in partnership with Unity Coffee. Tasting notes of baker's chocolate, black team, and robust body. Whole beans. Guatemala single origin. Dark roast.

Soups & Salads
Matzoh Ball Soup $12.00
fluffy matzoh ball, carrot, chinese celery, fresh dill in our homemade chicken broth
Vegan Caesar Salad $15.00
gem lettuce with vegan caesar dressing and garlic croutons
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Chili Crisp Wedge Salad $18.00
chili crisp a la Fat Choy, iceberg lettuce, vegan ranch, blue "cheese", mushroom "bacon"
Thai Cobb Salad $18.00
soft boiled egg, bacon, spiced peanuts, asian herbs, cucumbers, radish, carrots, and house made thai bird chili vinaigrette

Breakfast Sides & Add-Ons
Crispy Chicken $9.00
Tofu Scramble $5.00
Pickled Daikon Side $5.00
Sour Pickle $2.50
Vegan Grilled Cheese $13.00
Smoked gouda & pepperjack "cheese", garlic oil, served on grilled white bread
Cheese $4.00
Green Salad $9.00
Plain Yogurt $6.00
Home Fries $10.00
Hash Patty $4.00
French Fries $9.00
Toast $7.00
Sausage $5.00
Vegan Kimchi Tomato Soup $0.00
Coleslaw Side $5.00
Bacon $5.00
2 Eggs $7.00

Breakfast All Day
Ketchup Packet $0.00
Chinatown Egg Sando $13.00
soft scrambled eggs w/ american cheese, hash brown patty, served on a sesame scallion milk bun
Honey Butter Pancakes (Dinner) $16.00
double stack of fluffy, moist and savory pancakes served with honey butter maple syrup and whipped honey butter, finished with lemon zest
Two Eggs, How You Want 'Em $14.50
served with home fries and choice of toast
Breakfast Burrito $14.00
soft scrambled eggs w/ american cheese, crispy home fries, fresh pico de gallo, and refried bean puree
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Vegan Breakfast Burrito $14.50
seasoned and sauteed tofu scramble with vegan cheese, crispy home frieds, fresh pico de gallo, and refried beans

K-Kimchi
Vegan Kimchi 16oz $11.00

Sweets
Thai Tea Tres Leches $12.00
chantilly cream, toasted coconut, lime zest
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Cake Cutting/Outside Dessert Fee $25.00
Green Tea Coffee Cake $7.00
made with hojicha and matcha

Breakfast
Golden Omelette $15.00
add up to 3 mix-ins of your choice, served with home fries and choice of toast
Breakfast Burrito $14.00
soft scrambled eggs w/ american cheese, crispy home fries, fresh pico de gallo, and refried bean puree
Vegan Breakfast Burrito $14.50
seasoned and sauteed tofu scramble with vegan cheese, crispy home frieds, fresh pico de gallo, and refried beans
Homemade Granola & Yogurt $11.00
house-made granola made with pumpkin seeds, cranberries, flax seeds, & orange zest
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Chinatown Egg Sando $13.00
soft scrambled eggs w/ american cheese, hash brown patty, served on a sesame scallion milk bun
Two Eggs, How You Want 'Em $14.50
served with home fries and choice of toast

Sandwiches & Burgers
Golden Cheeseburger $19.00
6oz charred happy valley medium rare beef patty with our not-so-secret sauce (mushroom gochujang aioli), pickle guy's b+b pickles, lettuce, tomato served on a sesame scallion milk bun
Lemongrass Avocado Toast $16.00
lemongrass, galangal, thai basil, fresh turmeric, scallions, and kecap manis on rustic country loaf
Vegetalian Hero $18.00
charred yuba marinated in house italian dressing, carrots, cucumber, lettuce, spicy red pepper sauce, and tofu mayo served on sesame Parisi bread
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Chicken Katsu Club $20.00
panko breaded chicken katsu blt w/ red cabbage slaw, bulldog sauce, and kewpie mayo served on milk bread
Sam's Tuna Melt $16.00
american cheese, salt & vinegar chips served on grilled rye bread
Vegan Grilled Cheese & Kimchi Tomato Soup $12.00
smoked gouda & pepperjack "cheese", garlic oil, served on grilled white bread

Soups & Salads
Thai Cobb Salad $18.00
soft boiled egg, bacon, spiced peanuts, asian herbs, cucumbers, radish, carrots, and house made thai bird chili vinaigrette
Matzoh Ball Soup $12.00
fluffy matzoh ball, carrot, chinese celery, fresh dill in our homemade chicken broth
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Chili Crisp Wedge Salad $18.00
chili crisp a la Fat Choy, iceberg lettuce, vegan ranch, blue "cheese," mushroom "bacon"
Vegan Caesar Salad $15.00
gem lettuce with vegan caesar dressing and garlic croutons

Sweets
Thai Tea Tres Leches $12.00
chantilly cream, toasted coconut, lime zest
Green Tea Coffee Cake $7.00
made with hojicha and matcha
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00

Sauces & Condiments
Wing Sauce $1.00
Strawberry Jam $0.00
Plain Maple Syrup $1.00
Extra Pico $1.00
To-Go Utensils $0.00
Side Pico De Gallo $1.00
Side Of Berry Compote $4.00
Chili Crisp $1.00
Mayonnaise $0.00
Kewpie Mayo $1.00
Burger Sauce $1.00
Ketchup Packet $0.00
Russian Dressing $1.00
Vegan Sour Cream $1.00
Vegan Ranch $1.00
Honey Maple Syrup $1.00
Plain Butter $0.00
Spicy Pepper Sauce $1.00
Honey Maple Butter $1.00
Bulldog Sauce $1.00

Sandwiches & Burgers
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Golden Cheeseburger $19.00
6oz charred happy valley medium rare beef patty with our not-so-secret sauce (mushroom gochujang aioli), pickle guy's b+b pickles, lettuce, tomato served on a sesame scallion milk bun
Chicken Katsu Club $20.00
panko breaded chicken katsu blt w/ red cabbage slaw, bulldog sauce, and kewpie mayo served on milk bread
Lemongrass Avocado Toast $16.00
lemongrass, galangal, thai basil, fresh turmeric, scallions, and kecap manis on rustic country loaf
Ketchup Packet $0.00
Vegan Grilled Cheese & Kimchi Tomato Soup $12.00
smoked gouda & pepperjack "cheese", garlic oil, served on grilled white bread
Vegetalian Hero $18.00
charred yuba marinated in house italian dressing, carrots, cucumber, lettuce, spicy red pepper sauce, and tofu mayo served on sesame Parisi bread
Sam's Tuna Melt $16.00
american cheese, salt & vinegar chips served on grilled rye bread

Dinner Sides & Add-Ons
Vegan Grilled Cheese $13.00
Smoked gouda & pepperjack "cheese", garlic oil, served on grilled white bread
Cheese $4.00
Sour Pickle $2.50
Bacon $5.00
Vegan Kimchi Tomato Soup $0.00
Plain Yogurt $6.00
Crispy Chicken $9.00
Home Fries $10.00
Crispy, golden potatoes lightly seasoned, perfect for a comforting, homestyle side dish.
Pickled Daikon Side $5.00
Toast $7.00
Side Of Coleslaw $5.00
French Fries $9.00
Green Salad $9.00
2 Eggs $5.00
Hash Patty $4.00
Half Avocado $4.50
Tofu Scramble $5.00

Shared Plates
Korean Fried Chicken Wings $18.00
8 juicy wings tossed in garlic kochujang glaze served with pickled daikon
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00

Soups & Salads
Chili Crisp Wedge Salad $18.00
chili crisp a la Fat Choy, iceberg lettuce, vegan ranch, blue "cheese," mushroom "bacon"
Matzoh Ball Soup $12.00
fluffy matzoh ball, carrot, chinese celery, fresh dill in our homemade chicken broth
Vegan Caesar Salad $15.00
gem lettuce with vegan caesar dressing and garlic croutons
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00

Breakfast
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Ketchup Packet $0.00
Homemade Granola & Yogurt $11.00
house-made granola made with pumpkin seeds, cranberries, flax seeds, & orange zest
Golden Omelette $15.00
add up to 3 mix-ins of your choice, served with home fries and choice of toast
Vegan Breakfast Burrito $14.50
seasoned and sauteed tofu scramble with vegan cheese, crispy home frieds, fresh pico de gallo, and refried beans
Chinatown Egg Sando $13.00
soft scrambled eggs w/ american cheese, hash brown patty, served on a sesame scallion milk bun
Breakfast Burrito $14.00
soft scrambled eggs w/ american cheese, crispy home fries, fresh pico de gallo, and refried bean puree
Two Eggs, How You Want 'Em $14.50
served with home fries and choice of toast

Juices & Soda
Oat Milk $3.00
Coke (Can) $3.00
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
Mexican Sprite $4.00
A lemon-lime soda made with real cane sugar and bottled in Mexico.
Fresh Yuzuade $6.00
fresh yuzu-lemonade
Diet Coke (Can) $3.00
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
Matcha Moshi Soda $5.00
Oolong Lychee Moshi Soda $5.00
Bruce Cost Ginger Beer $4.00
Orange Juice $4.00
Topo Chico Sparkling Mineral Water $4.00
Sparkling mineral water, sourced and bottled in Monterrey, Mexico, offering a refreshing and crisp taste.
Whole Milk $3.00
Mexican Coke $4.00
The same great taste made with only pure cane sugar and served in a bottle.

Breakfast Sides & Add-Ons
Sour Pickle $2.50
Pickled Daikon Side $5.00
Crispy Chicken $9.00
Vegan Grilled Cheese $13.00
Smoked gouda & pepperjack "cheese", garlic oil, served on grilled white bread
Green Salad $9.00
2 Eggs $7.00
Toast $7.00
Tofu Scramble $5.00
Bacon $5.00
Cheese $4.00
Hash Patty $4.00
Vegan Kimchi Tomato Soup $0.00
Coleslaw Side $5.00
Plain Yogurt $6.00
French Fries $9.00
Home Fries $10.00
Crispy, golden potatoes lightly seasoned, perfect for a comforting, homestyle side dish.
Sausage $5.00

Coffee & Tea
Coffee (Hot Or Iced) $0.00
Iced Tea $4.50
cold brew unsweetened black iced tea

Shared Plates
Mushroom Reuben Quesadilla $17.00
pastrami spiced portobello, sauerkraut, swiss cheese, served with housemade russian dressing
Korean Fried Chicken Wings $18.00
8 juicy wings tossed in garlic kochujang glaze served with pickled daikon
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Vegan Nachos $18.00
cashew nacho "cheese" with blue and white corn nixtamal chips topped with fermented black beans, pico, home-pickled jalapenos, cilantro, and vegan sour cream. (gluten free)

5-Year Anni Merch
Long Sleeve Tee - XL $35.00
5 year anniversary collab collectible piece designed by the soulful stylings of Hiroshima, Japan-based artist Ruminz (@ruminz_)
Long Sleeve Tee - Large $35.00
5 year anniversary collab collectible piece designed by the soulful stylings of Hiroshima, Japan-based artist Ruminz (@ruminz_)
Long Sleeve Tee - Small $35.00
5 year anniversary collab collectible piece designed by the soulful stylings of Hiroshima, Japan-based artist Ruminz (@ruminz_)
Long Sleeve Tee - Medium $35.00
5 year anniversary collab collectible piece designed by the soulful stylings of Hiroshima, Japan-based artist Ruminz (@ruminz_)

Sandwiches & Burgers
Golden Cheeseburger $19.00
6oz charred happy valley medium rare beef patty with our not-so-secret sauce (mushroom gochujang aioli), pickle guy's b+b pickles, lettuce, tomato served on a sesame scallion milk bun
Sam's Tuna Melt $16.00
american cheese, salt & vinegar chips served on grilled rye bread
Include To-Go Utensils & Napkins $0.00
Vegetalian Hero $18.00
charred yuba marinated in house italian dressing, carrots, cucumber, lettuce, spicy red pepper sauce, and tofu mayo served on sesame Parisi bread
Vegan Grilled Cheese & Kimchi Tomato Soup $12.00
smoked gouda & pepperjack "cheese", garlic oil, served on grilled white bread
Ketchup Packet $0.00
Chicken Katsu Club $20.00
panko breaded chicken katsu blt w/ red cabbage slaw, bulldog sauce, and kewpie mayo served on milk bread

Golden Diner Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Hard liquor
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
Tourists

Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Lunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually a wait

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free street parking
Paid street parking
Parking

Golden Diner Photos

Golden Diner Location

Golden Diner

New York New York County New York Madison Street

123 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Golden Diner Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 2318 user reviews.

butter pancakesberry compotekatsu sandwichtres lecheskorean fried chickencoffee cakezestthai teaegg & cheeseyuzu

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

The food was delicious. Restaurant is small so prepare to be very close to others. We loved everything in here. The pancakes were everything they’ve been hyped to be. The chicken wings amazing. Scrambled eggs some of the best I’ve ever had. Come early prior to opening to ensure you don’t have a long wait on line. I went on a Saturday got on line by 8:45am and was seated as soon as the opened at 10am.
September 08 · Luis A
We tried the pancakes and wings, and while the food was good, it didn’t quite reach “great.” The pancakes were fluffy and buttery, the wings had nice flavor, and the fries were solid—but overall, the dishes felt a bit underwhelming given the hype.What really stood out, though, was the service—it was truly exceptional. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience feel welcoming.Golden Diner is worth a visit for the atmosphere and service alone, but the food, at least from what we had, could use that extra spark to match the level of care in their hospitality.
September 06 · Abdelrahman Abdelaziz
We had breakfast on my birthday here and I loved it! Making a reservation in advance is highly recommended. We managed to do it and all went smoothly. The pancakes are amazing, but so much that you can easily share it with two people. The chicken wings were tasty as well. Friendly staff, chill vibe, overall good experience!
August 27 · Jeroen Theeuwen
Exceptional food. Everything we ordered was amazing. The chicken katsu club, honey butter pancakes, and the Koreans fried chicken wings were my favorite. Even though the matzoh ball soup was not my favorite, it was still very good. The hash brown we added as a side to the chicken club was really good as well. Cannot go wrong with anything on the menu. 10/10
August 19 · Derek Chow
First a HUGE thank you to the GM Nora and staff for the absolutely genuine care and concern during my cough attack. Her staff was very happy, positive, energetic, fast, everything positive i can think of. After my episode, I was able to eat and the food was delicious. Bathroom clean and neat. I would strongly recommend this place. Just get there extra early or make reservations. Nora, thank you so much for your kindness and going above and beyond. When I visit NY again, I hope to see you!
August 30 · Karrie Dyson