Tom’s Restaurant

- 782 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

In a city where dining establishments come and go, Tom’s Restaurant at 782 Washington Avenue in Brooklyn stands as a true, enduring landmark. This beloved, family-owned American diner, or luncheonette, has been serving the Prospect Heights neighborhood and the broader New York community since 1936. Far more than just a place to grab a meal, Tom’s is an institution, a piece of living Brooklyn history that offers a comforting, casual, and uniquely New York experience.

For decades, Tom’s has been the go-to spot for those seeking honest, flavorful American comfort food, specializing particularly in an all-day breakfast that has earned legendary status. Its reputation is built on classic diner fare—think expertly prepared eggs, hearty breakfast combos, and a show-stopping variety of pancakes—but the menu also features a full range of lunch and dinner options, including substantial sandwiches, juicy burgers, and satisfying entrees.

The atmosphere at Tom’s is immediately recognizable, a delightful, sometimes eccentric, mix of old-fashioned counter service, vintage booths, and an eclectic display of "tchotchkes" and year-round holiday decor collected over generations. This unique, cozy setting draws a wonderfully diverse crowd, from local college students and families to longtime neighborhood regulars and tourists. Patrons often describe the experience as walking into a second home, largely due to the remarkable old-school hospitality and grace of the staff and family ownership, who make every customer feel genuinely welcome.

While the restaurant’s popularity often means there is a wait, even that queue is part of the charm, as the staff is famous for handing out complimentary coffee, orange slices, and sometimes cookies to those waiting outside—a gesture of kindness that exemplifies the "nice place to get a bite served by good people" ethos. Tom’s Restaurant is a nostalgic retreat from the hustle of the city, perfectly capturing the spirit of a classic, community-focused Brooklyn diner.

Tom’s Restaurant is ideally situated at 782 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, right in the heart of the dynamic Prospect Heights neighborhood. Its prime location is a major benefit for New Yorkers and visitors alike, positioning it close to some of Brooklyn's most famous cultural attractions.

• Cultural Proximity: The diner is conveniently located near major landmarks, including the Brooklyn Museum, Prospect Park, and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, making it an excellent stop for breakfast, brunch, or lunch while planning a day of cultural exploration.
• Public Transit: The location is easily reachable via New York City’s subway system, with convenient access from the 2 and 3 trains (Eastern Pkwy–Brooklyn Museum station), as well as other nearby lines, ensuring seamless travel from other boroughs.
• Parking: Both free street parking and paid street parking options are available in the surrounding neighborhood, though, as is the case throughout Brooklyn, finding a spot can require patience.
• Accessibility: The restaurant offers wheelchair accessible seating, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all members of the community to enjoy its historic ambiance and legendary food.

Tom’s Restaurant provides service options that meet the needs of the modern New Yorker while maintaining its commitment to a classic dining experience:

• Dine-in: Traditional table service available throughout the day for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, with a cozy, casual, and historic atmosphere.
• Takeout: Convenient and fast service for locals who prefer to pick up their meals and enjoy them on the go or at home.
• Delivery: Offering delivery services to bring their famous comfort food directly to customers in the surrounding area.
• All-Day Dining: Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, ensuring you can get your favorite comfort meal or a legendary pancake any time they are open.
• Table Service and Seating: Full table service is provided, and while there is usually a wait during peak hours, the customer service is fast and friendly.
• Group and Family-Friendly Amenities: The diner is known to be good for kids, offering high chairs and often attracting groups and families, adding to its friendly, community feel.
• Offerings: Serving Coffee and Beer (Alcohol), along with a wide range of comfort food, quick bites, and vegetarian options.
• Payment Methods: Accepts Debit Cards, making payment simple and quick.

What truly sets Tom’s Restaurant apart and contributes to its reputation as one of the best breakfast spots in New York is its dedication to tradition and quality:

• Legendary Pancakes: Widely regarded for having some of the Absolute Best Pancakes in New York. The menu features an inventive and expansive selection, including the highly-praised Cinnamon Roll Pancake ($16.00), Banana Walnut Pancake ($16.00), Pumpkin Walnut Pancake ($16.00), and the delicate Lemon Ricotta Pancake ($15.00).
• Historic Atmosphere: Operating since 1936 and family-owned across generations, the diner retains an authentic old-fashioned, historic, and cozy atmosphere that has witnessed the full narrative of Brooklyn’s development.
• Old-School Hospitality (Local Specialty): Famous for its gracious service, especially the tradition of handing out free coffee, orange slices, and cookies to customers waiting in line outside—a heartwarming gesture that personifies Tom’s welcoming spirit.
• Classic Diner Favorites with Modern Twists: The menu blends classic American diner essentials (like Hamburgers, Sandwiches, and Eggceptional Combos) with updated favorites (like the Veggie Burger, Mexican Omelet, and Philly Cheesesteak Wrap).
• Signature Fountain Drinks: Known for soda fountain-era beverages that are a delight for a hot day or a nostalgic treat, including the famous Tom’s Cherry Lime Rickey ($7.00) and the classic Tom's Famous Egg Cream ($7.00).
• High-Quality Coffee and Tea: Customers consistently highlight the quality of the beverages, noting the Great Coffee and Great Tea Selection as major draws.

To plan your visit or place an order for delivery or takeout, please use the following contact information:

Address: 782 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

Phone: (718) 636-9738

For New Yorkers ready to dive into the Tom’s Restaurant experience, the menu is a feast of comforting choices. Based on popular favorites and unique offerings, here is what is worth choosing for an unforgettable meal:

• The Signature Pancakes: You simply cannot visit without trying one of the specialty pancakes. The Cinnamon Roll Pancake is a dessert-like indulgence, swirled and drizzled with glaze, and the Lemon Ricotta Pancake is a lighter, fluffier option that is consistently singled out as one of the best in the city.
• All-Day Breakfast Combos: For a hearty start to your day or a satisfying meal at lunch, consider the Crab Cakes And Eggs Combo ($19.00) or the classic Corned Beef Hash And Eggs Combo ($19.00).
• Diner Lunch Classics: When looking for lunch, the Pastrami Sandwich ($14.00) or the Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich ($15.00) are solid choices, embodying the classic American diner experience. For a fun, substantial meal, try the Turkey Club Sandwich With French Fries ($18.00).
• Comfort Food Entrees: For a true taste of home-style cooking, the Baked Meatloaf ($17.00) or the Brisket Of Beef ($17.00) offer warm, flavorful sustenance.
• Nostalgic Drinks: Be sure to order a Tom’s Famous Cherry Lime Rickey ($7.00) or a Milkshake ($9.00). These soda fountain classics are an essential part of the historic Tom's experience.

Tom’s Restaurant is more than a casual meal; it is a vital part of Brooklyn’s cultural and culinary landscape. The fusion of fast service, great coffee, delicious comfort food, and the distinct, welcoming atmosphere ensures that every visit feels both exciting and restorative. Whether you are a solo diner, part of a family group, or a long-time regular, Tom’s enduring charm and quality fare make it a must-visit American restaurant in the New York region.

Tom’s Restaurant

782 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA