New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A place · Restaurant · Chelsea · on 3 of my lists

Empire Diner.

Worth it, says Antonina. If you’re feeling nostalgic, one of the best things to do in Chelsea is grabbing a bite at Empire Diner.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from my Best things to do in Chelsea
Where Empire Diner appears on New York Dearest

It's on 3 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.

Best things to do in Chelsea

No. 12 on that list
Worth it
  • Address210 10th Avenue New York, NY 10011
  • From my guide, updated September 2026.

If you’re feeling nostalgic, one of the best things to do in Chelsea is grabbing a bite at Empire Diner. It’s a modern take on the old-school, classic diner look. The best part? Empire Diner has been serving tradition American food since 1976!

You can expect typical diner fare, from the traditional eggs & bacon breakfast to a juicy burger with fries. Regardless if you’re stopping by for breakfast or a late lunch, the freshly baked buttermilk biscuits are non-negotiable and must be ordered. Since having a meal at Empire Diner is one of the best things to do in Chelsea, I recommend starting your day here to avoid having to wait in any lines.

Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.

Best restaurants in Chelsea

No. 11 on that list
Worth it

If you’re on the hunt for a place that blends nostalgia and quality dining, consider Empire Diner a must-visit. This restaurant offers a contemporary twist on the iconic diner aesthetic, serving the neighborhood of Chelsea since 1976 with authentic American cuisine and a classic ambiance.

You can expect typical diner fare, from the traditional eggs & bacon breakfast to a juicy burger with fries. Regardless if you’re stopping by for breakfast or a late lunch, the freshly baked buttermilk biscuits are non-negotiable and must be ordered. To avoid potential lines at this beloved Chelsea restaurant, I suggest starting your day at Empire Diner.

Best brunch in Chelsea

No. 3 on that list
Worth it

Dating back to 1976, Empire Diner is on constant rotation in Chelsea’s brunch scene. There’s something endearing about old-school diners, and Empire kicks it up a notch with inspired American classics.

From airy omelettes and hearty breakfast sandwiches to grilled steak and eggs or shrimp and grits, the only non-negotiable is an order of the truffle Parmesan fries and warm homemade biscuits.

Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Empire Diner has you covered. But, since this one of the most popular restaurants for brunch in Chelsea, I recommend getting there early to avoid a long wait (reservations for weekend brunch not accepted).

Empire Diner
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Empire Diner

Chelsea