Believe it or not, most diners in New York are owned by Greeks. Since the 1940’s, the Greeks have dominated this particular business field, and it is estimated that 500 out of the 800 diners in the city are actually Greek. On average, they gross about $500,000 a year, and some diners earn even more based upon their success.[1] The Greeks started to become a prominent presence in the diner business during huge waves of immigration in the 1940’s. Many of these immigrants were farmers who knew how to run small businesses, and they learned the tricks of the trade by working at kaffenions or Greek coffee shops. Many of these local diner owners were also quick to adapt to one another and were able to respond to trends such as the fast-food boom in the 1960’s. This is why many Greek diners today have extensive menus filled with different hamburgers, salads, and more.[2]
From American food to Greek food, they have it all. Many diners are found in Astoria, Queens, which is known to be the heartland of Greek-American settlement in New York. The entire neighborhood has a Greek flavor, and Greek diners certainly attribute to its Greek characteristics. Greek diners have also integrated into the New York community in general with their great presence in the diner business, and they appeal to everyone with their enormous menus, homely booths, and coffee on the go in iconic blue and white cups.
–Bel Aire Restaurant and Diner –
This is a large, classic Greek diner located in Astoria. It offers a massive menu and opens 24/7. It is well known for its juicy cheeseburgers and well-made coffee on the go. This diner aims to serve everyone with its Greek specialities (i.e. its delicious Souvlaki platter), American classics (i.e. its classic cheeseburger), Mexican corner (i.e. Muchos Nachos), and more. They even extend to Thai food as well! With its chrome accents, homely atmosphere, and extensive range of food, it is hard to miss!
–Mike’s Diner –
Established in 1927, Mike’s Diner is another classic Greek diner located in Astoria. It primarily serves homemade and comfort food to its customers. Mike’s Diner offers true American food with fresh ingredients such as its delicious breakfast omelets and burgers. It also serves Greek classics such as Pastichio, which is a dish that has layers of macaroni and seasoned with ground beef. Its large menu appeals to many with its variety, and the diner itself has a classic diner feel with its warm-colored booths.
Another classic Greek diner, Neptune Diner is one that doles out burgers, pancakes, and other simple eats. It is known to have the “king of the sea” (better known as Poseidon) on its menu, and like the sea, its menu is large and plentiful. Ranging from classic breakfast foods such as omelets, toast, and more, it also offers Greek dishes such as Moussaka, which consists of layers of eggplant, potatoes and seasoned ground beef. They serve their food on blue and white plates and truly exert Greek pride.
This 24-hour Greek diner boasts about its extensive international menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner classics. It serves a plethora of different burgers ranging from a classic cheeseburger to its special Mexican burger. The diner also serves a classic Greek burger that is served on pita bread. It also has its own Greek Corner with Souvlaki platters and more.
As a diner, Crave strives for perfection when serving its customers. It claims to serve dishes with the freshest of ingredients and aims to provide quality service to its customers. It is best known for its Belgian style chips, chicken doner and burgers. Crave also offers a variety of Greek foods such as Bifteki, which are Greek meatballs. It has been in service for over 5 years and has served a plethora of customers.
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