I don't know why people are lying about this diner and the terrible food and horrible service. Over priced and over seasoned food. I walked in with family for breakfast and the place was literally empty. I wondered why? Its the beginning of the month,tax time and of course stimulus checks are out. After eating I quickly realized why. Food used to be great years ago but I guess new management and new cooks have declined business. I talked myself out of going to the busy diners in new haven to have a quiet more relaxed breafest at local diner. That was a mistake and I will spend my 50.00 for breakfast elsewhere. Especially since I have everything I ordered at home and can cook the food I ordered better than the chef!!! Why is the cook taking orders and bringing out the food within 10 mins of three people ordering? No chef gear just a blue face mask lol waitress didn't speak english. Dirty dishes and cups we sent back. Dirty windows etc of course no one asked how was the food. I wonder why. Who puts lemon season on uncooked home.fries? Burnt eggs? Terrible experience and it was my family first time there. This is exactly why restaurants in new haven don't last. Overpriced food,terrible quantity, and dull taste. Athenian diner should be ashamed. Huge establishment as far as size and they have empty seats everyday for years. I would have been happier going to hood and paying less. None of my food was ate. I left everything paid my bill and continued my hungry morning because I was turned off to eat out. Chef says he's been cooking for 45 years lol I...
Read moreLate night....not sure where to go for a bite or two? Come to the Athenian Diner III !!! What a satisfying experience. I was traveling through Connecticut for work and ended up stuck in traffic along Route 95 for more than an hour. So - when it came time for some dinner I saw the billboard for the Athenian Diner along the highway and decided to give it a try. Now - please understand that I live in NJ and there are fantastic diners in the "Garden State". The Athenian meets and surpasses many of the diners in NJ. The service was attentive and professional. The person who took my order was polite and professional. The meal was delicious and plentiful. I'm an old school diner person so - I go for meatloaf, mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables. The meatloaf was flavorful and perfectly cooked. The mashed potatoes were creaming and yummy. I asked for the pickled beets....YUM!!! Plus they provided me with some Challah bread and butter. Ummmm - and they tossed in Chicken Orzo soup! I took the order to go and had plenty for a good sized lunch the next day. What a great meal! Thank you Athenian Diner - I will certainly return to this spot if I'm in...
Read moreStopped in for breakfast and was immediately greeted with a smile—super friendly and fast service that made me feel right at home. The atmosphere is classic diner comfort: clean, cozy booths, lots of natural light, and that relaxed, unpretentious vibe you hope for in a breakfast spot.
Now for the highlight: the challah French toast. Wow. Perfectly cooked—crispy edges, fluffy inside, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-bite and say, “Okay, this is why people love diners.” Paired with a hot, smooth cup of coffee, it made for an absolutely satisfying meal.
Prices are really reasonable, especially considering the generous portions and quality. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Athenian Diner III is worth the stop.
Will definitely be back—and probably ordering the French...
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