Square Diner — Restaurant in New York

When I got to New York City, the one thing I really wanted to do was eat at a “proper” diner, the kind you see in movies. Silly, I know. We were perambulating through the streets in Tribeca when we came across Square Diner. I can safely say that our spirits and appetites were warmly welcomed.

We first had some coffee because we were rather cold, which for me was a mistake because I didn’t realise how generous the food portions were going to be. The Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich was not as spicy as I was expecting it to be but it was very satisfying. The brioche bun brought in a pleasant sweetness that went well with buttermilk coating and the chipotle aioli. I got the sweet potato fries with it which was the perfect side. I must admit though, assembling the burger on my own was a bit of an ordeal, especially given the size of the chicken.

My mum ordered the Minestrone soup which she loved! Later, she had the Fish & Chips. The cod was perfectly flaky and had just the right amount of crisp on the outer layer.

My brother had the 1/2 Pound Beef burger and inhaled it! The jalapeños gave a much needed kick to the flavour profile.

We took our time and weren’t rushed by the staff at all! Once done, we left very full, and to later find out that the diner has been serving for over 100 years only elevated the...

Delicious food, great quality ingredients, and good value.

Burger cooked to medium rare perfection. Big salads with quality greens, crispy bacon bits and perfect hard boiled eggs. I wasn't expecting the chicken on the salad to be breaded and fried, but they were juicy and tender. Chili was hearty and delicious.

Service can be a bit slow during busy times, but the staff is very nice.

Old time diner style booth seating on the inside. It's a small place, so don't bring a big party.

Outdoor seating is available and very nice on a good day, but they haven't set up the outdoor umbrellas yet (it's April now). There may be no shading depending on the time of day and where you sit, so you may get the full noon day sun. Can be a good thing on cold days, but bring sunglasses or a hat.

Deliveries are quick and efficient, and they packed the lettuce and tomatoes outside the burger buns (in the same container) so the lettuce is not wilted by the time you get it and the bun all soggy from the tomato. The fries are packed in the same container, but still arrived crispy... an amazing feat...

Stumbled across this place after getting off a river cruise and in need of a decent place to grab some lunch. Didn’t know anything about it before coming.

Very original and rustic style diner just a stone throw from Hook and Ladder 8 (for all you Ghostbusters fans), although the atmosphere was pleasant and welcoming, the decor was a little tired. But hey, you aren’t there to lick the walls! It’s the sort of place you can imagine being very warm and cosy and grateful for being inside, when the weather is cold and the rain is blowing sideways outside.

We ordered the chicken sandwich and a tuna on white bread. Each came with some chips…sorry…fries on the side.

Food was basic fare but very tasty. The chicken was hot and juicy but the portions meant that we didn’t actually eat anything else for the rest of the day. We could have easily shared one sandwich and have been happy and contented.

Staff happy to serve and friendly. No issues there. Would definitely recommend as a cheap / reasonable priced place where you need to stop and re-fuel during a busy day of walking and...