2 Of America's Best Diners Are Tucked Away In New York

It's no surprise that you can enjoy breakfast at diners in every major U.S. region — along with lunches and dinners served at these typically 24-hour eateries. After all, the fascination Americans have with diners has not died down since their inception during the 1800s. However, New York is well-known as a diner epicenter — and in a Tasting Table roundup of the best diners to visit in America, it's not surprising that two of them are tucked away in the Empire State: Jackson Hole Diner in New York City's borough of Queens, and Phoenicia Diner in the Catskills.

Jackson Hole Diner, formerly known as Airline Diner in the 1950s, may be familiar for fans of the movie "Goodfellas," filmed in 1989. The diner is in the background of a scene in the movie. Right off the bat, this establishment is iconic. It offers a large menu, generous portions, and serves breakfast all day, from omelettes, pancakes, and bagels to steak and eggs. Of course, if you're craving a burger for breakfast, you can order that too.

The 7-ounce burgers at this diner, some of which have trademarked names — like the cheese, mushroom, and bacon loaded East Sider Burger — are, after all, some of the best in the country, at least according to Jackson Hole management. However, Redditors do agree and rave about the diner's gourmet burgers, though some commenters have noted that the burgers appear to be smaller than they used to be. 

As for Phoenicia Diner, while it wasn't featured in a movie like "Goodfellas," it did serve as a filming setting for Apple TV's massive hit show, "Severance." Due to its location and devoted following, this diner is popular with locals, tourists, and hikers of the Catskills. The diner first opened in Long Island before relocating to the Catskills in the early 1980s.

Online reviews of the place are overwhelmingly glowing. Part of this diner's appeal comes down to its commitment to local sourcing. For example, it serves trout fished straight from the local river. Bread is from a local family-owned bakery called Bread Alone. Additionally, you won't find meals served from frozen foods here. Like Jackson Hole Diner, Phoenicia Diner offers breakfast all day long, along with gluten-friendly options, such as buckwheat pancakes.

So, the next time you're looking for New York diners that offer good portions and delicious food, check out Jackson Hole Diner or Phoenicia Diner. Since "Severance" is a lot more recent than the decades-old classic "Goodfellas," it's given Phoenicia Diner a fresh wave of popularity. Be prepared for a wait, especially if you visit on weekends or during peak tourist season. Redditors have had luck getting seats with short wait times at Phoenicia Diner on weekdays or during the winter.