Might I dare say this is the best diner inside the Philadelphia border? That's not a hard feat, but I'll tell you it's definitely the best in the Northeast. First off, their pies. Holy crap, their pies. Their lemon meringue is huge and wondrous, and their pecan pie is perfectly sweet and sticky. Their other pies are good too, but I stick to my favorites, and am never disappointed. Plus, I've never had a dish I didn't like. Never. Now that I've been going here for about ten years off and on, that's a pretty amazing feat. Others have mentioned them but I'll say it again- get the croquettes. They are amazing. I usually hate similar dishes but here they are great. They are great for being a diner, and I'm glad they fill their niche nicely.
(5)
Stephen B.
2 of my favorites French onion soup is the best. And there cheesesteak Royal.
(5)
Adriane W.
This place is hit or miss. I have been here for breakfast and dinner a few times and each time was a different experience. The food is not consistent (sometimes good, sometimes bad). And worst of all they don't accept credit cards! I know go figure in this day and age. The food I would give 2 stars but I added a star because the staff has always been friendly and the bakery actually has really good pies.
(3)
Joffy J.
Not a big fan of this diner, I tried the chicken croquets which is known as one of their best dishes and did not find anything special about it.
(2)
Gina M.
This diner has been featured on diners, drive ins, and dives! It's also delicious. I haven't had a bad meal here. You tend to not expect much from a diner but this place always exceeds expectations. I've had a couple different things from this neighborhood favorite and everything has been great! You can't forget the bakery either that is attached. The baked goods are phenomenal. Everything there is so good. It's good for after a night of drinking or early for breakfast, like my mom and I used to do. Great service, friendly staff, never a wait, and incredible food. Definitely worthy of the 5 stars and the recognition from the tv hit: diners, drive ins, and dives! I'll be back sooner rather than later, I'm sure! It's a Gina M. Favorite!!!!
(5)
Christine L.
If you're up for a little drive-- then definitely go here! Great food, great prices, huge portions, friendly service, and always so consistent. I have never had a bad meal here-- this is a weekend brunch go to. It IS a diner-- so don't go with tablecloth dining expectations-- but definitely one of the best diners that I've been to. It does get crowded on the weekends-- but hey-- that's a good sign :)
(4)
Rita G.
ok...before you read my review...you should know...this place DOES NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS! there is an atm on the premises...and yes, there are signs saying they don't accept credit cards in the doors. ok now onto my review: the Dining Car has been a favorite of my family since they opened. So I come here every other month just because they rock. I have never had a bad meal from here in my whole 27yrs of life. I'm not a picky eater, but I have certain meals i'll have over anything else. like French onion soup and salad, or a burger....simple stuff. I've had their chicken croquettes before they were ever featured on diners, drive-ins and dives...they are amazing. Came here one Christmas and they had turkey and ham....I had the ham....it was in a rich pineapple sauce and absolutely the best ham ever. Its a diner, so people go in not expecting much, but trust me....you should expect a great meal and to be fully satisfied food wise and price wise. They do get crowded, but the lines move along quickly. AND DONT FORGET TO GO TO THEIR BAKERY! I get my daughter's cakes here every year....simply amazing!
(5)
J. Matt B.
Horrible service: Waited 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. Took our drink, comes back 20 minutes later, takes our order. She didn't come back to our table, no refills, nothing. 35-40 minutes later, we waved down another waitress to get us a manager. The manager came over with an attitude as if she couldn't be bothered. We told her the situation, no apology. She offered to give us another waitress. She was a lot better. Food came out five minutes later. Food was mediocre. There were seven of us and we all had different things, it just wasn't that great, rather plain food. Meanwhile there were a group of waitresses at a station and our old waitress pointed right at us and made a stink about us asking for another waitress. Very unprofessional. Long story short - Never going back.
(1)
Joe G.
It pains me to write a negative review of this place but it seems the time has come to do so. Ate here for breakfast - there was a wait, but they do go through it quickly for which I give them credit. If there's a line, it won't last long. Can't blame them for being busy. We got sat, we both ordered eggs, potatoes, toast, and coffee. I got a side of scrapple and ordered my eggs over-easy. It took a good amount of time to get our first cup of coffee, more than it should have taken (over 5 minutes) and we didn't get offered a refill on coffee, or on my water, until when we were done eating - about 35 minutes between getting our first cup and being offered the second. I remember coming here not long ago and you'd never have a half cup without it being refilled. The food was a disappointment overall, especially considering how simple of a meal it was. My eggs were over easy, which means a runny yolk - these were just runny. The white was almost as runny as the yolk - no bueno. The potatoes (I used to say they did the best) had onions, which I loved because they used to cook the onions along with the potatoes giving the potatoes a great flavor. It seems that their method now is to dump a bunch of fried onions on fried potatoes - no magical potatoey-oniony magic going on there. Overall it was a disappointment from what I've grown to expect here. I'll be back, but another experience like this one and I won't be.
(2)
Laurie C.
very upset leaving the Dining Car Sat.night. Order breakfast at night. Not Smart. The sausage was soooooo hard on the ends and the potota pancakes were definetly NOT just made. Told the manager, who really should take a course in people pleasing and customer service, and she tried to argue and then was just plain rude and didn't answer back. This diner doesn't believe THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT!
(1)
Marisol R.
One of the worst diners i have ever been too...... Had the deviled crab cake... And dats exactly what it tastefd like. Crabmeat tasted old as hell. The waitress did not bother to ask us if we wanted anything to eat...... We had two small ass glasses of water, which were done with one sip. There was no signage as to the no credit card policy, had to go to an atm... My husbands bagel tasted like dirt... He only ate the eggs and bacon..... NO TIP!!!!!!!!! HORRIBLE.... HORRIBLE.... FOOD. UUUHHHHGGGGGGG............
(1)
Carolyn L.
This diner is A-OK in my book. The menu is filled with slightly above average, slightly more imaginative diner fare. My fiance ordered the chicken croquettes, a favorite dish of his, as enticed by Guy Fieri. The meaty cones came on a bed of mash potatoes with gravy smothered overtop and accompanied by a soup, fresh baked dinner roll, and 2 sides of your choice. He was very happy with the croquettes and said he would happily order them again. I ordered the cream chipped beef, a favorite dish of mine, and was very pleased with it as well. The meat was abundant and smokey and it's sauce was creamy and rich. Served over toast and I subbed potato pancakes for home fries. I could not have been happier with my decision. The potato pancakes were AMAZING. Crispy on the outside, soft and kind of dense on the inside. YUM! The service is great! Everyone was SO kind, no complaints there. All in all, this is a fine diner, but is not really worth going out of your way for. If I lived in the northeast, I could see myself dining here regularly but it just wasn't enough to bring me back unless I was in the area again.
(3)
Brian W.
This place just keeps getting worse and worse......The whole Diners Dumps and Drive -Ins tv show appearance must've gone to the owners heads because Guy approved of one dish. There are PLENTY of better diners around (within walking distance too). Save the aggravation and go somewhere else.......You can thank me later
(1)
Shayla V.
My food takes forever and is mediocre at best. I feel kinda bad saying that, but I would rather be truthful than be a liar. Usually here for breakfast and I get pancakes or waffles, making sure I don't get my favorite (French toast) so it isn't ruined for me. It comes out lukewarm every single time. I wait for a long time to get a drink and then longer for my food to come out and not even taste that good. I'll give it the fact that it's usually pretty crowded and I go on a Sat/Sun morning, but you should still be able to deliver when you're super busy. I'll just keep this one at a "no thank you."
(2)
Bob H.
I have been eating at the dining car for 10+ years, sadly I will not be back. Over the years the food has changed, portions have gotten smaller and prices are rising. Although they say they will not accept credit cards to keep prices down. Keep prices down? I ordered a turkey club for $9.50 and it came with no fries and literally a small souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, and literally had 1 piece of bacon on if. This is probably one of the worst turkey clubs I've ever had. For $9.50 it should come with fries and actually have some bacon. My wife ordered a chicken ceaser salad. It's was almost $13.00! For a salad! She said it was just ok and rather large. Maybe the dining car should offer a smaller option for half the price? Total check for sandwich, salad and kids meal was $37.00..ridiculous! I don't mind high prices when food is worth it. We have had the exact same meal at a diner cape may for $25.00 As for the service.. Well it was terrible. We went around 3pm, which was change of shift. Not a good idea! It took 30 minutes for our food to come out. 30 minutes for a salad and sandwich. And their glasses are getting smaller, so more refills are needed but the waitstaff if nowhere to be found. Looks like we will be searching for a new diner in the far northeast and bensalem area. After being a loyal customer for 10+ years I'm done! I've given this place far too many chances! Maybe someday it will go back to the way it was.
(1)
Frank P.
I am keeping this review as unbiased as I possibly can since I am not a diner type of person. But must give credit where credit is due. All their menu items are made fresh right in their kitchen and cooked nice and clean. Not the typical slop you usually find on your plate at most diners. Obviously a Philly favorite as the constant lines will tell you that.
(4)
Steve K.
Ok, I'll be honest. if it was not for diners drive in's and dives we would never drive across Philly for this place. It's good - they don't take credit cards so others must think so as well...I find their waitstaff very nice, and the breakfasts - at any hour are quite good - burgers and lunchy stuff is good but not as nice as breakfast IMO. Only had dinners here once - had fish that was fine with decent sides, but IMO not worth a trip - OTOH I think the breakfasts are great... Deserts are hit or miss - some have been great other not so much...Coffee is unremarkable and they have a full bar...
(4)
Joey R.
What a fantastic diner! This is definitely one of my favorites in the Philly/south Jersey area.
(4)
Caitlin C.
Ive been coming here since I was alive. They serve special breakfasts every weekend which are amazing! Things that have been included: Jewish Apple Cake French toast, eggs over silver dollar pancakes with crab meat topped with hollandaise sauce. They're also inexpensive, usually under $10. They have dinner specials every night which are always yummy and fresh.They include soup or salad, entree, and dessert for usually under $15. Top things to get there: creamed chipped beef, cinnamon dinner rolls, Bloody Mary, eggplant parm. Everything there is good. It's diner food so don't expect fancy food, however it's not bland diner food. Easily the best diner in Philly.
(4)
Melissa Z.
My must go to place when I'm in town. The BEST French onion soup ever! Liver & Onions is the Best! Mashed Potatoes & Gravy even their Creamy Italian dressing is something I crave! Been One of My Fav Spots my whole life!
(5)
Kimberly G.
The past weekend, I had the unfortunate experience of going to The Dining Car. Overall I was displeased with the service and quality of food. I made sure to take pictures of the hash browns which were more like boiled potato slices because there was very little browning/frying and they were mushy. I have been to The Dining Car before and had a much better experience. That is why I am so upset and motivated to write a review. My first experience was with my college best friend who came to Philadelphia to visit. We were seated promptly, satisfactory service and good food. My second experience I was with a black man. The service was appalling! The waitress (Renate) acted as though she was scared to even give us eating utensils. Instead of placing them in front of us, she threw them down across from us. We were served food after several parties that arrived after us. Ms. Renate, did not ask how the food was, and only came back to give us the check. We had to ask another waitress for water. Microaggression? Misunderstood? I am not sure the reason for such poor service. However, if this is a whites only establishment, there should be a sign posted.
(1)
Jill M.
At here for dinner tonight. The bread is sooooo good, especially the cinnamon rolls. I would come here just to eat them. Food was good and the server was great. They have a bakery with a variety if treats for eat in or to go. I will definitely be back.
(4)
Monica P.
I drove past this place a few times a week for a year, and one day we decided it was something to try. Good things first: the cake was amazing. We had a white cake and a chocolate cake, both with strawberries. The white cake was light, sweet, delicate and moist. The chocolate cake was rich and very sweet, but the sweetness complimented the strawberries. All the strawberries were very fresh and ripe. The waiter we had was very attentive, very nice, and was great with our 3 year old. But: the hostess was a bit short with us. We mentioned we had a little one with us and wanted to seat us in chairs near the door. We asked for a booth and that seemed to frustrate her. She stuck us behind the server station so we got to have butts in our face during most of our meal. There was a lot of, "Excuse me," and, "Sorry," being said between us and the staff. Everything we got was great except the pizza rolls. They were really doughy, maybe underdone. The sauce was pretty good, though. In all, this was a great place to eat. Edit: Went back, service was way better. All the food was amazing. We all especially loved the fried mushrooms and sauce. I got a turkey BLT club, and the turkey was perfect. The cash-only thing is still kind of annoying.
(4)
Ken H.
I give the diner 3 stars and 5 stars for the bakery, so I'm averaging it out to 4 starts overall. The Jewish Apple Cake is fabulous! I often bring it to family gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, and everyone loves it.
(4)
Tanya M.
Good food, good prices, always open. The only take cash but have a ATM on site the desserts are awesome and the staff professionals
Avoid this place like the plague, seriously. Food tastes old, mediocre grade. Waitresses are rude and do not check up on customers. You can be waiting FOREVER for your food sometimes. No credit card use. Terrible, just terrible. I'm a local and I hate this place.
(1)
Angel G.
I tried this place because I saw it on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. What a big let down. I had flown into Philly earlier that day and it was rainy and cold. I was really looking forward to this place and to some good home-style cooking. Nope! I had the meat loaf... horrible. It looked like cat food and the gravy was no good either. The steamed vegetables were too overcooked- no flavor what-so-ever. Mash potatoes bad. The chicken croquettes which Triple D hyped were alright and really nothing to write home about. Wasted meal really. Oh and the kicker cash only establishment- c'mon get with the century peeps. Most of the wait staff looked like good people. My waitress was very attentive.
(2)
George M.
Soup was too thick (Creme of Chicken and creme of cauliflower) for our tastes. Baked chicken overcooked and very dry, bread stuffing taste like it came from a box and not home made. I guess we were really hungry as we eat most of what was served to us. Server forgot that we order soup as an extra and did not charge us for it. If need be, we would return to this restaurant in Northeast Philadelhia but only after our other options would be exhausted. Does NOT accept credit cards!!!
(2)
Elizabeth C.
I have been going to the dining car since I was little. You can always get a good meal here. The baked goods are also great. I got my son's cross cake for his First communion here and it was delicious. Some of my favorites. Chicken croquettes, French onion soup, roast beef club, chicken cheesesteak, patty melt, fries mushrooms, chicken cheesesteaks, French toast, cream beef on toast, apple walnut pie, angel food muffins. Ashley is a great waitress.
(5)
Jenifer S.
once again we stopped here for dinner on a Sunday and were very satisfied with the cheery and fast wait service, the good prices and range of items on the menu. My son had the white meatloaf with gravy that he loved and that came with cinnamon rolls, with Fat Elvis cake for dessert that he also liked. I had a stuffed-with-large-chunks of chicken salad on a kaiser roll and hubster had onion soup (too much cheese goop!) and a salad. We were all quite happy with the bread and rolls, coffee, water service, and a very decent martini. This is not our first visit and we will definitely go there again! Also wheelchair accessible (although I'm not sure about the bathrooms in this regard). Parking lot was packed (as usual) and it's relatively easy to find off Rte 95.
(4)
Dan L.
Can never go wrong at DC. Never don't start your meal off with either mozzys, crock of French onion, or both.
(4)
Heather S.
I have been here many, many, many times over the last 4+ yrs. My most recent visit was on Friday March 7, for breakfast. It was very busy in there! But we had no problems waiting. I got a swiss cheese & mushroom omelet with potato pancakes and a side of bacon. I liked the fact that our waitress asked how I'd like the bacon cooked. That was a nice touch! My dining partner got scrambled eggs with potato pancakes as well. My omelet was cooked perfectly and had a great amount of mushrooms! Nothing beats swiss + mushrooms, I'll tell you that! Now the potato pancakes were nice and dense, but not as crispy as I prefer, but that's okay. Coffee refills were easy to come by. Other waitresses would walk by and ask if we needed a refill. I liked that. 2 weeks prior I had been to the Mayfair diner, it wasn't as busy as The Dining Car was, and our waitress there was ...well, she seemed like she was new or something. So it was nice to have the great service that we did at the Dining Car. I'd come back for breakfast again! I did stop in the bakery and purchased some treats. They had St. Patty's Day themed goodies that I picked up for friends and I got myself a loaf of sugar free Jewish Apple Cake. My friend enjoyed her Irish themed treat, but I have to say that the Jewish Apple cake was very dry and could have used more cinnamon. Oh yeah, one thing I noticed -- no sugar substitutes at our table. I was going to ask the waitress for some, but thankfully my friend had some with her! My prior visit to the Dining Car was in July after a concert. My friend had a burger and fries. I had chicken fingers and potato pancakes. No issues there. Many times before that I've been there with friends after a night out to get some cheap drinks. Some of their drinks were $3-$4 and VERY STRONG. That was a few years ago, so the prices (and potency) could have changed.
(4)
Katie H.
I never really stopped here before. It's a little out of the way for me, but for the prices, it is so worth it! It's open 24 hours, so you can grab anything from breakfast to an entree at midnight. The service is quick (I was there around midnight on a Thursday). I tried a bit of the Purple Cow Milkshake. It is so unique and it's a great mixture of flavors! I had the French Toast. It was so good, and I had a great sized helping. Totally worth it!
(4)
Monica Y.
Came here to eat breakfast over the weekend. The waiting line grew out the door but, I felt that it moved pretty fast. The food was decent and the price was either reasonable or inexpensive. My only complaint is that they do not except debit or credit card payments. You need to have cash which was a bit of a pain :/
(4)
Maureen M.
Love, love, love this diner! Had grilled ham and cheese on their homemade apple bread and it was magically delicious! Cole slaw and potato salad were good too. My kid liked her chicked fingers, mom liked her burger, we all left happy and full. Desserts looked so good I had a hard time choosing but settled for the Apple Walnut Cheesecake which was great. Next time I'm going for the Fat Elvis cake! And to top it off The Dining Car also sells mixed drinks on the cheap. My new favorite diner!
(5)
Michael G.
It's been a long time since I've eaten in the diner side (that's because my all-time favorite NE Philly diner is the Liberty Bell), but I needed a pie, and Dining Car makes their own everyday including awesome loaves of bread. I don't think the Liberty Bell does. Got a very tasty Lemon Meringue pie which the whole family enjoyed along with a loaf of French bread.
(4)
Jessica S.
I love this place! I could be biased, since I've been coming here with my family since I can remember. It's been a while, as I've moved to Elkins Park, but today I decided to grab some take-out, and this place did not disappoint! I love their cinnamon rolls. Their Russian dressing is awesome. I always love their salads, and this is the only place I know of that actually uses radishes in their salads. Huge plus! They also had their baked mac and cheese today, which is fantastic, and the chicken croquettes are wonderful. I needed some heavy comfort food today, as I'm finally getting back to normal after a bout of food poisoning that might have come from some salmon at Buddakan. This meal from The Dining Car was extra satisfying!!
(5)
Jim B.
The food they have is good, but the selection is bad. In particular, the menu changes to less variety strictly at 11:00 p.m., and a mandatory 15% tip is required and added to the check. They are not able to sell the evening soup or vegetables with a meal after 11:00 p.m. because the computerized cash register won't process them after that time. The help says that nothing can be done. That was a year ago, and I didn't go back until this morning, when I had breakfast with a friend, who mentioned that there was an actual owner named "Nancy", who was on the premises today. I asked if I could speak to "Nancy" about my concern, and got the manageress, who said the owner was in a meeting, but could take messages, which she offered to write down. When the manageress heard from my friend that I wasn't a regular and hadn't been there for a year, she threw the message away.
(2)
Lenny D.
Merp
(3)
DJ M.
The Dining Car & Market has been in business for 50 years, although it has had three different names and locations. The streamline shiny diner that you visit today was actually built in 1979 and trucked over from New Jersey. It is one of the largest diners I have been inside and the decor is very diner like with a bit of art deco feel to it. The owner has worked hard since he was 16 years old to build a strong clientele, which the staff knows how to move tables in and out, yet you are never rushed. Erin was our server and what a delight, so friendly and personable, but all of the servers seemed to really love their job. Of course there is a very long counter with stools, the coffee urns, refrigerated and non refrigerated in house baked goods begged for me to hop over the counter with fork in hand and sample each one. The cool thing about this diner is, if it is on the regular menu, breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have any of it 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, the only day they are closed is Christmas day. There are several dining rooms and a full bar, I could not help but notice, they never used a tray, not for beverages or food. Your drinks never go empty and teamwork seems to be spot on here. Many of the locals know that this restaurant is famous for their Jewish apple cake, French onion soup and the very best chicken croquettes you will ever eat! Okay, that bears repeating, the chef is known for his chicken croquettes and they are outstanding and where in the world can you even find them today? They tout that they are a "scratch" kitchen and the menu changes four times per year to allow them to shop for local ingredients. At four in the morning, according to Erin, they are grating potatoes for potato pancakes, which again are so delicious, almost as good as mine and probably the best I have ever had out... So why do they make instant mashed potatoes? Why do they use frozen fries? You have these beautiful pillars of croquettes made with so much love, delicious creamy chicken gravy, only to scoop up potatoes that came from a box? I'm in a diner and I adore French fries with gravy and get a rich brown gravy on the side, but I'm dipping frozen, pale, not crisp or golden, semi warm fries into my gravy? I won't make those two mistakes again. It will be difficult to order anything other than the chicken croquettes and grated potato pancakes again, but I will, since they have anything you can think of on the menu. Baby calves liver with onions, yuck, Salisbury steak, pork and sauerkraut, stuffed cabbage, steaks, seafood dishes. The menu is actually quite mind boggling, if you want kielbasa and sauerkraut at 5am you can have it. To start I had a huge order of fried mushrooms with a horseradish sauce, there must have been thirty mushrooms, no joke! Hubby had an omelet with home fries with peppers and onions and one pancake. He wasn't eating it with very much enthusiasm and I mentioned that his omelet looked dry and very well done, he agreed that it was, plus that and his pancake were lukewarm. I wish they would have brought it straight out when finished, rather than holding it until my croquettes were ready. I'm picky about my omelets, I like them done, no runny egg, but please do not burn them and cook them until they are bone dry. Their soups are good homemade soups and they have an in house bakery, which has it's own attached building and can be entered from the restaurant or from outside. From the bakery, we bought a small double chocolate cake, which comes in two sizes, a lemon meringue pie, two huge eclairs, a French apple pie and a poppy seed roll. The double chocolate cake was not a dense fudge cake, but a much lighter sponge type cake, the lemon pie is delicious, we have yet to sample the other items, but so far, so good, not the best baked goods in town, but they have a very nice selection. I'm torn between A-Okay or Yay, I'm a fan, so 3.5 and I guess I'll have to return. Did I mention they were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives? Cash only!
(3)
Victoria L.
I have been going to the Dining Car since I was in diapers. Their food has always been great, especially for diner food. I'm a huge fan of their Bloody Marys. Their bakery is also top notch. We got a custom-made shark cake for my nephew's birthday party and it looked and tasted amazing. Overall, a great place to try if you're in NE Philly.
(5)
Mallory D.
Maybe it is just me, but when I go to a diner I really don't expect to be blown away. I just expect quick, cheap & decent food. The Dining Car is really no exception. The food is decent, service is good (for a diner) and it is reasonably priced. Their bakery is excellent. rarely will you have to wait for a seat, sicne this place is pretty expansive. Get the potato pancakes though-they are incredible.
(4)
Stirling M.
Sunday Funday breakfast!! Awesome potatoes pancakes, there bakery has slot of choices and super fresh. No credit cards but there ATM is in house Old school servers take care if you like your the boss
(4)
Suzanne S.
As much as I am NOT a fan of diners, I was impressed with the dining car. The service was excellent and the food was inexpensive. I had a cheese omelet with home fries well-done, and well done was exactly how they came out. They were crispy and delicious. Based on the Yelp reviews about the chocolate chip pancakes, i decided to order one and see for myself. They were perfect. Not too much chocolate, not too little either. In my opinion, pancakes are hit or miss at most places and these pancakes deserve two thumbs up. The coffee was also very good quality. Next time I am in the area, I will go back.
(4)
Kevin J.
The Dining Car is pretty good. Except for the salad, which was a meager portion and disappointing in flavor (resulting in an automatic star deduction!), we enjoyed everything else. My friend had the roast chicken over rice special. It was a fairly large plate and came with two side dish vegetables, soup/salad. (Future note: Always get the soup!) I had a pepperoni and cheese roll burger, which came with marinara sauce and choice of grilled or raw onions. It was too messy to pick up, as the sauce inundated the roll, but I would definitely order it again. It was only $8. Came with fries, which were average. Came with a shot of cole slaw. Everything's freshly prepared. On the particular Saturday night that I visited, the kitchen ran out of a few popular items such as baked mac and the flounder special, and there was a short (15min) wait for a table but service was A+ despite the rush. The menu ranged from $8 to $17 for most entree items, $5 for breakfast and $3 average for dessert. Cash only, ATM in bakery (lobby). Be prepared and don't get stuck using their ATM.
(4)
Bar F.
I do not see what everyone raves about. I live 5 minutes away and come here now and then Why? Because the only other options are fast food. First, the service generally leaves a lot to be desired. The waitresses at the counter apparently have a very poor system of determining who will wait on who. They seem to be under the impression that another waitress is taking care of you and ignore you. The food is average at best and often lacks seasoning or is very plain. It is surely not exceptional diner food. Yes, Diner's Drive-In's and Dives came here a few years back. To their discredit, the chicken croquettes that they made famous are little more than a slightly upscaled chicken McNugget tossed on a bed of mashed potatoes and smothered in bland gravy. I'm convinced they only ended up doing a show here because they were on their way down I-95, took the Academy exit and saw that it was either a fast food joint or this place.
(2)
Jen K.
Excellent food. Nice friendly staff. Never fails. The apple walnut cream cheese pie is about one the most delicious things ever.
(5)
Kisente F.
My brother and I came here to because of Guy Fieri's DDD show. The restaurant looks a little old and have the classic Diners decor. The place is crowded like most yelpers wrote. But, the first thing I noticed was the wonderful smell of the baked goods. I told myself immediately I have to try one of those great desserts. Our service was very attentive even when she have about 4 other tables to take care of. Unfortunately, I can't say the same about our food. I had the pork chop, needless to say, I enjoyed the soup, salad and bread more. My favorite part was the fresh apple walnut pie. I couldn't believe how good it was. I had to share it with my family and they LOVED IT! I would definitely come back for the baked goods.
(3)
Kim D.
Service sucks don't know about how the food taste we been waiting 30 to 45 minutes for meals. Four table that came in after us are on desserts the place is bad
(1)
Allison L.
I've been here more times than I can count and typically order the same few things. The ham and cheese omelet/hashbrowns is a pretty good breakfast option, and the BLT is nothing special but I seem to order it over and over. The cinnamon buns that they bring out before your meal might be better than anything else here I've ever had, and the Jewish Apple Cake is probably the second best.
(3)
Nicole V.
I don't know how I never gave a review as I have come here for years. I don't go as often as I used to but I do like it. Normal diner food, (the menu is overwhelming) but I would rather come here than most other diners. The delicious bakery smell hits you as you walk through the door. Sometimes I have had forgetful servers and besides the time (circa 2008) when the power went out and we ate in the dark, I usually have good experiences. Make sure to bring cash!!
(3)
Joe P.
Food poisoned and sick for 3 days We went in for a late night meal around 11pm. The place looked interesting from the outside and we had heard it was a local favourite. Inside we discovered the place was dirty. the waitress took the order and we didn't see her again. I had the turkey club sandwich (which was dry) . I ended up getting food poisoning and was sick for three days. Never will go here again or recommend anyone else go either
(1)
Erika S.
Hmm, not a huge fan of this place. I've gone here a lot in my life and each time the experience is just never what I am expecting. I usually get a super rude server and the bill always seems a bit more than you'd think it would be for food that is not even that great. In my opinion, there are way better diners in the NE than this one. But, for what ever reason, it gets a lot of hype for being the best.
(3)
Michele P.
I do indeed enjoy certain aspects of the Dining Car - however I must give the pros and cons. PROS: 1) Absolutely the most delicious chocolate chip pancakes I've ever had. I would not suggest them if you don't like huge amounts of chocolate chips. I've been told by numerous waiters/waitresses to order the short stack because no one can finish all three due to the chocolate. Being the stubborn woman that I am, I always order three and leave at least one or one and a half on my plate, hahaha :) 2) Even on busy weekends, they seat you fast. This place definitely draws a crowd at all hours of the day and night. All ages can be found here. 3) I'd say that 90% of the wait staff has been friendly and speedy in my visits. 4) For drinkers, there is a bar which I personally would never have thought this place would have a bar. 5) No problem finding parking 6) I don't know what everyone else is smokin', but I find the prices to be insanely cheap (and I'm not complaining!) CONS: 1) The bakery: YUCK!!!!! I have quite a sweet tooth, so whenever I go out to eat, I must try the dessert. The bakery holds a wide variety of cupcakes, cakes, pies, bagels, etc. that LOOK yummy but are far from it. I once bought an eclair that was literally rock hard and could have broken my tooth or someone's car window. I tried a cupcake on another visit, same problem. As tough as it is to pass up dessert, you're doing yourself a favor with this one. 2) Not the cleanest diner in the world, but then again, it is a diner so you can't expect five star quality. 3) Not a huge fan of their other food choices expect breakfast items, I've just never been pleased with any of it. ***Shout out to our favorite waitress Jane who works overnight and hooks us up with extras! Everyone should try this diner at least once... I bet you'll come back for at least seconds! PS: A lot of Philly sports fans come here after games due to the location on Frankford ave being so close to many area bars.
(3)
Yorkie L.
My visit was in the late hours 2am+ The resturant was nearly empty and service still was slow and refills even slower. We were a table from the soda dispenser and it was hard to not get up when u see the waitress chatting and we r thirsty but I remained civil. So, I started with the French onion soup. Not the best but not bad either (Outback soup was way better). The cheese was very thick and gooey near the end I gave up trying to eat anymore. But the flavor and onions were good. Next were the fried mushrooms. One word....GROSS!!!! The thing that I didn't enjoy was when u popped them in your mouth u experienced an explosion of nasty mushroom juice. The mushrooms were flavorless too except for the breading. I also burned my mouth on the first one so be careful if u do order these. My cousin ordered the pizza bread and it literally was worse than what comes out of a frozen box. Even salt didn't help this poor appetizer. They were out of the chicken croquettes sadly.... So I ordered a bannna split for my main entree. Only because this desert was pleasurable did i go up a star....otherwise I say don't go late at night when food and service is low quality.
(2)
Kelly S.
The Dining Car is my local diner, and I'm pretty attached to it. I've been going there for as long as I can remember. It's on Frankford Ave., just south of the I-95 Academy Road exit. It's pretty big for a diner, and I always manage to get seated really quickly, even when there's a line (which there always is on Sunday mornings). The waitresses are almost always friendly, and the food is pretty consistent. It's not the best food I've ever eaten, but it's good for diner food. I think their lunch food is better than dinner, so I usually only go for lunch. I'm a big fan of their chicken cheese steak and turkey burger. They don't take credit cards, as fas as I know, but they do have an ATM in the entryway, so you can withdraw cash if you need to. What puts this place in the 4-star category instead of the 3 is not the food so much as the bakery attached to the diner. Their bakery makes some amazing desserts, from butter cakes to cookies. Yummy. The best part is that you can order the same dessert from the menu if you go there to eat and don't want to buy an entire cake or pie. Their peach pie is really good if you are there for a meal. Check it out if you're in the neighborhood. I think this is one of the better diners in Philly.
(4)
D S.
As far as diners go, DC has it going. They are very consistent, when things are not right, the management takes it seriously and addresses accordingly, and they have some all time great things here such as: french onion soup- never tasted better, fresh fried mushrooms with horseradish sauce- very good, chicken cheese steak- awesome, bread pudding- love, cream cheese omelet- amazing, cheese fries- best cheese for fries ever, and as others have mentioned- creamed chipped beef, chicken croquettes (minus instant mashed), coffee, apple walnut, bakery...the list goes on. I have visited a lot of diners and DC has staff retention. ..I am sure some staff have been there over 30 years. Make sure you try one of their signature dishes and you shouldn't be disappointed.
(4)
Sean D.
When you think of food in 19114, you have to consider the Dining Car. A well known tradition in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. I must have gone there 1,000 times it seems. Now I wouldn't say everything on the menu is awesome as thats why I gave it 4 out of 5 stars but there are some really good dishes especially for the price points. My top favorites there are: Breaded Pork Cutlet with brown gravy Chicken Croquettes Omlettes Pancakes You are looking for a quick place to grab a bite or even some take out, consider checking out the Dining Car.
(4)
J W.
Yes, the food is good but this place is just so crowded all the time. I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get the chicken croquettes because of my seafood allergy and I guess they fry them in the same oil as the seafood. So maybe they need to change that. But their menu is big so it wasnt a problem to find something else. The staff was friendly too.
(3)
Daria M.
There isnt much around this area, but this is one of the better diners because 1 - you can get drunk there 2 - they have their own bakery (but what do I care since I barely eat pastries anyhow) ... what I care about is they have fried mushrooms, and they're not half-bad. They give you a MASSIVE amount though, if I ate them all I'd be sick. Great with a beer, a nice place to chill and have a conversation and a greasy snack. However, I'm not a big fan of diners and this place is just OK in relation to what's around it. If there were something better around, I'd never go here, and as it is, I rarely do.
(2)
Ketchup Love R.
Never again! Went for breakfast one morning, wasnt too crowded, so we were seated right away. Waitress came over shortly after we were seated and took our order, brought us coffee, and that was the last we saw of her. 45 minutes later, we were still waiting for breakfast, coffee cups and water glasses empty. Finally, a food runner (or another waitress) came with our food, which by that point, we didnt even want, I just wanted out of there. Needless to say, we ate cold food and didnt have anything to wash it down with. Finally, our waitress ran by, mumbled sorry, and dropped the check. I'm a little mad at myself for not saying something right then and there at how horrible the service was.. I just dont like to cause a scene. Needless to say, I'll never be back.
(1)
Michael L.
i was there a few wks ago went there after St Domincs 8400 Frankford Ave 5 o' clock mass. My Friend at First wanted to go to The Liberty Bell Dinner when he saw there ice cram and water ice stands but i said i was already there we had to go to the Dinning Car. We Got there after mass was a minm. wait mass crowd i had the chicken rice soecail with two sets of vegs i had stewed tomtoes and Green beans my friiend had the pep Pizza Burger the food and service were top notch and prices were reasonable and also they have alot of cute Waitress theres who ya could get to know if ya become a regular there at the dinning Car i will always come here over the Liberty Bell Or Mayfair when im in the 19136 zip code and also dinng car has tremounds Bakery every thing is so yummy looking
(5)
Stella H.
This is really a 3-1/2 star review, but I'm bumping them up to 4 stars. because their service is very friendly (slow. but friendly. I chalk the slow part up to the cooking part, as it clearly states on their menu that everything is cooked to order and thus, might take longer than expected). There, that's out the way! We're originally from this area of NE Philly, so whenever we can, we visit the Dining Car. I love going to a diner and being called "Hon." There is something very comforting in that, and this is what you get at the Dining Car. Our very friendly and efficient server, Dolores was wonderful and made us feel welcome. She stopped by several times during the meal to make small talk, make sure we were OK, the coffee cups were full and that kind of thing. We really enjoyed Dolores. Hubby had a cheese omlet (our visit coincided with either breakfast or lunch) and I had the chicken salad club. It's pretty hard to screw up an omlet, so he enjoyed it with his side of sliced tomato (instead of home fries) and wheat toast. Their chicken salad is absolutely the best! Love their cole slaw too! Stopped by on the way out to pick up more chicken salad and more cole slaw from the bakery take out section, which you must visit. Their jewish apple cake is the best I've ever had. They make delicious pies too. Oh, and those butter cookies with the little dollop of vanilla or chocolate sitting in the center, yum! One more note, the Dining Car does not accept credit cards, but they do have a cash machine in their large vestibule. This place rocks!
(4)
Gus J.
The place is a neighborhood icon. It is a family run business that has survived for years. That being said the food is typical diner fare. Nothing spectacular, but I have never gotten a bad meal either. Some of the specials they have are very very good, but they are not regular menu items. They have probably the best french onion soup in the city, and the service is always pretty good. Can't say anything bad about the place. It was just weird that they were on Diners Drive ins, and Dives. The croquettes don't have any seasoning in them really, and they are served over instant mashed potatoes, and the creamed chipped beef is like wallpaper paste. I guess to each his own though right? I will be going back for years to come.
(3)
Mary Jane M.
My favorite local cheesesteak joint just around the corner from my favorite grandmother's house. And no, it's not a Philly cheesesteak or a steak & cheese, ya damn rebels. The chicken croquettes are pretty awesome too and I never would've tried them if my boyfriend hadn't seen them on TV.
(4)
Shaggy V.
If you love your food as much as I do....just look at my reviews...nuff said! This place is a ABSOLUTE DO NOT MISS! The Fried Mushrooms and French Onion Soup are simply to die for and an excellent way to start a meal off here. You can't go wrong any way you go here as all the food is amazing....an thats an understatement.
(5)
Noise J.
Ok so as far as diners go this one definitely hold its own. I've been to diners in the rest of the country and it's been a pretty grim experience. Greasy spoons are exactly that sometimes. Now I may be partial cause this is the place we went after Sunday mass and after things like my communion, confirmation etc... I remember sitting in mass at St. Katherine's thinking about what I was going to order for breakfast. Their French toast was always my favorite but the omelets and home fries kick some serious diner butt too. The dining car was recently featured on Diners Drive ins and Dives. They featured the chicken croquettes which I am NOT a fan of. They are very bland and the chicken is way too pulverized for my liking. The cream chipped beef is very good and the French onion soup is one of the best even beyond diner standards. Now if I were going to get ANYTHING from here it would have to be the turkey club. The turkey they use is not the slimy lunch meat but it's actual turkey. Always on white toast with mayo on the side... Yum. The dining car does everything from cheesesteaks to chicken or veal parm. I can't tell you how the veal is but the chicken is actually very good. Ie heard the stuffed mushrooms are a nice treat before a meal. Oh, their prices? You cannot beat this places prices. It can sometimes be a wait with their massive weekend crowds. During the week for breakfast or dinner you will usually just find the regulars sitting at the counter, a group from the local AA clubhouse and some other randoms characters. Another great thing about the dining car is that it Never closes! I mean ever... If you are in the area and it's morning noon or night or late late night for that matter and you want a cocktail,dinner,salad,breakfast,lunch, sandwiches this is your place. They boast a full bar and the bakery which is attached makes all their own baked goods. Everything from Elmo cupcakes to elaborate bakery favorites. Check out the dining car, is worth the trip.
(3)
Amanda F.
We were seated quickly, a plus because the restaurant was packed, but service was a bit slow. I ordered an omelette that was a real disappointment. The eggs were rubbery and tasteless, the cheese inside wasn't melted, and the sliced tomatoes on top had a weird soapy dishwater taste to them that was kind of vile. The latkes were delicious (and served with sour cream!!) though. Everyone else (people ordered eggs, French toast, and another omelette) thought the food was OK, though I wasn't too impressed by the look of the homefries. In short: overpriced for what you get. Good things: the waitresses, though frazzled, were really nice, and we were able to sit for a bit after our meal was finished without anyone hurrying out, the bakery looked delicious, and the coffee was refilled often.
(2)
Cccc B.
For being featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives on Food Network, I was expecting this place to really impress. Instead, it's like any other diner. The food is decent, the prices are decent, the staff are decent. Like I said, like every other diner. They do have a separate bakery, which looks pretty yummy.
(3)
James H.
Every time i order an ice tea, WITHOUT a lemon, The Dining Car brings me one WITH one. Was there one time when the electricity went out, had to eat in the dark, (as apparently they don't have any generators) Food is okay, its got the Dinery variety, but i can't say they make anything exceptional. The waitstaff has been pretty decent the few times i've been there, but the food is marginal. In the same price range as other diners, but the fact that they won't take credit cards, and shove a nice ATM in the lobby with a NICE BIG surcharge (that i would be surprised if they didn't get a cut of) kinda makes ya wanna go to Dunkin Donuts instead.
(2)
Hal C.
They say (whoever "they" are), "No use crying over spilled milk." But they never said ya can't WRITE about it :-) So on this , my second visit to The Dining Car, I sat at the counter. I happened to sit directly across from the milk station where a large steel milk dispenser was situated. And situated under the milk dispenser was a glass with a little milk left on the bottom. Next to the glass were a few puddles of milk and on the other side of the glass was a slice of lemon. And all of this mess was sitting there when i sat down, when I ordered, while waiting for my food, while I ate and when I got up to pay the check and I'm willing to bet after I left, too. During my entire lunch, food servers, managers, busboys and trainees walked right by this mess and not one stopped to clean that area. If this was a hotter day, it would have smelled pretty rancid in there. The lunch "special" was nothing special, Hey it's a diner. I guess they were on their best behavior for Guy Fieri, but some things have definitely gone downhill since his visit. I ordered the 1/4 chicken lunch. It was pretty tasteless except for the salt and pepper I added to it myself. On a previous trip I ordered from the healthy section of the menu - a turkey sandwich w/ spinach and cranberries. That had a bit more promise but again, it suffered a better review because the turkey was on the dry side. I probably won't go back anytime soon, except perhaps to try their buttercake. I was going to purchase one to take home, as they have a bakery on the premises. Wouldn't you know it...? They had run out of the one thing I probably would have enjoyed.
(2)
Matthew R.
My wife and I love it here. The food is great the staff is wonderful. If you want a great diner experience come to The Dining Car. Don't be scared off if there is a line, even the longest line is 5-10 minutes. We have been coming here frequently for years and highly recommend. They are open 24 hours and have a great bakery. Try the Jewish Apple Cake also if you get the chance.
(5)
Jason Z.
I really enjoy going to the Dining Car with friends and family. I've never had a bad meal. Sometimes, there can be quite a wait, but they keep the line moving. The bakery is also out of this world. I recommend the peperoni bread.
(4)
C B.
Expensive for a diner. The stuffed mushrooms are great, people tell me the french onion soup is good, but it is way too salty for me. Over all they are over priced and with so many other competitors they really need to step it up. Went there late night with 8 people and the food came out cold. Don't take anyone here if you want to impress them.
(3)
Mary M.
I go here a lot and love it! Love the French Onion Soup and the Apple Walnut Pie is not to be missed. My favorite though is the Salmon Croquettes, even better the the Chicken ones if you ask me and the Mama's Chicken with the cornbread stuffing is fab! Oh yeah-try the chicken pot pie-- I love that too. On top of all this is the fact that the servers are really friendly and they have a bar.
(5)
Jason V.
I should preface by saying that I and my wife pretty much come here on a weekly basis. It is our Sunday ritual. And there is one reason for that... THE FOOD. Of all the Northeast Philly diners, the Dining Car has the most consistently excellent food. It truly is the SAME every time that you come. The menu is a tad more limited than some of the other diner menus, but I think that's because they do what they do and they do it well. They don't want to add a bunch of fringe crap that they aren't experts in. Their food is overwhelmingly why the public beats down their doors every weekend. Some disclaimers... They have a line system to get in. You enter the foyer and there is a line you must wait in to get into the diner itself and to the hostess... You do not put your name in. Also, this diner is cash only. They do have an ATM in the foyer. As for negatives... Service can be hit or miss and depends heavily on the server. There are 3 or 4 excellent servers, the rest can be on the slow and "forgetful" side. The kitchen wait can sometimes be lengthy, but I don't want to kill them for this because a) it is usually very busy when we go, and b) the food rocks, so they can take a few extra minutes. All in all, the food is worth the trip to the Dining Car.
(4)
Michele M.
The last time I went here was two years ago. The experience was less than great hence the two year hiatus. Recently, I decided to try again by taking my kids there for lunch/supper. What a giant error on my part. I'm not sure what happened at the Dining Car. It used to be the "go to" place in the NE for good diner food. Not so much anymore. The food was subpar. When we got it, it looked like it had been sitting for a while and the temp was tepid. Our service was also lacking. I'd like to blame everything on it being crowded or understaffed, but I can't. We went on a relatively dead day. And when I mentioned my dissatisfaction to the girl at the register when I paid, her attitude was essentially "oh ... sorry". Now picture saying that in the most deadpan voice possible. I know a lot of people praise the Dining Car for certain things like their Jewish Applecake. I'll give credit there. Their baked goods are really good. Alas, that doesn't make up for the restaurant part. Once upon a time, the Dining Car was a tiny little boxcar like diner that served phenomenal food. Not anymore.
(1)
Jeanne P.
I've been here a lot, so it's about time that I reviewed it! It's diner food. Nothing extremely out of the ordinary, but I enjoy it. I REALLY like the Turkey Orange Cranberry burger that comes with sweet potato fries. I also like the quiche. I always find myself drinking a lot of coffee while I'm here as well. They're cheap and they pretty much have everything. I definitely give a thumbs up to the service. It gets a lot of traffic from groups after AA meetings and they are always welcoming, even it's 20-30 people dropping in on the fly. They always manage to ace all of our orders and get it out in a timely fashion (though no one is ever in a rush). Granted, the servers probably know by now the tips they'll be getting, but the service never falls short.
(4)
Sam L.
I love diners, yes I do! I love diners, how about you? A good diner in Philadelphia, like a good man, is hard to find. A lot of joints that used to excite childhood Sam no longer do, because they've gone so incredibly downhill, and rather than feel nostalgic about them, I only feel nauseous about them. That's what can happen when you no longer remember how to cook your bacon. Anyway, this place has endured the test of time, dining car and all, and they serve up a fully loaded menu of excellent comfort food options. Their desserts, which come from straight their adjoining bakery, are top-notch and probably as good as it gets for standard diner confections. Especially when we're talking about their "Fat Elvis" cake. When I choose 'gluttony' from the seven deadly sins during a DC outing, I choose "Fat Elvis." You should strongly consider it, too. You can't really go wrong with moist vanilla cake layers hugging a light, airy combination of whipped peanut butter cream and banana pudding. Then, to add the mother of all cherries on top, they go ahead and ice it in caramel buttercream. It sounds ridiculous because it is. But it's also delicious! The Fieri-hyped chicken croquette meal is my go-to here, despite a myriad of menu distractions beckoning me to order something new. These little chicken dunes of goodness, which are served on a bed of mashed potatoes, are creamy and rich on the inside and crispy on the outside, especially when you order the gravy on the side like I do. I'd found them out long before Diners, Drive-ins & Dives discovered them, and they haven't changed a bit, thank goodness. Comfort food is rarely this comforting. If you're in search of a classic diner daydream, come here. This isn't a finer diner by any stretch and sometimes, that's exactly how I like it.
(4)
Joe D.
What can you say about Northeast Philly diners, other than they are consistent!! They have menus that look like books, but you need to know what to order. Don't go with some specialty item unless you see people eating it. Staples at any Northeast 24/7 diner: Breakfast (Anything) French Onion Soup Cheese Steaks Coffee Bakery Cream Chipped Beef Anything else is anyone's guess.
(4)
Nyerra H.
I have to start be saying I'm a Philly native and diner junkie I'm not easily swayed but I must say the service was great. I like the cozy family vibe, perfect for Sunday brunch. The noise level was average for a diner in philly on a Sunday. I sat in a booth for a double brunch date. I had chicken croquettes and mash with gravy. The croquettes were crispy on the outside and decadent in the inside, perfect textured gravy gave it all the right ingredients for a fantastic comfort meal. It was delicious. I also had the cream of chicken soup so I was fully clucked out. I will definitely be coming back for the cream chipped beef and philly favorites; scrapple.
(4)
Dave H.
After watching Diner's, Drive In's and Dive's I had to stop and try the famous Chicken Croquettes. Well, I was not disappointed. They were outstanding. The croquettes were home made, home made gravy, fresh green beans-not frozen. 2 Croquettes and 2 sides for 10 bucks including tax.
(4)
Rosalie R.
Yuck!!! Only go here if McDonald's is closed! I realize this is a diner so I had very low expectations going in. The menu and flatware were sticky. I ordered an unsweetened iced tea which was obviously not freshly brewed as it had a "mix" flavor and tasted slightly carbonated. I played my meal safe and ordered a patty melt (medium) - the burger was cooked okay - medium well as opposed to how I ordered but definitely good. I got the "deluxe" which included fries - where were served cold - and cole slaw "souffle" - I had no idea either...it was quite literally a tablespoon of coleslaw in a paper condiment cup. Lastly, they don't take plastic "in order to keep costs low but offer an ATM in the lobby" - I think they keep costs low by not using anything to warm the food and cutting down on any passable serving size.
(1)
NEIL G.
we were in philly visiting swarthmore college since our daughter is a prospective student so we decided to drive the 28 miles from college to the dining car and market since we had seen it on the food network recently.boy are we glad we did!!!as you enter you can feel the homey atmosphere never mind awesome aroma of the desserts they sell to go.the service was excellent and waitress very polite and cheerful;the cream of chicken soup was tasty and delicious and the roast chicken melted right off bone;my wife and daughter had the roast turkey which was excellent as was gravy and stuffing.we topped things off with the aromaticly delicious jewish apple cake and chocolate mousse cake lots of calories but both well worth it!!!also when bread was served had cinnamon baked into the bread was very tasty.all in all the dining car was as good as advertised and well worth trip to philly for within itself!!!!!
(5)
Bethany W.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like my diners to have cakes on covered stands, shiny vinyl booths and waitresses who call me hon. Add to that a dessert list that goes on for miles and a menu that clogs your arteries the minute you read it and you have The Dining Car - and one helluva diner. You won't get 5 star cuisine here, but you will get serious comfort food and breakfast all day. Down home offerings like the peanut butter and banana layered Fat Elvis cake round out what is undeniably a quintessential diner experience. Just be sure to bring your cash, as they don't take credit cards.
(4)
Hannah T.
I LOVE THE DINING CAR'S FOOD!! they dont hav nice presentation but there food is delicious. and their food is VERY cheap.... one time me my brother my mom and my aunt went to the dining car for breakfast and it only cost about 10 dollars for all four of us!!!
(4)
Sondra C.
Excellent place for breakfast food, will always come here for that. Be prepared for long lines on the weekends during prime hours. FYI, they serve their own bakery bages, so these are not the hard, chewy kind, but more soft and bread-like. Hit or miss for lunch/dinner food. Some things we've tried: Chicken croquettes were good: simple with very little seasoning. Fried liver was chewy, due to being improperly cooked. Broiled flounder fillets were served plain - no butter or seasoning. Crab imperial special was burned on the edges and had more cream sauce and filler than crab.
(3)
Kay T.
The cream cheese omelette is everything. It's a good change from regular cheese. I had coffee over the a Bloody Mary. Next time will try the Bloody Mary!!
(5)
Krissi T.
Probably my favorite diner ever! French Onion soup is to die for!!! Servers are always friendly even when you and your friends are being loud and annoying after a night out.
(4)
Debby H.
Skip this place. I was here a couple times a few years back and thought it was just ok. Yesterday it was on our route, so decided to try again. I cannot understand why so many people were eating lunch there yesterday. I ordered a turkey club $9.50 no fries & a teeny souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, running with mayo & the turkey roll (no kidding) was chewy to the point it was inedible. The waitress was nowhere to be seen. I ate the bacon and lettuce. I need to add that the sandwich was crammed onto a very small plate. Terrible. My companion's tuna on a roll was better, but I was shocked the $6.75 sandwich grew by 85 cents when tomato was added. Again no fries & too much mayo. The Onion rings we ordered were good. We got a small order. The ice tea was a mix and served in small water glasses. No refills were offered since the waitress was missing. When she came with the check, we asked for more tea which she brought. She never asked why most of our food was mangled and uneaten. Forget the fact that this place was on Diners Driveins & Dives. Not good!
(1)
Sean T.
Negatives first, -The mash potatoes and French fries are NOT homemade! Doesn't take a chef to spot that. -No credit cards taken Positives, -French onion soup is delicious, non-diner restaurant quality. Thick layer of cheese on top and all the right flavors. -Potato pancakes are wonderful. I got them as a side with my chicken croquettes and they were crispy on the outside but creamy and smooth inside. I will always get them when I return. -Croquettes were tasty. To me, they didn't live up to the hype of being featured on DD&D, in terms of being special, but they were definitely tasty and simply good. HOWEVER, the bed of mash that they were laying on, disappointing, very disappointing. With the right mash, that specialness could come through for me. -Prices are in-touch with typical diners. -24/7 and I will definitely return for late-night grub -Friendly staff and available parking. The cash only rule doesn't bother me, there is an ATM on-site, only 4 stars because 5 star restaurants don't serve bagged fries and instant potatoes with good food.
(4)
Joshua T.
Stopped in with a local friend, seeing as it was on Diners Drive-Ins & Dives for its famous chicken croquettes. The croquettes were pretty good, though the gravy needed more flavor and only a dollop was included on my side of mashed potatoes. I also had the green beans, which were green beans and not interesting in any way. With some salt and pepper they tasted like green beans with salt and pepper. I'm not sure why this kind of disappointed me; maybe eating at steakhouses where they always sprinkle a little something on their beans to zest them up has spoiled me. They probably would have been easily dismissed if not for the gravy situation. The cheese melt fries were quite delicious, and I had a chocolate pumpkin shake that brought the otherwise average diner meal up a notch (and thus a star). It wasn't overly busy, being a Monday mid afternoon, but the waitress still managed to forget my soup. We found out later it was nearing the end of her shift, as she transferred our check to another waitress who'd already been refilling our drinks and was spot-on. So the service is friendly, and nobody is *bad* at their job, but some are better than others. I'd be willing to come back to try their breakfast, reading over other reviews, but probably not the croquettes again, unless they kick their gravy up a notch or two.
(4)
Erik E.
After seeing the Chicken Croquettes on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (on The Food Network), I knew this place was a must see on my Philadelphia trip last spring. I was not disappointed! I came here late, straight from the airport as soon as I landed, so the place was not very busy. It was a good sized place. Lot's of seating. I got a booth, and a very friendly waitress set me up with a menu and a tall glass of milk. But I already knew I wanted the Chicken Croquettes. The Croquettes came as a dinner with some options, so I had a cup of chicken soup and mashed potatoes. The soup was very good. Big chunks of chicken with lots of pasta (orecchiette). Also some corn (or something ... I don't remember). But the croquettes were awesome (see pictures). Packed with flavor and a nice fried crust. Creamy on the inside with plenty of herbs and minced chicken. The dinner came with two cone shaped croquettes with mashed potatoes and chicken gravy. Awesome! Exactly what I had imagined when I saw it on The Food Network. I would go back for these in a second!
(4)
Jack R.
I live around the corner fron this place, & really the only thing that I would come in here for is the cream chipped beef for breakfast (the beef is home made, & tastes it!!). It's very good, but the portions are small (I don't mind paying, as long as I don't leave hungry, which happens here!!), & this place is not cheap or even moderately priced. They are expensive (how do you think they pay for those commercials, folks?), & you better bring cash, as they don't take a credit card. Again, don't believe the hype!!
(2)
Fran S.
It has been a long, long time since I have been to this northeast landmark. My last experience I remember vaguely as not being very good. However; today we had a good breakfast at the dining car - the potato pancakes were awesome! My husband enjoyed his cheese filled omelet and the portions were just right for us. I liked that they had veggie and turkey sausage on the menu and I think it will make a good breakfast place. The serve was attentive albeit not overly friendly, which was perfectly fine with us. The prices were in line with other types of diner fare.
(3)
Marc T.
the menu was falling apart, the whole place was just kind of sad.
(1)
Colleen L.
I had a very enjoyable breakfast at The Dining Car. We were there around 11am on a weekday and the parking lot was packed. Despite that, we were seated immediately in a nice booth. Our waitress was friendly enough, and service was definitely not slow. We placed and received our orders within the span of 25 minutes. I had french toast with a side of pork roll (super yum!), my fiance had two fried eggs with bacon and home fries, and our friend had a spanish omelet with scrapple and potato pancakes. The home fries were really good, but I was super jealous of my friend's potato pancakes! My fiance was a little disappointed that the egg yolks of his fried eggs were not runny at all. He asked for fried eggs with no specificity, so if you are particular about your yolks be specific when you order! The atmosphere was great. I'm from Jersey, the land of diners, so I can be pretty picky. Everything was so clean- no greasy film on the lights/windows/utensils. I didn't buy anything from the market, but all of the treats looked delicious! I would definitely come back to fulfill my diner cravings.
(3)
R T.
This remains one of the best diners in Philadelphia for a host of reasons: 1. It's not owned by "Michael" that has bought up so many other diners and changed them (in some cases to a sickening degree, and in many cases eliminating home-made food items once made by earlier owners at those diners). Dining Car is unique. 2. Dining Car clearly communicates to customers its desire to be creative with food. Brunches are commonly promoted for Sundays with interesting specials. Seasonal items are frequently rotated through, leading to some surprising finds on the menu from time-to-time. 3. The service is almost always friendly and usually efficient. I have never felt rushed out even at busiest times. 4. Items such as chipped beef are better than everywhere else (they hand cut the beef and they also do a great job putting it over excellent home fries with onions rather than toast if you prefer). Cream cheese omelet is amazing and no one else has it on the menu (I have ordered it at other diners and have been told "Oh that's a good idea - we should put that on the menu"). And other items like "white meatloat" are excellent, as are desserts such as apple walnut pie and French apple pie. 5. Coffe is good: not too weak, not too strong, and refilled usually quickly. Same goes for refilling water. 6. Diner is justly proud of it's long-standing reputation with customers and for its consistently good food. Only a few suggestions... **It's time to fully renovate the bathrooms. They're clean, but ugly. **While one understands the rationale behind not taking credit cards; it would be nice to be able to use a credit card there. **Mashed potatoes are so popular and often paired with your best entrees, so Dining Car, make real ones please. So much of the food is clearly fresh and homemade...why not the mashed? ***IMPORTANTLY...while Philadelphia is a northern city, it's southern side comes out with how many people drink iced tea daily. Dining Car shamefully serves instant/concentrated iced tea, instead of fresh brewing it. No diner in Philly can afford to blow two things: club sandwiches and iced tea. Dining car blows it at the latter. But overall, a great place to eat and chat with friends - highly recommended.
(5)
Arseny R.
As good as a Philly diner gets. The pros: food is imaginative, plentiful, fresh The cons: food is on the heavier side, no credit cards accepted Verdict: too bad, I did not find this place 10 years ago
(5)
A L.
Wanted someplace different to go to. I decided o look up Diners, Drive ins and Dives and found this place. Glad I did! Daughter had the chicken croquettes and liked it. Husband had the Oyster Po Boy Sandwich. He liked it. I ordered the Apple Cake French Toast. That was great! It tasted like dessert and breakfast atthe same time! Service was friendly. Will defiitely return.
(4)
Baily F.
During our Philly trip, we hit up this place *twice*! In short, the reason was the cream chipped beef and the cheese fries. They were both just really delicious! The service was good and the place was clean, open late, and full of deliciousness. The prices weren't over-priced at all. The food was good, you got a great portion for what you paid, and it was totally worth the short drive outside of Philly downtown.
(4)
Umi R.
I have been in this area for a very long time and I can tell you, this diner has CHANGED for the worse since the original owners retired. May still be family running it but they obviously missed something. First of all, the Dining Car is VERY expensive for a diner. Its the most expensive one in the neighborhood that I've experienced. Next, they don't even take credit cards. They do have an ATM where the surcharge is a nice extra fee. Next, the service there is slow. Doesn't matter when you go, what time of day it is SLOW. If you get something to drink, really nurse it since you don't know when your waiter/waitress are going to come back to check on you. They are pleasant enough to you. The food itself.. eh. I have had better. Its a bit lack-luster and you are left feeling like they got a good deal of money for the bit that they offered you. I don't feel its worth the cost. I have personally had food poisoning from this place at least five times. The reason so many times it happened was because the first 3 I thought it was something I had eaten before or after dining here. The last two times I ordered different things, thinking maybe something just didn't agree with me. I have several local friends who have all told me that they have gotten sick from eating here too. The bathroom sinks don't always work in this place either. Lots of times I have found them without soap, would tell the waitress and the response would be "Oh I know." and nothing would be done. After that happened the first time, I started bringing hand sanitizer with me. It makes you wonder how often the employees are really able to wash their hands. However, with all that said, this is one of the FEW places that is open late in the area. The service, while it is slow, is friendly and welcoming. The Bakery is very good and I recommend their cinnamon rolls, along with their goodies. The service in the bakery is like night and DAY compared to the diner itself. Wonderful service, great baked goods. I really recommend checking out the bakery and forgetting the diner.
(2)
Rick A.
Best diner in North East Philadelphia. I come here every other week for breakfast and occasionally for dinner. Don't waste your time on their "famous" chicken crochets. They are quite awful for a featured dish.
(5)
Michael F.
I've been to the Dining Car three times now in the late hours and have tried three separate meals. Had the famous pepperoni bread burger, my staple Western omelet and on a recent visit the famous Chicken Croquettes. The food has alot of potential to separate itself from other diners, but whoever is behind the griddle in the early AM hours is really providing a dis-service. On my recent visit, the Chicken Croquettes themselves were outstanding and maybe the best I've ever had, but they were sitting on top a pile of cold mashed potatoes, with cold gravy and after a few bites also not really warmed up correctly. A side of French Fries (are these really hard to screw up?) were obviously cooked about 2-3 hours before I even walked in the door. Ugg. The service is really, really, really S L O W W W here also. After waiting 5 minutes to get my first cup of coffee, I had to wait another 10 to get a re-fill. Don't people know how critical it is to never have to wait for a coffee refill. So Dining Car...please get the basics right. Better kitchen delivery and better service, and you'll have earned your right to be a notch above a run of the mill diner. I still think you're catching up.
(2)
Michael D.
Hey i have been a long time patron at the dining car. It is one of the best diners that i go to. The food is always good and the prices are resonable. The only down fall is that it is always crowed. i will for sure be returning.
(4)
Dave H.
After watching Diner's, Drive In's and Dive's I had to stop and try the famous Chicken Croquettes. Well, I was not disappointed. They were outstanding. The croquettes were home made, home made gravy, fresh green beans-not frozen. 2 Croquettes and 2 sides for 10 bucks including tax.
(4)
Mary M.
I go here a lot and love it! Love the French Onion Soup and the Apple Walnut Pie is not to be missed. My favorite though is the Salmon Croquettes, even better the the Chicken ones if you ask me and the Mama's Chicken with the cornbread stuffing is fab! Oh yeah-try the chicken pot pie-- I love that too. On top of all this is the fact that the servers are really friendly and they have a bar.
(5)
Michael L.
i was there a few wks ago went there after St Domincs 8400 Frankford Ave 5 o' clock mass. My Friend at First wanted to go to The Liberty Bell Dinner when he saw there ice cram and water ice stands but i said i was already there we had to go to the Dinning Car. We Got there after mass was a minm. wait mass crowd i had the chicken rice soecail with two sets of vegs i had stewed tomtoes and Green beans my friiend had the pep Pizza Burger the food and service were top notch and prices were reasonable and also they have alot of cute Waitress theres who ya could get to know if ya become a regular there at the dinning Car i will always come here over the Liberty Bell Or Mayfair when im in the 19136 zip code and also dinng car has tremounds Bakery every thing is so yummy looking
(5)
Stella H.
This is really a 3-1/2 star review, but I'm bumping them up to 4 stars. because their service is very friendly (slow. but friendly. I chalk the slow part up to the cooking part, as it clearly states on their menu that everything is cooked to order and thus, might take longer than expected). There, that's out the way! We're originally from this area of NE Philly, so whenever we can, we visit the Dining Car. I love going to a diner and being called "Hon." There is something very comforting in that, and this is what you get at the Dining Car. Our very friendly and efficient server, Dolores was wonderful and made us feel welcome. She stopped by several times during the meal to make small talk, make sure we were OK, the coffee cups were full and that kind of thing. We really enjoyed Dolores. Hubby had a cheese omlet (our visit coincided with either breakfast or lunch) and I had the chicken salad club. It's pretty hard to screw up an omlet, so he enjoyed it with his side of sliced tomato (instead of home fries) and wheat toast. Their chicken salad is absolutely the best! Love their cole slaw too! Stopped by on the way out to pick up more chicken salad and more cole slaw from the bakery take out section, which you must visit. Their jewish apple cake is the best I've ever had. They make delicious pies too. Oh, and those butter cookies with the little dollop of vanilla or chocolate sitting in the center, yum! One more note, the Dining Car does not accept credit cards, but they do have a cash machine in their large vestibule. This place rocks!
(4)
Gus J.
The place is a neighborhood icon. It is a family run business that has survived for years. That being said the food is typical diner fare. Nothing spectacular, but I have never gotten a bad meal either. Some of the specials they have are very very good, but they are not regular menu items. They have probably the best french onion soup in the city, and the service is always pretty good. Can't say anything bad about the place. It was just weird that they were on Diners Drive ins, and Dives. The croquettes don't have any seasoning in them really, and they are served over instant mashed potatoes, and the creamed chipped beef is like wallpaper paste. I guess to each his own though right? I will be going back for years to come.
(3)
Mary Jane M.
My favorite local cheesesteak joint just around the corner from my favorite grandmother's house. And no, it's not a Philly cheesesteak or a steak & cheese, ya damn rebels. The chicken croquettes are pretty awesome too and I never would've tried them if my boyfriend hadn't seen them on TV.
(4)
Shaggy V.
If you love your food as much as I do....just look at my reviews...nuff said! This place is a ABSOLUTE DO NOT MISS! The Fried Mushrooms and French Onion Soup are simply to die for and an excellent way to start a meal off here. You can't go wrong any way you go here as all the food is amazing....an thats an understatement.
(5)
Noise J.
Ok so as far as diners go this one definitely hold its own. I've been to diners in the rest of the country and it's been a pretty grim experience. Greasy spoons are exactly that sometimes. Now I may be partial cause this is the place we went after Sunday mass and after things like my communion, confirmation etc... I remember sitting in mass at St. Katherine's thinking about what I was going to order for breakfast. Their French toast was always my favorite but the omelets and home fries kick some serious diner butt too. The dining car was recently featured on Diners Drive ins and Dives. They featured the chicken croquettes which I am NOT a fan of. They are very bland and the chicken is way too pulverized for my liking. The cream chipped beef is very good and the French onion soup is one of the best even beyond diner standards. Now if I were going to get ANYTHING from here it would have to be the turkey club. The turkey they use is not the slimy lunch meat but it's actual turkey. Always on white toast with mayo on the side... Yum. The dining car does everything from cheesesteaks to chicken or veal parm. I can't tell you how the veal is but the chicken is actually very good. Ie heard the stuffed mushrooms are a nice treat before a meal. Oh, their prices? You cannot beat this places prices. It can sometimes be a wait with their massive weekend crowds. During the week for breakfast or dinner you will usually just find the regulars sitting at the counter, a group from the local AA clubhouse and some other randoms characters. Another great thing about the dining car is that it Never closes! I mean ever... If you are in the area and it's morning noon or night or late late night for that matter and you want a cocktail,dinner,salad,breakfast,lunch, sandwiches this is your place. They boast a full bar and the bakery which is attached makes all their own baked goods. Everything from Elmo cupcakes to elaborate bakery favorites. Check out the dining car, is worth the trip.
(3)
Amanda F.
We were seated quickly, a plus because the restaurant was packed, but service was a bit slow. I ordered an omelette that was a real disappointment. The eggs were rubbery and tasteless, the cheese inside wasn't melted, and the sliced tomatoes on top had a weird soapy dishwater taste to them that was kind of vile. The latkes were delicious (and served with sour cream!!) though. Everyone else (people ordered eggs, French toast, and another omelette) thought the food was OK, though I wasn't too impressed by the look of the homefries. In short: overpriced for what you get. Good things: the waitresses, though frazzled, were really nice, and we were able to sit for a bit after our meal was finished without anyone hurrying out, the bakery looked delicious, and the coffee was refilled often.
(2)
Cccc B.
For being featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives on Food Network, I was expecting this place to really impress. Instead, it's like any other diner. The food is decent, the prices are decent, the staff are decent. Like I said, like every other diner. They do have a separate bakery, which looks pretty yummy.
(3)
Hal C.
They say (whoever "they" are), "No use crying over spilled milk." But they never said ya can't WRITE about it :-) So on this , my second visit to The Dining Car, I sat at the counter. I happened to sit directly across from the milk station where a large steel milk dispenser was situated. And situated under the milk dispenser was a glass with a little milk left on the bottom. Next to the glass were a few puddles of milk and on the other side of the glass was a slice of lemon. And all of this mess was sitting there when i sat down, when I ordered, while waiting for my food, while I ate and when I got up to pay the check and I'm willing to bet after I left, too. During my entire lunch, food servers, managers, busboys and trainees walked right by this mess and not one stopped to clean that area. If this was a hotter day, it would have smelled pretty rancid in there. The lunch "special" was nothing special, Hey it's a diner. I guess they were on their best behavior for Guy Fieri, but some things have definitely gone downhill since his visit. I ordered the 1/4 chicken lunch. It was pretty tasteless except for the salt and pepper I added to it myself. On a previous trip I ordered from the healthy section of the menu - a turkey sandwich w/ spinach and cranberries. That had a bit more promise but again, it suffered a better review because the turkey was on the dry side. I probably won't go back anytime soon, except perhaps to try their buttercake. I was going to purchase one to take home, as they have a bakery on the premises. Wouldn't you know it...? They had run out of the one thing I probably would have enjoyed.
(2)
James H.
Every time i order an ice tea, WITHOUT a lemon, The Dining Car brings me one WITH one. Was there one time when the electricity went out, had to eat in the dark, (as apparently they don't have any generators) Food is okay, its got the Dinery variety, but i can't say they make anything exceptional. The waitstaff has been pretty decent the few times i've been there, but the food is marginal. In the same price range as other diners, but the fact that they won't take credit cards, and shove a nice ATM in the lobby with a NICE BIG surcharge (that i would be surprised if they didn't get a cut of) kinda makes ya wanna go to Dunkin Donuts instead.
(2)
Matthew R.
My wife and I love it here. The food is great the staff is wonderful. If you want a great diner experience come to The Dining Car. Don't be scared off if there is a line, even the longest line is 5-10 minutes. We have been coming here frequently for years and highly recommend. They are open 24 hours and have a great bakery. Try the Jewish Apple Cake also if you get the chance.
(5)
Jason Z.
I really enjoy going to the Dining Car with friends and family. I've never had a bad meal. Sometimes, there can be quite a wait, but they keep the line moving. The bakery is also out of this world. I recommend the peperoni bread.
(4)
C B.
Expensive for a diner. The stuffed mushrooms are great, people tell me the french onion soup is good, but it is way too salty for me. Over all they are over priced and with so many other competitors they really need to step it up. Went there late night with 8 people and the food came out cold. Don't take anyone here if you want to impress them.
(3)
Rosalie R.
Yuck!!! Only go here if McDonald's is closed! I realize this is a diner so I had very low expectations going in. The menu and flatware were sticky. I ordered an unsweetened iced tea which was obviously not freshly brewed as it had a "mix" flavor and tasted slightly carbonated. I played my meal safe and ordered a patty melt (medium) - the burger was cooked okay - medium well as opposed to how I ordered but definitely good. I got the "deluxe" which included fries - where were served cold - and cole slaw "souffle" - I had no idea either...it was quite literally a tablespoon of coleslaw in a paper condiment cup. Lastly, they don't take plastic "in order to keep costs low but offer an ATM in the lobby" - I think they keep costs low by not using anything to warm the food and cutting down on any passable serving size.
(1)
NEIL G.
we were in philly visiting swarthmore college since our daughter is a prospective student so we decided to drive the 28 miles from college to the dining car and market since we had seen it on the food network recently.boy are we glad we did!!!as you enter you can feel the homey atmosphere never mind awesome aroma of the desserts they sell to go.the service was excellent and waitress very polite and cheerful;the cream of chicken soup was tasty and delicious and the roast chicken melted right off bone;my wife and daughter had the roast turkey which was excellent as was gravy and stuffing.we topped things off with the aromaticly delicious jewish apple cake and chocolate mousse cake lots of calories but both well worth it!!!also when bread was served had cinnamon baked into the bread was very tasty.all in all the dining car was as good as advertised and well worth trip to philly for within itself!!!!!
(5)
Bethany W.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like my diners to have cakes on covered stands, shiny vinyl booths and waitresses who call me hon. Add to that a dessert list that goes on for miles and a menu that clogs your arteries the minute you read it and you have The Dining Car - and one helluva diner. You won't get 5 star cuisine here, but you will get serious comfort food and breakfast all day. Down home offerings like the peanut butter and banana layered Fat Elvis cake round out what is undeniably a quintessential diner experience. Just be sure to bring your cash, as they don't take credit cards.
(4)
Hannah T.
I LOVE THE DINING CAR'S FOOD!! they dont hav nice presentation but there food is delicious. and their food is VERY cheap.... one time me my brother my mom and my aunt went to the dining car for breakfast and it only cost about 10 dollars for all four of us!!!
(4)
Kay T.
The cream cheese omelette is everything. It's a good change from regular cheese. I had coffee over the a Bloody Mary. Next time will try the Bloody Mary!!
(5)
Lorraine K.
Excellent food. Good wait staff. Like first Sunday of the month breakfast specials. Easy to get to via I-95
(5)
Debby H.
Skip this place. I was here a couple times a few years back and thought it was just ok. Yesterday it was on our route, so decided to try again. I cannot understand why so many people were eating lunch there yesterday. I ordered a turkey club $9.50 no fries & a teeny souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, running with mayo & the turkey roll (no kidding) was chewy to the point it was inedible. The waitress was nowhere to be seen. I ate the bacon and lettuce. I need to add that the sandwich was crammed onto a very small plate. Terrible. My companion's tuna on a roll was better, but I was shocked the $6.75 sandwich grew by 85 cents when tomato was added. Again no fries & too much mayo. The Onion rings we ordered were good. We got a small order. The ice tea was a mix and served in small water glasses. No refills were offered since the waitress was missing. When she came with the check, we asked for more tea which she brought. She never asked why most of our food was mangled and uneaten. Forget the fact that this place was on Diners Driveins & Dives. Not good!
(1)
Krissi T.
Probably my favorite diner ever! French Onion soup is to die for!!! Servers are always friendly even when you and your friends are being loud and annoying after a night out.
(4)
Sean T.
Negatives first, -The mash potatoes and French fries are NOT homemade! Doesn't take a chef to spot that. -No credit cards taken Positives, -French onion soup is delicious, non-diner restaurant quality. Thick layer of cheese on top and all the right flavors. -Potato pancakes are wonderful. I got them as a side with my chicken croquettes and they were crispy on the outside but creamy and smooth inside. I will always get them when I return. -Croquettes were tasty. To me, they didn't live up to the hype of being featured on DD&D, in terms of being special, but they were definitely tasty and simply good. HOWEVER, the bed of mash that they were laying on, disappointing, very disappointing. With the right mash, that specialness could come through for me. -Prices are in-touch with typical diners. -24/7 and I will definitely return for late-night grub -Friendly staff and available parking. The cash only rule doesn't bother me, there is an ATM on-site, only 4 stars because 5 star restaurants don't serve bagged fries and instant potatoes with good food.
(4)
Joshua T.
Stopped in with a local friend, seeing as it was on Diners Drive-Ins & Dives for its famous chicken croquettes. The croquettes were pretty good, though the gravy needed more flavor and only a dollop was included on my side of mashed potatoes. I also had the green beans, which were green beans and not interesting in any way. With some salt and pepper they tasted like green beans with salt and pepper. I'm not sure why this kind of disappointed me; maybe eating at steakhouses where they always sprinkle a little something on their beans to zest them up has spoiled me. They probably would have been easily dismissed if not for the gravy situation. The cheese melt fries were quite delicious, and I had a chocolate pumpkin shake that brought the otherwise average diner meal up a notch (and thus a star). It wasn't overly busy, being a Monday mid afternoon, but the waitress still managed to forget my soup. We found out later it was nearing the end of her shift, as she transferred our check to another waitress who'd already been refilling our drinks and was spot-on. So the service is friendly, and nobody is *bad* at their job, but some are better than others. I'd be willing to come back to try their breakfast, reading over other reviews, but probably not the croquettes again, unless they kick their gravy up a notch or two.
(4)
Veronica K.
Might I dare say this is the best diner inside the Philadelphia border? That's not a hard feat, but I'll tell you it's definitely the best in the Northeast. First off, their pies. Holy crap, their pies. Their lemon meringue is huge and wondrous, and their pecan pie is perfectly sweet and sticky. Their other pies are good too, but I stick to my favorites, and am never disappointed. Plus, I've never had a dish I didn't like. Never. Now that I've been going here for about ten years off and on, that's a pretty amazing feat. Others have mentioned them but I'll say it again- get the croquettes. They are amazing. I usually hate similar dishes but here they are great. They are great for being a diner, and I'm glad they fill their niche nicely.
(5)
Stephen B.
2 of my favorites French onion soup is the best. And there cheesesteak Royal.
(5)
Adriane W.
This place is hit or miss. I have been here for breakfast and dinner a few times and each time was a different experience. The food is not consistent (sometimes good, sometimes bad). And worst of all they don't accept credit cards! I know go figure in this day and age. The food I would give 2 stars but I added a star because the staff has always been friendly and the bakery actually has really good pies.
(3)
Joffy J.
Not a big fan of this diner, I tried the chicken croquets which is known as one of their best dishes and did not find anything special about it.
(2)
Rita G.
ok...before you read my review...you should know...this place DOES NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS! there is an atm on the premises...and yes, there are signs saying they don't accept credit cards in the doors. ok now onto my review: the Dining Car has been a favorite of my family since they opened. So I come here every other month just because they rock. I have never had a bad meal from here in my whole 27yrs of life. I'm not a picky eater, but I have certain meals i'll have over anything else. like French onion soup and salad, or a burger....simple stuff. I've had their chicken croquettes before they were ever featured on diners, drive-ins and dives...they are amazing. Came here one Christmas and they had turkey and ham....I had the ham....it was in a rich pineapple sauce and absolutely the best ham ever. Its a diner, so people go in not expecting much, but trust me....you should expect a great meal and to be fully satisfied food wise and price wise. They do get crowded, but the lines move along quickly. AND DONT FORGET TO GO TO THEIR BAKERY! I get my daughter's cakes here every year....simply amazing!
(5)
Gina M.
This diner has been featured on diners, drive ins, and dives! It's also delicious. I haven't had a bad meal here. You tend to not expect much from a diner but this place always exceeds expectations. I've had a couple different things from this neighborhood favorite and everything has been great! You can't forget the bakery either that is attached. The baked goods are phenomenal. Everything there is so good. It's good for after a night of drinking or early for breakfast, like my mom and I used to do. Great service, friendly staff, never a wait, and incredible food. Definitely worthy of the 5 stars and the recognition from the tv hit: diners, drive ins, and dives! I'll be back sooner rather than later, I'm sure! It's a Gina M. Favorite!!!!
(5)
J. Matt B.
Horrible service: Waited 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. Took our drink, comes back 20 minutes later, takes our order. She didn't come back to our table, no refills, nothing. 35-40 minutes later, we waved down another waitress to get us a manager. The manager came over with an attitude as if she couldn't be bothered. We told her the situation, no apology. She offered to give us another waitress. She was a lot better. Food came out five minutes later. Food was mediocre. There were seven of us and we all had different things, it just wasn't that great, rather plain food. Meanwhile there were a group of waitresses at a station and our old waitress pointed right at us and made a stink about us asking for another waitress. Very unprofessional. Long story short - Never going back.
(1)
Melissa Z.
My must go to place when I'm in town. The BEST French onion soup ever! Liver & Onions is the Best! Mashed Potatoes & Gravy even their Creamy Italian dressing is something I crave! Been One of My Fav Spots my whole life!
(5)
Joe G.
It pains me to write a negative review of this place but it seems the time has come to do so. Ate here for breakfast - there was a wait, but they do go through it quickly for which I give them credit. If there's a line, it won't last long. Can't blame them for being busy. We got sat, we both ordered eggs, potatoes, toast, and coffee. I got a side of scrapple and ordered my eggs over-easy. It took a good amount of time to get our first cup of coffee, more than it should have taken (over 5 minutes) and we didn't get offered a refill on coffee, or on my water, until when we were done eating - about 35 minutes between getting our first cup and being offered the second. I remember coming here not long ago and you'd never have a half cup without it being refilled. The food was a disappointment overall, especially considering how simple of a meal it was. My eggs were over easy, which means a runny yolk - these were just runny. The white was almost as runny as the yolk - no bueno. The potatoes (I used to say they did the best) had onions, which I loved because they used to cook the onions along with the potatoes giving the potatoes a great flavor. It seems that their method now is to dump a bunch of fried onions on fried potatoes - no magical potatoey-oniony magic going on there. Overall it was a disappointment from what I've grown to expect here. I'll be back, but another experience like this one and I won't be.
(2)
Sondra C.
Excellent place for breakfast food, will always come here for that. Be prepared for long lines on the weekends during prime hours. FYI, they serve their own bakery bages, so these are not the hard, chewy kind, but more soft and bread-like. Hit or miss for lunch/dinner food. Some things we've tried: Chicken croquettes were good: simple with very little seasoning. Fried liver was chewy, due to being improperly cooked. Broiled flounder fillets were served plain - no butter or seasoning. Crab imperial special was burned on the edges and had more cream sauce and filler than crab.
(3)
Christine L.
If you're up for a little drive-- then definitely go here! Great food, great prices, huge portions, friendly service, and always so consistent. I have never had a bad meal here-- this is a weekend brunch go to. It IS a diner-- so don't go with tablecloth dining expectations-- but definitely one of the best diners that I've been to. It does get crowded on the weekends-- but hey-- that's a good sign :)
(4)
Laurie C.
very upset leaving the Dining Car Sat.night. Order breakfast at night. Not Smart. The sausage was soooooo hard on the ends and the potota pancakes were definetly NOT just made. Told the manager, who really should take a course in people pleasing and customer service, and she tried to argue and then was just plain rude and didn't answer back. This diner doesn't believe THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT!
(1)
Carolyn L.
This diner is A-OK in my book. The menu is filled with slightly above average, slightly more imaginative diner fare. My fiance ordered the chicken croquettes, a favorite dish of his, as enticed by Guy Fieri. The meaty cones came on a bed of mash potatoes with gravy smothered overtop and accompanied by a soup, fresh baked dinner roll, and 2 sides of your choice. He was very happy with the croquettes and said he would happily order them again. I ordered the cream chipped beef, a favorite dish of mine, and was very pleased with it as well. The meat was abundant and smokey and it's sauce was creamy and rich. Served over toast and I subbed potato pancakes for home fries. I could not have been happier with my decision. The potato pancakes were AMAZING. Crispy on the outside, soft and kind of dense on the inside. YUM! The service is great! Everyone was SO kind, no complaints there. All in all, this is a fine diner, but is not really worth going out of your way for. If I lived in the northeast, I could see myself dining here regularly but it just wasn't enough to bring me back unless I was in the area again.
(3)
Brian W.
This place just keeps getting worse and worse......The whole Diners Dumps and Drive -Ins tv show appearance must've gone to the owners heads because Guy approved of one dish. There are PLENTY of better diners around (within walking distance too). Save the aggravation and go somewhere else.......You can thank me later
(1)
Shayla V.
My food takes forever and is mediocre at best. I feel kinda bad saying that, but I would rather be truthful than be a liar. Usually here for breakfast and I get pancakes or waffles, making sure I don't get my favorite (French toast) so it isn't ruined for me. It comes out lukewarm every single time. I wait for a long time to get a drink and then longer for my food to come out and not even taste that good. I'll give it the fact that it's usually pretty crowded and I go on a Sat/Sun morning, but you should still be able to deliver when you're super busy. I'll just keep this one at a "no thank you."
Avoid this place like the plague, seriously. Food tastes old, mediocre grade. Waitresses are rude and do not check up on customers. You can be waiting FOREVER for your food sometimes. No credit card use. Terrible, just terrible. I'm a local and I hate this place.
(1)
Bob H.
I have been eating at the dining car for 10+ years, sadly I will not be back. Over the years the food has changed, portions have gotten smaller and prices are rising. Although they say they will not accept credit cards to keep prices down. Keep prices down? I ordered a turkey club for $9.50 and it came with no fries and literally a small souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, and literally had 1 piece of bacon on if. This is probably one of the worst turkey clubs I've ever had. For $9.50 it should come with fries and actually have some bacon. My wife ordered a chicken ceaser salad. It's was almost $13.00! For a salad! She said it was just ok and rather large. Maybe the dining car should offer a smaller option for half the price? Total check for sandwich, salad and kids meal was $37.00..ridiculous! I don't mind high prices when food is worth it. We have had the exact same meal at a diner cape may for $25.00 As for the service.. Well it was terrible. We went around 3pm, which was change of shift. Not a good idea! It took 30 minutes for our food to come out. 30 minutes for a salad and sandwich. And their glasses are getting smaller, so more refills are needed but the waitstaff if nowhere to be found. Looks like we will be searching for a new diner in the far northeast and bensalem area. After being a loyal customer for 10+ years I'm done! I've given this place far too many chances! Maybe someday it will go back to the way it was.
(1)
Frank P.
I am keeping this review as unbiased as I possibly can since I am not a diner type of person. But must give credit where credit is due. All their menu items are made fresh right in their kitchen and cooked nice and clean. Not the typical slop you usually find on your plate at most diners. Obviously a Philly favorite as the constant lines will tell you that.
(4)
Steve K.
Ok, I'll be honest. if it was not for diners drive in's and dives we would never drive across Philly for this place. It's good - they don't take credit cards so others must think so as well...I find their waitstaff very nice, and the breakfasts - at any hour are quite good - burgers and lunchy stuff is good but not as nice as breakfast IMO. Only had dinners here once - had fish that was fine with decent sides, but IMO not worth a trip - OTOH I think the breakfasts are great... Deserts are hit or miss - some have been great other not so much...Coffee is unremarkable and they have a full bar...
(4)
Joey R.
What a fantastic diner! This is definitely one of my favorites in the Philly/south Jersey area.
(4)
Caitlin C.
Ive been coming here since I was alive. They serve special breakfasts every weekend which are amazing! Things that have been included: Jewish Apple Cake French toast, eggs over silver dollar pancakes with crab meat topped with hollandaise sauce. They're also inexpensive, usually under $10. They have dinner specials every night which are always yummy and fresh.They include soup or salad, entree, and dessert for usually under $15. Top things to get there: creamed chipped beef, cinnamon dinner rolls, Bloody Mary, eggplant parm. Everything there is good. It's diner food so don't expect fancy food, however it's not bland diner food. Easily the best diner in Philly.
(4)
Kimberly G.
The past weekend, I had the unfortunate experience of going to The Dining Car. Overall I was displeased with the service and quality of food. I made sure to take pictures of the hash browns which were more like boiled potato slices because there was very little browning/frying and they were mushy. I have been to The Dining Car before and had a much better experience. That is why I am so upset and motivated to write a review. My first experience was with my college best friend who came to Philadelphia to visit. We were seated promptly, satisfactory service and good food. My second experience I was with a black man. The service was appalling! The waitress (Renate) acted as though she was scared to even give us eating utensils. Instead of placing them in front of us, she threw them down across from us. We were served food after several parties that arrived after us. Ms. Renate, did not ask how the food was, and only came back to give us the check. We had to ask another waitress for water. Microaggression? Misunderstood? I am not sure the reason for such poor service. However, if this is a whites only establishment, there should be a sign posted.
(1)
Jill M.
At here for dinner tonight. The bread is sooooo good, especially the cinnamon rolls. I would come here just to eat them. Food was good and the server was great. They have a bakery with a variety if treats for eat in or to go. I will definitely be back.
(4)
Monica P.
I drove past this place a few times a week for a year, and one day we decided it was something to try. Good things first: the cake was amazing. We had a white cake and a chocolate cake, both with strawberries. The white cake was light, sweet, delicate and moist. The chocolate cake was rich and very sweet, but the sweetness complimented the strawberries. All the strawberries were very fresh and ripe. The waiter we had was very attentive, very nice, and was great with our 3 year old. But: the hostess was a bit short with us. We mentioned we had a little one with us and wanted to seat us in chairs near the door. We asked for a booth and that seemed to frustrate her. She stuck us behind the server station so we got to have butts in our face during most of our meal. There was a lot of, "Excuse me," and, "Sorry," being said between us and the staff. Everything we got was great except the pizza rolls. They were really doughy, maybe underdone. The sauce was pretty good, though. In all, this was a great place to eat. Edit: Went back, service was way better. All the food was amazing. We all especially loved the fried mushrooms and sauce. I got a turkey BLT club, and the turkey was perfect. The cash-only thing is still kind of annoying.
(4)
Ken H.
I give the diner 3 stars and 5 stars for the bakery, so I'm averaging it out to 4 starts overall. The Jewish Apple Cake is fabulous! I often bring it to family gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, and everyone loves it.
(4)
Tanya M.
Good food, good prices, always open. The only take cash but have a ATM on site the desserts are awesome and the staff professionals
(5)
Angel G.
I tried this place because I saw it on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. What a big let down. I had flown into Philly earlier that day and it was rainy and cold. I was really looking forward to this place and to some good home-style cooking. Nope! I had the meat loaf... horrible. It looked like cat food and the gravy was no good either. The steamed vegetables were too overcooked- no flavor what-so-ever. Mash potatoes bad. The chicken croquettes which Triple D hyped were alright and really nothing to write home about. Wasted meal really. Oh and the kicker cash only establishment- c'mon get with the century peeps. Most of the wait staff looked like good people. My waitress was very attentive.
(2)
Elizabeth C.
I have been going to the dining car since I was little. You can always get a good meal here. The baked goods are also great. I got my son's cross cake for his First communion here and it was delicious. Some of my favorites. Chicken croquettes, French onion soup, roast beef club, chicken cheesesteak, patty melt, fries mushrooms, chicken cheesesteaks, French toast, cream beef on toast, apple walnut pie, angel food muffins. Ashley is a great waitress.
(5)
Jenifer S.
once again we stopped here for dinner on a Sunday and were very satisfied with the cheery and fast wait service, the good prices and range of items on the menu. My son had the white meatloaf with gravy that he loved and that came with cinnamon rolls, with Fat Elvis cake for dessert that he also liked. I had a stuffed-with-large-chunks of chicken salad on a kaiser roll and hubster had onion soup (too much cheese goop!) and a salad. We were all quite happy with the bread and rolls, coffee, water service, and a very decent martini. This is not our first visit and we will definitely go there again! Also wheelchair accessible (although I'm not sure about the bathrooms in this regard). Parking lot was packed (as usual) and it's relatively easy to find off Rte 95.
(4)
Dan L.
Can never go wrong at DC. Never don't start your meal off with either mozzys, crock of French onion, or both.
(4)
Maureen M.
Love, love, love this diner! Had grilled ham and cheese on their homemade apple bread and it was magically delicious! Cole slaw and potato salad were good too. My kid liked her chicked fingers, mom liked her burger, we all left happy and full. Desserts looked so good I had a hard time choosing but settled for the Apple Walnut Cheesecake which was great. Next time I'm going for the Fat Elvis cake! And to top it off The Dining Car also sells mixed drinks on the cheap. My new favorite diner!
(5)
Michael G.
It's been a long time since I've eaten in the diner side (that's because my all-time favorite NE Philly diner is the Liberty Bell), but I needed a pie, and Dining Car makes their own everyday including awesome loaves of bread. I don't think the Liberty Bell does. Got a very tasty Lemon Meringue pie which the whole family enjoyed along with a loaf of French bread.
(4)
Heather S.
I have been here many, many, many times over the last 4+ yrs. My most recent visit was on Friday March 7, for breakfast. It was very busy in there! But we had no problems waiting. I got a swiss cheese & mushroom omelet with potato pancakes and a side of bacon. I liked the fact that our waitress asked how I'd like the bacon cooked. That was a nice touch! My dining partner got scrambled eggs with potato pancakes as well. My omelet was cooked perfectly and had a great amount of mushrooms! Nothing beats swiss + mushrooms, I'll tell you that! Now the potato pancakes were nice and dense, but not as crispy as I prefer, but that's okay. Coffee refills were easy to come by. Other waitresses would walk by and ask if we needed a refill. I liked that. 2 weeks prior I had been to the Mayfair diner, it wasn't as busy as The Dining Car was, and our waitress there was ...well, she seemed like she was new or something. So it was nice to have the great service that we did at the Dining Car. I'd come back for breakfast again! I did stop in the bakery and purchased some treats. They had St. Patty's Day themed goodies that I picked up for friends and I got myself a loaf of sugar free Jewish Apple Cake. My friend enjoyed her Irish themed treat, but I have to say that the Jewish Apple cake was very dry and could have used more cinnamon. Oh yeah, one thing I noticed -- no sugar substitutes at our table. I was going to ask the waitress for some, but thankfully my friend had some with her! My prior visit to the Dining Car was in July after a concert. My friend had a burger and fries. I had chicken fingers and potato pancakes. No issues there. Many times before that I've been there with friends after a night out to get some cheap drinks. Some of their drinks were $3-$4 and VERY STRONG. That was a few years ago, so the prices (and potency) could have changed.
(4)
Katie H.
I never really stopped here before. It's a little out of the way for me, but for the prices, it is so worth it! It's open 24 hours, so you can grab anything from breakfast to an entree at midnight. The service is quick (I was there around midnight on a Thursday). I tried a bit of the Purple Cow Milkshake. It is so unique and it's a great mixture of flavors! I had the French Toast. It was so good, and I had a great sized helping. Totally worth it!
(4)
George M.
Soup was too thick (Creme of Chicken and creme of cauliflower) for our tastes. Baked chicken overcooked and very dry, bread stuffing taste like it came from a box and not home made. I guess we were really hungry as we eat most of what was served to us. Server forgot that we order soup as an extra and did not charge us for it. If need be, we would return to this restaurant in Northeast Philadelhia but only after our other options would be exhausted. Does NOT accept credit cards!!!
(2)
Monica Y.
Came here to eat breakfast over the weekend. The waiting line grew out the door but, I felt that it moved pretty fast. The food was decent and the price was either reasonable or inexpensive. My only complaint is that they do not except debit or credit card payments. You need to have cash which was a bit of a pain :/
(4)
Jessica S.
I love this place! I could be biased, since I've been coming here with my family since I can remember. It's been a while, as I've moved to Elkins Park, but today I decided to grab some take-out, and this place did not disappoint! I love their cinnamon rolls. Their Russian dressing is awesome. I always love their salads, and this is the only place I know of that actually uses radishes in their salads. Huge plus! They also had their baked mac and cheese today, which is fantastic, and the chicken croquettes are wonderful. I needed some heavy comfort food today, as I'm finally getting back to normal after a bout of food poisoning that might have come from some salmon at Buddakan. This meal from The Dining Car was extra satisfying!!
(5)
Jim B.
The food they have is good, but the selection is bad. In particular, the menu changes to less variety strictly at 11:00 p.m., and a mandatory 15% tip is required and added to the check. They are not able to sell the evening soup or vegetables with a meal after 11:00 p.m. because the computerized cash register won't process them after that time. The help says that nothing can be done. That was a year ago, and I didn't go back until this morning, when I had breakfast with a friend, who mentioned that there was an actual owner named "Nancy", who was on the premises today. I asked if I could speak to "Nancy" about my concern, and got the manageress, who said the owner was in a meeting, but could take messages, which she offered to write down. When the manageress heard from my friend that I wasn't a regular and hadn't been there for a year, she threw the message away.
(2)
Lenny D.
Merp
(3)
DJ M.
The Dining Car & Market has been in business for 50 years, although it has had three different names and locations. The streamline shiny diner that you visit today was actually built in 1979 and trucked over from New Jersey. It is one of the largest diners I have been inside and the decor is very diner like with a bit of art deco feel to it. The owner has worked hard since he was 16 years old to build a strong clientele, which the staff knows how to move tables in and out, yet you are never rushed. Erin was our server and what a delight, so friendly and personable, but all of the servers seemed to really love their job. Of course there is a very long counter with stools, the coffee urns, refrigerated and non refrigerated in house baked goods begged for me to hop over the counter with fork in hand and sample each one. The cool thing about this diner is, if it is on the regular menu, breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have any of it 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, the only day they are closed is Christmas day. There are several dining rooms and a full bar, I could not help but notice, they never used a tray, not for beverages or food. Your drinks never go empty and teamwork seems to be spot on here. Many of the locals know that this restaurant is famous for their Jewish apple cake, French onion soup and the very best chicken croquettes you will ever eat! Okay, that bears repeating, the chef is known for his chicken croquettes and they are outstanding and where in the world can you even find them today? They tout that they are a "scratch" kitchen and the menu changes four times per year to allow them to shop for local ingredients. At four in the morning, according to Erin, they are grating potatoes for potato pancakes, which again are so delicious, almost as good as mine and probably the best I have ever had out... So why do they make instant mashed potatoes? Why do they use frozen fries? You have these beautiful pillars of croquettes made with so much love, delicious creamy chicken gravy, only to scoop up potatoes that came from a box? I'm in a diner and I adore French fries with gravy and get a rich brown gravy on the side, but I'm dipping frozen, pale, not crisp or golden, semi warm fries into my gravy? I won't make those two mistakes again. It will be difficult to order anything other than the chicken croquettes and grated potato pancakes again, but I will, since they have anything you can think of on the menu. Baby calves liver with onions, yuck, Salisbury steak, pork and sauerkraut, stuffed cabbage, steaks, seafood dishes. The menu is actually quite mind boggling, if you want kielbasa and sauerkraut at 5am you can have it. To start I had a huge order of fried mushrooms with a horseradish sauce, there must have been thirty mushrooms, no joke! Hubby had an omelet with home fries with peppers and onions and one pancake. He wasn't eating it with very much enthusiasm and I mentioned that his omelet looked dry and very well done, he agreed that it was, plus that and his pancake were lukewarm. I wish they would have brought it straight out when finished, rather than holding it until my croquettes were ready. I'm picky about my omelets, I like them done, no runny egg, but please do not burn them and cook them until they are bone dry. Their soups are good homemade soups and they have an in house bakery, which has it's own attached building and can be entered from the restaurant or from outside. From the bakery, we bought a small double chocolate cake, which comes in two sizes, a lemon meringue pie, two huge eclairs, a French apple pie and a poppy seed roll. The double chocolate cake was not a dense fudge cake, but a much lighter sponge type cake, the lemon pie is delicious, we have yet to sample the other items, but so far, so good, not the best baked goods in town, but they have a very nice selection. I'm torn between A-Okay or Yay, I'm a fan, so 3.5 and I guess I'll have to return. Did I mention they were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives? Cash only!
(3)
Victoria L.
I have been going to the Dining Car since I was in diapers. Their food has always been great, especially for diner food. I'm a huge fan of their Bloody Marys. Their bakery is also top notch. We got a custom-made shark cake for my nephew's birthday party and it looked and tasted amazing. Overall, a great place to try if you're in NE Philly.
(5)
Mallory D.
Maybe it is just me, but when I go to a diner I really don't expect to be blown away. I just expect quick, cheap & decent food. The Dining Car is really no exception. The food is decent, service is good (for a diner) and it is reasonably priced. Their bakery is excellent. rarely will you have to wait for a seat, sicne this place is pretty expansive. Get the potato pancakes though-they are incredible.
(4)
Stirling M.
Sunday Funday breakfast!! Awesome potatoes pancakes, there bakery has slot of choices and super fresh. No credit cards but there ATM is in house Old school servers take care if you like your the boss
(4)
Suzanne S.
As much as I am NOT a fan of diners, I was impressed with the dining car. The service was excellent and the food was inexpensive. I had a cheese omelet with home fries well-done, and well done was exactly how they came out. They were crispy and delicious. Based on the Yelp reviews about the chocolate chip pancakes, i decided to order one and see for myself. They were perfect. Not too much chocolate, not too little either. In my opinion, pancakes are hit or miss at most places and these pancakes deserve two thumbs up. The coffee was also very good quality. Next time I am in the area, I will go back.
(4)
Kevin J.
The Dining Car is pretty good. Except for the salad, which was a meager portion and disappointing in flavor (resulting in an automatic star deduction!), we enjoyed everything else. My friend had the roast chicken over rice special. It was a fairly large plate and came with two side dish vegetables, soup/salad. (Future note: Always get the soup!) I had a pepperoni and cheese roll burger, which came with marinara sauce and choice of grilled or raw onions. It was too messy to pick up, as the sauce inundated the roll, but I would definitely order it again. It was only $8. Came with fries, which were average. Came with a shot of cole slaw. Everything's freshly prepared. On the particular Saturday night that I visited, the kitchen ran out of a few popular items such as baked mac and the flounder special, and there was a short (15min) wait for a table but service was A+ despite the rush. The menu ranged from $8 to $17 for most entree items, $5 for breakfast and $3 average for dessert. Cash only, ATM in bakery (lobby). Be prepared and don't get stuck using their ATM.
(4)
Bar F.
I do not see what everyone raves about. I live 5 minutes away and come here now and then Why? Because the only other options are fast food. First, the service generally leaves a lot to be desired. The waitresses at the counter apparently have a very poor system of determining who will wait on who. They seem to be under the impression that another waitress is taking care of you and ignore you. The food is average at best and often lacks seasoning or is very plain. It is surely not exceptional diner food. Yes, Diner's Drive-In's and Dives came here a few years back. To their discredit, the chicken croquettes that they made famous are little more than a slightly upscaled chicken McNugget tossed on a bed of mashed potatoes and smothered in bland gravy. I'm convinced they only ended up doing a show here because they were on their way down I-95, took the Academy exit and saw that it was either a fast food joint or this place.
(2)
Jen K.
Excellent food. Nice friendly staff. Never fails. The apple walnut cream cheese pie is about one the most delicious things ever.
(5)
Kisente F.
My brother and I came here to because of Guy Fieri's DDD show. The restaurant looks a little old and have the classic Diners decor. The place is crowded like most yelpers wrote. But, the first thing I noticed was the wonderful smell of the baked goods. I told myself immediately I have to try one of those great desserts. Our service was very attentive even when she have about 4 other tables to take care of. Unfortunately, I can't say the same about our food. I had the pork chop, needless to say, I enjoyed the soup, salad and bread more. My favorite part was the fresh apple walnut pie. I couldn't believe how good it was. I had to share it with my family and they LOVED IT! I would definitely come back for the baked goods.
(3)
Kim D.
Service sucks don't know about how the food taste we been waiting 30 to 45 minutes for meals. Four table that came in after us are on desserts the place is bad
(1)
Allison L.
I've been here more times than I can count and typically order the same few things. The ham and cheese omelet/hashbrowns is a pretty good breakfast option, and the BLT is nothing special but I seem to order it over and over. The cinnamon buns that they bring out before your meal might be better than anything else here I've ever had, and the Jewish Apple Cake is probably the second best.
(3)
Nicole V.
I don't know how I never gave a review as I have come here for years. I don't go as often as I used to but I do like it. Normal diner food, (the menu is overwhelming) but I would rather come here than most other diners. The delicious bakery smell hits you as you walk through the door. Sometimes I have had forgetful servers and besides the time (circa 2008) when the power went out and we ate in the dark, I usually have good experiences. Make sure to bring cash!!
(3)
Joe P.
Food poisoned and sick for 3 days We went in for a late night meal around 11pm. The place looked interesting from the outside and we had heard it was a local favourite. Inside we discovered the place was dirty. the waitress took the order and we didn't see her again. I had the turkey club sandwich (which was dry) . I ended up getting food poisoning and was sick for three days. Never will go here again or recommend anyone else go either
(1)
Jack R.
I live around the corner fron this place, & really the only thing that I would come in here for is the cream chipped beef for breakfast (the beef is home made, & tastes it!!). It's very good, but the portions are small (I don't mind paying, as long as I don't leave hungry, which happens here!!), & this place is not cheap or even moderately priced. They are expensive (how do you think they pay for those commercials, folks?), & you better bring cash, as they don't take a credit card. Again, don't believe the hype!!
(2)
Michele P.
I do indeed enjoy certain aspects of the Dining Car - however I must give the pros and cons. PROS: 1) Absolutely the most delicious chocolate chip pancakes I've ever had. I would not suggest them if you don't like huge amounts of chocolate chips. I've been told by numerous waiters/waitresses to order the short stack because no one can finish all three due to the chocolate. Being the stubborn woman that I am, I always order three and leave at least one or one and a half on my plate, hahaha :) 2) Even on busy weekends, they seat you fast. This place definitely draws a crowd at all hours of the day and night. All ages can be found here. 3) I'd say that 90% of the wait staff has been friendly and speedy in my visits. 4) For drinkers, there is a bar which I personally would never have thought this place would have a bar. 5) No problem finding parking 6) I don't know what everyone else is smokin', but I find the prices to be insanely cheap (and I'm not complaining!) CONS: 1) The bakery: YUCK!!!!! I have quite a sweet tooth, so whenever I go out to eat, I must try the dessert. The bakery holds a wide variety of cupcakes, cakes, pies, bagels, etc. that LOOK yummy but are far from it. I once bought an eclair that was literally rock hard and could have broken my tooth or someone's car window. I tried a cupcake on another visit, same problem. As tough as it is to pass up dessert, you're doing yourself a favor with this one. 2) Not the cleanest diner in the world, but then again, it is a diner so you can't expect five star quality. 3) Not a huge fan of their other food choices expect breakfast items, I've just never been pleased with any of it. ***Shout out to our favorite waitress Jane who works overnight and hooks us up with extras! Everyone should try this diner at least once... I bet you'll come back for at least seconds! PS: A lot of Philly sports fans come here after games due to the location on Frankford ave being so close to many area bars.
(3)
Erika S.
Hmm, not a huge fan of this place. I've gone here a lot in my life and each time the experience is just never what I am expecting. I usually get a super rude server and the bill always seems a bit more than you'd think it would be for food that is not even that great. In my opinion, there are way better diners in the NE than this one. But, for what ever reason, it gets a lot of hype for being the best.
(3)
Erik E.
After seeing the Chicken Croquettes on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (on The Food Network), I knew this place was a must see on my Philadelphia trip last spring. I was not disappointed! I came here late, straight from the airport as soon as I landed, so the place was not very busy. It was a good sized place. Lot's of seating. I got a booth, and a very friendly waitress set me up with a menu and a tall glass of milk. But I already knew I wanted the Chicken Croquettes. The Croquettes came as a dinner with some options, so I had a cup of chicken soup and mashed potatoes. The soup was very good. Big chunks of chicken with lots of pasta (orecchiette). Also some corn (or something ... I don't remember). But the croquettes were awesome (see pictures). Packed with flavor and a nice fried crust. Creamy on the inside with plenty of herbs and minced chicken. The dinner came with two cone shaped croquettes with mashed potatoes and chicken gravy. Awesome! Exactly what I had imagined when I saw it on The Food Network. I would go back for these in a second!
(4)
Marisol R.
One of the worst diners i have ever been too...... Had the deviled crab cake... And dats exactly what it tastefd like. Crabmeat tasted old as hell. The waitress did not bother to ask us if we wanted anything to eat...... We had two small ass glasses of water, which were done with one sip. There was no signage as to the no credit card policy, had to go to an atm... My husbands bagel tasted like dirt... He only ate the eggs and bacon..... NO TIP!!!!!!!!! HORRIBLE.... HORRIBLE.... FOOD. UUUHHHHGGGGGGG............
(1)
Jason V.
I should preface by saying that I and my wife pretty much come here on a weekly basis. It is our Sunday ritual. And there is one reason for that... THE FOOD. Of all the Northeast Philly diners, the Dining Car has the most consistently excellent food. It truly is the SAME every time that you come. The menu is a tad more limited than some of the other diner menus, but I think that's because they do what they do and they do it well. They don't want to add a bunch of fringe crap that they aren't experts in. Their food is overwhelmingly why the public beats down their doors every weekend. Some disclaimers... They have a line system to get in. You enter the foyer and there is a line you must wait in to get into the diner itself and to the hostess... You do not put your name in. Also, this diner is cash only. They do have an ATM in the foyer. As for negatives... Service can be hit or miss and depends heavily on the server. There are 3 or 4 excellent servers, the rest can be on the slow and "forgetful" side. The kitchen wait can sometimes be lengthy, but I don't want to kill them for this because a) it is usually very busy when we go, and b) the food rocks, so they can take a few extra minutes. All in all, the food is worth the trip to the Dining Car.
(4)
Michele M.
The last time I went here was two years ago. The experience was less than great hence the two year hiatus. Recently, I decided to try again by taking my kids there for lunch/supper. What a giant error on my part. I'm not sure what happened at the Dining Car. It used to be the "go to" place in the NE for good diner food. Not so much anymore. The food was subpar. When we got it, it looked like it had been sitting for a while and the temp was tepid. Our service was also lacking. I'd like to blame everything on it being crowded or understaffed, but I can't. We went on a relatively dead day. And when I mentioned my dissatisfaction to the girl at the register when I paid, her attitude was essentially "oh ... sorry". Now picture saying that in the most deadpan voice possible. I know a lot of people praise the Dining Car for certain things like their Jewish Applecake. I'll give credit there. Their baked goods are really good. Alas, that doesn't make up for the restaurant part. Once upon a time, the Dining Car was a tiny little boxcar like diner that served phenomenal food. Not anymore.
(1)
Jeanne P.
I've been here a lot, so it's about time that I reviewed it! It's diner food. Nothing extremely out of the ordinary, but I enjoy it. I REALLY like the Turkey Orange Cranberry burger that comes with sweet potato fries. I also like the quiche. I always find myself drinking a lot of coffee while I'm here as well. They're cheap and they pretty much have everything. I definitely give a thumbs up to the service. It gets a lot of traffic from groups after AA meetings and they are always welcoming, even it's 20-30 people dropping in on the fly. They always manage to ace all of our orders and get it out in a timely fashion (though no one is ever in a rush). Granted, the servers probably know by now the tips they'll be getting, but the service never falls short.
(4)
Sam L.
I love diners, yes I do! I love diners, how about you? A good diner in Philadelphia, like a good man, is hard to find. A lot of joints that used to excite childhood Sam no longer do, because they've gone so incredibly downhill, and rather than feel nostalgic about them, I only feel nauseous about them. That's what can happen when you no longer remember how to cook your bacon. Anyway, this place has endured the test of time, dining car and all, and they serve up a fully loaded menu of excellent comfort food options. Their desserts, which come from straight their adjoining bakery, are top-notch and probably as good as it gets for standard diner confections. Especially when we're talking about their "Fat Elvis" cake. When I choose 'gluttony' from the seven deadly sins during a DC outing, I choose "Fat Elvis." You should strongly consider it, too. You can't really go wrong with moist vanilla cake layers hugging a light, airy combination of whipped peanut butter cream and banana pudding. Then, to add the mother of all cherries on top, they go ahead and ice it in caramel buttercream. It sounds ridiculous because it is. But it's also delicious! The Fieri-hyped chicken croquette meal is my go-to here, despite a myriad of menu distractions beckoning me to order something new. These little chicken dunes of goodness, which are served on a bed of mashed potatoes, are creamy and rich on the inside and crispy on the outside, especially when you order the gravy on the side like I do. I'd found them out long before Diners, Drive-ins & Dives discovered them, and they haven't changed a bit, thank goodness. Comfort food is rarely this comforting. If you're in search of a classic diner daydream, come here. This isn't a finer diner by any stretch and sometimes, that's exactly how I like it.
(4)
Joe D.
What can you say about Northeast Philly diners, other than they are consistent!! They have menus that look like books, but you need to know what to order. Don't go with some specialty item unless you see people eating it. Staples at any Northeast 24/7 diner: Breakfast (Anything) French Onion Soup Cheese Steaks Coffee Bakery Cream Chipped Beef Anything else is anyone's guess.
(4)
Nyerra H.
I have to start be saying I'm a Philly native and diner junkie I'm not easily swayed but I must say the service was great. I like the cozy family vibe, perfect for Sunday brunch. The noise level was average for a diner in philly on a Sunday. I sat in a booth for a double brunch date. I had chicken croquettes and mash with gravy. The croquettes were crispy on the outside and decadent in the inside, perfect textured gravy gave it all the right ingredients for a fantastic comfort meal. It was delicious. I also had the cream of chicken soup so I was fully clucked out. I will definitely be coming back for the cream chipped beef and philly favorites; scrapple.
(4)
R T.
This remains one of the best diners in Philadelphia for a host of reasons: 1. It's not owned by "Michael" that has bought up so many other diners and changed them (in some cases to a sickening degree, and in many cases eliminating home-made food items once made by earlier owners at those diners). Dining Car is unique. 2. Dining Car clearly communicates to customers its desire to be creative with food. Brunches are commonly promoted for Sundays with interesting specials. Seasonal items are frequently rotated through, leading to some surprising finds on the menu from time-to-time. 3. The service is almost always friendly and usually efficient. I have never felt rushed out even at busiest times. 4. Items such as chipped beef are better than everywhere else (they hand cut the beef and they also do a great job putting it over excellent home fries with onions rather than toast if you prefer). Cream cheese omelet is amazing and no one else has it on the menu (I have ordered it at other diners and have been told "Oh that's a good idea - we should put that on the menu"). And other items like "white meatloat" are excellent, as are desserts such as apple walnut pie and French apple pie. 5. Coffe is good: not too weak, not too strong, and refilled usually quickly. Same goes for refilling water. 6. Diner is justly proud of it's long-standing reputation with customers and for its consistently good food. Only a few suggestions... **It's time to fully renovate the bathrooms. They're clean, but ugly. **While one understands the rationale behind not taking credit cards; it would be nice to be able to use a credit card there. **Mashed potatoes are so popular and often paired with your best entrees, so Dining Car, make real ones please. So much of the food is clearly fresh and homemade...why not the mashed? ***IMPORTANTLY...while Philadelphia is a northern city, it's southern side comes out with how many people drink iced tea daily. Dining Car shamefully serves instant/concentrated iced tea, instead of fresh brewing it. No diner in Philly can afford to blow two things: club sandwiches and iced tea. Dining car blows it at the latter. But overall, a great place to eat and chat with friends - highly recommended.
(5)
Arseny R.
As good as a Philly diner gets. The pros: food is imaginative, plentiful, fresh The cons: food is on the heavier side, no credit cards accepted Verdict: too bad, I did not find this place 10 years ago
(5)
A L.
Wanted someplace different to go to. I decided o look up Diners, Drive ins and Dives and found this place. Glad I did! Daughter had the chicken croquettes and liked it. Husband had the Oyster Po Boy Sandwich. He liked it. I ordered the Apple Cake French Toast. That was great! It tasted like dessert and breakfast atthe same time! Service was friendly. Will defiitely return.
(4)
Baily F.
During our Philly trip, we hit up this place *twice*! In short, the reason was the cream chipped beef and the cheese fries. They were both just really delicious! The service was good and the place was clean, open late, and full of deliciousness. The prices weren't over-priced at all. The food was good, you got a great portion for what you paid, and it was totally worth the short drive outside of Philly downtown.
(4)
Umi R.
I have been in this area for a very long time and I can tell you, this diner has CHANGED for the worse since the original owners retired. May still be family running it but they obviously missed something. First of all, the Dining Car is VERY expensive for a diner. Its the most expensive one in the neighborhood that I've experienced. Next, they don't even take credit cards. They do have an ATM where the surcharge is a nice extra fee. Next, the service there is slow. Doesn't matter when you go, what time of day it is SLOW. If you get something to drink, really nurse it since you don't know when your waiter/waitress are going to come back to check on you. They are pleasant enough to you. The food itself.. eh. I have had better. Its a bit lack-luster and you are left feeling like they got a good deal of money for the bit that they offered you. I don't feel its worth the cost. I have personally had food poisoning from this place at least five times. The reason so many times it happened was because the first 3 I thought it was something I had eaten before or after dining here. The last two times I ordered different things, thinking maybe something just didn't agree with me. I have several local friends who have all told me that they have gotten sick from eating here too. The bathroom sinks don't always work in this place either. Lots of times I have found them without soap, would tell the waitress and the response would be "Oh I know." and nothing would be done. After that happened the first time, I started bringing hand sanitizer with me. It makes you wonder how often the employees are really able to wash their hands. However, with all that said, this is one of the FEW places that is open late in the area. The service, while it is slow, is friendly and welcoming. The Bakery is very good and I recommend their cinnamon rolls, along with their goodies. The service in the bakery is like night and DAY compared to the diner itself. Wonderful service, great baked goods. I really recommend checking out the bakery and forgetting the diner.
(2)
Rick A.
Best diner in North East Philadelphia. I come here every other week for breakfast and occasionally for dinner. Don't waste your time on their "famous" chicken crochets. They are quite awful for a featured dish.
(5)
Michael F.
I've been to the Dining Car three times now in the late hours and have tried three separate meals. Had the famous pepperoni bread burger, my staple Western omelet and on a recent visit the famous Chicken Croquettes. The food has alot of potential to separate itself from other diners, but whoever is behind the griddle in the early AM hours is really providing a dis-service. On my recent visit, the Chicken Croquettes themselves were outstanding and maybe the best I've ever had, but they were sitting on top a pile of cold mashed potatoes, with cold gravy and after a few bites also not really warmed up correctly. A side of French Fries (are these really hard to screw up?) were obviously cooked about 2-3 hours before I even walked in the door. Ugg. The service is really, really, really S L O W W W here also. After waiting 5 minutes to get my first cup of coffee, I had to wait another 10 to get a re-fill. Don't people know how critical it is to never have to wait for a coffee refill. So Dining Car...please get the basics right. Better kitchen delivery and better service, and you'll have earned your right to be a notch above a run of the mill diner. I still think you're catching up.
(2)
Fran S.
It has been a long, long time since I have been to this northeast landmark. My last experience I remember vaguely as not being very good. However; today we had a good breakfast at the dining car - the potato pancakes were awesome! My husband enjoyed his cheese filled omelet and the portions were just right for us. I liked that they had veggie and turkey sausage on the menu and I think it will make a good breakfast place. The serve was attentive albeit not overly friendly, which was perfectly fine with us. The prices were in line with other types of diner fare.
(3)
Marc T.
the menu was falling apart, the whole place was just kind of sad.
(1)
Colleen L.
I had a very enjoyable breakfast at The Dining Car. We were there around 11am on a weekday and the parking lot was packed. Despite that, we were seated immediately in a nice booth. Our waitress was friendly enough, and service was definitely not slow. We placed and received our orders within the span of 25 minutes. I had french toast with a side of pork roll (super yum!), my fiance had two fried eggs with bacon and home fries, and our friend had a spanish omelet with scrapple and potato pancakes. The home fries were really good, but I was super jealous of my friend's potato pancakes! My fiance was a little disappointed that the egg yolks of his fried eggs were not runny at all. He asked for fried eggs with no specificity, so if you are particular about your yolks be specific when you order! The atmosphere was great. I'm from Jersey, the land of diners, so I can be pretty picky. Everything was so clean- no greasy film on the lights/windows/utensils. I didn't buy anything from the market, but all of the treats looked delicious! I would definitely come back to fulfill my diner cravings.
(3)
Michael D.
Hey i have been a long time patron at the dining car. It is one of the best diners that i go to. The food is always good and the prices are resonable. The only down fall is that it is always crowed. i will for sure be returning.
(4)
Yorkie L.
My visit was in the late hours 2am+ The resturant was nearly empty and service still was slow and refills even slower. We were a table from the soda dispenser and it was hard to not get up when u see the waitress chatting and we r thirsty but I remained civil. So, I started with the French onion soup. Not the best but not bad either (Outback soup was way better). The cheese was very thick and gooey near the end I gave up trying to eat anymore. But the flavor and onions were good. Next were the fried mushrooms. One word....GROSS!!!! The thing that I didn't enjoy was when u popped them in your mouth u experienced an explosion of nasty mushroom juice. The mushrooms were flavorless too except for the breading. I also burned my mouth on the first one so be careful if u do order these. My cousin ordered the pizza bread and it literally was worse than what comes out of a frozen box. Even salt didn't help this poor appetizer. They were out of the chicken croquettes sadly.... So I ordered a bannna split for my main entree. Only because this desert was pleasurable did i go up a star....otherwise I say don't go late at night when food and service is low quality.
(2)
Kelly S.
The Dining Car is my local diner, and I'm pretty attached to it. I've been going there for as long as I can remember. It's on Frankford Ave., just south of the I-95 Academy Road exit. It's pretty big for a diner, and I always manage to get seated really quickly, even when there's a line (which there always is on Sunday mornings). The waitresses are almost always friendly, and the food is pretty consistent. It's not the best food I've ever eaten, but it's good for diner food. I think their lunch food is better than dinner, so I usually only go for lunch. I'm a big fan of their chicken cheese steak and turkey burger. They don't take credit cards, as fas as I know, but they do have an ATM in the entryway, so you can withdraw cash if you need to. What puts this place in the 4-star category instead of the 3 is not the food so much as the bakery attached to the diner. Their bakery makes some amazing desserts, from butter cakes to cookies. Yummy. The best part is that you can order the same dessert from the menu if you go there to eat and don't want to buy an entire cake or pie. Their peach pie is really good if you are there for a meal. Check it out if you're in the neighborhood. I think this is one of the better diners in Philly.
(4)
D S.
As far as diners go, DC has it going. They are very consistent, when things are not right, the management takes it seriously and addresses accordingly, and they have some all time great things here such as: french onion soup- never tasted better, fresh fried mushrooms with horseradish sauce- very good, chicken cheese steak- awesome, bread pudding- love, cream cheese omelet- amazing, cheese fries- best cheese for fries ever, and as others have mentioned- creamed chipped beef, chicken croquettes (minus instant mashed), coffee, apple walnut, bakery...the list goes on. I have visited a lot of diners and DC has staff retention. ..I am sure some staff have been there over 30 years. Make sure you try one of their signature dishes and you shouldn't be disappointed.
(4)
Sean D.
When you think of food in 19114, you have to consider the Dining Car. A well known tradition in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. I must have gone there 1,000 times it seems. Now I wouldn't say everything on the menu is awesome as thats why I gave it 4 out of 5 stars but there are some really good dishes especially for the price points. My top favorites there are: Breaded Pork Cutlet with brown gravy Chicken Croquettes Omlettes Pancakes You are looking for a quick place to grab a bite or even some take out, consider checking out the Dining Car.
(4)
J W.
Yes, the food is good but this place is just so crowded all the time. I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get the chicken croquettes because of my seafood allergy and I guess they fry them in the same oil as the seafood. So maybe they need to change that. But their menu is big so it wasnt a problem to find something else. The staff was friendly too.
(3)
Daria M.
There isnt much around this area, but this is one of the better diners because 1 - you can get drunk there 2 - they have their own bakery (but what do I care since I barely eat pastries anyhow) ... what I care about is they have fried mushrooms, and they're not half-bad. They give you a MASSIVE amount though, if I ate them all I'd be sick. Great with a beer, a nice place to chill and have a conversation and a greasy snack. However, I'm not a big fan of diners and this place is just OK in relation to what's around it. If there were something better around, I'd never go here, and as it is, I rarely do.
(2)
Ketchup Love R.
Never again! Went for breakfast one morning, wasnt too crowded, so we were seated right away. Waitress came over shortly after we were seated and took our order, brought us coffee, and that was the last we saw of her. 45 minutes later, we were still waiting for breakfast, coffee cups and water glasses empty. Finally, a food runner (or another waitress) came with our food, which by that point, we didnt even want, I just wanted out of there. Needless to say, we ate cold food and didnt have anything to wash it down with. Finally, our waitress ran by, mumbled sorry, and dropped the check. I'm a little mad at myself for not saying something right then and there at how horrible the service was.. I just dont like to cause a scene. Needless to say, I'll never be back.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : No Good For : Breakfast, Brunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Veronica K.
Might I dare say this is the best diner inside the Philadelphia border? That's not a hard feat, but I'll tell you it's definitely the best in the Northeast. First off, their pies. Holy crap, their pies. Their lemon meringue is huge and wondrous, and their pecan pie is perfectly sweet and sticky. Their other pies are good too, but I stick to my favorites, and am never disappointed. Plus, I've never had a dish I didn't like. Never. Now that I've been going here for about ten years off and on, that's a pretty amazing feat. Others have mentioned them but I'll say it again- get the croquettes. They are amazing. I usually hate similar dishes but here they are great. They are great for being a diner, and I'm glad they fill their niche nicely.
(5)Stephen B.
2 of my favorites French onion soup is the best. And there cheesesteak Royal.
(5)Adriane W.
This place is hit or miss. I have been here for breakfast and dinner a few times and each time was a different experience. The food is not consistent (sometimes good, sometimes bad). And worst of all they don't accept credit cards! I know go figure in this day and age. The food I would give 2 stars but I added a star because the staff has always been friendly and the bakery actually has really good pies.
(3)Joffy J.
Not a big fan of this diner, I tried the chicken croquets which is known as one of their best dishes and did not find anything special about it.
(2)Gina M.
This diner has been featured on diners, drive ins, and dives! It's also delicious. I haven't had a bad meal here. You tend to not expect much from a diner but this place always exceeds expectations. I've had a couple different things from this neighborhood favorite and everything has been great! You can't forget the bakery either that is attached. The baked goods are phenomenal. Everything there is so good. It's good for after a night of drinking or early for breakfast, like my mom and I used to do. Great service, friendly staff, never a wait, and incredible food. Definitely worthy of the 5 stars and the recognition from the tv hit: diners, drive ins, and dives! I'll be back sooner rather than later, I'm sure! It's a Gina M. Favorite!!!!
(5)Christine L.
If you're up for a little drive-- then definitely go here! Great food, great prices, huge portions, friendly service, and always so consistent. I have never had a bad meal here-- this is a weekend brunch go to. It IS a diner-- so don't go with tablecloth dining expectations-- but definitely one of the best diners that I've been to. It does get crowded on the weekends-- but hey-- that's a good sign :)
(4)Rita G.
ok...before you read my review...you should know...this place DOES NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS! there is an atm on the premises...and yes, there are signs saying they don't accept credit cards in the doors. ok now onto my review: the Dining Car has been a favorite of my family since they opened. So I come here every other month just because they rock. I have never had a bad meal from here in my whole 27yrs of life. I'm not a picky eater, but I have certain meals i'll have over anything else. like French onion soup and salad, or a burger....simple stuff. I've had their chicken croquettes before they were ever featured on diners, drive-ins and dives...they are amazing. Came here one Christmas and they had turkey and ham....I had the ham....it was in a rich pineapple sauce and absolutely the best ham ever. Its a diner, so people go in not expecting much, but trust me....you should expect a great meal and to be fully satisfied food wise and price wise. They do get crowded, but the lines move along quickly. AND DONT FORGET TO GO TO THEIR BAKERY! I get my daughter's cakes here every year....simply amazing!
(5)J. Matt B.
Horrible service: Waited 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. Took our drink, comes back 20 minutes later, takes our order. She didn't come back to our table, no refills, nothing. 35-40 minutes later, we waved down another waitress to get us a manager. The manager came over with an attitude as if she couldn't be bothered. We told her the situation, no apology. She offered to give us another waitress. She was a lot better. Food came out five minutes later. Food was mediocre. There were seven of us and we all had different things, it just wasn't that great, rather plain food. Meanwhile there were a group of waitresses at a station and our old waitress pointed right at us and made a stink about us asking for another waitress. Very unprofessional. Long story short - Never going back.
(1)Joe G.
It pains me to write a negative review of this place but it seems the time has come to do so. Ate here for breakfast - there was a wait, but they do go through it quickly for which I give them credit. If there's a line, it won't last long. Can't blame them for being busy. We got sat, we both ordered eggs, potatoes, toast, and coffee. I got a side of scrapple and ordered my eggs over-easy. It took a good amount of time to get our first cup of coffee, more than it should have taken (over 5 minutes) and we didn't get offered a refill on coffee, or on my water, until when we were done eating - about 35 minutes between getting our first cup and being offered the second. I remember coming here not long ago and you'd never have a half cup without it being refilled. The food was a disappointment overall, especially considering how simple of a meal it was. My eggs were over easy, which means a runny yolk - these were just runny. The white was almost as runny as the yolk - no bueno. The potatoes (I used to say they did the best) had onions, which I loved because they used to cook the onions along with the potatoes giving the potatoes a great flavor. It seems that their method now is to dump a bunch of fried onions on fried potatoes - no magical potatoey-oniony magic going on there. Overall it was a disappointment from what I've grown to expect here. I'll be back, but another experience like this one and I won't be.
(2)Laurie C.
very upset leaving the Dining Car Sat.night. Order breakfast at night. Not Smart. The sausage was soooooo hard on the ends and the potota pancakes were definetly NOT just made. Told the manager, who really should take a course in people pleasing and customer service, and she tried to argue and then was just plain rude and didn't answer back. This diner doesn't believe THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT!
(1)Marisol R.
One of the worst diners i have ever been too...... Had the deviled crab cake... And dats exactly what it tastefd like. Crabmeat tasted old as hell. The waitress did not bother to ask us if we wanted anything to eat...... We had two small ass glasses of water, which were done with one sip. There was no signage as to the no credit card policy, had to go to an atm... My husbands bagel tasted like dirt... He only ate the eggs and bacon..... NO TIP!!!!!!!!! HORRIBLE.... HORRIBLE.... FOOD. UUUHHHHGGGGGGG............
(1)Carolyn L.
This diner is A-OK in my book. The menu is filled with slightly above average, slightly more imaginative diner fare. My fiance ordered the chicken croquettes, a favorite dish of his, as enticed by Guy Fieri. The meaty cones came on a bed of mash potatoes with gravy smothered overtop and accompanied by a soup, fresh baked dinner roll, and 2 sides of your choice. He was very happy with the croquettes and said he would happily order them again. I ordered the cream chipped beef, a favorite dish of mine, and was very pleased with it as well. The meat was abundant and smokey and it's sauce was creamy and rich. Served over toast and I subbed potato pancakes for home fries. I could not have been happier with my decision. The potato pancakes were AMAZING. Crispy on the outside, soft and kind of dense on the inside. YUM! The service is great! Everyone was SO kind, no complaints there. All in all, this is a fine diner, but is not really worth going out of your way for. If I lived in the northeast, I could see myself dining here regularly but it just wasn't enough to bring me back unless I was in the area again.
(3)Brian W.
This place just keeps getting worse and worse......The whole Diners Dumps and Drive -Ins tv show appearance must've gone to the owners heads because Guy approved of one dish. There are PLENTY of better diners around (within walking distance too). Save the aggravation and go somewhere else.......You can thank me later
(1)Shayla V.
My food takes forever and is mediocre at best. I feel kinda bad saying that, but I would rather be truthful than be a liar. Usually here for breakfast and I get pancakes or waffles, making sure I don't get my favorite (French toast) so it isn't ruined for me. It comes out lukewarm every single time. I wait for a long time to get a drink and then longer for my food to come out and not even taste that good. I'll give it the fact that it's usually pretty crowded and I go on a Sat/Sun morning, but you should still be able to deliver when you're super busy. I'll just keep this one at a "no thank you."
(2)Bob H.
I have been eating at the dining car for 10+ years, sadly I will not be back. Over the years the food has changed, portions have gotten smaller and prices are rising. Although they say they will not accept credit cards to keep prices down. Keep prices down? I ordered a turkey club for $9.50 and it came with no fries and literally a small souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, and literally had 1 piece of bacon on if. This is probably one of the worst turkey clubs I've ever had. For $9.50 it should come with fries and actually have some bacon. My wife ordered a chicken ceaser salad. It's was almost $13.00! For a salad! She said it was just ok and rather large. Maybe the dining car should offer a smaller option for half the price? Total check for sandwich, salad and kids meal was $37.00..ridiculous! I don't mind high prices when food is worth it. We have had the exact same meal at a diner cape may for $25.00 As for the service.. Well it was terrible. We went around 3pm, which was change of shift. Not a good idea! It took 30 minutes for our food to come out. 30 minutes for a salad and sandwich. And their glasses are getting smaller, so more refills are needed but the waitstaff if nowhere to be found. Looks like we will be searching for a new diner in the far northeast and bensalem area. After being a loyal customer for 10+ years I'm done! I've given this place far too many chances! Maybe someday it will go back to the way it was.
(1)Frank P.
I am keeping this review as unbiased as I possibly can since I am not a diner type of person. But must give credit where credit is due. All their menu items are made fresh right in their kitchen and cooked nice and clean. Not the typical slop you usually find on your plate at most diners. Obviously a Philly favorite as the constant lines will tell you that.
(4)Steve K.
Ok, I'll be honest. if it was not for diners drive in's and dives we would never drive across Philly for this place. It's good - they don't take credit cards so others must think so as well...I find their waitstaff very nice, and the breakfasts - at any hour are quite good - burgers and lunchy stuff is good but not as nice as breakfast IMO. Only had dinners here once - had fish that was fine with decent sides, but IMO not worth a trip - OTOH I think the breakfasts are great... Deserts are hit or miss - some have been great other not so much...Coffee is unremarkable and they have a full bar...
(4)Joey R.
What a fantastic diner! This is definitely one of my favorites in the Philly/south Jersey area.
(4)Caitlin C.
Ive been coming here since I was alive. They serve special breakfasts every weekend which are amazing! Things that have been included: Jewish Apple Cake French toast, eggs over silver dollar pancakes with crab meat topped with hollandaise sauce. They're also inexpensive, usually under $10. They have dinner specials every night which are always yummy and fresh.They include soup or salad, entree, and dessert for usually under $15. Top things to get there: creamed chipped beef, cinnamon dinner rolls, Bloody Mary, eggplant parm. Everything there is good. It's diner food so don't expect fancy food, however it's not bland diner food. Easily the best diner in Philly.
(4)Melissa Z.
My must go to place when I'm in town. The BEST French onion soup ever! Liver & Onions is the Best! Mashed Potatoes & Gravy even their Creamy Italian dressing is something I crave! Been One of My Fav Spots my whole life!
(5)Kimberly G.
The past weekend, I had the unfortunate experience of going to The Dining Car. Overall I was displeased with the service and quality of food. I made sure to take pictures of the hash browns which were more like boiled potato slices because there was very little browning/frying and they were mushy. I have been to The Dining Car before and had a much better experience. That is why I am so upset and motivated to write a review. My first experience was with my college best friend who came to Philadelphia to visit. We were seated promptly, satisfactory service and good food. My second experience I was with a black man. The service was appalling! The waitress (Renate) acted as though she was scared to even give us eating utensils. Instead of placing them in front of us, she threw them down across from us. We were served food after several parties that arrived after us. Ms. Renate, did not ask how the food was, and only came back to give us the check. We had to ask another waitress for water. Microaggression? Misunderstood? I am not sure the reason for such poor service. However, if this is a whites only establishment, there should be a sign posted.
(1)Jill M.
At here for dinner tonight. The bread is sooooo good, especially the cinnamon rolls. I would come here just to eat them. Food was good and the server was great. They have a bakery with a variety if treats for eat in or to go. I will definitely be back.
(4)Monica P.
I drove past this place a few times a week for a year, and one day we decided it was something to try. Good things first: the cake was amazing. We had a white cake and a chocolate cake, both with strawberries. The white cake was light, sweet, delicate and moist. The chocolate cake was rich and very sweet, but the sweetness complimented the strawberries. All the strawberries were very fresh and ripe. The waiter we had was very attentive, very nice, and was great with our 3 year old. But: the hostess was a bit short with us. We mentioned we had a little one with us and wanted to seat us in chairs near the door. We asked for a booth and that seemed to frustrate her. She stuck us behind the server station so we got to have butts in our face during most of our meal. There was a lot of, "Excuse me," and, "Sorry," being said between us and the staff. Everything we got was great except the pizza rolls. They were really doughy, maybe underdone. The sauce was pretty good, though. In all, this was a great place to eat. Edit: Went back, service was way better. All the food was amazing. We all especially loved the fried mushrooms and sauce. I got a turkey BLT club, and the turkey was perfect. The cash-only thing is still kind of annoying.
(4)Ken H.
I give the diner 3 stars and 5 stars for the bakery, so I'm averaging it out to 4 starts overall. The Jewish Apple Cake is fabulous! I often bring it to family gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, and everyone loves it.
(4)Tanya M.
Good food, good prices, always open. The only take cash but have a ATM on site the desserts are awesome and the staff professionals
(5)Peter P.
Was there on a Saturday afternoon a few weeks ago. Got a burger and fries. Good burger. Not a frozen patty. Fries were crispy. Service was good. Décor was old. Alcohol available. Gets real busy on weekends. Average for a diner. Will be back. ...And to the guy below who didn't get his toast buttered...well, the government can't do everything for you. Get a butter knife.
(3)Jacqueline B.
Avoid this place like the plague, seriously. Food tastes old, mediocre grade. Waitresses are rude and do not check up on customers. You can be waiting FOREVER for your food sometimes. No credit card use. Terrible, just terrible. I'm a local and I hate this place.
(1)Angel G.
I tried this place because I saw it on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. What a big let down. I had flown into Philly earlier that day and it was rainy and cold. I was really looking forward to this place and to some good home-style cooking. Nope! I had the meat loaf... horrible. It looked like cat food and the gravy was no good either. The steamed vegetables were too overcooked- no flavor what-so-ever. Mash potatoes bad. The chicken croquettes which Triple D hyped were alright and really nothing to write home about. Wasted meal really. Oh and the kicker cash only establishment- c'mon get with the century peeps. Most of the wait staff looked like good people. My waitress was very attentive.
(2)George M.
Soup was too thick (Creme of Chicken and creme of cauliflower) for our tastes. Baked chicken overcooked and very dry, bread stuffing taste like it came from a box and not home made. I guess we were really hungry as we eat most of what was served to us. Server forgot that we order soup as an extra and did not charge us for it. If need be, we would return to this restaurant in Northeast Philadelhia but only after our other options would be exhausted. Does NOT accept credit cards!!!
(2)Elizabeth C.
I have been going to the dining car since I was little. You can always get a good meal here. The baked goods are also great. I got my son's cross cake for his First communion here and it was delicious. Some of my favorites. Chicken croquettes, French onion soup, roast beef club, chicken cheesesteak, patty melt, fries mushrooms, chicken cheesesteaks, French toast, cream beef on toast, apple walnut pie, angel food muffins. Ashley is a great waitress.
(5)Jenifer S.
once again we stopped here for dinner on a Sunday and were very satisfied with the cheery and fast wait service, the good prices and range of items on the menu. My son had the white meatloaf with gravy that he loved and that came with cinnamon rolls, with Fat Elvis cake for dessert that he also liked. I had a stuffed-with-large-chunks of chicken salad on a kaiser roll and hubster had onion soup (too much cheese goop!) and a salad. We were all quite happy with the bread and rolls, coffee, water service, and a very decent martini. This is not our first visit and we will definitely go there again! Also wheelchair accessible (although I'm not sure about the bathrooms in this regard). Parking lot was packed (as usual) and it's relatively easy to find off Rte 95.
(4)Dan L.
Can never go wrong at DC. Never don't start your meal off with either mozzys, crock of French onion, or both.
(4)Heather S.
I have been here many, many, many times over the last 4+ yrs. My most recent visit was on Friday March 7, for breakfast. It was very busy in there! But we had no problems waiting. I got a swiss cheese & mushroom omelet with potato pancakes and a side of bacon. I liked the fact that our waitress asked how I'd like the bacon cooked. That was a nice touch! My dining partner got scrambled eggs with potato pancakes as well. My omelet was cooked perfectly and had a great amount of mushrooms! Nothing beats swiss + mushrooms, I'll tell you that! Now the potato pancakes were nice and dense, but not as crispy as I prefer, but that's okay. Coffee refills were easy to come by. Other waitresses would walk by and ask if we needed a refill. I liked that. 2 weeks prior I had been to the Mayfair diner, it wasn't as busy as The Dining Car was, and our waitress there was ...well, she seemed like she was new or something. So it was nice to have the great service that we did at the Dining Car. I'd come back for breakfast again! I did stop in the bakery and purchased some treats. They had St. Patty's Day themed goodies that I picked up for friends and I got myself a loaf of sugar free Jewish Apple Cake. My friend enjoyed her Irish themed treat, but I have to say that the Jewish Apple cake was very dry and could have used more cinnamon. Oh yeah, one thing I noticed -- no sugar substitutes at our table. I was going to ask the waitress for some, but thankfully my friend had some with her! My prior visit to the Dining Car was in July after a concert. My friend had a burger and fries. I had chicken fingers and potato pancakes. No issues there. Many times before that I've been there with friends after a night out to get some cheap drinks. Some of their drinks were $3-$4 and VERY STRONG. That was a few years ago, so the prices (and potency) could have changed.
(4)Katie H.
I never really stopped here before. It's a little out of the way for me, but for the prices, it is so worth it! It's open 24 hours, so you can grab anything from breakfast to an entree at midnight. The service is quick (I was there around midnight on a Thursday). I tried a bit of the Purple Cow Milkshake. It is so unique and it's a great mixture of flavors! I had the French Toast. It was so good, and I had a great sized helping. Totally worth it!
(4)Monica Y.
Came here to eat breakfast over the weekend. The waiting line grew out the door but, I felt that it moved pretty fast. The food was decent and the price was either reasonable or inexpensive. My only complaint is that they do not except debit or credit card payments. You need to have cash which was a bit of a pain :/
(4)Maureen M.
Love, love, love this diner! Had grilled ham and cheese on their homemade apple bread and it was magically delicious! Cole slaw and potato salad were good too. My kid liked her chicked fingers, mom liked her burger, we all left happy and full. Desserts looked so good I had a hard time choosing but settled for the Apple Walnut Cheesecake which was great. Next time I'm going for the Fat Elvis cake! And to top it off The Dining Car also sells mixed drinks on the cheap. My new favorite diner!
(5)Michael G.
It's been a long time since I've eaten in the diner side (that's because my all-time favorite NE Philly diner is the Liberty Bell), but I needed a pie, and Dining Car makes their own everyday including awesome loaves of bread. I don't think the Liberty Bell does. Got a very tasty Lemon Meringue pie which the whole family enjoyed along with a loaf of French bread.
(4)Jessica S.
I love this place! I could be biased, since I've been coming here with my family since I can remember. It's been a while, as I've moved to Elkins Park, but today I decided to grab some take-out, and this place did not disappoint! I love their cinnamon rolls. Their Russian dressing is awesome. I always love their salads, and this is the only place I know of that actually uses radishes in their salads. Huge plus! They also had their baked mac and cheese today, which is fantastic, and the chicken croquettes are wonderful. I needed some heavy comfort food today, as I'm finally getting back to normal after a bout of food poisoning that might have come from some salmon at Buddakan. This meal from The Dining Car was extra satisfying!!
(5)Jim B.
The food they have is good, but the selection is bad. In particular, the menu changes to less variety strictly at 11:00 p.m., and a mandatory 15% tip is required and added to the check. They are not able to sell the evening soup or vegetables with a meal after 11:00 p.m. because the computerized cash register won't process them after that time. The help says that nothing can be done. That was a year ago, and I didn't go back until this morning, when I had breakfast with a friend, who mentioned that there was an actual owner named "Nancy", who was on the premises today. I asked if I could speak to "Nancy" about my concern, and got the manageress, who said the owner was in a meeting, but could take messages, which she offered to write down. When the manageress heard from my friend that I wasn't a regular and hadn't been there for a year, she threw the message away.
(2)Lenny D.
Merp
(3)DJ M.
The Dining Car & Market has been in business for 50 years, although it has had three different names and locations. The streamline shiny diner that you visit today was actually built in 1979 and trucked over from New Jersey. It is one of the largest diners I have been inside and the decor is very diner like with a bit of art deco feel to it. The owner has worked hard since he was 16 years old to build a strong clientele, which the staff knows how to move tables in and out, yet you are never rushed. Erin was our server and what a delight, so friendly and personable, but all of the servers seemed to really love their job. Of course there is a very long counter with stools, the coffee urns, refrigerated and non refrigerated in house baked goods begged for me to hop over the counter with fork in hand and sample each one. The cool thing about this diner is, if it is on the regular menu, breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have any of it 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, the only day they are closed is Christmas day. There are several dining rooms and a full bar, I could not help but notice, they never used a tray, not for beverages or food. Your drinks never go empty and teamwork seems to be spot on here. Many of the locals know that this restaurant is famous for their Jewish apple cake, French onion soup and the very best chicken croquettes you will ever eat! Okay, that bears repeating, the chef is known for his chicken croquettes and they are outstanding and where in the world can you even find them today? They tout that they are a "scratch" kitchen and the menu changes four times per year to allow them to shop for local ingredients. At four in the morning, according to Erin, they are grating potatoes for potato pancakes, which again are so delicious, almost as good as mine and probably the best I have ever had out... So why do they make instant mashed potatoes? Why do they use frozen fries? You have these beautiful pillars of croquettes made with so much love, delicious creamy chicken gravy, only to scoop up potatoes that came from a box? I'm in a diner and I adore French fries with gravy and get a rich brown gravy on the side, but I'm dipping frozen, pale, not crisp or golden, semi warm fries into my gravy? I won't make those two mistakes again. It will be difficult to order anything other than the chicken croquettes and grated potato pancakes again, but I will, since they have anything you can think of on the menu. Baby calves liver with onions, yuck, Salisbury steak, pork and sauerkraut, stuffed cabbage, steaks, seafood dishes. The menu is actually quite mind boggling, if you want kielbasa and sauerkraut at 5am you can have it. To start I had a huge order of fried mushrooms with a horseradish sauce, there must have been thirty mushrooms, no joke! Hubby had an omelet with home fries with peppers and onions and one pancake. He wasn't eating it with very much enthusiasm and I mentioned that his omelet looked dry and very well done, he agreed that it was, plus that and his pancake were lukewarm. I wish they would have brought it straight out when finished, rather than holding it until my croquettes were ready. I'm picky about my omelets, I like them done, no runny egg, but please do not burn them and cook them until they are bone dry. Their soups are good homemade soups and they have an in house bakery, which has it's own attached building and can be entered from the restaurant or from outside. From the bakery, we bought a small double chocolate cake, which comes in two sizes, a lemon meringue pie, two huge eclairs, a French apple pie and a poppy seed roll. The double chocolate cake was not a dense fudge cake, but a much lighter sponge type cake, the lemon pie is delicious, we have yet to sample the other items, but so far, so good, not the best baked goods in town, but they have a very nice selection. I'm torn between A-Okay or Yay, I'm a fan, so 3.5 and I guess I'll have to return. Did I mention they were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives? Cash only!
(3)Victoria L.
I have been going to the Dining Car since I was in diapers. Their food has always been great, especially for diner food. I'm a huge fan of their Bloody Marys. Their bakery is also top notch. We got a custom-made shark cake for my nephew's birthday party and it looked and tasted amazing. Overall, a great place to try if you're in NE Philly.
(5)Mallory D.
Maybe it is just me, but when I go to a diner I really don't expect to be blown away. I just expect quick, cheap & decent food. The Dining Car is really no exception. The food is decent, service is good (for a diner) and it is reasonably priced. Their bakery is excellent. rarely will you have to wait for a seat, sicne this place is pretty expansive. Get the potato pancakes though-they are incredible.
(4)Stirling M.
Sunday Funday breakfast!! Awesome potatoes pancakes, there bakery has slot of choices and super fresh. No credit cards but there ATM is in house Old school servers take care if you like your the boss
(4)Suzanne S.
As much as I am NOT a fan of diners, I was impressed with the dining car. The service was excellent and the food was inexpensive. I had a cheese omelet with home fries well-done, and well done was exactly how they came out. They were crispy and delicious. Based on the Yelp reviews about the chocolate chip pancakes, i decided to order one and see for myself. They were perfect. Not too much chocolate, not too little either. In my opinion, pancakes are hit or miss at most places and these pancakes deserve two thumbs up. The coffee was also very good quality. Next time I am in the area, I will go back.
(4)Kevin J.
The Dining Car is pretty good. Except for the salad, which was a meager portion and disappointing in flavor (resulting in an automatic star deduction!), we enjoyed everything else. My friend had the roast chicken over rice special. It was a fairly large plate and came with two side dish vegetables, soup/salad. (Future note: Always get the soup!) I had a pepperoni and cheese roll burger, which came with marinara sauce and choice of grilled or raw onions. It was too messy to pick up, as the sauce inundated the roll, but I would definitely order it again. It was only $8. Came with fries, which were average. Came with a shot of cole slaw. Everything's freshly prepared. On the particular Saturday night that I visited, the kitchen ran out of a few popular items such as baked mac and the flounder special, and there was a short (15min) wait for a table but service was A+ despite the rush. The menu ranged from $8 to $17 for most entree items, $5 for breakfast and $3 average for dessert. Cash only, ATM in bakery (lobby). Be prepared and don't get stuck using their ATM.
(4)Bar F.
I do not see what everyone raves about. I live 5 minutes away and come here now and then Why? Because the only other options are fast food. First, the service generally leaves a lot to be desired. The waitresses at the counter apparently have a very poor system of determining who will wait on who. They seem to be under the impression that another waitress is taking care of you and ignore you. The food is average at best and often lacks seasoning or is very plain. It is surely not exceptional diner food. Yes, Diner's Drive-In's and Dives came here a few years back. To their discredit, the chicken croquettes that they made famous are little more than a slightly upscaled chicken McNugget tossed on a bed of mashed potatoes and smothered in bland gravy. I'm convinced they only ended up doing a show here because they were on their way down I-95, took the Academy exit and saw that it was either a fast food joint or this place.
(2)Jen K.
Excellent food. Nice friendly staff. Never fails. The apple walnut cream cheese pie is about one the most delicious things ever.
(5)Kisente F.
My brother and I came here to because of Guy Fieri's DDD show. The restaurant looks a little old and have the classic Diners decor. The place is crowded like most yelpers wrote. But, the first thing I noticed was the wonderful smell of the baked goods. I told myself immediately I have to try one of those great desserts. Our service was very attentive even when she have about 4 other tables to take care of. Unfortunately, I can't say the same about our food. I had the pork chop, needless to say, I enjoyed the soup, salad and bread more. My favorite part was the fresh apple walnut pie. I couldn't believe how good it was. I had to share it with my family and they LOVED IT! I would definitely come back for the baked goods.
(3)Kim D.
Service sucks don't know about how the food taste we been waiting 30 to 45 minutes for meals. Four table that came in after us are on desserts the place is bad
(1)Allison L.
I've been here more times than I can count and typically order the same few things. The ham and cheese omelet/hashbrowns is a pretty good breakfast option, and the BLT is nothing special but I seem to order it over and over. The cinnamon buns that they bring out before your meal might be better than anything else here I've ever had, and the Jewish Apple Cake is probably the second best.
(3)Nicole V.
I don't know how I never gave a review as I have come here for years. I don't go as often as I used to but I do like it. Normal diner food, (the menu is overwhelming) but I would rather come here than most other diners. The delicious bakery smell hits you as you walk through the door. Sometimes I have had forgetful servers and besides the time (circa 2008) when the power went out and we ate in the dark, I usually have good experiences. Make sure to bring cash!!
(3)Joe P.
Food poisoned and sick for 3 days We went in for a late night meal around 11pm. The place looked interesting from the outside and we had heard it was a local favourite. Inside we discovered the place was dirty. the waitress took the order and we didn't see her again. I had the turkey club sandwich (which was dry) . I ended up getting food poisoning and was sick for three days. Never will go here again or recommend anyone else go either
(1)Erika S.
Hmm, not a huge fan of this place. I've gone here a lot in my life and each time the experience is just never what I am expecting. I usually get a super rude server and the bill always seems a bit more than you'd think it would be for food that is not even that great. In my opinion, there are way better diners in the NE than this one. But, for what ever reason, it gets a lot of hype for being the best.
(3)Michele P.
I do indeed enjoy certain aspects of the Dining Car - however I must give the pros and cons. PROS: 1) Absolutely the most delicious chocolate chip pancakes I've ever had. I would not suggest them if you don't like huge amounts of chocolate chips. I've been told by numerous waiters/waitresses to order the short stack because no one can finish all three due to the chocolate. Being the stubborn woman that I am, I always order three and leave at least one or one and a half on my plate, hahaha :) 2) Even on busy weekends, they seat you fast. This place definitely draws a crowd at all hours of the day and night. All ages can be found here. 3) I'd say that 90% of the wait staff has been friendly and speedy in my visits. 4) For drinkers, there is a bar which I personally would never have thought this place would have a bar. 5) No problem finding parking 6) I don't know what everyone else is smokin', but I find the prices to be insanely cheap (and I'm not complaining!) CONS: 1) The bakery: YUCK!!!!! I have quite a sweet tooth, so whenever I go out to eat, I must try the dessert. The bakery holds a wide variety of cupcakes, cakes, pies, bagels, etc. that LOOK yummy but are far from it. I once bought an eclair that was literally rock hard and could have broken my tooth or someone's car window. I tried a cupcake on another visit, same problem. As tough as it is to pass up dessert, you're doing yourself a favor with this one. 2) Not the cleanest diner in the world, but then again, it is a diner so you can't expect five star quality. 3) Not a huge fan of their other food choices expect breakfast items, I've just never been pleased with any of it. ***Shout out to our favorite waitress Jane who works overnight and hooks us up with extras! Everyone should try this diner at least once... I bet you'll come back for at least seconds! PS: A lot of Philly sports fans come here after games due to the location on Frankford ave being so close to many area bars.
(3)Yorkie L.
My visit was in the late hours 2am+ The resturant was nearly empty and service still was slow and refills even slower. We were a table from the soda dispenser and it was hard to not get up when u see the waitress chatting and we r thirsty but I remained civil. So, I started with the French onion soup. Not the best but not bad either (Outback soup was way better). The cheese was very thick and gooey near the end I gave up trying to eat anymore. But the flavor and onions were good. Next were the fried mushrooms. One word....GROSS!!!! The thing that I didn't enjoy was when u popped them in your mouth u experienced an explosion of nasty mushroom juice. The mushrooms were flavorless too except for the breading. I also burned my mouth on the first one so be careful if u do order these. My cousin ordered the pizza bread and it literally was worse than what comes out of a frozen box. Even salt didn't help this poor appetizer. They were out of the chicken croquettes sadly.... So I ordered a bannna split for my main entree. Only because this desert was pleasurable did i go up a star....otherwise I say don't go late at night when food and service is low quality.
(2)Kelly S.
The Dining Car is my local diner, and I'm pretty attached to it. I've been going there for as long as I can remember. It's on Frankford Ave., just south of the I-95 Academy Road exit. It's pretty big for a diner, and I always manage to get seated really quickly, even when there's a line (which there always is on Sunday mornings). The waitresses are almost always friendly, and the food is pretty consistent. It's not the best food I've ever eaten, but it's good for diner food. I think their lunch food is better than dinner, so I usually only go for lunch. I'm a big fan of their chicken cheese steak and turkey burger. They don't take credit cards, as fas as I know, but they do have an ATM in the entryway, so you can withdraw cash if you need to. What puts this place in the 4-star category instead of the 3 is not the food so much as the bakery attached to the diner. Their bakery makes some amazing desserts, from butter cakes to cookies. Yummy. The best part is that you can order the same dessert from the menu if you go there to eat and don't want to buy an entire cake or pie. Their peach pie is really good if you are there for a meal. Check it out if you're in the neighborhood. I think this is one of the better diners in Philly.
(4)D S.
As far as diners go, DC has it going. They are very consistent, when things are not right, the management takes it seriously and addresses accordingly, and they have some all time great things here such as: french onion soup- never tasted better, fresh fried mushrooms with horseradish sauce- very good, chicken cheese steak- awesome, bread pudding- love, cream cheese omelet- amazing, cheese fries- best cheese for fries ever, and as others have mentioned- creamed chipped beef, chicken croquettes (minus instant mashed), coffee, apple walnut, bakery...the list goes on. I have visited a lot of diners and DC has staff retention. ..I am sure some staff have been there over 30 years. Make sure you try one of their signature dishes and you shouldn't be disappointed.
(4)Sean D.
When you think of food in 19114, you have to consider the Dining Car. A well known tradition in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. I must have gone there 1,000 times it seems. Now I wouldn't say everything on the menu is awesome as thats why I gave it 4 out of 5 stars but there are some really good dishes especially for the price points. My top favorites there are: Breaded Pork Cutlet with brown gravy Chicken Croquettes Omlettes Pancakes You are looking for a quick place to grab a bite or even some take out, consider checking out the Dining Car.
(4)J W.
Yes, the food is good but this place is just so crowded all the time. I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get the chicken croquettes because of my seafood allergy and I guess they fry them in the same oil as the seafood. So maybe they need to change that. But their menu is big so it wasnt a problem to find something else. The staff was friendly too.
(3)Daria M.
There isnt much around this area, but this is one of the better diners because 1 - you can get drunk there 2 - they have their own bakery (but what do I care since I barely eat pastries anyhow) ... what I care about is they have fried mushrooms, and they're not half-bad. They give you a MASSIVE amount though, if I ate them all I'd be sick. Great with a beer, a nice place to chill and have a conversation and a greasy snack. However, I'm not a big fan of diners and this place is just OK in relation to what's around it. If there were something better around, I'd never go here, and as it is, I rarely do.
(2)Ketchup Love R.
Never again! Went for breakfast one morning, wasnt too crowded, so we were seated right away. Waitress came over shortly after we were seated and took our order, brought us coffee, and that was the last we saw of her. 45 minutes later, we were still waiting for breakfast, coffee cups and water glasses empty. Finally, a food runner (or another waitress) came with our food, which by that point, we didnt even want, I just wanted out of there. Needless to say, we ate cold food and didnt have anything to wash it down with. Finally, our waitress ran by, mumbled sorry, and dropped the check. I'm a little mad at myself for not saying something right then and there at how horrible the service was.. I just dont like to cause a scene. Needless to say, I'll never be back.
(1)Michael L.
i was there a few wks ago went there after St Domincs 8400 Frankford Ave 5 o' clock mass. My Friend at First wanted to go to The Liberty Bell Dinner when he saw there ice cram and water ice stands but i said i was already there we had to go to the Dinning Car. We Got there after mass was a minm. wait mass crowd i had the chicken rice soecail with two sets of vegs i had stewed tomtoes and Green beans my friiend had the pep Pizza Burger the food and service were top notch and prices were reasonable and also they have alot of cute Waitress theres who ya could get to know if ya become a regular there at the dinning Car i will always come here over the Liberty Bell Or Mayfair when im in the 19136 zip code and also dinng car has tremounds Bakery every thing is so yummy looking
(5)Stella H.
This is really a 3-1/2 star review, but I'm bumping them up to 4 stars. because their service is very friendly (slow. but friendly. I chalk the slow part up to the cooking part, as it clearly states on their menu that everything is cooked to order and thus, might take longer than expected). There, that's out the way! We're originally from this area of NE Philly, so whenever we can, we visit the Dining Car. I love going to a diner and being called "Hon." There is something very comforting in that, and this is what you get at the Dining Car. Our very friendly and efficient server, Dolores was wonderful and made us feel welcome. She stopped by several times during the meal to make small talk, make sure we were OK, the coffee cups were full and that kind of thing. We really enjoyed Dolores. Hubby had a cheese omlet (our visit coincided with either breakfast or lunch) and I had the chicken salad club. It's pretty hard to screw up an omlet, so he enjoyed it with his side of sliced tomato (instead of home fries) and wheat toast. Their chicken salad is absolutely the best! Love their cole slaw too! Stopped by on the way out to pick up more chicken salad and more cole slaw from the bakery take out section, which you must visit. Their jewish apple cake is the best I've ever had. They make delicious pies too. Oh, and those butter cookies with the little dollop of vanilla or chocolate sitting in the center, yum! One more note, the Dining Car does not accept credit cards, but they do have a cash machine in their large vestibule. This place rocks!
(4)Gus J.
The place is a neighborhood icon. It is a family run business that has survived for years. That being said the food is typical diner fare. Nothing spectacular, but I have never gotten a bad meal either. Some of the specials they have are very very good, but they are not regular menu items. They have probably the best french onion soup in the city, and the service is always pretty good. Can't say anything bad about the place. It was just weird that they were on Diners Drive ins, and Dives. The croquettes don't have any seasoning in them really, and they are served over instant mashed potatoes, and the creamed chipped beef is like wallpaper paste. I guess to each his own though right? I will be going back for years to come.
(3)Mary Jane M.
My favorite local cheesesteak joint just around the corner from my favorite grandmother's house. And no, it's not a Philly cheesesteak or a steak & cheese, ya damn rebels. The chicken croquettes are pretty awesome too and I never would've tried them if my boyfriend hadn't seen them on TV.
(4)Shaggy V.
If you love your food as much as I do....just look at my reviews...nuff said! This place is a ABSOLUTE DO NOT MISS! The Fried Mushrooms and French Onion Soup are simply to die for and an excellent way to start a meal off here. You can't go wrong any way you go here as all the food is amazing....an thats an understatement.
(5)Noise J.
Ok so as far as diners go this one definitely hold its own. I've been to diners in the rest of the country and it's been a pretty grim experience. Greasy spoons are exactly that sometimes. Now I may be partial cause this is the place we went after Sunday mass and after things like my communion, confirmation etc... I remember sitting in mass at St. Katherine's thinking about what I was going to order for breakfast. Their French toast was always my favorite but the omelets and home fries kick some serious diner butt too. The dining car was recently featured on Diners Drive ins and Dives. They featured the chicken croquettes which I am NOT a fan of. They are very bland and the chicken is way too pulverized for my liking. The cream chipped beef is very good and the French onion soup is one of the best even beyond diner standards. Now if I were going to get ANYTHING from here it would have to be the turkey club. The turkey they use is not the slimy lunch meat but it's actual turkey. Always on white toast with mayo on the side... Yum. The dining car does everything from cheesesteaks to chicken or veal parm. I can't tell you how the veal is but the chicken is actually very good. Ie heard the stuffed mushrooms are a nice treat before a meal. Oh, their prices? You cannot beat this places prices. It can sometimes be a wait with their massive weekend crowds. During the week for breakfast or dinner you will usually just find the regulars sitting at the counter, a group from the local AA clubhouse and some other randoms characters. Another great thing about the dining car is that it Never closes! I mean ever... If you are in the area and it's morning noon or night or late late night for that matter and you want a cocktail,dinner,salad,breakfast,lunch, sandwiches this is your place. They boast a full bar and the bakery which is attached makes all their own baked goods. Everything from Elmo cupcakes to elaborate bakery favorites. Check out the dining car, is worth the trip.
(3)Amanda F.
We were seated quickly, a plus because the restaurant was packed, but service was a bit slow. I ordered an omelette that was a real disappointment. The eggs were rubbery and tasteless, the cheese inside wasn't melted, and the sliced tomatoes on top had a weird soapy dishwater taste to them that was kind of vile. The latkes were delicious (and served with sour cream!!) though. Everyone else (people ordered eggs, French toast, and another omelette) thought the food was OK, though I wasn't too impressed by the look of the homefries. In short: overpriced for what you get. Good things: the waitresses, though frazzled, were really nice, and we were able to sit for a bit after our meal was finished without anyone hurrying out, the bakery looked delicious, and the coffee was refilled often.
(2)Cccc B.
For being featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives on Food Network, I was expecting this place to really impress. Instead, it's like any other diner. The food is decent, the prices are decent, the staff are decent. Like I said, like every other diner. They do have a separate bakery, which looks pretty yummy.
(3)James H.
Every time i order an ice tea, WITHOUT a lemon, The Dining Car brings me one WITH one. Was there one time when the electricity went out, had to eat in the dark, (as apparently they don't have any generators) Food is okay, its got the Dinery variety, but i can't say they make anything exceptional. The waitstaff has been pretty decent the few times i've been there, but the food is marginal. In the same price range as other diners, but the fact that they won't take credit cards, and shove a nice ATM in the lobby with a NICE BIG surcharge (that i would be surprised if they didn't get a cut of) kinda makes ya wanna go to Dunkin Donuts instead.
(2)Hal C.
They say (whoever "they" are), "No use crying over spilled milk." But they never said ya can't WRITE about it :-) So on this , my second visit to The Dining Car, I sat at the counter. I happened to sit directly across from the milk station where a large steel milk dispenser was situated. And situated under the milk dispenser was a glass with a little milk left on the bottom. Next to the glass were a few puddles of milk and on the other side of the glass was a slice of lemon. And all of this mess was sitting there when i sat down, when I ordered, while waiting for my food, while I ate and when I got up to pay the check and I'm willing to bet after I left, too. During my entire lunch, food servers, managers, busboys and trainees walked right by this mess and not one stopped to clean that area. If this was a hotter day, it would have smelled pretty rancid in there. The lunch "special" was nothing special, Hey it's a diner. I guess they were on their best behavior for Guy Fieri, but some things have definitely gone downhill since his visit. I ordered the 1/4 chicken lunch. It was pretty tasteless except for the salt and pepper I added to it myself. On a previous trip I ordered from the healthy section of the menu - a turkey sandwich w/ spinach and cranberries. That had a bit more promise but again, it suffered a better review because the turkey was on the dry side. I probably won't go back anytime soon, except perhaps to try their buttercake. I was going to purchase one to take home, as they have a bakery on the premises. Wouldn't you know it...? They had run out of the one thing I probably would have enjoyed.
(2)Matthew R.
My wife and I love it here. The food is great the staff is wonderful. If you want a great diner experience come to The Dining Car. Don't be scared off if there is a line, even the longest line is 5-10 minutes. We have been coming here frequently for years and highly recommend. They are open 24 hours and have a great bakery. Try the Jewish Apple Cake also if you get the chance.
(5)Jason Z.
I really enjoy going to the Dining Car with friends and family. I've never had a bad meal. Sometimes, there can be quite a wait, but they keep the line moving. The bakery is also out of this world. I recommend the peperoni bread.
(4)C B.
Expensive for a diner. The stuffed mushrooms are great, people tell me the french onion soup is good, but it is way too salty for me. Over all they are over priced and with so many other competitors they really need to step it up. Went there late night with 8 people and the food came out cold. Don't take anyone here if you want to impress them.
(3)Mary M.
I go here a lot and love it! Love the French Onion Soup and the Apple Walnut Pie is not to be missed. My favorite though is the Salmon Croquettes, even better the the Chicken ones if you ask me and the Mama's Chicken with the cornbread stuffing is fab! Oh yeah-try the chicken pot pie-- I love that too. On top of all this is the fact that the servers are really friendly and they have a bar.
(5)Jason V.
I should preface by saying that I and my wife pretty much come here on a weekly basis. It is our Sunday ritual. And there is one reason for that... THE FOOD. Of all the Northeast Philly diners, the Dining Car has the most consistently excellent food. It truly is the SAME every time that you come. The menu is a tad more limited than some of the other diner menus, but I think that's because they do what they do and they do it well. They don't want to add a bunch of fringe crap that they aren't experts in. Their food is overwhelmingly why the public beats down their doors every weekend. Some disclaimers... They have a line system to get in. You enter the foyer and there is a line you must wait in to get into the diner itself and to the hostess... You do not put your name in. Also, this diner is cash only. They do have an ATM in the foyer. As for negatives... Service can be hit or miss and depends heavily on the server. There are 3 or 4 excellent servers, the rest can be on the slow and "forgetful" side. The kitchen wait can sometimes be lengthy, but I don't want to kill them for this because a) it is usually very busy when we go, and b) the food rocks, so they can take a few extra minutes. All in all, the food is worth the trip to the Dining Car.
(4)Michele M.
The last time I went here was two years ago. The experience was less than great hence the two year hiatus. Recently, I decided to try again by taking my kids there for lunch/supper. What a giant error on my part. I'm not sure what happened at the Dining Car. It used to be the "go to" place in the NE for good diner food. Not so much anymore. The food was subpar. When we got it, it looked like it had been sitting for a while and the temp was tepid. Our service was also lacking. I'd like to blame everything on it being crowded or understaffed, but I can't. We went on a relatively dead day. And when I mentioned my dissatisfaction to the girl at the register when I paid, her attitude was essentially "oh ... sorry". Now picture saying that in the most deadpan voice possible. I know a lot of people praise the Dining Car for certain things like their Jewish Applecake. I'll give credit there. Their baked goods are really good. Alas, that doesn't make up for the restaurant part. Once upon a time, the Dining Car was a tiny little boxcar like diner that served phenomenal food. Not anymore.
(1)Jeanne P.
I've been here a lot, so it's about time that I reviewed it! It's diner food. Nothing extremely out of the ordinary, but I enjoy it. I REALLY like the Turkey Orange Cranberry burger that comes with sweet potato fries. I also like the quiche. I always find myself drinking a lot of coffee while I'm here as well. They're cheap and they pretty much have everything. I definitely give a thumbs up to the service. It gets a lot of traffic from groups after AA meetings and they are always welcoming, even it's 20-30 people dropping in on the fly. They always manage to ace all of our orders and get it out in a timely fashion (though no one is ever in a rush). Granted, the servers probably know by now the tips they'll be getting, but the service never falls short.
(4)Sam L.
I love diners, yes I do! I love diners, how about you? A good diner in Philadelphia, like a good man, is hard to find. A lot of joints that used to excite childhood Sam no longer do, because they've gone so incredibly downhill, and rather than feel nostalgic about them, I only feel nauseous about them. That's what can happen when you no longer remember how to cook your bacon. Anyway, this place has endured the test of time, dining car and all, and they serve up a fully loaded menu of excellent comfort food options. Their desserts, which come from straight their adjoining bakery, are top-notch and probably as good as it gets for standard diner confections. Especially when we're talking about their "Fat Elvis" cake. When I choose 'gluttony' from the seven deadly sins during a DC outing, I choose "Fat Elvis." You should strongly consider it, too. You can't really go wrong with moist vanilla cake layers hugging a light, airy combination of whipped peanut butter cream and banana pudding. Then, to add the mother of all cherries on top, they go ahead and ice it in caramel buttercream. It sounds ridiculous because it is. But it's also delicious! The Fieri-hyped chicken croquette meal is my go-to here, despite a myriad of menu distractions beckoning me to order something new. These little chicken dunes of goodness, which are served on a bed of mashed potatoes, are creamy and rich on the inside and crispy on the outside, especially when you order the gravy on the side like I do. I'd found them out long before Diners, Drive-ins & Dives discovered them, and they haven't changed a bit, thank goodness. Comfort food is rarely this comforting. If you're in search of a classic diner daydream, come here. This isn't a finer diner by any stretch and sometimes, that's exactly how I like it.
(4)Joe D.
What can you say about Northeast Philly diners, other than they are consistent!! They have menus that look like books, but you need to know what to order. Don't go with some specialty item unless you see people eating it. Staples at any Northeast 24/7 diner: Breakfast (Anything) French Onion Soup Cheese Steaks Coffee Bakery Cream Chipped Beef Anything else is anyone's guess.
(4)Nyerra H.
I have to start be saying I'm a Philly native and diner junkie I'm not easily swayed but I must say the service was great. I like the cozy family vibe, perfect for Sunday brunch. The noise level was average for a diner in philly on a Sunday. I sat in a booth for a double brunch date. I had chicken croquettes and mash with gravy. The croquettes were crispy on the outside and decadent in the inside, perfect textured gravy gave it all the right ingredients for a fantastic comfort meal. It was delicious. I also had the cream of chicken soup so I was fully clucked out. I will definitely be coming back for the cream chipped beef and philly favorites; scrapple.
(4)Dave H.
After watching Diner's, Drive In's and Dive's I had to stop and try the famous Chicken Croquettes. Well, I was not disappointed. They were outstanding. The croquettes were home made, home made gravy, fresh green beans-not frozen. 2 Croquettes and 2 sides for 10 bucks including tax.
(4)Rosalie R.
Yuck!!! Only go here if McDonald's is closed! I realize this is a diner so I had very low expectations going in. The menu and flatware were sticky. I ordered an unsweetened iced tea which was obviously not freshly brewed as it had a "mix" flavor and tasted slightly carbonated. I played my meal safe and ordered a patty melt (medium) - the burger was cooked okay - medium well as opposed to how I ordered but definitely good. I got the "deluxe" which included fries - where were served cold - and cole slaw "souffle" - I had no idea either...it was quite literally a tablespoon of coleslaw in a paper condiment cup. Lastly, they don't take plastic "in order to keep costs low but offer an ATM in the lobby" - I think they keep costs low by not using anything to warm the food and cutting down on any passable serving size.
(1)NEIL G.
we were in philly visiting swarthmore college since our daughter is a prospective student so we decided to drive the 28 miles from college to the dining car and market since we had seen it on the food network recently.boy are we glad we did!!!as you enter you can feel the homey atmosphere never mind awesome aroma of the desserts they sell to go.the service was excellent and waitress very polite and cheerful;the cream of chicken soup was tasty and delicious and the roast chicken melted right off bone;my wife and daughter had the roast turkey which was excellent as was gravy and stuffing.we topped things off with the aromaticly delicious jewish apple cake and chocolate mousse cake lots of calories but both well worth it!!!also when bread was served had cinnamon baked into the bread was very tasty.all in all the dining car was as good as advertised and well worth trip to philly for within itself!!!!!
(5)Bethany W.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like my diners to have cakes on covered stands, shiny vinyl booths and waitresses who call me hon. Add to that a dessert list that goes on for miles and a menu that clogs your arteries the minute you read it and you have The Dining Car - and one helluva diner. You won't get 5 star cuisine here, but you will get serious comfort food and breakfast all day. Down home offerings like the peanut butter and banana layered Fat Elvis cake round out what is undeniably a quintessential diner experience. Just be sure to bring your cash, as they don't take credit cards.
(4)Hannah T.
I LOVE THE DINING CAR'S FOOD!! they dont hav nice presentation but there food is delicious. and their food is VERY cheap.... one time me my brother my mom and my aunt went to the dining car for breakfast and it only cost about 10 dollars for all four of us!!!
(4)Sondra C.
Excellent place for breakfast food, will always come here for that. Be prepared for long lines on the weekends during prime hours. FYI, they serve their own bakery bages, so these are not the hard, chewy kind, but more soft and bread-like. Hit or miss for lunch/dinner food. Some things we've tried: Chicken croquettes were good: simple with very little seasoning. Fried liver was chewy, due to being improperly cooked. Broiled flounder fillets were served plain - no butter or seasoning. Crab imperial special was burned on the edges and had more cream sauce and filler than crab.
(3)Kay T.
The cream cheese omelette is everything. It's a good change from regular cheese. I had coffee over the a Bloody Mary. Next time will try the Bloody Mary!!
(5)Krissi T.
Probably my favorite diner ever! French Onion soup is to die for!!! Servers are always friendly even when you and your friends are being loud and annoying after a night out.
(4)Debby H.
Skip this place. I was here a couple times a few years back and thought it was just ok. Yesterday it was on our route, so decided to try again. I cannot understand why so many people were eating lunch there yesterday. I ordered a turkey club $9.50 no fries & a teeny souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, running with mayo & the turkey roll (no kidding) was chewy to the point it was inedible. The waitress was nowhere to be seen. I ate the bacon and lettuce. I need to add that the sandwich was crammed onto a very small plate. Terrible. My companion's tuna on a roll was better, but I was shocked the $6.75 sandwich grew by 85 cents when tomato was added. Again no fries & too much mayo. The Onion rings we ordered were good. We got a small order. The ice tea was a mix and served in small water glasses. No refills were offered since the waitress was missing. When she came with the check, we asked for more tea which she brought. She never asked why most of our food was mangled and uneaten. Forget the fact that this place was on Diners Driveins & Dives. Not good!
(1)Sean T.
Negatives first, -The mash potatoes and French fries are NOT homemade! Doesn't take a chef to spot that. -No credit cards taken Positives, -French onion soup is delicious, non-diner restaurant quality. Thick layer of cheese on top and all the right flavors. -Potato pancakes are wonderful. I got them as a side with my chicken croquettes and they were crispy on the outside but creamy and smooth inside. I will always get them when I return. -Croquettes were tasty. To me, they didn't live up to the hype of being featured on DD&D, in terms of being special, but they were definitely tasty and simply good. HOWEVER, the bed of mash that they were laying on, disappointing, very disappointing. With the right mash, that specialness could come through for me. -Prices are in-touch with typical diners. -24/7 and I will definitely return for late-night grub -Friendly staff and available parking. The cash only rule doesn't bother me, there is an ATM on-site, only 4 stars because 5 star restaurants don't serve bagged fries and instant potatoes with good food.
(4)Joshua T.
Stopped in with a local friend, seeing as it was on Diners Drive-Ins & Dives for its famous chicken croquettes. The croquettes were pretty good, though the gravy needed more flavor and only a dollop was included on my side of mashed potatoes. I also had the green beans, which were green beans and not interesting in any way. With some salt and pepper they tasted like green beans with salt and pepper. I'm not sure why this kind of disappointed me; maybe eating at steakhouses where they always sprinkle a little something on their beans to zest them up has spoiled me. They probably would have been easily dismissed if not for the gravy situation. The cheese melt fries were quite delicious, and I had a chocolate pumpkin shake that brought the otherwise average diner meal up a notch (and thus a star). It wasn't overly busy, being a Monday mid afternoon, but the waitress still managed to forget my soup. We found out later it was nearing the end of her shift, as she transferred our check to another waitress who'd already been refilling our drinks and was spot-on. So the service is friendly, and nobody is *bad* at their job, but some are better than others. I'd be willing to come back to try their breakfast, reading over other reviews, but probably not the croquettes again, unless they kick their gravy up a notch or two.
(4)Erik E.
After seeing the Chicken Croquettes on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (on The Food Network), I knew this place was a must see on my Philadelphia trip last spring. I was not disappointed! I came here late, straight from the airport as soon as I landed, so the place was not very busy. It was a good sized place. Lot's of seating. I got a booth, and a very friendly waitress set me up with a menu and a tall glass of milk. But I already knew I wanted the Chicken Croquettes. The Croquettes came as a dinner with some options, so I had a cup of chicken soup and mashed potatoes. The soup was very good. Big chunks of chicken with lots of pasta (orecchiette). Also some corn (or something ... I don't remember). But the croquettes were awesome (see pictures). Packed with flavor and a nice fried crust. Creamy on the inside with plenty of herbs and minced chicken. The dinner came with two cone shaped croquettes with mashed potatoes and chicken gravy. Awesome! Exactly what I had imagined when I saw it on The Food Network. I would go back for these in a second!
(4)Jack R.
I live around the corner fron this place, & really the only thing that I would come in here for is the cream chipped beef for breakfast (the beef is home made, & tastes it!!). It's very good, but the portions are small (I don't mind paying, as long as I don't leave hungry, which happens here!!), & this place is not cheap or even moderately priced. They are expensive (how do you think they pay for those commercials, folks?), & you better bring cash, as they don't take a credit card. Again, don't believe the hype!!
(2)Fran S.
It has been a long, long time since I have been to this northeast landmark. My last experience I remember vaguely as not being very good. However; today we had a good breakfast at the dining car - the potato pancakes were awesome! My husband enjoyed his cheese filled omelet and the portions were just right for us. I liked that they had veggie and turkey sausage on the menu and I think it will make a good breakfast place. The serve was attentive albeit not overly friendly, which was perfectly fine with us. The prices were in line with other types of diner fare.
(3)Marc T.
the menu was falling apart, the whole place was just kind of sad.
(1)Colleen L.
I had a very enjoyable breakfast at The Dining Car. We were there around 11am on a weekday and the parking lot was packed. Despite that, we were seated immediately in a nice booth. Our waitress was friendly enough, and service was definitely not slow. We placed and received our orders within the span of 25 minutes. I had french toast with a side of pork roll (super yum!), my fiance had two fried eggs with bacon and home fries, and our friend had a spanish omelet with scrapple and potato pancakes. The home fries were really good, but I was super jealous of my friend's potato pancakes! My fiance was a little disappointed that the egg yolks of his fried eggs were not runny at all. He asked for fried eggs with no specificity, so if you are particular about your yolks be specific when you order! The atmosphere was great. I'm from Jersey, the land of diners, so I can be pretty picky. Everything was so clean- no greasy film on the lights/windows/utensils. I didn't buy anything from the market, but all of the treats looked delicious! I would definitely come back to fulfill my diner cravings.
(3)R T.
This remains one of the best diners in Philadelphia for a host of reasons: 1. It's not owned by "Michael" that has bought up so many other diners and changed them (in some cases to a sickening degree, and in many cases eliminating home-made food items once made by earlier owners at those diners). Dining Car is unique. 2. Dining Car clearly communicates to customers its desire to be creative with food. Brunches are commonly promoted for Sundays with interesting specials. Seasonal items are frequently rotated through, leading to some surprising finds on the menu from time-to-time. 3. The service is almost always friendly and usually efficient. I have never felt rushed out even at busiest times. 4. Items such as chipped beef are better than everywhere else (they hand cut the beef and they also do a great job putting it over excellent home fries with onions rather than toast if you prefer). Cream cheese omelet is amazing and no one else has it on the menu (I have ordered it at other diners and have been told "Oh that's a good idea - we should put that on the menu"). And other items like "white meatloat" are excellent, as are desserts such as apple walnut pie and French apple pie. 5. Coffe is good: not too weak, not too strong, and refilled usually quickly. Same goes for refilling water. 6. Diner is justly proud of it's long-standing reputation with customers and for its consistently good food. Only a few suggestions... **It's time to fully renovate the bathrooms. They're clean, but ugly. **While one understands the rationale behind not taking credit cards; it would be nice to be able to use a credit card there. **Mashed potatoes are so popular and often paired with your best entrees, so Dining Car, make real ones please. So much of the food is clearly fresh and homemade...why not the mashed? ***IMPORTANTLY...while Philadelphia is a northern city, it's southern side comes out with how many people drink iced tea daily. Dining Car shamefully serves instant/concentrated iced tea, instead of fresh brewing it. No diner in Philly can afford to blow two things: club sandwiches and iced tea. Dining car blows it at the latter. But overall, a great place to eat and chat with friends - highly recommended.
(5)Arseny R.
As good as a Philly diner gets. The pros: food is imaginative, plentiful, fresh The cons: food is on the heavier side, no credit cards accepted Verdict: too bad, I did not find this place 10 years ago
(5)A L.
Wanted someplace different to go to. I decided o look up Diners, Drive ins and Dives and found this place. Glad I did! Daughter had the chicken croquettes and liked it. Husband had the Oyster Po Boy Sandwich. He liked it. I ordered the Apple Cake French Toast. That was great! It tasted like dessert and breakfast atthe same time! Service was friendly. Will defiitely return.
(4)Baily F.
During our Philly trip, we hit up this place *twice*! In short, the reason was the cream chipped beef and the cheese fries. They were both just really delicious! The service was good and the place was clean, open late, and full of deliciousness. The prices weren't over-priced at all. The food was good, you got a great portion for what you paid, and it was totally worth the short drive outside of Philly downtown.
(4)Umi R.
I have been in this area for a very long time and I can tell you, this diner has CHANGED for the worse since the original owners retired. May still be family running it but they obviously missed something. First of all, the Dining Car is VERY expensive for a diner. Its the most expensive one in the neighborhood that I've experienced. Next, they don't even take credit cards. They do have an ATM where the surcharge is a nice extra fee. Next, the service there is slow. Doesn't matter when you go, what time of day it is SLOW. If you get something to drink, really nurse it since you don't know when your waiter/waitress are going to come back to check on you. They are pleasant enough to you. The food itself.. eh. I have had better. Its a bit lack-luster and you are left feeling like they got a good deal of money for the bit that they offered you. I don't feel its worth the cost. I have personally had food poisoning from this place at least five times. The reason so many times it happened was because the first 3 I thought it was something I had eaten before or after dining here. The last two times I ordered different things, thinking maybe something just didn't agree with me. I have several local friends who have all told me that they have gotten sick from eating here too. The bathroom sinks don't always work in this place either. Lots of times I have found them without soap, would tell the waitress and the response would be "Oh I know." and nothing would be done. After that happened the first time, I started bringing hand sanitizer with me. It makes you wonder how often the employees are really able to wash their hands. However, with all that said, this is one of the FEW places that is open late in the area. The service, while it is slow, is friendly and welcoming. The Bakery is very good and I recommend their cinnamon rolls, along with their goodies. The service in the bakery is like night and DAY compared to the diner itself. Wonderful service, great baked goods. I really recommend checking out the bakery and forgetting the diner.
(2)Rick A.
Best diner in North East Philadelphia. I come here every other week for breakfast and occasionally for dinner. Don't waste your time on their "famous" chicken crochets. They are quite awful for a featured dish.
(5)Michael F.
I've been to the Dining Car three times now in the late hours and have tried three separate meals. Had the famous pepperoni bread burger, my staple Western omelet and on a recent visit the famous Chicken Croquettes. The food has alot of potential to separate itself from other diners, but whoever is behind the griddle in the early AM hours is really providing a dis-service. On my recent visit, the Chicken Croquettes themselves were outstanding and maybe the best I've ever had, but they were sitting on top a pile of cold mashed potatoes, with cold gravy and after a few bites also not really warmed up correctly. A side of French Fries (are these really hard to screw up?) were obviously cooked about 2-3 hours before I even walked in the door. Ugg. The service is really, really, really S L O W W W here also. After waiting 5 minutes to get my first cup of coffee, I had to wait another 10 to get a re-fill. Don't people know how critical it is to never have to wait for a coffee refill. So Dining Car...please get the basics right. Better kitchen delivery and better service, and you'll have earned your right to be a notch above a run of the mill diner. I still think you're catching up.
(2)Michael D.
Hey i have been a long time patron at the dining car. It is one of the best diners that i go to. The food is always good and the prices are resonable. The only down fall is that it is always crowed. i will for sure be returning.
(4)Dave H.
After watching Diner's, Drive In's and Dive's I had to stop and try the famous Chicken Croquettes. Well, I was not disappointed. They were outstanding. The croquettes were home made, home made gravy, fresh green beans-not frozen. 2 Croquettes and 2 sides for 10 bucks including tax.
(4)Mary M.
I go here a lot and love it! Love the French Onion Soup and the Apple Walnut Pie is not to be missed. My favorite though is the Salmon Croquettes, even better the the Chicken ones if you ask me and the Mama's Chicken with the cornbread stuffing is fab! Oh yeah-try the chicken pot pie-- I love that too. On top of all this is the fact that the servers are really friendly and they have a bar.
(5)Michael L.
i was there a few wks ago went there after St Domincs 8400 Frankford Ave 5 o' clock mass. My Friend at First wanted to go to The Liberty Bell Dinner when he saw there ice cram and water ice stands but i said i was already there we had to go to the Dinning Car. We Got there after mass was a minm. wait mass crowd i had the chicken rice soecail with two sets of vegs i had stewed tomtoes and Green beans my friiend had the pep Pizza Burger the food and service were top notch and prices were reasonable and also they have alot of cute Waitress theres who ya could get to know if ya become a regular there at the dinning Car i will always come here over the Liberty Bell Or Mayfair when im in the 19136 zip code and also dinng car has tremounds Bakery every thing is so yummy looking
(5)Stella H.
This is really a 3-1/2 star review, but I'm bumping them up to 4 stars. because their service is very friendly (slow. but friendly. I chalk the slow part up to the cooking part, as it clearly states on their menu that everything is cooked to order and thus, might take longer than expected). There, that's out the way! We're originally from this area of NE Philly, so whenever we can, we visit the Dining Car. I love going to a diner and being called "Hon." There is something very comforting in that, and this is what you get at the Dining Car. Our very friendly and efficient server, Dolores was wonderful and made us feel welcome. She stopped by several times during the meal to make small talk, make sure we were OK, the coffee cups were full and that kind of thing. We really enjoyed Dolores. Hubby had a cheese omlet (our visit coincided with either breakfast or lunch) and I had the chicken salad club. It's pretty hard to screw up an omlet, so he enjoyed it with his side of sliced tomato (instead of home fries) and wheat toast. Their chicken salad is absolutely the best! Love their cole slaw too! Stopped by on the way out to pick up more chicken salad and more cole slaw from the bakery take out section, which you must visit. Their jewish apple cake is the best I've ever had. They make delicious pies too. Oh, and those butter cookies with the little dollop of vanilla or chocolate sitting in the center, yum! One more note, the Dining Car does not accept credit cards, but they do have a cash machine in their large vestibule. This place rocks!
(4)Gus J.
The place is a neighborhood icon. It is a family run business that has survived for years. That being said the food is typical diner fare. Nothing spectacular, but I have never gotten a bad meal either. Some of the specials they have are very very good, but they are not regular menu items. They have probably the best french onion soup in the city, and the service is always pretty good. Can't say anything bad about the place. It was just weird that they were on Diners Drive ins, and Dives. The croquettes don't have any seasoning in them really, and they are served over instant mashed potatoes, and the creamed chipped beef is like wallpaper paste. I guess to each his own though right? I will be going back for years to come.
(3)Mary Jane M.
My favorite local cheesesteak joint just around the corner from my favorite grandmother's house. And no, it's not a Philly cheesesteak or a steak & cheese, ya damn rebels. The chicken croquettes are pretty awesome too and I never would've tried them if my boyfriend hadn't seen them on TV.
(4)Shaggy V.
If you love your food as much as I do....just look at my reviews...nuff said! This place is a ABSOLUTE DO NOT MISS! The Fried Mushrooms and French Onion Soup are simply to die for and an excellent way to start a meal off here. You can't go wrong any way you go here as all the food is amazing....an thats an understatement.
(5)Noise J.
Ok so as far as diners go this one definitely hold its own. I've been to diners in the rest of the country and it's been a pretty grim experience. Greasy spoons are exactly that sometimes. Now I may be partial cause this is the place we went after Sunday mass and after things like my communion, confirmation etc... I remember sitting in mass at St. Katherine's thinking about what I was going to order for breakfast. Their French toast was always my favorite but the omelets and home fries kick some serious diner butt too. The dining car was recently featured on Diners Drive ins and Dives. They featured the chicken croquettes which I am NOT a fan of. They are very bland and the chicken is way too pulverized for my liking. The cream chipped beef is very good and the French onion soup is one of the best even beyond diner standards. Now if I were going to get ANYTHING from here it would have to be the turkey club. The turkey they use is not the slimy lunch meat but it's actual turkey. Always on white toast with mayo on the side... Yum. The dining car does everything from cheesesteaks to chicken or veal parm. I can't tell you how the veal is but the chicken is actually very good. Ie heard the stuffed mushrooms are a nice treat before a meal. Oh, their prices? You cannot beat this places prices. It can sometimes be a wait with their massive weekend crowds. During the week for breakfast or dinner you will usually just find the regulars sitting at the counter, a group from the local AA clubhouse and some other randoms characters. Another great thing about the dining car is that it Never closes! I mean ever... If you are in the area and it's morning noon or night or late late night for that matter and you want a cocktail,dinner,salad,breakfast,lunch, sandwiches this is your place. They boast a full bar and the bakery which is attached makes all their own baked goods. Everything from Elmo cupcakes to elaborate bakery favorites. Check out the dining car, is worth the trip.
(3)Amanda F.
We were seated quickly, a plus because the restaurant was packed, but service was a bit slow. I ordered an omelette that was a real disappointment. The eggs were rubbery and tasteless, the cheese inside wasn't melted, and the sliced tomatoes on top had a weird soapy dishwater taste to them that was kind of vile. The latkes were delicious (and served with sour cream!!) though. Everyone else (people ordered eggs, French toast, and another omelette) thought the food was OK, though I wasn't too impressed by the look of the homefries. In short: overpriced for what you get. Good things: the waitresses, though frazzled, were really nice, and we were able to sit for a bit after our meal was finished without anyone hurrying out, the bakery looked delicious, and the coffee was refilled often.
(2)Cccc B.
For being featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives on Food Network, I was expecting this place to really impress. Instead, it's like any other diner. The food is decent, the prices are decent, the staff are decent. Like I said, like every other diner. They do have a separate bakery, which looks pretty yummy.
(3)Hal C.
They say (whoever "they" are), "No use crying over spilled milk." But they never said ya can't WRITE about it :-) So on this , my second visit to The Dining Car, I sat at the counter. I happened to sit directly across from the milk station where a large steel milk dispenser was situated. And situated under the milk dispenser was a glass with a little milk left on the bottom. Next to the glass were a few puddles of milk and on the other side of the glass was a slice of lemon. And all of this mess was sitting there when i sat down, when I ordered, while waiting for my food, while I ate and when I got up to pay the check and I'm willing to bet after I left, too. During my entire lunch, food servers, managers, busboys and trainees walked right by this mess and not one stopped to clean that area. If this was a hotter day, it would have smelled pretty rancid in there. The lunch "special" was nothing special, Hey it's a diner. I guess they were on their best behavior for Guy Fieri, but some things have definitely gone downhill since his visit. I ordered the 1/4 chicken lunch. It was pretty tasteless except for the salt and pepper I added to it myself. On a previous trip I ordered from the healthy section of the menu - a turkey sandwich w/ spinach and cranberries. That had a bit more promise but again, it suffered a better review because the turkey was on the dry side. I probably won't go back anytime soon, except perhaps to try their buttercake. I was going to purchase one to take home, as they have a bakery on the premises. Wouldn't you know it...? They had run out of the one thing I probably would have enjoyed.
(2)James H.
Every time i order an ice tea, WITHOUT a lemon, The Dining Car brings me one WITH one. Was there one time when the electricity went out, had to eat in the dark, (as apparently they don't have any generators) Food is okay, its got the Dinery variety, but i can't say they make anything exceptional. The waitstaff has been pretty decent the few times i've been there, but the food is marginal. In the same price range as other diners, but the fact that they won't take credit cards, and shove a nice ATM in the lobby with a NICE BIG surcharge (that i would be surprised if they didn't get a cut of) kinda makes ya wanna go to Dunkin Donuts instead.
(2)Matthew R.
My wife and I love it here. The food is great the staff is wonderful. If you want a great diner experience come to The Dining Car. Don't be scared off if there is a line, even the longest line is 5-10 minutes. We have been coming here frequently for years and highly recommend. They are open 24 hours and have a great bakery. Try the Jewish Apple Cake also if you get the chance.
(5)Jason Z.
I really enjoy going to the Dining Car with friends and family. I've never had a bad meal. Sometimes, there can be quite a wait, but they keep the line moving. The bakery is also out of this world. I recommend the peperoni bread.
(4)C B.
Expensive for a diner. The stuffed mushrooms are great, people tell me the french onion soup is good, but it is way too salty for me. Over all they are over priced and with so many other competitors they really need to step it up. Went there late night with 8 people and the food came out cold. Don't take anyone here if you want to impress them.
(3)Rosalie R.
Yuck!!! Only go here if McDonald's is closed! I realize this is a diner so I had very low expectations going in. The menu and flatware were sticky. I ordered an unsweetened iced tea which was obviously not freshly brewed as it had a "mix" flavor and tasted slightly carbonated. I played my meal safe and ordered a patty melt (medium) - the burger was cooked okay - medium well as opposed to how I ordered but definitely good. I got the "deluxe" which included fries - where were served cold - and cole slaw "souffle" - I had no idea either...it was quite literally a tablespoon of coleslaw in a paper condiment cup. Lastly, they don't take plastic "in order to keep costs low but offer an ATM in the lobby" - I think they keep costs low by not using anything to warm the food and cutting down on any passable serving size.
(1)NEIL G.
we were in philly visiting swarthmore college since our daughter is a prospective student so we decided to drive the 28 miles from college to the dining car and market since we had seen it on the food network recently.boy are we glad we did!!!as you enter you can feel the homey atmosphere never mind awesome aroma of the desserts they sell to go.the service was excellent and waitress very polite and cheerful;the cream of chicken soup was tasty and delicious and the roast chicken melted right off bone;my wife and daughter had the roast turkey which was excellent as was gravy and stuffing.we topped things off with the aromaticly delicious jewish apple cake and chocolate mousse cake lots of calories but both well worth it!!!also when bread was served had cinnamon baked into the bread was very tasty.all in all the dining car was as good as advertised and well worth trip to philly for within itself!!!!!
(5)Bethany W.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like my diners to have cakes on covered stands, shiny vinyl booths and waitresses who call me hon. Add to that a dessert list that goes on for miles and a menu that clogs your arteries the minute you read it and you have The Dining Car - and one helluva diner. You won't get 5 star cuisine here, but you will get serious comfort food and breakfast all day. Down home offerings like the peanut butter and banana layered Fat Elvis cake round out what is undeniably a quintessential diner experience. Just be sure to bring your cash, as they don't take credit cards.
(4)Hannah T.
I LOVE THE DINING CAR'S FOOD!! they dont hav nice presentation but there food is delicious. and their food is VERY cheap.... one time me my brother my mom and my aunt went to the dining car for breakfast and it only cost about 10 dollars for all four of us!!!
(4)Kay T.
The cream cheese omelette is everything. It's a good change from regular cheese. I had coffee over the a Bloody Mary. Next time will try the Bloody Mary!!
(5)Lorraine K.
Excellent food. Good wait staff. Like first Sunday of the month breakfast specials. Easy to get to via I-95
(5)Debby H.
Skip this place. I was here a couple times a few years back and thought it was just ok. Yesterday it was on our route, so decided to try again. I cannot understand why so many people were eating lunch there yesterday. I ordered a turkey club $9.50 no fries & a teeny souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, running with mayo & the turkey roll (no kidding) was chewy to the point it was inedible. The waitress was nowhere to be seen. I ate the bacon and lettuce. I need to add that the sandwich was crammed onto a very small plate. Terrible. My companion's tuna on a roll was better, but I was shocked the $6.75 sandwich grew by 85 cents when tomato was added. Again no fries & too much mayo. The Onion rings we ordered were good. We got a small order. The ice tea was a mix and served in small water glasses. No refills were offered since the waitress was missing. When she came with the check, we asked for more tea which she brought. She never asked why most of our food was mangled and uneaten. Forget the fact that this place was on Diners Driveins & Dives. Not good!
(1)Krissi T.
Probably my favorite diner ever! French Onion soup is to die for!!! Servers are always friendly even when you and your friends are being loud and annoying after a night out.
(4)Sean T.
Negatives first, -The mash potatoes and French fries are NOT homemade! Doesn't take a chef to spot that. -No credit cards taken Positives, -French onion soup is delicious, non-diner restaurant quality. Thick layer of cheese on top and all the right flavors. -Potato pancakes are wonderful. I got them as a side with my chicken croquettes and they were crispy on the outside but creamy and smooth inside. I will always get them when I return. -Croquettes were tasty. To me, they didn't live up to the hype of being featured on DD&D, in terms of being special, but they were definitely tasty and simply good. HOWEVER, the bed of mash that they were laying on, disappointing, very disappointing. With the right mash, that specialness could come through for me. -Prices are in-touch with typical diners. -24/7 and I will definitely return for late-night grub -Friendly staff and available parking. The cash only rule doesn't bother me, there is an ATM on-site, only 4 stars because 5 star restaurants don't serve bagged fries and instant potatoes with good food.
(4)Joshua T.
Stopped in with a local friend, seeing as it was on Diners Drive-Ins & Dives for its famous chicken croquettes. The croquettes were pretty good, though the gravy needed more flavor and only a dollop was included on my side of mashed potatoes. I also had the green beans, which were green beans and not interesting in any way. With some salt and pepper they tasted like green beans with salt and pepper. I'm not sure why this kind of disappointed me; maybe eating at steakhouses where they always sprinkle a little something on their beans to zest them up has spoiled me. They probably would have been easily dismissed if not for the gravy situation. The cheese melt fries were quite delicious, and I had a chocolate pumpkin shake that brought the otherwise average diner meal up a notch (and thus a star). It wasn't overly busy, being a Monday mid afternoon, but the waitress still managed to forget my soup. We found out later it was nearing the end of her shift, as she transferred our check to another waitress who'd already been refilling our drinks and was spot-on. So the service is friendly, and nobody is *bad* at their job, but some are better than others. I'd be willing to come back to try their breakfast, reading over other reviews, but probably not the croquettes again, unless they kick their gravy up a notch or two.
(4)Veronica K.
Might I dare say this is the best diner inside the Philadelphia border? That's not a hard feat, but I'll tell you it's definitely the best in the Northeast. First off, their pies. Holy crap, their pies. Their lemon meringue is huge and wondrous, and their pecan pie is perfectly sweet and sticky. Their other pies are good too, but I stick to my favorites, and am never disappointed. Plus, I've never had a dish I didn't like. Never. Now that I've been going here for about ten years off and on, that's a pretty amazing feat. Others have mentioned them but I'll say it again- get the croquettes. They are amazing. I usually hate similar dishes but here they are great. They are great for being a diner, and I'm glad they fill their niche nicely.
(5)Stephen B.
2 of my favorites French onion soup is the best. And there cheesesteak Royal.
(5)Adriane W.
This place is hit or miss. I have been here for breakfast and dinner a few times and each time was a different experience. The food is not consistent (sometimes good, sometimes bad). And worst of all they don't accept credit cards! I know go figure in this day and age. The food I would give 2 stars but I added a star because the staff has always been friendly and the bakery actually has really good pies.
(3)Joffy J.
Not a big fan of this diner, I tried the chicken croquets which is known as one of their best dishes and did not find anything special about it.
(2)Rita G.
ok...before you read my review...you should know...this place DOES NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS! there is an atm on the premises...and yes, there are signs saying they don't accept credit cards in the doors. ok now onto my review: the Dining Car has been a favorite of my family since they opened. So I come here every other month just because they rock. I have never had a bad meal from here in my whole 27yrs of life. I'm not a picky eater, but I have certain meals i'll have over anything else. like French onion soup and salad, or a burger....simple stuff. I've had their chicken croquettes before they were ever featured on diners, drive-ins and dives...they are amazing. Came here one Christmas and they had turkey and ham....I had the ham....it was in a rich pineapple sauce and absolutely the best ham ever. Its a diner, so people go in not expecting much, but trust me....you should expect a great meal and to be fully satisfied food wise and price wise. They do get crowded, but the lines move along quickly. AND DONT FORGET TO GO TO THEIR BAKERY! I get my daughter's cakes here every year....simply amazing!
(5)Gina M.
This diner has been featured on diners, drive ins, and dives! It's also delicious. I haven't had a bad meal here. You tend to not expect much from a diner but this place always exceeds expectations. I've had a couple different things from this neighborhood favorite and everything has been great! You can't forget the bakery either that is attached. The baked goods are phenomenal. Everything there is so good. It's good for after a night of drinking or early for breakfast, like my mom and I used to do. Great service, friendly staff, never a wait, and incredible food. Definitely worthy of the 5 stars and the recognition from the tv hit: diners, drive ins, and dives! I'll be back sooner rather than later, I'm sure! It's a Gina M. Favorite!!!!
(5)J. Matt B.
Horrible service: Waited 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. Took our drink, comes back 20 minutes later, takes our order. She didn't come back to our table, no refills, nothing. 35-40 minutes later, we waved down another waitress to get us a manager. The manager came over with an attitude as if she couldn't be bothered. We told her the situation, no apology. She offered to give us another waitress. She was a lot better. Food came out five minutes later. Food was mediocre. There were seven of us and we all had different things, it just wasn't that great, rather plain food. Meanwhile there were a group of waitresses at a station and our old waitress pointed right at us and made a stink about us asking for another waitress. Very unprofessional. Long story short - Never going back.
(1)Melissa Z.
My must go to place when I'm in town. The BEST French onion soup ever! Liver & Onions is the Best! Mashed Potatoes & Gravy even their Creamy Italian dressing is something I crave! Been One of My Fav Spots my whole life!
(5)Joe G.
It pains me to write a negative review of this place but it seems the time has come to do so. Ate here for breakfast - there was a wait, but they do go through it quickly for which I give them credit. If there's a line, it won't last long. Can't blame them for being busy. We got sat, we both ordered eggs, potatoes, toast, and coffee. I got a side of scrapple and ordered my eggs over-easy. It took a good amount of time to get our first cup of coffee, more than it should have taken (over 5 minutes) and we didn't get offered a refill on coffee, or on my water, until when we were done eating - about 35 minutes between getting our first cup and being offered the second. I remember coming here not long ago and you'd never have a half cup without it being refilled. The food was a disappointment overall, especially considering how simple of a meal it was. My eggs were over easy, which means a runny yolk - these were just runny. The white was almost as runny as the yolk - no bueno. The potatoes (I used to say they did the best) had onions, which I loved because they used to cook the onions along with the potatoes giving the potatoes a great flavor. It seems that their method now is to dump a bunch of fried onions on fried potatoes - no magical potatoey-oniony magic going on there. Overall it was a disappointment from what I've grown to expect here. I'll be back, but another experience like this one and I won't be.
(2)Sondra C.
Excellent place for breakfast food, will always come here for that. Be prepared for long lines on the weekends during prime hours. FYI, they serve their own bakery bages, so these are not the hard, chewy kind, but more soft and bread-like. Hit or miss for lunch/dinner food. Some things we've tried: Chicken croquettes were good: simple with very little seasoning. Fried liver was chewy, due to being improperly cooked. Broiled flounder fillets were served plain - no butter or seasoning. Crab imperial special was burned on the edges and had more cream sauce and filler than crab.
(3)Christine L.
If you're up for a little drive-- then definitely go here! Great food, great prices, huge portions, friendly service, and always so consistent. I have never had a bad meal here-- this is a weekend brunch go to. It IS a diner-- so don't go with tablecloth dining expectations-- but definitely one of the best diners that I've been to. It does get crowded on the weekends-- but hey-- that's a good sign :)
(4)Laurie C.
very upset leaving the Dining Car Sat.night. Order breakfast at night. Not Smart. The sausage was soooooo hard on the ends and the potota pancakes were definetly NOT just made. Told the manager, who really should take a course in people pleasing and customer service, and she tried to argue and then was just plain rude and didn't answer back. This diner doesn't believe THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT!
(1)Carolyn L.
This diner is A-OK in my book. The menu is filled with slightly above average, slightly more imaginative diner fare. My fiance ordered the chicken croquettes, a favorite dish of his, as enticed by Guy Fieri. The meaty cones came on a bed of mash potatoes with gravy smothered overtop and accompanied by a soup, fresh baked dinner roll, and 2 sides of your choice. He was very happy with the croquettes and said he would happily order them again. I ordered the cream chipped beef, a favorite dish of mine, and was very pleased with it as well. The meat was abundant and smokey and it's sauce was creamy and rich. Served over toast and I subbed potato pancakes for home fries. I could not have been happier with my decision. The potato pancakes were AMAZING. Crispy on the outside, soft and kind of dense on the inside. YUM! The service is great! Everyone was SO kind, no complaints there. All in all, this is a fine diner, but is not really worth going out of your way for. If I lived in the northeast, I could see myself dining here regularly but it just wasn't enough to bring me back unless I was in the area again.
(3)Brian W.
This place just keeps getting worse and worse......The whole Diners Dumps and Drive -Ins tv show appearance must've gone to the owners heads because Guy approved of one dish. There are PLENTY of better diners around (within walking distance too). Save the aggravation and go somewhere else.......You can thank me later
(1)Shayla V.
My food takes forever and is mediocre at best. I feel kinda bad saying that, but I would rather be truthful than be a liar. Usually here for breakfast and I get pancakes or waffles, making sure I don't get my favorite (French toast) so it isn't ruined for me. It comes out lukewarm every single time. I wait for a long time to get a drink and then longer for my food to come out and not even taste that good. I'll give it the fact that it's usually pretty crowded and I go on a Sat/Sun morning, but you should still be able to deliver when you're super busy. I'll just keep this one at a "no thank you."
(2)Peter P.
Was there on a Saturday afternoon a few weeks ago. Got a burger and fries. Good burger. Not a frozen patty. Fries were crispy. Service was good. Décor was old. Alcohol available. Gets real busy on weekends. Average for a diner. Will be back. ...And to the guy below who didn't get his toast buttered...well, the government can't do everything for you. Get a butter knife.
(3)Jacqueline B.
Avoid this place like the plague, seriously. Food tastes old, mediocre grade. Waitresses are rude and do not check up on customers. You can be waiting FOREVER for your food sometimes. No credit card use. Terrible, just terrible. I'm a local and I hate this place.
(1)Bob H.
I have been eating at the dining car for 10+ years, sadly I will not be back. Over the years the food has changed, portions have gotten smaller and prices are rising. Although they say they will not accept credit cards to keep prices down. Keep prices down? I ordered a turkey club for $9.50 and it came with no fries and literally a small souffle cup of coleslaw containing maybe a tablespoon or two. The sandwich was soggy, and literally had 1 piece of bacon on if. This is probably one of the worst turkey clubs I've ever had. For $9.50 it should come with fries and actually have some bacon. My wife ordered a chicken ceaser salad. It's was almost $13.00! For a salad! She said it was just ok and rather large. Maybe the dining car should offer a smaller option for half the price? Total check for sandwich, salad and kids meal was $37.00..ridiculous! I don't mind high prices when food is worth it. We have had the exact same meal at a diner cape may for $25.00 As for the service.. Well it was terrible. We went around 3pm, which was change of shift. Not a good idea! It took 30 minutes for our food to come out. 30 minutes for a salad and sandwich. And their glasses are getting smaller, so more refills are needed but the waitstaff if nowhere to be found. Looks like we will be searching for a new diner in the far northeast and bensalem area. After being a loyal customer for 10+ years I'm done! I've given this place far too many chances! Maybe someday it will go back to the way it was.
(1)Frank P.
I am keeping this review as unbiased as I possibly can since I am not a diner type of person. But must give credit where credit is due. All their menu items are made fresh right in their kitchen and cooked nice and clean. Not the typical slop you usually find on your plate at most diners. Obviously a Philly favorite as the constant lines will tell you that.
(4)Steve K.
Ok, I'll be honest. if it was not for diners drive in's and dives we would never drive across Philly for this place. It's good - they don't take credit cards so others must think so as well...I find their waitstaff very nice, and the breakfasts - at any hour are quite good - burgers and lunchy stuff is good but not as nice as breakfast IMO. Only had dinners here once - had fish that was fine with decent sides, but IMO not worth a trip - OTOH I think the breakfasts are great... Deserts are hit or miss - some have been great other not so much...Coffee is unremarkable and they have a full bar...
(4)Joey R.
What a fantastic diner! This is definitely one of my favorites in the Philly/south Jersey area.
(4)Caitlin C.
Ive been coming here since I was alive. They serve special breakfasts every weekend which are amazing! Things that have been included: Jewish Apple Cake French toast, eggs over silver dollar pancakes with crab meat topped with hollandaise sauce. They're also inexpensive, usually under $10. They have dinner specials every night which are always yummy and fresh.They include soup or salad, entree, and dessert for usually under $15. Top things to get there: creamed chipped beef, cinnamon dinner rolls, Bloody Mary, eggplant parm. Everything there is good. It's diner food so don't expect fancy food, however it's not bland diner food. Easily the best diner in Philly.
(4)Kimberly G.
The past weekend, I had the unfortunate experience of going to The Dining Car. Overall I was displeased with the service and quality of food. I made sure to take pictures of the hash browns which were more like boiled potato slices because there was very little browning/frying and they were mushy. I have been to The Dining Car before and had a much better experience. That is why I am so upset and motivated to write a review. My first experience was with my college best friend who came to Philadelphia to visit. We were seated promptly, satisfactory service and good food. My second experience I was with a black man. The service was appalling! The waitress (Renate) acted as though she was scared to even give us eating utensils. Instead of placing them in front of us, she threw them down across from us. We were served food after several parties that arrived after us. Ms. Renate, did not ask how the food was, and only came back to give us the check. We had to ask another waitress for water. Microaggression? Misunderstood? I am not sure the reason for such poor service. However, if this is a whites only establishment, there should be a sign posted.
(1)Jill M.
At here for dinner tonight. The bread is sooooo good, especially the cinnamon rolls. I would come here just to eat them. Food was good and the server was great. They have a bakery with a variety if treats for eat in or to go. I will definitely be back.
(4)Monica P.
I drove past this place a few times a week for a year, and one day we decided it was something to try. Good things first: the cake was amazing. We had a white cake and a chocolate cake, both with strawberries. The white cake was light, sweet, delicate and moist. The chocolate cake was rich and very sweet, but the sweetness complimented the strawberries. All the strawberries were very fresh and ripe. The waiter we had was very attentive, very nice, and was great with our 3 year old. But: the hostess was a bit short with us. We mentioned we had a little one with us and wanted to seat us in chairs near the door. We asked for a booth and that seemed to frustrate her. She stuck us behind the server station so we got to have butts in our face during most of our meal. There was a lot of, "Excuse me," and, "Sorry," being said between us and the staff. Everything we got was great except the pizza rolls. They were really doughy, maybe underdone. The sauce was pretty good, though. In all, this was a great place to eat. Edit: Went back, service was way better. All the food was amazing. We all especially loved the fried mushrooms and sauce. I got a turkey BLT club, and the turkey was perfect. The cash-only thing is still kind of annoying.
(4)Ken H.
I give the diner 3 stars and 5 stars for the bakery, so I'm averaging it out to 4 starts overall. The Jewish Apple Cake is fabulous! I often bring it to family gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, and everyone loves it.
(4)Tanya M.
Good food, good prices, always open. The only take cash but have a ATM on site the desserts are awesome and the staff professionals
(5)Angel G.
I tried this place because I saw it on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. What a big let down. I had flown into Philly earlier that day and it was rainy and cold. I was really looking forward to this place and to some good home-style cooking. Nope! I had the meat loaf... horrible. It looked like cat food and the gravy was no good either. The steamed vegetables were too overcooked- no flavor what-so-ever. Mash potatoes bad. The chicken croquettes which Triple D hyped were alright and really nothing to write home about. Wasted meal really. Oh and the kicker cash only establishment- c'mon get with the century peeps. Most of the wait staff looked like good people. My waitress was very attentive.
(2)Elizabeth C.
I have been going to the dining car since I was little. You can always get a good meal here. The baked goods are also great. I got my son's cross cake for his First communion here and it was delicious. Some of my favorites. Chicken croquettes, French onion soup, roast beef club, chicken cheesesteak, patty melt, fries mushrooms, chicken cheesesteaks, French toast, cream beef on toast, apple walnut pie, angel food muffins. Ashley is a great waitress.
(5)Jenifer S.
once again we stopped here for dinner on a Sunday and were very satisfied with the cheery and fast wait service, the good prices and range of items on the menu. My son had the white meatloaf with gravy that he loved and that came with cinnamon rolls, with Fat Elvis cake for dessert that he also liked. I had a stuffed-with-large-chunks of chicken salad on a kaiser roll and hubster had onion soup (too much cheese goop!) and a salad. We were all quite happy with the bread and rolls, coffee, water service, and a very decent martini. This is not our first visit and we will definitely go there again! Also wheelchair accessible (although I'm not sure about the bathrooms in this regard). Parking lot was packed (as usual) and it's relatively easy to find off Rte 95.
(4)Dan L.
Can never go wrong at DC. Never don't start your meal off with either mozzys, crock of French onion, or both.
(4)Maureen M.
Love, love, love this diner! Had grilled ham and cheese on their homemade apple bread and it was magically delicious! Cole slaw and potato salad were good too. My kid liked her chicked fingers, mom liked her burger, we all left happy and full. Desserts looked so good I had a hard time choosing but settled for the Apple Walnut Cheesecake which was great. Next time I'm going for the Fat Elvis cake! And to top it off The Dining Car also sells mixed drinks on the cheap. My new favorite diner!
(5)Michael G.
It's been a long time since I've eaten in the diner side (that's because my all-time favorite NE Philly diner is the Liberty Bell), but I needed a pie, and Dining Car makes their own everyday including awesome loaves of bread. I don't think the Liberty Bell does. Got a very tasty Lemon Meringue pie which the whole family enjoyed along with a loaf of French bread.
(4)Heather S.
I have been here many, many, many times over the last 4+ yrs. My most recent visit was on Friday March 7, for breakfast. It was very busy in there! But we had no problems waiting. I got a swiss cheese & mushroom omelet with potato pancakes and a side of bacon. I liked the fact that our waitress asked how I'd like the bacon cooked. That was a nice touch! My dining partner got scrambled eggs with potato pancakes as well. My omelet was cooked perfectly and had a great amount of mushrooms! Nothing beats swiss + mushrooms, I'll tell you that! Now the potato pancakes were nice and dense, but not as crispy as I prefer, but that's okay. Coffee refills were easy to come by. Other waitresses would walk by and ask if we needed a refill. I liked that. 2 weeks prior I had been to the Mayfair diner, it wasn't as busy as The Dining Car was, and our waitress there was ...well, she seemed like she was new or something. So it was nice to have the great service that we did at the Dining Car. I'd come back for breakfast again! I did stop in the bakery and purchased some treats. They had St. Patty's Day themed goodies that I picked up for friends and I got myself a loaf of sugar free Jewish Apple Cake. My friend enjoyed her Irish themed treat, but I have to say that the Jewish Apple cake was very dry and could have used more cinnamon. Oh yeah, one thing I noticed -- no sugar substitutes at our table. I was going to ask the waitress for some, but thankfully my friend had some with her! My prior visit to the Dining Car was in July after a concert. My friend had a burger and fries. I had chicken fingers and potato pancakes. No issues there. Many times before that I've been there with friends after a night out to get some cheap drinks. Some of their drinks were $3-$4 and VERY STRONG. That was a few years ago, so the prices (and potency) could have changed.
(4)Katie H.
I never really stopped here before. It's a little out of the way for me, but for the prices, it is so worth it! It's open 24 hours, so you can grab anything from breakfast to an entree at midnight. The service is quick (I was there around midnight on a Thursday). I tried a bit of the Purple Cow Milkshake. It is so unique and it's a great mixture of flavors! I had the French Toast. It was so good, and I had a great sized helping. Totally worth it!
(4)George M.
Soup was too thick (Creme of Chicken and creme of cauliflower) for our tastes. Baked chicken overcooked and very dry, bread stuffing taste like it came from a box and not home made. I guess we were really hungry as we eat most of what was served to us. Server forgot that we order soup as an extra and did not charge us for it. If need be, we would return to this restaurant in Northeast Philadelhia but only after our other options would be exhausted. Does NOT accept credit cards!!!
(2)Monica Y.
Came here to eat breakfast over the weekend. The waiting line grew out the door but, I felt that it moved pretty fast. The food was decent and the price was either reasonable or inexpensive. My only complaint is that they do not except debit or credit card payments. You need to have cash which was a bit of a pain :/
(4)Jessica S.
I love this place! I could be biased, since I've been coming here with my family since I can remember. It's been a while, as I've moved to Elkins Park, but today I decided to grab some take-out, and this place did not disappoint! I love their cinnamon rolls. Their Russian dressing is awesome. I always love their salads, and this is the only place I know of that actually uses radishes in their salads. Huge plus! They also had their baked mac and cheese today, which is fantastic, and the chicken croquettes are wonderful. I needed some heavy comfort food today, as I'm finally getting back to normal after a bout of food poisoning that might have come from some salmon at Buddakan. This meal from The Dining Car was extra satisfying!!
(5)Jim B.
The food they have is good, but the selection is bad. In particular, the menu changes to less variety strictly at 11:00 p.m., and a mandatory 15% tip is required and added to the check. They are not able to sell the evening soup or vegetables with a meal after 11:00 p.m. because the computerized cash register won't process them after that time. The help says that nothing can be done. That was a year ago, and I didn't go back until this morning, when I had breakfast with a friend, who mentioned that there was an actual owner named "Nancy", who was on the premises today. I asked if I could speak to "Nancy" about my concern, and got the manageress, who said the owner was in a meeting, but could take messages, which she offered to write down. When the manageress heard from my friend that I wasn't a regular and hadn't been there for a year, she threw the message away.
(2)Lenny D.
Merp
(3)DJ M.
The Dining Car & Market has been in business for 50 years, although it has had three different names and locations. The streamline shiny diner that you visit today was actually built in 1979 and trucked over from New Jersey. It is one of the largest diners I have been inside and the decor is very diner like with a bit of art deco feel to it. The owner has worked hard since he was 16 years old to build a strong clientele, which the staff knows how to move tables in and out, yet you are never rushed. Erin was our server and what a delight, so friendly and personable, but all of the servers seemed to really love their job. Of course there is a very long counter with stools, the coffee urns, refrigerated and non refrigerated in house baked goods begged for me to hop over the counter with fork in hand and sample each one. The cool thing about this diner is, if it is on the regular menu, breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have any of it 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, the only day they are closed is Christmas day. There are several dining rooms and a full bar, I could not help but notice, they never used a tray, not for beverages or food. Your drinks never go empty and teamwork seems to be spot on here. Many of the locals know that this restaurant is famous for their Jewish apple cake, French onion soup and the very best chicken croquettes you will ever eat! Okay, that bears repeating, the chef is known for his chicken croquettes and they are outstanding and where in the world can you even find them today? They tout that they are a "scratch" kitchen and the menu changes four times per year to allow them to shop for local ingredients. At four in the morning, according to Erin, they are grating potatoes for potato pancakes, which again are so delicious, almost as good as mine and probably the best I have ever had out... So why do they make instant mashed potatoes? Why do they use frozen fries? You have these beautiful pillars of croquettes made with so much love, delicious creamy chicken gravy, only to scoop up potatoes that came from a box? I'm in a diner and I adore French fries with gravy and get a rich brown gravy on the side, but I'm dipping frozen, pale, not crisp or golden, semi warm fries into my gravy? I won't make those two mistakes again. It will be difficult to order anything other than the chicken croquettes and grated potato pancakes again, but I will, since they have anything you can think of on the menu. Baby calves liver with onions, yuck, Salisbury steak, pork and sauerkraut, stuffed cabbage, steaks, seafood dishes. The menu is actually quite mind boggling, if you want kielbasa and sauerkraut at 5am you can have it. To start I had a huge order of fried mushrooms with a horseradish sauce, there must have been thirty mushrooms, no joke! Hubby had an omelet with home fries with peppers and onions and one pancake. He wasn't eating it with very much enthusiasm and I mentioned that his omelet looked dry and very well done, he agreed that it was, plus that and his pancake were lukewarm. I wish they would have brought it straight out when finished, rather than holding it until my croquettes were ready. I'm picky about my omelets, I like them done, no runny egg, but please do not burn them and cook them until they are bone dry. Their soups are good homemade soups and they have an in house bakery, which has it's own attached building and can be entered from the restaurant or from outside. From the bakery, we bought a small double chocolate cake, which comes in two sizes, a lemon meringue pie, two huge eclairs, a French apple pie and a poppy seed roll. The double chocolate cake was not a dense fudge cake, but a much lighter sponge type cake, the lemon pie is delicious, we have yet to sample the other items, but so far, so good, not the best baked goods in town, but they have a very nice selection. I'm torn between A-Okay or Yay, I'm a fan, so 3.5 and I guess I'll have to return. Did I mention they were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives? Cash only!
(3)Victoria L.
I have been going to the Dining Car since I was in diapers. Their food has always been great, especially for diner food. I'm a huge fan of their Bloody Marys. Their bakery is also top notch. We got a custom-made shark cake for my nephew's birthday party and it looked and tasted amazing. Overall, a great place to try if you're in NE Philly.
(5)Mallory D.
Maybe it is just me, but when I go to a diner I really don't expect to be blown away. I just expect quick, cheap & decent food. The Dining Car is really no exception. The food is decent, service is good (for a diner) and it is reasonably priced. Their bakery is excellent. rarely will you have to wait for a seat, sicne this place is pretty expansive. Get the potato pancakes though-they are incredible.
(4)Stirling M.
Sunday Funday breakfast!! Awesome potatoes pancakes, there bakery has slot of choices and super fresh. No credit cards but there ATM is in house Old school servers take care if you like your the boss
(4)Suzanne S.
As much as I am NOT a fan of diners, I was impressed with the dining car. The service was excellent and the food was inexpensive. I had a cheese omelet with home fries well-done, and well done was exactly how they came out. They were crispy and delicious. Based on the Yelp reviews about the chocolate chip pancakes, i decided to order one and see for myself. They were perfect. Not too much chocolate, not too little either. In my opinion, pancakes are hit or miss at most places and these pancakes deserve two thumbs up. The coffee was also very good quality. Next time I am in the area, I will go back.
(4)Kevin J.
The Dining Car is pretty good. Except for the salad, which was a meager portion and disappointing in flavor (resulting in an automatic star deduction!), we enjoyed everything else. My friend had the roast chicken over rice special. It was a fairly large plate and came with two side dish vegetables, soup/salad. (Future note: Always get the soup!) I had a pepperoni and cheese roll burger, which came with marinara sauce and choice of grilled or raw onions. It was too messy to pick up, as the sauce inundated the roll, but I would definitely order it again. It was only $8. Came with fries, which were average. Came with a shot of cole slaw. Everything's freshly prepared. On the particular Saturday night that I visited, the kitchen ran out of a few popular items such as baked mac and the flounder special, and there was a short (15min) wait for a table but service was A+ despite the rush. The menu ranged from $8 to $17 for most entree items, $5 for breakfast and $3 average for dessert. Cash only, ATM in bakery (lobby). Be prepared and don't get stuck using their ATM.
(4)Bar F.
I do not see what everyone raves about. I live 5 minutes away and come here now and then Why? Because the only other options are fast food. First, the service generally leaves a lot to be desired. The waitresses at the counter apparently have a very poor system of determining who will wait on who. They seem to be under the impression that another waitress is taking care of you and ignore you. The food is average at best and often lacks seasoning or is very plain. It is surely not exceptional diner food. Yes, Diner's Drive-In's and Dives came here a few years back. To their discredit, the chicken croquettes that they made famous are little more than a slightly upscaled chicken McNugget tossed on a bed of mashed potatoes and smothered in bland gravy. I'm convinced they only ended up doing a show here because they were on their way down I-95, took the Academy exit and saw that it was either a fast food joint or this place.
(2)Jen K.
Excellent food. Nice friendly staff. Never fails. The apple walnut cream cheese pie is about one the most delicious things ever.
(5)Kisente F.
My brother and I came here to because of Guy Fieri's DDD show. The restaurant looks a little old and have the classic Diners decor. The place is crowded like most yelpers wrote. But, the first thing I noticed was the wonderful smell of the baked goods. I told myself immediately I have to try one of those great desserts. Our service was very attentive even when she have about 4 other tables to take care of. Unfortunately, I can't say the same about our food. I had the pork chop, needless to say, I enjoyed the soup, salad and bread more. My favorite part was the fresh apple walnut pie. I couldn't believe how good it was. I had to share it with my family and they LOVED IT! I would definitely come back for the baked goods.
(3)Kim D.
Service sucks don't know about how the food taste we been waiting 30 to 45 minutes for meals. Four table that came in after us are on desserts the place is bad
(1)Allison L.
I've been here more times than I can count and typically order the same few things. The ham and cheese omelet/hashbrowns is a pretty good breakfast option, and the BLT is nothing special but I seem to order it over and over. The cinnamon buns that they bring out before your meal might be better than anything else here I've ever had, and the Jewish Apple Cake is probably the second best.
(3)Nicole V.
I don't know how I never gave a review as I have come here for years. I don't go as often as I used to but I do like it. Normal diner food, (the menu is overwhelming) but I would rather come here than most other diners. The delicious bakery smell hits you as you walk through the door. Sometimes I have had forgetful servers and besides the time (circa 2008) when the power went out and we ate in the dark, I usually have good experiences. Make sure to bring cash!!
(3)Joe P.
Food poisoned and sick for 3 days We went in for a late night meal around 11pm. The place looked interesting from the outside and we had heard it was a local favourite. Inside we discovered the place was dirty. the waitress took the order and we didn't see her again. I had the turkey club sandwich (which was dry) . I ended up getting food poisoning and was sick for three days. Never will go here again or recommend anyone else go either
(1)Jack R.
I live around the corner fron this place, & really the only thing that I would come in here for is the cream chipped beef for breakfast (the beef is home made, & tastes it!!). It's very good, but the portions are small (I don't mind paying, as long as I don't leave hungry, which happens here!!), & this place is not cheap or even moderately priced. They are expensive (how do you think they pay for those commercials, folks?), & you better bring cash, as they don't take a credit card. Again, don't believe the hype!!
(2)Michele P.
I do indeed enjoy certain aspects of the Dining Car - however I must give the pros and cons. PROS: 1) Absolutely the most delicious chocolate chip pancakes I've ever had. I would not suggest them if you don't like huge amounts of chocolate chips. I've been told by numerous waiters/waitresses to order the short stack because no one can finish all three due to the chocolate. Being the stubborn woman that I am, I always order three and leave at least one or one and a half on my plate, hahaha :) 2) Even on busy weekends, they seat you fast. This place definitely draws a crowd at all hours of the day and night. All ages can be found here. 3) I'd say that 90% of the wait staff has been friendly and speedy in my visits. 4) For drinkers, there is a bar which I personally would never have thought this place would have a bar. 5) No problem finding parking 6) I don't know what everyone else is smokin', but I find the prices to be insanely cheap (and I'm not complaining!) CONS: 1) The bakery: YUCK!!!!! I have quite a sweet tooth, so whenever I go out to eat, I must try the dessert. The bakery holds a wide variety of cupcakes, cakes, pies, bagels, etc. that LOOK yummy but are far from it. I once bought an eclair that was literally rock hard and could have broken my tooth or someone's car window. I tried a cupcake on another visit, same problem. As tough as it is to pass up dessert, you're doing yourself a favor with this one. 2) Not the cleanest diner in the world, but then again, it is a diner so you can't expect five star quality. 3) Not a huge fan of their other food choices expect breakfast items, I've just never been pleased with any of it. ***Shout out to our favorite waitress Jane who works overnight and hooks us up with extras! Everyone should try this diner at least once... I bet you'll come back for at least seconds! PS: A lot of Philly sports fans come here after games due to the location on Frankford ave being so close to many area bars.
(3)Erika S.
Hmm, not a huge fan of this place. I've gone here a lot in my life and each time the experience is just never what I am expecting. I usually get a super rude server and the bill always seems a bit more than you'd think it would be for food that is not even that great. In my opinion, there are way better diners in the NE than this one. But, for what ever reason, it gets a lot of hype for being the best.
(3)Erik E.
After seeing the Chicken Croquettes on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (on The Food Network), I knew this place was a must see on my Philadelphia trip last spring. I was not disappointed! I came here late, straight from the airport as soon as I landed, so the place was not very busy. It was a good sized place. Lot's of seating. I got a booth, and a very friendly waitress set me up with a menu and a tall glass of milk. But I already knew I wanted the Chicken Croquettes. The Croquettes came as a dinner with some options, so I had a cup of chicken soup and mashed potatoes. The soup was very good. Big chunks of chicken with lots of pasta (orecchiette). Also some corn (or something ... I don't remember). But the croquettes were awesome (see pictures). Packed with flavor and a nice fried crust. Creamy on the inside with plenty of herbs and minced chicken. The dinner came with two cone shaped croquettes with mashed potatoes and chicken gravy. Awesome! Exactly what I had imagined when I saw it on The Food Network. I would go back for these in a second!
(4)Marisol R.
One of the worst diners i have ever been too...... Had the deviled crab cake... And dats exactly what it tastefd like. Crabmeat tasted old as hell. The waitress did not bother to ask us if we wanted anything to eat...... We had two small ass glasses of water, which were done with one sip. There was no signage as to the no credit card policy, had to go to an atm... My husbands bagel tasted like dirt... He only ate the eggs and bacon..... NO TIP!!!!!!!!! HORRIBLE.... HORRIBLE.... FOOD. UUUHHHHGGGGGGG............
(1)Jason V.
I should preface by saying that I and my wife pretty much come here on a weekly basis. It is our Sunday ritual. And there is one reason for that... THE FOOD. Of all the Northeast Philly diners, the Dining Car has the most consistently excellent food. It truly is the SAME every time that you come. The menu is a tad more limited than some of the other diner menus, but I think that's because they do what they do and they do it well. They don't want to add a bunch of fringe crap that they aren't experts in. Their food is overwhelmingly why the public beats down their doors every weekend. Some disclaimers... They have a line system to get in. You enter the foyer and there is a line you must wait in to get into the diner itself and to the hostess... You do not put your name in. Also, this diner is cash only. They do have an ATM in the foyer. As for negatives... Service can be hit or miss and depends heavily on the server. There are 3 or 4 excellent servers, the rest can be on the slow and "forgetful" side. The kitchen wait can sometimes be lengthy, but I don't want to kill them for this because a) it is usually very busy when we go, and b) the food rocks, so they can take a few extra minutes. All in all, the food is worth the trip to the Dining Car.
(4)Michele M.
The last time I went here was two years ago. The experience was less than great hence the two year hiatus. Recently, I decided to try again by taking my kids there for lunch/supper. What a giant error on my part. I'm not sure what happened at the Dining Car. It used to be the "go to" place in the NE for good diner food. Not so much anymore. The food was subpar. When we got it, it looked like it had been sitting for a while and the temp was tepid. Our service was also lacking. I'd like to blame everything on it being crowded or understaffed, but I can't. We went on a relatively dead day. And when I mentioned my dissatisfaction to the girl at the register when I paid, her attitude was essentially "oh ... sorry". Now picture saying that in the most deadpan voice possible. I know a lot of people praise the Dining Car for certain things like their Jewish Applecake. I'll give credit there. Their baked goods are really good. Alas, that doesn't make up for the restaurant part. Once upon a time, the Dining Car was a tiny little boxcar like diner that served phenomenal food. Not anymore.
(1)Jeanne P.
I've been here a lot, so it's about time that I reviewed it! It's diner food. Nothing extremely out of the ordinary, but I enjoy it. I REALLY like the Turkey Orange Cranberry burger that comes with sweet potato fries. I also like the quiche. I always find myself drinking a lot of coffee while I'm here as well. They're cheap and they pretty much have everything. I definitely give a thumbs up to the service. It gets a lot of traffic from groups after AA meetings and they are always welcoming, even it's 20-30 people dropping in on the fly. They always manage to ace all of our orders and get it out in a timely fashion (though no one is ever in a rush). Granted, the servers probably know by now the tips they'll be getting, but the service never falls short.
(4)Sam L.
I love diners, yes I do! I love diners, how about you? A good diner in Philadelphia, like a good man, is hard to find. A lot of joints that used to excite childhood Sam no longer do, because they've gone so incredibly downhill, and rather than feel nostalgic about them, I only feel nauseous about them. That's what can happen when you no longer remember how to cook your bacon. Anyway, this place has endured the test of time, dining car and all, and they serve up a fully loaded menu of excellent comfort food options. Their desserts, which come from straight their adjoining bakery, are top-notch and probably as good as it gets for standard diner confections. Especially when we're talking about their "Fat Elvis" cake. When I choose 'gluttony' from the seven deadly sins during a DC outing, I choose "Fat Elvis." You should strongly consider it, too. You can't really go wrong with moist vanilla cake layers hugging a light, airy combination of whipped peanut butter cream and banana pudding. Then, to add the mother of all cherries on top, they go ahead and ice it in caramel buttercream. It sounds ridiculous because it is. But it's also delicious! The Fieri-hyped chicken croquette meal is my go-to here, despite a myriad of menu distractions beckoning me to order something new. These little chicken dunes of goodness, which are served on a bed of mashed potatoes, are creamy and rich on the inside and crispy on the outside, especially when you order the gravy on the side like I do. I'd found them out long before Diners, Drive-ins & Dives discovered them, and they haven't changed a bit, thank goodness. Comfort food is rarely this comforting. If you're in search of a classic diner daydream, come here. This isn't a finer diner by any stretch and sometimes, that's exactly how I like it.
(4)Joe D.
What can you say about Northeast Philly diners, other than they are consistent!! They have menus that look like books, but you need to know what to order. Don't go with some specialty item unless you see people eating it. Staples at any Northeast 24/7 diner: Breakfast (Anything) French Onion Soup Cheese Steaks Coffee Bakery Cream Chipped Beef Anything else is anyone's guess.
(4)Nyerra H.
I have to start be saying I'm a Philly native and diner junkie I'm not easily swayed but I must say the service was great. I like the cozy family vibe, perfect for Sunday brunch. The noise level was average for a diner in philly on a Sunday. I sat in a booth for a double brunch date. I had chicken croquettes and mash with gravy. The croquettes were crispy on the outside and decadent in the inside, perfect textured gravy gave it all the right ingredients for a fantastic comfort meal. It was delicious. I also had the cream of chicken soup so I was fully clucked out. I will definitely be coming back for the cream chipped beef and philly favorites; scrapple.
(4)R T.
This remains one of the best diners in Philadelphia for a host of reasons: 1. It's not owned by "Michael" that has bought up so many other diners and changed them (in some cases to a sickening degree, and in many cases eliminating home-made food items once made by earlier owners at those diners). Dining Car is unique. 2. Dining Car clearly communicates to customers its desire to be creative with food. Brunches are commonly promoted for Sundays with interesting specials. Seasonal items are frequently rotated through, leading to some surprising finds on the menu from time-to-time. 3. The service is almost always friendly and usually efficient. I have never felt rushed out even at busiest times. 4. Items such as chipped beef are better than everywhere else (they hand cut the beef and they also do a great job putting it over excellent home fries with onions rather than toast if you prefer). Cream cheese omelet is amazing and no one else has it on the menu (I have ordered it at other diners and have been told "Oh that's a good idea - we should put that on the menu"). And other items like "white meatloat" are excellent, as are desserts such as apple walnut pie and French apple pie. 5. Coffe is good: not too weak, not too strong, and refilled usually quickly. Same goes for refilling water. 6. Diner is justly proud of it's long-standing reputation with customers and for its consistently good food. Only a few suggestions... **It's time to fully renovate the bathrooms. They're clean, but ugly. **While one understands the rationale behind not taking credit cards; it would be nice to be able to use a credit card there. **Mashed potatoes are so popular and often paired with your best entrees, so Dining Car, make real ones please. So much of the food is clearly fresh and homemade...why not the mashed? ***IMPORTANTLY...while Philadelphia is a northern city, it's southern side comes out with how many people drink iced tea daily. Dining Car shamefully serves instant/concentrated iced tea, instead of fresh brewing it. No diner in Philly can afford to blow two things: club sandwiches and iced tea. Dining car blows it at the latter. But overall, a great place to eat and chat with friends - highly recommended.
(5)Arseny R.
As good as a Philly diner gets. The pros: food is imaginative, plentiful, fresh The cons: food is on the heavier side, no credit cards accepted Verdict: too bad, I did not find this place 10 years ago
(5)A L.
Wanted someplace different to go to. I decided o look up Diners, Drive ins and Dives and found this place. Glad I did! Daughter had the chicken croquettes and liked it. Husband had the Oyster Po Boy Sandwich. He liked it. I ordered the Apple Cake French Toast. That was great! It tasted like dessert and breakfast atthe same time! Service was friendly. Will defiitely return.
(4)Baily F.
During our Philly trip, we hit up this place *twice*! In short, the reason was the cream chipped beef and the cheese fries. They were both just really delicious! The service was good and the place was clean, open late, and full of deliciousness. The prices weren't over-priced at all. The food was good, you got a great portion for what you paid, and it was totally worth the short drive outside of Philly downtown.
(4)Umi R.
I have been in this area for a very long time and I can tell you, this diner has CHANGED for the worse since the original owners retired. May still be family running it but they obviously missed something. First of all, the Dining Car is VERY expensive for a diner. Its the most expensive one in the neighborhood that I've experienced. Next, they don't even take credit cards. They do have an ATM where the surcharge is a nice extra fee. Next, the service there is slow. Doesn't matter when you go, what time of day it is SLOW. If you get something to drink, really nurse it since you don't know when your waiter/waitress are going to come back to check on you. They are pleasant enough to you. The food itself.. eh. I have had better. Its a bit lack-luster and you are left feeling like they got a good deal of money for the bit that they offered you. I don't feel its worth the cost. I have personally had food poisoning from this place at least five times. The reason so many times it happened was because the first 3 I thought it was something I had eaten before or after dining here. The last two times I ordered different things, thinking maybe something just didn't agree with me. I have several local friends who have all told me that they have gotten sick from eating here too. The bathroom sinks don't always work in this place either. Lots of times I have found them without soap, would tell the waitress and the response would be "Oh I know." and nothing would be done. After that happened the first time, I started bringing hand sanitizer with me. It makes you wonder how often the employees are really able to wash their hands. However, with all that said, this is one of the FEW places that is open late in the area. The service, while it is slow, is friendly and welcoming. The Bakery is very good and I recommend their cinnamon rolls, along with their goodies. The service in the bakery is like night and DAY compared to the diner itself. Wonderful service, great baked goods. I really recommend checking out the bakery and forgetting the diner.
(2)Rick A.
Best diner in North East Philadelphia. I come here every other week for breakfast and occasionally for dinner. Don't waste your time on their "famous" chicken crochets. They are quite awful for a featured dish.
(5)Michael F.
I've been to the Dining Car three times now in the late hours and have tried three separate meals. Had the famous pepperoni bread burger, my staple Western omelet and on a recent visit the famous Chicken Croquettes. The food has alot of potential to separate itself from other diners, but whoever is behind the griddle in the early AM hours is really providing a dis-service. On my recent visit, the Chicken Croquettes themselves were outstanding and maybe the best I've ever had, but they were sitting on top a pile of cold mashed potatoes, with cold gravy and after a few bites also not really warmed up correctly. A side of French Fries (are these really hard to screw up?) were obviously cooked about 2-3 hours before I even walked in the door. Ugg. The service is really, really, really S L O W W W here also. After waiting 5 minutes to get my first cup of coffee, I had to wait another 10 to get a re-fill. Don't people know how critical it is to never have to wait for a coffee refill. So Dining Car...please get the basics right. Better kitchen delivery and better service, and you'll have earned your right to be a notch above a run of the mill diner. I still think you're catching up.
(2)Fran S.
It has been a long, long time since I have been to this northeast landmark. My last experience I remember vaguely as not being very good. However; today we had a good breakfast at the dining car - the potato pancakes were awesome! My husband enjoyed his cheese filled omelet and the portions were just right for us. I liked that they had veggie and turkey sausage on the menu and I think it will make a good breakfast place. The serve was attentive albeit not overly friendly, which was perfectly fine with us. The prices were in line with other types of diner fare.
(3)Marc T.
the menu was falling apart, the whole place was just kind of sad.
(1)Colleen L.
I had a very enjoyable breakfast at The Dining Car. We were there around 11am on a weekday and the parking lot was packed. Despite that, we were seated immediately in a nice booth. Our waitress was friendly enough, and service was definitely not slow. We placed and received our orders within the span of 25 minutes. I had french toast with a side of pork roll (super yum!), my fiance had two fried eggs with bacon and home fries, and our friend had a spanish omelet with scrapple and potato pancakes. The home fries were really good, but I was super jealous of my friend's potato pancakes! My fiance was a little disappointed that the egg yolks of his fried eggs were not runny at all. He asked for fried eggs with no specificity, so if you are particular about your yolks be specific when you order! The atmosphere was great. I'm from Jersey, the land of diners, so I can be pretty picky. Everything was so clean- no greasy film on the lights/windows/utensils. I didn't buy anything from the market, but all of the treats looked delicious! I would definitely come back to fulfill my diner cravings.
(3)Michael D.
Hey i have been a long time patron at the dining car. It is one of the best diners that i go to. The food is always good and the prices are resonable. The only down fall is that it is always crowed. i will for sure be returning.
(4)Yorkie L.
My visit was in the late hours 2am+ The resturant was nearly empty and service still was slow and refills even slower. We were a table from the soda dispenser and it was hard to not get up when u see the waitress chatting and we r thirsty but I remained civil. So, I started with the French onion soup. Not the best but not bad either (Outback soup was way better). The cheese was very thick and gooey near the end I gave up trying to eat anymore. But the flavor and onions were good. Next were the fried mushrooms. One word....GROSS!!!! The thing that I didn't enjoy was when u popped them in your mouth u experienced an explosion of nasty mushroom juice. The mushrooms were flavorless too except for the breading. I also burned my mouth on the first one so be careful if u do order these. My cousin ordered the pizza bread and it literally was worse than what comes out of a frozen box. Even salt didn't help this poor appetizer. They were out of the chicken croquettes sadly.... So I ordered a bannna split for my main entree. Only because this desert was pleasurable did i go up a star....otherwise I say don't go late at night when food and service is low quality.
(2)Kelly S.
The Dining Car is my local diner, and I'm pretty attached to it. I've been going there for as long as I can remember. It's on Frankford Ave., just south of the I-95 Academy Road exit. It's pretty big for a diner, and I always manage to get seated really quickly, even when there's a line (which there always is on Sunday mornings). The waitresses are almost always friendly, and the food is pretty consistent. It's not the best food I've ever eaten, but it's good for diner food. I think their lunch food is better than dinner, so I usually only go for lunch. I'm a big fan of their chicken cheese steak and turkey burger. They don't take credit cards, as fas as I know, but they do have an ATM in the entryway, so you can withdraw cash if you need to. What puts this place in the 4-star category instead of the 3 is not the food so much as the bakery attached to the diner. Their bakery makes some amazing desserts, from butter cakes to cookies. Yummy. The best part is that you can order the same dessert from the menu if you go there to eat and don't want to buy an entire cake or pie. Their peach pie is really good if you are there for a meal. Check it out if you're in the neighborhood. I think this is one of the better diners in Philly.
(4)D S.
As far as diners go, DC has it going. They are very consistent, when things are not right, the management takes it seriously and addresses accordingly, and they have some all time great things here such as: french onion soup- never tasted better, fresh fried mushrooms with horseradish sauce- very good, chicken cheese steak- awesome, bread pudding- love, cream cheese omelet- amazing, cheese fries- best cheese for fries ever, and as others have mentioned- creamed chipped beef, chicken croquettes (minus instant mashed), coffee, apple walnut, bakery...the list goes on. I have visited a lot of diners and DC has staff retention. ..I am sure some staff have been there over 30 years. Make sure you try one of their signature dishes and you shouldn't be disappointed.
(4)Sean D.
When you think of food in 19114, you have to consider the Dining Car. A well known tradition in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. I must have gone there 1,000 times it seems. Now I wouldn't say everything on the menu is awesome as thats why I gave it 4 out of 5 stars but there are some really good dishes especially for the price points. My top favorites there are: Breaded Pork Cutlet with brown gravy Chicken Croquettes Omlettes Pancakes You are looking for a quick place to grab a bite or even some take out, consider checking out the Dining Car.
(4)J W.
Yes, the food is good but this place is just so crowded all the time. I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get the chicken croquettes because of my seafood allergy and I guess they fry them in the same oil as the seafood. So maybe they need to change that. But their menu is big so it wasnt a problem to find something else. The staff was friendly too.
(3)Daria M.
There isnt much around this area, but this is one of the better diners because 1 - you can get drunk there 2 - they have their own bakery (but what do I care since I barely eat pastries anyhow) ... what I care about is they have fried mushrooms, and they're not half-bad. They give you a MASSIVE amount though, if I ate them all I'd be sick. Great with a beer, a nice place to chill and have a conversation and a greasy snack. However, I'm not a big fan of diners and this place is just OK in relation to what's around it. If there were something better around, I'd never go here, and as it is, I rarely do.
(2)Ketchup Love R.
Never again! Went for breakfast one morning, wasnt too crowded, so we were seated right away. Waitress came over shortly after we were seated and took our order, brought us coffee, and that was the last we saw of her. 45 minutes later, we were still waiting for breakfast, coffee cups and water glasses empty. Finally, a food runner (or another waitress) came with our food, which by that point, we didnt even want, I just wanted out of there. Needless to say, we ate cold food and didnt have anything to wash it down with. Finally, our waitress ran by, mumbled sorry, and dropped the check. I'm a little mad at myself for not saying something right then and there at how horrible the service was.. I just dont like to cause a scene. Needless to say, I'll never be back.
(1)