Set the scene.
For nearly 100 years, Kellogg’s Diner has been a mainstay of North Brooklyn. Situated on the bustling intersection of Metropolitan Avenue, Keap Street, and Union Avenue in Williamsburg, this landmark diner has been a Brooklyn institution since 1928.
For the past decade (perhaps more), it has desperately needed a facelift. Thanks to renowned design duo Nico Arze and Matthew Maddy, the beloved institution has recently been given new life for a new generation of diner enthusiasts.
Arze and Maddy’s approach respects the diner’s storied past while introducing modern elements to enhance the stylish yet timeless 75-seat space. They rely heavily on just four main materials: stainless steel, mirrors, terrazzo, and glass.
Subtle touches like painted glass and terrazzo add unexpected elegance, while the curved ceilings and mirrored bar retain their nostalgic charm. The space’s warm, golden glow, combined with hints of dusty mid-century modern pinks, balances retro flair with contemporary sophistication.
The sweetest addition is perhaps the dessert case at the end of the bar, adorned with vintage lettering and sparkling with the promise of something sweet fit for your inner child.
What can we expect from the food?
Under the expertise of Executive Chef Jackie Carnesi, the menu fuses American diner classics with influences from her Texas roots.
Start with appetizers like Deviled Eggs complete with pimento queso and chicharrones; Loaded Cashew Queso served with guacamole, pico de gallo, and chips; or Flat Nachos topped with steak fajita, refried beans, melted cheese, and pickled jalapeño. Then, dive into comfort food staples like the Turkey Club, Fried Chicken Sandwich, and the Kellogg’s Burger, stacked high with a 7oz dry-aged beef blend patty, lettuce, onion, and special sauce.
Entrees are always enticing, ranging from savory Tex-Mex staples such as Enchiladas Suizas and Poblano Meatloaf to more robust platters like the Chicken Fried Steak and Pescado Divorciado. Breakfast is served all day, including Guajillo Braised Short Rib Hash, Texas French Toast, and the Rajas Omelette.
No visit to Kellogg’s Diner is complete without one (or two) of Pastry Chef Amanda Perdomo’s delightful desserts. Her sentimental takes on great American classics include Strawberry Pretzel Salad–pretzel shortbread crust, cheesecake, strawberry Jell-O, and whipped cream–the Passion Fruit Tajin Icebox Pie, and Red Eye Chocolate Cake featuring layers of espresso, chicory coffee, and dark chocolate frosting.
Plus, a dedicated sundae menu is a treat within itself. The Chocolate Mint Brownie Sundae is composed of chocolate mint ice cream, hot fudge, and a brownie, while the Caramel Banana Cookie Swirl Sundae is filled with rich caramel banana ice cream, caramelized bananas, and butter cookies.
With shakes, floats, and sodas rounding out the dessert options, there is no shortage of delectable goodies at Kellogg’s Diner.
Tell us about the drinks.
Award-winning Bar Director Chris Amirault was inspired by New York City’s “melting pot” of cultures when devising his beverage program. All of his cocktails and the techniques they call for are derived from various cultures. His Cosmopolitan is more reminiscent of a lychee martini, while a Paloma meets the Screwdriver. Even the s’mores-inspired Old Fashioned is served with a toasted marshmallow.
Final thoughts?
The revival of Kellogg’s Diner marries nostalgic diner elements with modern design and creative cuisine, making it a standout destination in Williamsburg.
Top Takeaways
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Address: 518 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, New York
Cuisine: American
The vibe: Indulge in Tex-Mex-inspired dishes, sweet treats, and craft cocktails at this revitalized diner, which boasts contemporary chic digs.
Pricing: $
Takes reservations? Yes–Resy
Our favorite dish on the menu: Don’t skip the Flat Nachos or the Strawberry Pretzel Salad.
The attire: Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Kellogg’s Diner is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
