a time capsule in brooklyn. any establishment thats been in business since 1936 you know is consistent. the 2x2, two eggs and two pancakes was solid. read more

It was a crowded Saturday afternoon but we got seated almost right away, everybody was so warm and welcoming and friendly! I loved the staff here! They recommended the cinnamon roll pancake and it was amazing!!! I'm usually a savory brunch person and never get sweets, but my friend wanted it and it was out of this world. Also I loved the crab cakes & eggs!!! The crab cakes had pieces of crab in them and fried to perfection. Sweet potato waffle was just okay, but they kept the coffee coming and we left very satisfied. CASH ONLY. read more

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What a wonderful little spot. I've passed Tom's almost every day for the last five years and never gone in. The place greets you with such a warmth, it's the kind of thing that no matter how hard a new restaurant tries to create, it can only be given by a place that's been around as long as this. The food was excellent and came out diner-fast. Scrambled eggs with perfect firmness, nicely spiced and not overcooked home fries, and one of the most interesting turkey sausages I've ever eaten (in a good way)! I should note - I'm a bigger guy, and the booths are extremely tight. They're old, I'm big, it's really no one's fault but my own, but if that's something you're concerned about it's good to know going in. read more

I simply don't understand the hype here. It's serviceable in the most basic of ways. The old-school diner charm is overshadowed by a mediocre eating experience. I wouldn't go for it at all purely due to the food quality which feels like they're trying to chase you away with it so they can make space for new patrons. Our waiter was fantastic and I was sure to give him a great tip. Food portions are large and filling but the food itself is not good so what's the point? I would give Tom's a very mid 2 out of 5. They'll work well when you're really hungry and need that diner fix but honestly if you're seriously hurting for a real retro diner -- go to Metro in Manhattan. read more

I was initially taken aback by how dirty this restaurant is. The floor is filthy. I ignored my better judgment and ate here because it was late in the day and I had a craving for pancakes for a week. I ordered fluffy pancakes, beef sausage and coffee. The half and half for my coffee came with a fruit fly floating in it. So I nixed the coffee. Flies were happily flying around the restaurant. the pancakes were dry and fell apart and the beef sausage was ok. They didn't fry it hard enough. You know how beef sausages pop in your mouth when fried just right? This sausage didn't do that. I was hungry so I ate about 1/3 of the pancakes. The bottled water I brought helped me swallow those dry ass suckers. I came here because of the reviews. Yelpers missed the mark on this spot. read more

Tom's - Beef sausage - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I've had this brunch spot known for their pancakes on my list for a while. I finally had a chance to go with a small group of friends. We only had to wait a short time until we were seated in the back area for outdoor dining. There were still Christmas decorations up, which gave the place a fun, festive feel. I was having a tough time deciding between Danish Pancakes, or Crab Cakes Florentine. My friends urged me to go with the pancakes, since that is their claim to fame. I ordered the Danish Pancakes and was satisfied with my choice. I also asked for a side of Hash Browns, which I did not enjoy, so I sent them back and got some Crab Cakes instead. The Hash Browns were too soft for me and the seasonings had a weird taste to them. The Danish Pancakes had zest of lemon, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and blueberries. This was served with homemade flavored butters and maple syrup. They were delicious! There were yummy bits of blueberry throughout, which were juicy, as well as sweet, and slightly tart. There was strong taste of lemon and ricotta, which was a lovely mix. I couldn't discern much of the Parmesan flavor, but I didn't mind that. Crab cakes were simply delectable. They were delightfully crispy, well seasoned, with great crab taste. They came with a savory, spicy, and creamy remoulade sauce, which was so good that I kept dipping into it, even though it was too spicy for me. To end the meal, I had Tom's Famous Egg Cream - I chose the chocolate flavor. Despite the name, there is actually no egg in this drink. This cold beverage consists of milk, carbonated water, and chocolate syrup. It was topped with a beautiful dollop of whipped cream and heavy sprinkling of cinnamon. Mmmm. Quite tasty, very light and fizzy, just the right amount of sweetness, creamy and velvety smooth. Service was decent. The waiters were pleasant and kind. I would consider returning to try the Cinnamon Swirl Pancake with Frosting (or Fall Special Pumpkin Walnut Cinnamon Roll Pancake) and the Sweet Potato Pancake, as well as Tom's Famous Cherry Lime Rickey. read more

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Besides good service, this place was a huge letdown. Trying to justify ever having been told that it is good place to eat by anyone, this place was largely disappointing on many levels. The meatloaf was bland and tasteless and old meat. If that is your delight, this is your place. The $4 fountain drink was lacking carbonation and fizz. During COVID I would have given this place a pass. That is now years ago and they need to be accountable for how they present food. read more

Clean, bright, and busy, Tom's serves breakfast all day long. Arriving just before 10am this morning, we beat the crowds and were able to get a table without a wait just before a long line began to form out the door and around the corner. I ordered a bacon omelette with cheddar, which came with toast and home fries (not to be confused with French fries), but I didn't really eat the sides, as the omelette was enough for me. In terms of quality, this omelette was pretty middle-of-the-road, but after trying a few bites, my boyfriend decided it was much better than his eggs Benedict. (He did appear to like the Benedict though.) The coffee was fine. The service was very friendly. It's cash only, but they have their own ATM up front if you find yourself empty walletted. Though this isn't *the* Tom's Diner, that didn't stop the song from getting stuck in my head. read more

We had a filling breakfast - a yummy veggie-cheese omelette, and pancakes, washed down with, of all things, a to-die-for chocolate egg cream. The staff were lovely, especially Mario. Tom's has a lot of history, and even has a congressional commendation for service to the community! Seating was plentiful, with a back room, and interesting photos and decorative items. read more

A fun little dive diner with wood paneling. It feels so classic inside and I love this kind of sticky, no frills breakfast spot. The food can be hit or miss (amazing waffles; omelet's cheese was still in its shredded/pre-melted state; delicious pancakes; home fries had a strange vinegar taste) but the prices are great. A really nice little neighborhood gem. read more

Tom's - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Carlos and Wilfredo thank you for the great and kind service really made our day after having a very early morning and bad experience at the hospital. They were great at customer service and making sure they stayed attentive and sweet. The coffee refills were on point and the food was really good as usual. Loved the pancakes wish I tried something other than the lemon ricotta with blueberries because I always go with that. Heads up you have to use the butters that's the signature they have a homemade strawberry and blueberry butter and I forget the other one but they are all good and go amazing with almost anything almost put it in my coffee lol None the less this is me and the fam go to spot when in crown heights looking for good and affordable breakfast read more

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This hidden gem really hits all points! From being welcomed by a nice young man, to having our order taken by a gentleman who obviously knew his craft(...He needed no pad to take our order, strictly from memory! Clean, well prepared awesome food, excellent menu choices, amazingly quick service, complete with friendly service! Thank you Jason, you made our visit special with your warm friendly conversation, we felt like family! We'll see you all again! read more

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This is all you need to know.... Lemon Ricotta Pancakesssss!!! This is a spot that is no frills with all of the down home feels. Service is nothing to go crazy about and that's not always a bad thing. The staff brings your food, fills your drinks and leaves ya alone which I kind of appreciate. Go here!! read more

When on my vacation in New York, my friend wanted to take me to a diner! A great place with awesome food for an amazingly affordable price. I was very impressed with the corn beef hash at Tom's. I am happy to say it is the best corn beef hash I have ever had for breakfast. It was delicious. The servers were also extremely friendly and attentive with refilling my friends coffee cup, our waters, providing extra napkins. I also ordered a hot chocolate midway through the meal and it came promptly. As we were leaving, around noon, the line to get seated was pretty much out the door! Definitely a popular place. A must go to for when I come back to New York again. read more

Tom's - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Covid review! They have outdoor seating around the back. We got there around 1pm for their brunch and it wasnt too busy. Atmosphere: the seating area had a few heating lamps. Our table was unfortunately not heated but for 30 degree weather and windy the enclosure did a pretty good job. Service: they were quick to seat us, take our order and bring out the food so no complaints there. Food: Some huge goods and bads here. The quantity is satisfying. Steaming hot and an overflowing plate. However, the food was kinda bland or off tasting. Rice and beans lacked seasoning and the tortillas on the huevos rancheros were not crispy and barely even cooked. Ive had good experiences with their meatloaf but todays food didnt hit the mark. Next time I come I will try their pancakes! read more

Tom's - Huevos Rancheros and Corned Beef Hash - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Much ado about nothing, simply put it's just ok. If you're hungry and looking for a place to eat, this is the perfect spot. The food comes out pretty fast and it has a great price point. But outside of that, it doesn't offer much else. I still encourage others to go, I just won't be back. Nothing negative, just wasn't worth standing in a long line outside. read more

The mighty have fallen, ate there last year, and the eggs Benedict looked like it had been made at a campsite, gave it another shot today, just plain awful. The bacon that I got served with my eggs was a massive unidentifiable piece of protein that was partially cooked. They are living off a reputation that was created with loving care by the previous owners. Prospect Heights is in desperate need for a good quality diner read more

Super cute spot Fries were banging 2 hot sauces on the table Clean Nice stained glass Pancakes were falling apart Some whipped butter would've been nice Overall......... satisfied! read more

Tom's - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Now that marijuana is legal in New York City, this must explain why people are lining up at the door to this boisterous, chaotic, crazy, grimy joint. They are either stoned, or have the munchies, or both. I had a bunch of different things,I tried a bunch of different friends things, all breakfast related, which is their specialty, I think. I don't know... I was not puffing on the pipe, so I didn't have the munchies, I had to judge it based on whether the food was good. I did not find that to be the case. Plus, I'm not into the whole, soup Nazi type environment where you must line up and be grateful for food that seemed frankly pedestrian. I know this is rough words, but, it's one of those things where the hype of the comfort zone outweighs the actual comfort or goodness. I'm glad I now knowthe legend of Tom's. read more

Nothing about this breakfast experience was good 0/10 DO NOT RECOMMEND! The single star is because can't give ZERO stars. The only thing I enjoyed was the coffee which is the bare minimum for a diner especially in NYC. We had our order wrong 3 different times and NO ONE WAS INTERESTED in making it right. We came here hungry and left hungry AND frustrated! All I can say is DONT DO IT. You'll be glad you skipped this spot. Luckily the owner was super accommodating after we explained but I wish it didn't come to this. happy didn't have to leave any money read more

Love Tom's diner, been coming here since I was a child. Growing up in crown heights many things have changed except for Tom's, service and food is spectacular. You must try their pancakes! The best of the best super fluffy and delish. Eggs any way you like them, bacon is always super crispy. Silver pancakes come with 10 "mini" pancakes but mini at Tom's are actually medium size so beware of that. Service is super fast Cash only Street parking read more

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Everything you want in a weekend breakfast spot. Crowded and chaotic but that's part of the time. Lots of families it was a Saturday morning. Everything we had was delicious. But I don't need to tell you that based on that thousand plus reviews for Tom's. read more

Tom's - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I didn't even get the chance to take photos but please don't let that deter you! Went at 11:30am on a Sunday and there was no line. Things move very fast so don't get on line unless you're ready to be seated. We received our food maybe 15 minutes after being seated? I'm not sure but these guys move quick! And somehow we still didn't feel rushed. My friend and I both got the 2x2x2, I got the cinnamon apple pancakes and she got the harvest pancakes. They were phenomenal. We both got cherry lime rickeys, tasted like childhood. Highly recommend this diner, I'll definitely be coming back. Also, they're cash only! read more

Having brunch here was such a treat today! The ambiance was very calm and chilled back from other experiences I have had here on weekends where it's packed with 2 hour waits. Our waiter was so kind and funny, and very attentive the entire meal. We knew that we wanted a variety of different food options and Tom's didn't disappoint. First we got the danish pancakes since they are known for pancakes. They sounded a bit odd on the menu (Parmesan cheese and blueberries??) but trust them on this one, it was epic -10/10. The eggs Benedict was also super satisfying and hit the eggs craving I was having, with some delicious home fries to top it off. If you come here- make sure to try the cherry soda drink( blanking on the name) that is unique to the diner, it's truly incredible. Definitely coming back here soon:) truly what Brooklyn is made of. read more

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There was a line but moved quickly. Food order was taken quickly and came out quickly. Had the veggie omelette, side of bacon and a single chocolate chip pancake with a chocolate shake. The eggs were cooked a little too hard on the omelette but was still good. The potatoes were chunky and good. The chocolate chip pancake was my favorite. Chocolate shake was not the best chocolate shake Ive had, tasted more like chocolate milk, maybe i should have ordered a malt so it was thicker. Overall, great diner to check out. read more

I lived around the corner from Toms from 2005-2009. I was a regular with my husband and made friends with Gus and the waiters. Left NYC for DC and came back in 2022 with my husband and our son. The waiters remembered us. I mean come on - after 12 years(?!). Such great service. Solid diner food. Higher prices than before but worth it for a legendary family business that serves love alongside each plate. read more

Tom's - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Not sure what all the rave is about but this place is OK, nothing special in my opinion. The pancakes were a bit dry and everything else was mediocre. Service was amazing though and the line may seem long but they move pretty fast. I probably wouldn't come back here but I wouldn't discourage you if You wanted to check it out. I just would not advise you to get the fluffy pancakes. The prices aren't bad either but you must have cash. There is an atm machine inside with a 2.75 charge Just in case you do not have cash on you. read more

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Been going here since before I can remember. Walking in feels like a hug from an old friend, though there's been some changes post pandemic. Prices are a bit steep but I love their pancakes (lemon ricotta or blueberry especially) with a side of sausage. Classic diner food with the sweetest service and a really cool interior which reflects the place's rich history. read more

I've been wanting to try Tom's for some time now.. pre BBG visit or just happened to be in the neighborhood on a Saturday.. well pre- COVID there were lines out the door especially on the weekends: the hype, small space etc. I also have recently read some new reviews and was a bit perturbed about what I read: the service. So I decided to have a late breakfast before heading to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. I figured it's Thursday 1pm, there won't be lines. I arrived and entered the restaurant knowing I wanted to sit outside. There was a gentleman, who might be the owner, who was talking to a patron and saw me standing and waiting. He continued to talk and I eyed a waiter. The waiter asked me where I wanted to sit. I told him outside and he said " no problem". Unfortunately, all outdoor seating were occupied. So, he said "go inside and sit wherever you like". The diner inside was empty. I found a small booth and looked at the menu ( they still supply paper menus). As I reviewed the menu I also scanned the decor: faux Tiffany lamps and framed glass, walls adorned with review and clippings. Really cool vibe.I was torn between ordering my usual: egg white spinach and mozzarella omelet or the 2 for 2 combo.. the combo consists of 2 eggs, 2 pancakes and bacon; I ordered the omelet. Omelets come with choice of home fries, or fries or grits and toast. I opted just for home fries no toast. I ordered a cup of coffee and I must say it was really good; piping hot and fresh. The waiter served me water promptly. My omelet arrived and I must say the portion was plentiful. So how good was it? It was tasty but I've eaten better. First off, a bit salty and watery: the spinach was not drained properly but there was enough melted mozzarella. The home fries were tasty but I should have ordered them crispy and very light on the butter. All in all a tasty meal indeed. The waiter was professional and courteous. So here's why it rates 3 stars only: 1. When a waiter brings the check I prefer thank you, hope you had a good meal and I'll check back. I really don't like " do you need change back". When I feel service and meal are exemplary and am paying by cash, I will hand the money and say "Thank you it was great". 2. The staff are friendly and courteous. However, if the man who saw me enter was the owner.. honestly.. he needs to learn how to greet customers. Especially after a pandemic, he should be grateful there are patrons dining in his establishment. I know I would if I was the owner. 3. The food is good but not great however, I've only dined here once so I'm willing to give it another go. There should be a star for the decor; I really think it's very kitschy and homey. Tom's don't get too comfortable or rest on your laurels; there are a plethora of eateries on Eastern Parkway and I'm an avid visitor to BBG. I would like to find a place where I'm a regular. On that note the ball is in your court... read more

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Typical authentic NY diner with fresh sandwiches. Fast service - cash only. They have an ATM. read more

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Great breakfasts and cool lunches worth a ride if your not a local It's a favorite of ours and we travel to Tom's from Rockaway read more

Good solid breakfast, not great, not bad. A prototypical local diner, not a chain, the kind I see fewer and fewer of. Unfortunately. This is exactly what we were looking for and feel fortunate to have found. Your basic omelettes, potatoes and coffee. Decent service. Fairly priced. Nothing pretentious. If that is what you are looking for, stop looking and stop in! read more

Just what the doctor ordered. We stayed just around the corner during our trip to Brooklyn and this was our favorite breakfast spot when we weren't just grabbing bagels on the go. This place has been here for ages and you can tell why. If you come during peak time expect to stand in line to get a table but it's worth it. The service js friendly and the food is delicious. Reminds me of an old school diner and has that hole in the wall feel. The danish pancakes were great and the bacon comes crispy (just how I like it). I'll definitely be back here next time I'm in the neighborhood. read more

Tom's - Danish Pancakes -- blueberry, lemon, ricotta, and Parmesan -- yum! - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

The truth is that this spot is definitely a memory for the locals as opposed to a meal to enjoy for those who want a real breakfast. The charming atmosphere doesn't match the lack of flavor present (or absent for that matter) in the food. The lack of flavor could be forgivable if the texture wasn't also really bad. The service was fine and the waiters were generally hospitable. I cannot say that this is the worst restaurant I've been to, but it's certainly one of the most disappointing diners I've been to. With most of these issues, I have no reason to leave a review, but what made this place review worthy, was the fact that is cash only. For the owners, I hope that whatever legacy you previously had, do not lose it by letting the quality of your food go to waste. read more

A bit of nostalgia! This place is all about the charm of an old school diner back in the 1930's, when it was first opened. This is greasy spoon diner food. It's not for someone looking for gourmet fusion or healthy food. They serve huge platters of breakfast foods. Also on the menu are burgers, sandwiches and quesadillas. It's all about the breakfast, which is served all day! Huge platters of omelets and potatoes! Nice and greasy strips of bacon! Pancakes as big as your head! Waffles and french toast. Drown them with flavored syrups. This place is everything an old fashioned diner should be. The walls are covered with some well known people who have come to check out this piece of nostalgia. The walls covered with all sorts of odds and ends that have added a bit of the history for all these decades that this place has been around. They are best known for their pancakes with over a dozen different varieties, some unusual like: streusel pancakes harvest pancakes (lemon zest, ricotta, parmesan cheese, blueberries) mango walnut pancakes supreme panckakes (blueberry, mango, walnut) sweet potato pancakes cinnamon roll pancakes There is a few old fashion bar stool seating in front of the counter. As for space, it's very cramped. Tables are very tight together. And depending were you are sitting, there might to a wall of customers waiting like literally right next to your table. They also have an small enclosed patio area, in the back. Ordered: Chicken salad sandwich. It was rather plain and basic. One slice of toast was burnt on one side but, that's all part of the old school diner charm. Rootbeer float. So totally delicious!!! With a big scoop of ice cream and a huge heap of whipped cream! Crabcakes Florentine with french fries or home fries (english muffin, spinach and feta cheese, 2 crab cakes and hollandaise sauce). Ok at best. The spinach feta combination was a bit salty. The crab cakes were very thin and seemed like mostly breading. The sauce was orange in color. Not sure what it was. Didn't try them but they are known for these drinks: Tom's famous cherry lime rickey and Tom's famous egg cream. Service was great. It's packed during weekend brunch times. There is no fancy reservation system or list. Just wait on the line that snakes out the door and around the block, like everyone else. Final note: Like I said this is a basic greasy spoon diner food. So if you are ok with that, then you will love this place. It's has a very nostalgic atmosphere! Cash Only! read more

Tom's is a diner that has been around since 1936. While Tom's may be an interesting visit for its lively ambiance or its history, the food here is average. Food: OK (3 of 5). Dishes We've Had: - Crab Cakes Florentine: The spinach was over salted. - Chicken Salad Sandwich: The chicken seems to be from a canned source. - Root Beer Float: Pretty good. Service: Good (3.5 of 5). We waited approximately half an hour for seats. The wait staff came around while we were waiting on line and while we were waiting for our food to offer French fries and a horseradish dipping sauce. read more

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A Brooklyn landmark with the retro decor, great food that is served quickly. Be prepared for the line but its worth the wait.

Food was okay. A little over priced in my opinion. Super busy though so people must not mind paying the prices. All the workers are super busy and it's hard to get their attention. read more

Tom's is a super cute & homey diner in Prospect Heights. Highly recommend their fries (& chipotle mayo for dipping!!) and variety of fun pancake flavors. Two things to note is that they are cash only and on Saturday & Sunday mornings there is often a line out the door. read more

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Before walking the park we looked for a nice breakfast spot to sit at with outdoor seating. We were craving some pancakes and this place seemed like a good hole in the wall restaurant (usually places like that have the best most simplest breakfasts). I ordered the eggs Florentine which were good but I prefer fresh spinach over frozen. It came with a spicy mustard tasting sauce which was delicious. The home fries were also really great. I was craving some pancakes so I ordered a plate for the table. We got banana walnut pancakes which were AMAZING. probably the best pancakes I've ever had to be honest. Just typing this out is making my mouth water! They come with 3 kinds of flavored butter. I'd definitely be back for breakfast again as this place was decently priced for excellent food and in a really nice part of Brooklyn. This experience makes me happy to support local businesses! Highly recommend! read more

Tom's - Eggs Florentine Combo came with a spicy sauce - Diners Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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