There is certainly no shortage of diners in New Jersey. In fact, the state is synonymous with them. But Carnegie Diner & Cafe stands apart by bringing a modern, New York City vibe to Secaucus. The massive 6,600-square foot diner can seat 199 guests inside and another sixty outdoors under a canopy of vines.
In reference to its namesake, one of the diner’s focal walls is a from-the-stage view of Carnegie Hall. In addition, the expansive bar at Carnegie Diner pays homage to the city it came from, featuring subway tiles throughout. “The interior design pays homage to the amazing performers that have been featured at Carnegie Hall,” says Stathis Antonakopoulos. Stathis is the executive chef and owner. “The art on our walls is a reminder of the history, art exhibition, and memories of those performers.”
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Big City Menu
Carnegie Diner boasts an expansive all-day breakfast menu. Items include the classic Benedict (with optional addition of lobster); avocado toast; a BLT quinoa bowl with chopped bacon and poached eggs; steak and eggs; and three eggs any style with hash browns and bread. Of course, they also serve dozens of pancakes, waffles, and French toast options. The diner exclusively uses local organic eggs for all their breakfast items. “We believe we have the freshest ingredients and a modern upscale spin on the classic diner,” Stathis says.
The menu even includes a full page of plant-based options. In particular, Stathis says the signature plant-based omelet is an ideal substitute for eggs. Likewise, he raves about the plant-based gyro. “You cannot tell the difference between it and the original meat-based version.”
Lunch and dinner entrees range from rib-eye steak to spaghetti carbonara. Meanwhile, the burgers at Carnegie Diner are certified organic and made fresh daily using their secret blend recipe. The Amazing Burger, for instance, uses a mac and cheese bun and is a fan favorite. Their two-course $29.95 pre-theater menu encourages pairs to enjoy diner and then a movie at the neighboring theater.
Desserts include the diner’s Instagram-famous 24-layer chocolate cake as well as pies, cupcakes, and over-the-top milkshakes. Over-the-top milkshakes include the Chocolate Pancake Strawberry Milkshake, Brownie Extravaganza, and Oreo Cookie Cake Milkshake.
About The Owner
Stathis began working at his grandfather’s hotel and restaurant in his native Greece at age 18. He then became Director of Operations at Kellari before opening his own restaurant, STIX. Stathis is CEO of Carnegie Hospitality, and further operates three ghost kitchens—Organic Burger House, NYC Pancake House, and NYC Pastrami House. Future plans include franchising Carnegie Diner & Cafe to be in every state in the country.
Visit Carnegie Diner & Cafe at 700 Plaza Dr in Secaucus. (See them on Google Maps.) To learn more:
| Visit their Website | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 201-267-6111 |
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Carnegie Diner & Cafe FAQs
Yes, they accept reservations.
Yes, they have gluten-free options.
Carnegie Diner & Cafe offers vegetarian options yes.
They do offer takeout, yes.
Yes, they offer delivery via their website, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Doordash.
Yes, they serve a variety alcoholic drinks.
They do have a kids’ menu, yes.
All Photos: © Carnegie Diner & Cafe
