We live in a world where time knows no boundaries: same-day shipping across the country, immediate access to television shows and movies and unlimited breakfast for dinner. But diners, once late-night staples, have strayed from 24/7 service in the last decade. Blame costs and rowdy guests, but when a 3am burger craving strikes, the options can be limited. But they do exist. Whatever your cravings call for, it is never too late (or early) for a short stack, grilled cheese sandwich or pastrami on rye at these seven Long Island diners that never take a nap break.
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Diners Stray From 24/7 Service
California Diner, Patchogue
Located right on the Sunrise Highway service road heading east, the California Diner is a casual, comfortable spot to grab a quick bite to eat. The food is speedy, the portions are generous and the staff is known for being friendly. Customers rave about the assorted selection of omelettes served with home fries and toast and the hearty paninis like buffalo chicken with muenster cheese. Bonus: there’s a special munchies menu with a sample platter (mozzarella sticks, potato skins and buffalo wings) for when you’re hankering a little of everything. Phone: 631-363-5338 | Address: 570 Sunrise Hwy Click to taste
Candlelight Diner, Commack
A neighborhood landmark, the Candlelight Diner has been in the business since 1970 and is clearly still a force to be reckoned with. Before customers even pick up the menu, they are treated with a cold pasta salad that arrives for the table. From there it’s hard to make a wrong choice: the soups are delicious, the burgers are generously-sized and the snack menu even has creamy spinach and artichoke dip with toasted pita. Phone: 631-499-3918 | Address: 56 Veterans Memorial Hwy Click to taste
Lighthouse Diner, Wantagh
image: facebook.com/lighthousedinerNY
First-time guests tend to become regulars at this retro looking diner. Once inside, they are greeted with a clean space, warm lighting and a very courteous staff. One of the heavy hitters (no matter the time of day) is the eggs: scrambled, over easy, mixed with greens or tucked in a sandwich. The place doesn’t go light on the potatoes, either. Phone: 516-826-8111 | Address: 3240 Sunrise Hwy Click to taste
Massapequa Diner, Massapequa
Popular among the locals, this “quintessential Long Island Greek diner” is more fun than fancy. Diners can find all their favorite comfort foods like spinach pie, loaded nachos, French toast bites and peanut butter and chocolate chip pancakes. Phone: 516-799-5234 | Address: 4420 Sunrise Hwy Click to taste
Yesterday’s Diner, New Hyde Park
Yesterday’s Diner serves up some of the best burgers in town with a heaping side of nostalgia. There are big cozy booths, a long counter with stools and 50s wall murals throughout. The burgers didn’t get a solid reputation for any old reason—they are all made with chopped sirloin, no filler or additives. Phone: 516- 352-5290 | Address: 443 Jericho Turnpike Click to taste
Majestic Diner, Westbury
Similar to the name, the Majestic Diner treats its customers like royalty. Attentive and considerate, the waitstaff is known to serve orders quickly and accurately. The desserts have become popular—especially the creamy cheesecake and rich strawberry shortcake. Phone: 516-997-6010 | Address: 498 Old Country Rd Click to taste
Colony Diner, East Meadow
The late night diner is known for keeping customers’ plates loaded. Everything from chicken salad wraps to tuna melts come out large and bursting with flavor. Phone: 516-794-5159 | Address: 2019 Hempstead Turnpike Click to taste