Stella's Diner

Your rating: None Average: 4.3 (4 votes)

Stella’s Diner is a dying breed. This local favorite is one of the last genuine Syracuse joints. Hardworking waitresses, huge portions, cheap prices, and classic greasy diner food await your arrival. Just hope you can grab a table before the waiting line forms.  

When to Go: Stella’s is always hopping so expect a short wait, but peak hours are Saturdays and Sundays until about 1 p.m. The bottom line: The wait will be worth your while.

On Tap: Alcohol is a new addition to the menu, so options are limited to Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob, Sam Adams, and Smirnoff Twisted Raspberry. Bottles cost $2.95. The bottom line: Bottoms up.

Blue Plate Special: All your favorite diner food is here. From Belgian waffles, grilled ham steak, and sandwiches to jambalaya, rattlesnake pasta, and sautéed liver and onions, this menu could have you deciding for days. The portions are beyond hearty, with hotcakes as big as your head and french fries the size of your palm. Craving an omelet for dinner? No problem. Breakfast is served 24 hours a day. The bottom line: There is something here for everyone.

The Scene: Don’t let the plain mint green exterior fool you. Inside is a thriving 1950s retro joint with spacious booths, a long counter, and constant action. The owner must be a die-hard Betty Boop fan because the restaurant doubles as a minishrine to the cartoon character. Boop dolls hang from the ceiling and walls, her image is plastered throughout the menu, and a large Boop statue stands on the counter. The bottom line: When a sign on the wall reads, “Keep your hands off the waitress,” you know it’s going to be a good time.

The Crew: The waitresses are there to do their job, not make small talk. Customers seat themselves and aren’t bothered much. Each waitress sports a T-shirt saying, “Eat it, you’ll like it” with a pair of casual jeans. The bottom line: You won’t want to talk anyway once you’re shoving your face with delicious grub.

The Crowd: Everyone is welcome anytime. You’ll see families next to suited businessmen next to a teenage couple. There are plenty of regular customers whom the waitresses know by name. It’s no surprise to see a truck driver plop himself down at the front counter. The bottom line: You know this place is heavenly when you see a nun chow down.

The Deets: Stella’s is right near the Carousel Center, has private parking, accepts credit cards, and offers takeout. Pay your receipt at the counter and pick up a copy of the Syracuse New Times while you’re there. Hours are 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, and 5 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. The bottom line: This diner is about as local as it gets. Just ask Betty Boop. 

Review by Erica Sanderson

Location

110 Wolf Street
Syracuse, NY 13208
(315) 425-0353

On The Map:

Javascript is required to view this map.

Stella's Diner

Fun place to eat. Betty Boop reigns. "Eat it you'll like it" Tee Shirts on staff. You'll leave full and smiling.

Post new comment

* Field must be completed for your comment to appear on The NewsHouse
The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.