This is the Empire Diner, a classic, in New York City. It was constructed by the Fodero Dining Car Company 1946 and operated at a Manhattan diner, until being abandoned years later. The diner was refurbished in 1976. Classic American diners often have an exterior layer of stainless steel siding - a feature unique to diner architecture. But here is the really cool part - the food served here is head and shoulders above typical diner fare. I had a hot pastrami sandwich on grain bread, and in the sandwich was purple cabbage cole slaw, that included a bit of horse radish! It was out of this world!
As we crossed the street leaving the diner after lunch, I saw this amazing mural of artists painted on the wall of the building behind the diner. It includes, from left, Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat. What a stunning scene.
How did I miss the Empire Diner? Back in the day, I have made the rounds of classic NYC diners including: Katz, 42nd Street Deli (now on 33rd Street), Carnegie Deli and the Stage Deli (now closed). And I love Hot Pastrami Sandwiches with a side of fries and Coke to Drink. Note: I never acquired a taste classic Cream Soda.
ReplyDeleteFrom your description, it sounds like you had a Reuben sandwich. A Pastrami Sandwich to me is meat piled high on real Rye Bread with spicy mustard and no slaw or cabbage to distract from one's taste buds.