NEW YORK—In some areas of Elmhurst, Queens, you may have a difficult time finding classic American fare like steaks, pie, and bacon. Latin and Asian cuisine abounds in the largely immigrant neighborhood, but for those who yearn for pastrami sandwiches and cream pies, there is the Georgia Diner.
For 30 years, the Georgia Diner has been owned and operated at 86-55 Queens Blvd. in Elmhurst by Mr. Dimitrios Kaloidis. He owns another diner in Queens, two in Brooklyn and an events location, Terrace on the Park, on 111th Street in Flushing.
The diner is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, even on holidays—but only takes reservations on Thanksgiving.
Louis Grigorakis, the head manager, says that the majority of the clientele are long-term customers who visit the diner multiple times a week, although they draw customers from around Queens.
"People come here sometimes for five lunches a week, five dinners a week, or for breakfast on Saturday and Sunday," says Grigorakis, who has been working at the Georgia Diner for several years.
The restaurant seats 325 people and is almost constantly busy, but even on major holidays like Father's Day they are able to seat people relatively quickly. Their efficiency is partly due to years of practice and partly due to the sheer number of chefs working in the kitchen.
"We are moving fast because we have 13 live cooks, a chef and two sous chefs," says Grigorakis. "We are a service oriented restaurant."
Grigorakis adds that on top of service, the diner is committed to making customers feel relaxed.
"We like to have a friendly atmosphere," says Grigorakis.
"We like to make people feel at home when they come here."
A Broad Variety of Fare
In the vein of putting the customer first, the Georgia Diner is adept at providing a wide variety of choices, from light to extremely rich. The extensive menu, which has supplementary daily specials, offers everything from Nova Scotia Lox and Eggs to Turkey Pastrami Sandwiches. They also have a liquor license for the adults and milkshakes for the young and young at heart. For early risers, the breakfast special from 6-11a.m. offers very affordable combinations that include coffee or tea and juice.
Menu prices range from low to mid-range, but the most commonly ordered dishes can be had for about $10-$20. For those only wanting to have dessert, the diner offers a wide variety of cakes, pies, muffins and other baked goods that are made on the premises.
Some of the most commonly ordered dishes include the daily specials, such as Friday's Short Ribs and Spinach Pie. Another favorite is the Sesame Crusted Salmon, which is usually Scottish or Canadian. The Angel Hair Pomodoro is also popular, especially among regulars.
The Maurer family, who have been frequent visitors to the diner for 15 years, say they enjoy their favorite dishes but also feel comfortable in the environment.
"The food is always good, it's open 24 hours, parking is easy," said Walter Maurer.
Cynthia Maurer adds that she appreciates the consistency of service. "There is friendly staff, it's consistent, the food is good and the people are friendly," says Maurer.
Georgia Diner
86-55 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst, NY 11373
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week including holidays
Tel. 718-651-9000
Rating: Excellent, **** (four stars out of five)
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