In New York there are 2 types of “Diner”. There are kitschy looking spots that are reminiscent of the side of the road joint, serving high end food to hungry hipsters… The type of diner where your like “Hey, isn’t that the dude from Blonde Redhead” (as was the case when I was recently eating at the aptly named, Diner, in South Williamsburg). Then there's the second type, the old school diner, the “hey isn’t that my grandmothers sweater” type of place (although to be fair, this could happen at the hipstery high end version as well).
Tom’s Restaurant is such a place. And if you think I’m talking upper west side you crazy. I am talking the “original” Tom’s in my own beloved Prospect Heights. Ok the “original” part is up for grabs. They claim to be the real inspiration for the Suzanne Vega song (obviously a man is more likely to say “nice to see you” in Brooklyn). They hold on to their 70 year old hours of only being open for breakfast and lunch if that adds credibility.
This place is hard to miss because it frequently has a line around the block. In Corner Bistro style fashion, you are not waiting in line to put your name down. You are waiting for a table. During the snowstorm I actually thought (silly me) brooklynites would be deterred from their brunch. I ended up waiting alongside others in the damn storm. Lukily they pass out a variety of welcome (mugs of coffee) and not so welcome (slices of oranges and weird dry cookies) treats while you wait. Once you sit, the atmosphere is warm and cozy, and on that snowy day, right out of a Christmas movie. The Mexican Omelette has been my go to (chicken, cheese, and chipotle sauce) and the black and white milk shake. The first time I went I got a cherry fizz on the house. The second time, they let us hold a table for about an hour before my friend showed up, with nothing but a smile. Service, in the end, is the best indicator of a great place.
She's back! And I, for one, am glad because I had missed the smile I get on my face reading your blog Britt! Yay!
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