Brooklyn’s historic Kellogg’s Diner has been sensitively revamped with fresh interiors and an updated menu of Americana favourites. Olivia Palamountain reports
Kellogg’s Diner, a Williamsburg landmark dating back to 1928, has reopened its doors at 518 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn.
Breathing new life into the nearly century-old institution (no relation to the Kellogg’s cereal giant) is restaurateur Louis Skibar and designer Nico Arze.
The duo have “respectfully re-invented the 75-seat diner aesthetic to incorporate modern design elements, lending the space to a new generation of diners”.
At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Jackie Carnesi, formerly the executive chef of Nura and a StarChef Rising Star of 2023.
Carnesi’s menu offers a fresh interpretation of American diner classics, infused with inspiration from her Texan roots.
Diners can expect familiar favourites alongside innovative dishes that are a testament to Carnesi’s diverse culinary background.
Appetisers range from Chipotle Honey Wings to Fried Pickles with ranch dressing.
Main courses include comfort food classics like Poblano Meatloaf with a smoky chipotle glaze, as well as more adventurous offerings such as Skate Wing Almondine with green beans and a brown butter-chipotle chilli crisp.
In a nod to diner tradition, breakfast is served all day, with standout dishes including Guajillo Braised Short Rib Hash and deep-fried Texas French Toast crusted in cornflakes.
The dessert menu, crafted by Pastry Chef Amanda Perdomo, formerly of Contra and Wildair, features creative takes on classic sweets.
Diners can expect treats such as Red Eye Chocolate Cake with espresso and chicory coffee, or the Passion Fruit Tajin Icebox Pie.
Complementing the food is a beverage programme developed by award-winning Bar Director Chris Amirault.
His creations reflect the diverse cultural tapestry of New York City, with cocktails that tell a story.
For instance, Amirault reimagines the Cosmopolitan as a floral lychee martini with cherry blossom sake and cranberry grenadine.
The 75-seat restaurant’s redesign, executed by New York-based designers Nico Arze and Matthew Maddy, known for their work on establishments such as Lilia and Public Records, prioritises simplicity.
“We wanted to respect the tremendous history of Kellogg’s Diner and the legacy of the classic American diner,” says Arze.
The space uses only four principal materials throughout: terrazzo, glass, mirrors, and stainless steel.
“The curved ceiling is a classic touch – once you enter, you know at once you’re in a diner,” Arze explains. The result is a warm, golden glow that provides an elegant yet comfortable dining experience.
Currently open daily from 5pm to 10pm, Kellogg’s Diner plans to eventually operate 24/7, reclaiming its status as a round-the-clock neighbourhood fixture.