The Citiblog

Kellogg’s Diner: A New Chapter for a Williamsburg Classic
September 19, 2024, 6:09.58 pm ET

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Photo: Evan Sung

After nearly a century of serving as a beloved fixture in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Kellogg’s Diner has reopened its doors, reimagined and reinvigorated for a new generation. Located at 518 Metropolitan Avenue, this iconic establishment has been lovingly revitalized by restaurateur Louis Skibar and renowned restaurant designer Nico Arze, with the kitchen now helmed by Chef Jackie Carnesi. The team behind the revival has carefully balanced the diner’s rich history with fresh culinary inspiration, creating a space where the past and present merge seamlessly.


Chef Jacki Carnesi

As diners step inside the 75-seat restaurant, they’re greeted by the new design that maintains Kellogg’s timeless charm while introducing modern elements. New York-based designers Nico Arze and Matthew Maddy, known for their work on iconic spaces like Lilia, Russ and Daughters Café and Celestine, have reimagined the diner with a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Using terrazzo, glass, mirrors, and stainless steel, the space evokes nostalgia while creating a sleek, contemporary atmosphere. The curved ceiling, a nod to classic diner architecture, bathes the space in a golden glow like that of a sunset.


Photo: Carissa Diaz

In the kitchen, Chef Carnesi, formerly of Nura, has curated a menu that pays homage to classic American diner fare while incorporating influences from her Texas roots. The result is a selection of dishes that feel both familiar and exciting. Start with appetizers like Chipotle Honey Wings or Fried Pickles with Ranch, which offer comforting flavors. There are updated twists on diner classics like the BLT with an herb mayo; Turkey Club on sourdough bread with bacon, avocado, Monterey Jack, lettuce, and chipotle mayo; and Baby Back Ribs with sticky bbq sauce, German potato salad and collard greens. Carnesi’s Texas influence shines in the Poblano Meatloaf with smoky chipotle glaze and the Chicken Fried Steak served with white gravy and collard greens.


Photo: Carissa Diaz

Breakfast at Kellogg’s Diner is an all-day affair, featuring dishes like the Guajillo Braised Short Rib Hash with sweet potato and chipotle sauce or the indulgent Texas French Toast, deep-fried and crusted in cornflakes. Pastry Chef Amanda Perdomo, formerly of Contra and Wildair, has crafted an imaginative dessert menu, with highlights such as the Passion Fruit Tajin Icebox Pie, Hummingbird Cake and a nostalgic Strawberry Pretzel Salad with pretzel shortbread crust, cheesecake, strawberry Jello, and whipped cream.


Photo: Evan Sung

The beverage program, designed by award-winning Bar Director Chris Amirault, tells the story of New York’s cultural melting pot. With his background rooted in a biracial family, Amirault blends ingredients and techniques from various traditions to craft unique cocktails. The Lychee Martini, a floral reimagining of the Cosmopolitan, and the S’mores Old Fashioned with bourbon, cinnamon cordial, and a toasted marshmallow, offer creative spins on familiar classics. A robust selection of beer and wine rounds out the beverage offerings, ensuring something for everyone.


Photo: Evan Sung

Kellogg’s Diner is more than just a place to eat—it’s a community hub, where old memories mingle with new ones. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, grabbing a late-night bite, or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, the diner offers a warm, inviting atmosphere. With its carefully crafted menu, innovative cocktails, and thoughtfully designed space, Kellogg’s Diner has once again secured its place as a landmark destination in Williamsburg, ready to welcome another century of diners.



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