George's Restaurant
Contact Info:
Address: 753 Coney Island Ave (nr Courtelyou Rd)
City: Brooklyn, NY
Zip: 11218
map: View the Map
Phone: (718) 282-0152
Food Info:
Cuisine:
Diners
Takeout:
Yes
Delivery:
Yes
Payment:
Accepts Credit Cards
Cititour Review:
Being from the Northeast, a diner which is the delicate blend of divey, affordable and convenient (especially for those late night urges for whatever random snacks you may crave), George's is a true gem. It is retro in the most genuine way, and really brings out the "old school Brooklyn" feeling.
This is, without a doubt, a real "greasy spoon" place. Water is served from colored and aged plastic pitchers, pay phones, bouncy, worn in seats and wood paneling all add to the appeal of George's. Even the servers at this establishment fit right into the motif of the place. They are aged, quirky and outgoing yet patient, kind and honest. They take a lot of cigarette breaks and warn you what may not be the best thing to order that day.
This is the kind of place where if you appreciate a true dive diner experience, you will appreciate George's. From the outside a hanging sign for George's above the restaurant advertises "Steaks, Chops and Seafood" immediately giving away it's age. Unique pictures line the interior walls: some are cartoons, some are paintings of Jesus and others are just old photographs. Bar style seating is available along a countertop with glass cake domes strategically placed to display danishes and other treats. Tiffany style lamps with Coca-Cola logos and plants hang from the ceiling. The bathroom isn't always in the best of shape (but hey, this is New York).
As far as the food is concerned, I must start off with a disclaimer: Don't come here with the highest of culinary expectations. This is strictly an old fashioned diner -- so stick to basic American comfort foods or snacks (burgers, fries, sandwiches or a fried appetizer) and you will not be let down. If you are looking for fine steak, seafood or a classy piece of veal, this place would not be your top choice. Honestly, I would even steer clear of the clam appetizer. However, they are open 24 hours (a rare sight for this sleepy neighborhood) so if you are looking to cure some late night munchies go for the mozzarella sticks ($4.95), gyro platter (served with steak fries and a Greek salad for $9.45), banana split ($7.95), or french fries ($2.95 - and they're generally very crispy). George's also delivers 24 hours (and with only a $4 minimum) but the delivery seems to slow down in the late night hours - it seems to be hit or miss on how long it will take for your goodies to arrive. For the price and the hours, this place can't be beat in the late night snack department.
Other than their late night snacks, I would best recommend this place for the breakfast. Some mornings nothing beats scrambled eggs, toast, and home fries diner style for only $4 or a Belgian waffle (4.95) the omelets are usually pretty good and are all in the $6 range. While the coffee is hardly gourmet, a cup is only $1 and the servers will often come by to provide refills. It is a good wander off the beaten path from the brunch spots located on Cortelyou which can often have a higher price tag and a more stuffy atmosphere.
Perhaps George's is more an experience-based place than a place I would frequent, but if you are into a meal at a true 50's diner with a lot of personality or you are simply some late-night gorging, George's is worth the visit (or at least the phone call). If not, you have been warned.
Review By: Valerie Pettersen
Location:
Comments: