3. Broadway Restaurant (1970)

Broadway Restaurant under scaffolding located on Broadway between West 101nd Street and West 102nd Street

Since Broadway Restaurant opened in 1970 at 2664 Broadway, the Arsenis family has cultivated a loyal following with bargain prices, and charming owners and staff. Over forty years ago, cousins Chris and Angelo Arsenis purchased the joint, while another one of their cousins, Tony, began working at the cash register. Customers and the Arsenis family alike point to an intimate ambiance as a main reason Broadway Restaurant has charmed for decades.

The menu incorporates classic diner items, like their $7.50 standard burger, but also pays homage to the family’s Greek heritage with dishes like their Feta Cheeseburger and Gyros. The walls are also occupied by images of Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren, among others, reminiscent of a bygone era. On New Year’s day in 2018, Broadway Restaurant suffered a fire that destroyed its kitchen, forcing the restaurant to close for six months. By the end of June 2018, the restaurant was back open, with the same service, food, and even the same seat cushions as before.