The Gateway Diner

899 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12206, United States
+1 518-482-7557
$$$ Diner
(2435 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to The Gateway Diner, a cherished gem located at 899 Central Ave in Albany, NY, where hearty American comfort food meets a welcoming, nostalgia-infused atmosphere. This diner embodies the essence of a classic dining experience, perfect for casual meals with family or a quick bite with friends. The moment you step inside, the friendly staff greets you with warm smiles, setting the stage for a delightful culinary journey.

The menu at The Gateway Diner features a mouthwatering array of dishes, ensuring there's something to satisfy every appetite. Start your day with their delectable bagels, available toasted with butter and jelly or cream cheese, or go all out with the "Bagel All The Way," piled high with Nova Scotia lox, cream cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and green pepper for a delightful $17.00.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, their hot open sandwiches like the Hot Roast Beef Sandwich, smothered in rich brown gravy and served with two sides, offer a fulfilling meal that is both hearty and comforting at just $13.50. For burger lovers, The Gateway Diner showcases iconic options like the Gateway Burger Deluxe, featuring a juicy 6 oz. sirloin topped with sautéed onions, mushrooms, peppers, and melted cheese, which comes with French fries, lettuce, and tomato for $14.50. Each bite promises to transport you back to simpler times with its satisfying flavors.

The diner's ambiance is where nostalgia meets casual comfort. With a design that transports you back in time, cozy booths, and a vibe that encourages conversing, sharing laughs, and enjoying food made with care, it brings a sense of community that is often missed in today’s fast-paced world. Whether it’s a festive Thanksgiving morning or a lazy weekend brunch, patrons often express their joy of discovering this hidden oasis. Customers have written heartwarming reviews noting the engaging service and the diner’s ability to serve delicious meals, even in times when other eateries are closed.

However, The Gateway Diner is not without its imperfections. While many rave about the classic American meals, some customers have mentioned that certain dishes could benefit from a touch more seasoning or refinement. Yet, the caring staff and the warm, inviting atmosphere elevate every experience. It’s clear that the restaurant strives to offer comfort and good food, regardless of occasional culinary hiccups, making it a go-to choice for many locals and passersby alike.

In summary, The Gateway Diner isn't just a place to eat; it’s a slice of Americana that welcomes you to indulge in hearty meals while creating lasting memories. So whether you're a local or just visiting Albany, make sure to stop by for a meal that’s served with a side of warmth and hospitality!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves late-night food
Serves organic dishes
Quick bite
Has salad bar
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Tuesday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Friday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Saturday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

2435 Reviews
Toni Haberacker

05 Aug 2025

Went here for a late brunch. The service was very nice an welcoming. The food was a bit bland. Had to add lots of salt and pepper to the eggs and corned beef. But all in all it was a good time.

Moorelyfe44

04 Aug 2025

This was a nice place however the food could have been better. I had the French toast, there were soggy and the turkey bacon was dry. My partner had a Panini, however it wasn't that great and it lack seasoning. Our waitress was sweet and she made sure we had everything we needed.

John P

17 Jul 2025

Thanksgiving morning, 9:30am —OPEN!! Passed by 3 other diners that said they were open but not. Even McDonald’s was closed. But on our way to the supermarket, saw many cars parked in front of here so pulled in to spy customers inside! Ordered their 2 eggs specials, one with ham and another with sausages. Both were delicious! The ham 3-4mm thick and steak-width round. The 2 sausages were not the tiny links but real sausages. The eggs were fried beautifully and you could tell they were good eggs, very pretty and well sized. Our waitress was prompt and attentive, topping my coffee as she noticed it was low. The design of the curvy wood beams were unique and organic adding to the friendly atmosphere. (Tell me what style of architecture you think it is?) Happy Thanksgiving 2024!!

Wilma Chmielewski

14 Jul 2025

This diner has a large American food menu and there is something to please everyone. I had the chicken parmesan paninni and it was good. Their French fries are especially crispy golden brown.and delicious.

Joan Miller

12 Jul 2025

What a great place! We had a load of laughs with our server Jordan, and the food was delish! Who knew you could upgrade the senior menu desserts?

Kathleen Rohl

15 Jun 2025

It has been many years since I have been in Gateway diner. Service was great was seated right away. My waitress was right there to greet me asked about a beverage. Then given plenty of time to look at menu. Not a long wait. Delish and nice and hot pancakes with sausage. It was great Price was awesome 13.00 pancakes, sausage, juice, and coffee was one of their specials. Highly recommend

Natalie Johnson

10 Jun 2025

Tonight I’m at The Gateway Diner Ordered: Monte Cristo with both melba and syrup ( I wasn’t sure which I would like better ) My son got Pancakes, egg, bacon & sausage. Once he put some salt, pepper and hot sauce on his eggs, he was ready to eat. He demolished his food. My sandwich was okay. I think the ham was a little too salty so it threw it off too much. Would get again but with just turkey. Def a lot of meat tho. Served with chips. Side note: shout out to whoever told me to use real maple syrup. I just added a lil bit from home and I actually think I like that combo better than the Melba

Ijeoma Sophia Memeh

10 Jun 2025

Meal: $11.99 Base Up charge for bagel (60 cents) instead of toast and added cheese ($1.45) Two eggs, bacon, toast, orange juice and coffee. I had to remind the Male waiter that the OJ came with the meal. He never refilled my coffee; not even once. He did not even come back to drop off the bill. I did tip him 15% which was $2.10 Will not be returning.

Join the The Gateway Diner Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.