Found out about this spot while doing the rifoodfights iced coffee summer celebration. Our second trip here and had to try the chicken and waffles. My wife who loves her ice coffee loved the banana foster ice coffee. Had to come back a second time was just as good.
(5)
Cristin S.
I finally made it down the road to the Elmwood Diner. The food was acceptable and the server was nice but I felt like it need some BOOM. In the past I have always tried to visit places that Guy has visited and most of the times I am let down. Not to say the food was bad but I guess I was just expecting more. I had the reuben which had good flavor but go soggy on the bottom. My sister had the chicken and waffles and said the chicken was relish but the waffle was missing something. Overall if I have a hankering for some diner fare I may stop by again.
(3)
Sandra O.
The waitress today was great! I ordered the Huevos and she said they were out of salsa. The waitress decided to double check. The cook made made us fresh salsa!
(5)
Jennifer R.
I want to love it here, I really really do. It went from pretty great, to somewhat inconsistent, to a confused (and confusing) little diner. The service and the food varies greatly from one day to the next, it's like being in a relationship with a bipolar breakfast joint. Sorry, Elmwood Diner, I tried to wait it out with you.
(2)
Emily W.
Elmwood Diner is only about a mile down the road from my new apartment and it's very likely that I drove by this place a million times the last time I lived in Providence, but it's very easy to miss. In fact, I almost flew right by it when I was going there this weekend. One of my friends told me that this place is her favorite so I had to try it out. I went in with a friend on a Sunday morning around 10. No wait, no lines, plenty of open tables. The menu is small but everything that you could want on a breakfast menu. My friend got a giant waffle with chocolate chips and strawberries on top and loved it. I got the full on bacon, eggs, toast, potatoes breakfast and it was awesome. Prices are reasonable and service was friendly. I'll definitely be back to Elmwood Diner!
(4)
Douglas C.
Don't try to be something your not. I thought I would give it a try since I knew it had changed hands. First off the pricing is way out of control for a diner. I think 17.00 dollars with tip for a Reuben with fries and two iced teas may be a bit much. I eat out often because of my job. Gets too expensive to pay that kind of money. Second. When you put Reuben on the special board don't charge ten dollar for less than 8oz of pot roast meat instead of corned beef. There is a reason why you get more for corned beef. The inside of the diner is unkept and should be cleaned. Hello. Stainless should be stainless. This guy will not be back and will not recommend. I'll give the diner four more months unless they can Change drastically Get back to the diner roots. Contact me if you serious about making it. P.S. You probably should take down Guy Ferris stamp saying he ate there because he didn't. That was when it was Liberty Elm Diner.
(1)
Kendra N.
Had a food fights iced coffee coupon which brought me in, I would have never checked this place out had I not had that. The diner is deceiving when you first walk in, seems very small with just a breakfast bar but the back has plenty of seating. The servers were really friendly and immediately brought us the banana fosters iced coffee....an banana flavored iced coffee with caramel and whipped cream!!!! Delicious!!! Ordered the eggs, maple bacon, French toast with fresh fruit, wheat toast, and home fries ( that was just one dish!) everything was cooked perfectly and prior to coming out the waitress said the kitchen hadn't gotten the ticket for my food in error but it would be right out (we had been waiting a mere 10 min so the food must come out super quick). The bacon was thick and cooked great, flavored were fantastic! Home fries for little potatoes perfectly seasoned. The chicken and waffles were delicious! The chicken was fried to perfection and very tender inside. I can't wait to return to this diner for breakfast!
(5)
Gillian B.
Yesterday I went here I've been dying to try their bananas foster coffee and wow it did not disappoint. The coffee tasted just like a real banana I was so surprised if u want a good coffee try this one
(4)
Robert S.
One of the breakfasts, I've had in RI. I ordered a veggie omelette with egg whites ($1 extra). It had nice veggies, mashed potatoes and provolone cheese. It was flavorful, tasty, good size. My BF got the french toast with home fries and he Loved the dish. A friend got the Eggs Benedict and she also loved her dish. Service is attentive, friendly and prompt. A winner on my book !!!
(5)
Therese S.
I tried the Elmwood today since it's new opening. The atmosphere is a little sterile though I do like the vintage vinyl seating. It's definitely lost some of its character. The big whammy to me was the food. It's definitely taken a hit. The Monty was made with bacon not ham and missing the swiss....not cool. The homemade hash sounded great but in reality it was super dry, hard to pick up with the fork, but, also the veggies felt more like filler than ingredients. I was disappointed. Lastly, the chef needs to understand the difference between over hard and over easy.
(2)
Andy B.
First let me say that I didn't eat here. I went in, and got a MASSIVE case of sticker shock!!! Then I left, but not before experiencing the terrible seats at the counter. I'm six feet tall, and have a long torso. So I sit very high up, normally. The counter was up to my nipples. Having to have my arms that high hurt my back right away. It was very hot on there. I am not gonna spend my money anywhere on a hot day that doesn't have good AC, EVER!!! The waitress "recommended" some stuff, but it felt more like a warning against the other food they have IMO. Then I saw the overly fancy menu. The only thing tinier then the selections was the size of the typeface. No person with bad eyesite could ever read it. So this leads me to the sticker shock I mentioned before. $3.00 for 1 pancake!!! Three dollars for a single pancake? Is there good flakes in the batter? There are very few things cheaper to make then a pancake. It better be a 15 inch round 3/4 inch thick one for that price. All the breakfasts that weren't just eggs, were around $10.00. So let's do some math. Ten bucks for a plate of food , probably $3.00 or more for a juice. Tax tip, and I'm out almost $20.00 for what seems by these reviews to be an average breakfast with rock hard homefries that most likely won't even fill me up. Um no thanks. I just walked out, and will never come back. Its just breakfast people. C'mon. Who can afford this? I could, but just like I won't believe the hype, and buy Nike Air Jordans. I won't overpay at this want to be hipster type diner. I don't know about other people, but I expect cheap food at a diner. And to top it off. This isn't the East Side, or Newport. It's GD Elmwood Ave people. Give me a break. This place had everything backwards. These people can't be restaurant types like myself (30 years in the biz now). They just can't be. If they are, then they're obviously just clueless. I'm amazed at how badly they are running this place, and I can only imagine how disappointed I would have been if I actually spent my hard earned money on the food. Thank god I can spot a crappy place, before it's too late! Stay away! Stay FAR away!!!!!!
(1)
John S.
Reuben Sandwich Special, Huevos, and the Hangover Burger have all been delicious, served quickly, and wonderfully cooked! Also, get the pancakes whenever you can, they're terrific!
(5)
Evan V.
Apparently I drink coffee on Sundays which is news to me. As one third of my party, I was quite pleased with my first visit to Elmwood Diner (and the two cups of coffee I sucked back). Having experienced Liberty Elm's offerings in years past, a part of me went in with the expectation that more weirdo options would tempt me from the pages of their menu. Not quite the case, but I refuse to give up on this place just yet. The service was magnificent, care of an enthusiastic and knowledgable waitress who we soon learned was also the resident baker here. It was also refreshing to find out that all of their egg dishes could be subbed with tofu and prepared with olive oil in lieu of butter. Gaining points. The "Vegan Plate" caught my eye, which at $9.50 sort of misled me into believing that I would be leaving with a fuller-than-full belly. Unfortunately, this was not the case. Do not misconstrue any of this, please. The tofu was seasoned with an interestingly flavorful pesto, along with roasted tomatoes and onions. The cruelty-free scramble was piled atop a sweet potato mash and served with my choice of herb-brushed toast. I opted for marble rye, because well, duh. It was quite tasty, but again for the price tag I require more tofu (goodness, that sounds demanding) or perhaps some sort of faux breakfast meat - feel free to read my Garden Grille review to see just how serious and willing to exchange recipes I really am. Now I completely understand - ED (that is the diner, not the old-timer's dysfunction) does not specialize in weirdo offerings, but as I suggested to my server, perhaps vegan pancakes might be an excellent addition to the current offerings (and a way to cut in on the Julian's/Grange/heck, even Doherty's has weirdo-cakes, brunch crowd). All told, a solid Sunday morning treat with all the mid-century Americana charm that only a place with formica-topped tables and soda selections served in glass bottles could yield. Now, if only I didn't have to pay an extra two dollars for the novelty of actually being able to order something without needing to modify it further (which again, is cool and I appreciate), then this here would have easily been a 5 star rating.
(4)
Alissa M.
Very content with the breakfast I had here! Their chicken and waffles satisfied my long lived quest for them in Rhode Island. The waffle was light, and fluffy yet still had substance and a good chew. The fried chicken is a breast piece without bones and battered relatively lightly. Next time I'd ask for real maple syrup for $2, because the commercial stuff diluted the taste of the meal. They also have very good iced coffee! The service was fantastic! Our waitress was very attentive and actually cared about our wellbeing. Will definitely be returning!
Wanted to try this place based on good reviews. Unfortunately that was my first and last time at Elmwood Diner. Our waitress was horrible. She was blonde with short hair. At first she seemed nice when she brought our drink orders to the table. But when our food came, she had my order completely wrong. She didn't bother to check on us to see how we were doing. She never came with the check when we clearly had our dishes stacked and off to the side. She wasn't even busy! After waiting so long for our check I just went up to her and asked for it and still left her a $7 tip for doing her job. Never again!
(1)
Rebecca V.
I went to the Elmwood Diner for breakfast last week to find it woefully empty. It's a little off the beaten path, but I really hope they find more support in the coming months! I was a big fan of the old Liberty Elm Diner, and might like it even a little more as its new incarnation. The menu features more locally sourced items: eggs and chicken from Baffoni farms, New Harvest Coffee (brewed *strong*), and more. My friend had the chicken and waffles, and I was envious of that decision -- great, fluffy waffle, well-seasoned fried chicken with crispy skin, and eggs to boot. I had a veggie omelette, and as others have noted, it was not beautiful--kind of a thick scrambled egg pancake folded over some vegetables. Presentation aside, it was very tasty, as were the accompanying home fries. I will definitely be going back soon!
(4)
Caroline M.
The best corned beef hash I've ever had - none of the out of the can garbage. Unbeatable charming diner decor of the former Liberty Elm Diner + new ownership under Zoë Neves and Paul Smith brings a menu that is both down to earth and sophisticated all at the same time - a gourmetification of the typical greasy spoon diner experience. The Elmwood diner rocked the service, food, decor, value and the spirit. They also have a page dedicated to smaller meals (one egg, one slice of toast) for example which isn't something I see any breakfast places doing these days. Did the mention how affordable it is? Or that they serve New Harvest coffee and source local what they can? Or that the cinnamon buns are homemade? I just can't stop. I loved it.
(5)
Nicole W.
I'm giving the Elmwood a very generous 3 stars for two reasons: First, they can cook eggs. The ability to do over-medium and over-hard is a true diner test. Second, they actually make good pancakes. Real pancakes! Of a proper thinness and not some super thick, cakey thing that gums up your mouth, which the majority of people will mistake for "fluffy". (I may have a pancake bias) The one downside is that their homefries are way overcooked. I didn't even touch mine.
(3)
Allie P.
This place doesn't have that true "diner" atmosphere that so many people love. This is actually the closest breakfast restaurant to my house and I will not eat here. The food is alright, but they do not have much to choose from, it's overly fussed with and they try too hard to make it "fancy" and the prices reflect that. I didn't even like the coffee as it was super dark and bitter, not something that should be served at a diner. Plus it's cold and quiet and empty in there most of the time. To me it looks like they are trying to appeal to hipsters and they lack the skills in the kitchen to serve up true home style diner fare.
(2)
Zared G.
Delicious? Yes. Friendly? Yup. Affordable? Quite. My new fave spot in the hood? Def! Finally got to hit up the Elmwood Diner after months of driving by and watching the progress via social media. The wait paid off! Welcomed by the friendly staff as soon as we entered. Grabbed a table in the back. The coffee was flowing so much I was jittery all day! Chicken & waffles are bomb! I need to go back often to try the rest of the menu and fresh baked goods, and I will!
(4)
Emily M.
My first time at this place since it was The Liberty Elm. I think that I probably won't go back. I ordered two eggs over easy with multigrain toast and a blueberry pancake. The good- my eggs were cooked PERFECTLY and they were tasty. The coffee was pretty good too. The bad- the pancake was awful. It was really thin and dense and it just didn't have any flavor. Neither did the toast which wasn't toasted, just sort of bread from a bag. There wasn't much flavor in the food and it was just an overall bummer. My sister got the waffle/fried chicken thing and she reported that the chicken tasted like frialator grease and her waffle was bland. But she liked the coffee and HER eggs were cooked perfectly too (poached). So, if you really like a well cooked egg and sides without flavor than this is the place for you. But I'll be sticking with Spoonems or T's.
(2)
Gail A.
Friendly service and comfortable seating. This cute diner is a Sunday morning treat to your busy week. They have gluten free bread and offer New Harvest Coffee.
(5)
Meredith A.
The Elmwood diner is truly a gem! They have a wonderful, innovative menu that puts a spin on traditional diner breakfast. Everything is homemade, and you can tell. It is quirky and unique without being a hipster slap in the face. The space is a Providence landmark, and I am so pleased that they have managed to keep it open and thriving. I recommend this spot to everyone.
(5)
l b.
So glad we stopped to eat here on the way to Boston. We are on a family road trip, and we have had our share of diner food. The locale may be a cute, renovated diner, but the food is far above standard diner fare. We are a family of four: a tween, a teen, and parents. We ate heartily and deliciously for $35! The food is very high quality and fresh. The fresh fruit on the crepe-like pancakes, the candied bacon, the large farm-fresh eggs and smooth, strong coffee, the home made bread and pastries are all reasons to enjoy a meal here. The diner is also nicely renovated in a simple, attractive style. The service is personal and efficient. It's also spotlessly clean! The neighborhood is a bit drab, but the food, service and price are truly attractive. If we are nearby, we will definitely visit again. A diner to emulate.
(5)
Ted B.
Another great breakfast at Elmwood Dinner. The owner(s) and staff are always friendly and make you feel welcomed. The food was served quickly as ordered. The seasonal fruit was great.
(5)
J. M.
I work at an office nearby, and have ordered take out twice from the Elmwood Diner. The food here is simply excellent. The first time I ordered, I got the BLT which was a couple notches above average. I ordered "white bread" and honestly was expecting two slices of wonder bread, but was pleasantly surprised when I tasted the quality of the bread; it was large, meaty toasted bread with just the right amount of basil aioli smeared on it. The bacon was perfectly crisp and not greasy by any means. I am typing this review as I finish eating my Monte Jr., a piece of fluffy french toast, two pieces of bacon, and homefries that give Nick's on Broadway a run for their money. This meal was heaven in a plastic container.
(5)
Katalyst S.
I will definitely be coming back to this little diner! Came her kinda late on a weekday and ordered the chicken and waffles! Happy to report that with the fresh maple it tasted even better than Roscoes! Love it! Great service too :D Good people!
(5)
Michele M.
Barely Warm waffle would not melt the hard pat of butter. I had to ask for the syrup I ordered ($2 extra for real maple), it was stone cold from the fridge, which really helped with the barely warm waffle. Service was next to non existent, the waitress asked my friend if he needed more coffee and never asked me anything. Oh and the waitress spilled hot water on the table and my seat and didn't say a word.
(1)
Ratt S.
Yum! Yum! Yum! I'm never disappointed with any dish I order from the Elmwood Diner. The menu is a mix of innovation and comfort food, all made from scratch with love and inspiration. The staff is consistently friendly and efficient. All in all, it's the best dining experience in Elmwood and is worth the ten minute trip from any other part of Providence. So happy this retro historic diner is in my neighborhood! My faves so far are the Monte: french toast, a fried egg and maple bacon drizzled in maple syrup...the Veggie Omelet: healthy flavor explosion of fresh veggies with spiced sweet potatoes on the inside. I ordered the marble rye toast and asked for a side of their house made 'salsa verde' for a savory toast topping that totally made the meal...Chicken Fried Waffle Sandwich!?!!!: enough said.
(5)
Brad C.
New name, same excellent food! Was very upset when The Liberty Elm went out of business but so glad it was resurrected as the Elmwood Diner under new ownership. The new owners stayed true to what the previous owners built the Liberty on, fresh, inventive dishes. I consider myself a breakfast connoisseur and when a restaurant has so many delicious meal options, I know I might have struck gold. I enjoyed the special of the day, Greek Scramble, fluffy scrambled eggs with kalamata olives, spinach and Narragansett Creamery feta. This should be a regular dish! You can't beat bottomless coffee either, especially when it's local roaster New Harvest, great choice! Also, get the iced coffee it's delicious, I'm often skeptical of restaurant iced coffee but don't be here! I will most certainly be visiting the Elmwood Diner when I'm in town next.
(4)
Heather B.
Well the food didn't disappoint but some things went on did- owners kid running around restaurant and touching clean silverware, my waitress simultaneously eating at the end of the counter and waiting on people without washing her hands and that a breakfast place would charge for maple syrup. Go figure. The owner is nice but needs to run a tighter ship. Probably won't be back
(2)
David S.
A fabulous menu and wonderful, lively service and atmosphere create a place that makes you feel just like part of the family. Menu and specials are always changing, so there's always something new and wonderful to try. Some of the staples include the brown-sugar bacon and amazing Monte! Always a good choice for brunch and lunch with friends and family.
(5)
Victor R.
Had to update my review. I did give a one in my previous review but I took all emotions of it being a busy day and eating my food a little late out of the picture. The owner is an amazing person you can tell this business is her pride and joy. After waiting a long period of time for two plates of food I was irate. The fact that the owner realized that and personally came to each table and took ownership of that problem I can tell from here on that problem will not happen again. The food was delicious, this is the second time I came to seek consistency in my review. I always get the special no matter what it is and I have yet to be dissappointed. Just a tip to management please train your waitresses/waiter to be attentive and check back with the customers. I know it was busy but it doesn't take much time to stop at a customers table to say "im sorry for the wait, is there anything I can do for you?" Otherwise not a great experience but will return again to see if they redeem themselves.
(3)
A I.
SO yummy! My indicted co-conspirator and I stopped in this afternoon for brunch. He ordered one of the specials, the sweet potato melt, and I got "The Old School," 2 eggs, home fries, toast (I ordered rye), and a pancake on the side. He ordered fries to go with his sweet potato melt. First off, the sweet potato melt was awesome. Like a grilled cheese sandwich with veggies and caramelized onions. (if you ever managed to get to Kafe Lila in Pawtucket during its brief existence, you know the glory of butternut squash on a sandwich, and this was right up there with that deliciousness.) The fries were also good. Fresh tasting, and just the right amount of salt. My eggs were eggs, albeit tasty ones! The home fries were clearly never frozen, and had bits of scallion mixed in. The pancake, though... I took a bite and it reminded me of the pancakes I had as a kid. Light, fluffy, and beautifully done. It did take us a little longer than we anticipated to get our food, but from arrival to exit was 40 minutes, so it was absolutely nothing terrible. The service was great, too. Now, if you're looking for "typical" greasy diner food, this might not be your thing, but if you're looking for diner food that tastes like it was made by people who really care about food, you're in the right spot. It wasn't very busy when we came in, but the food was so good that we want to make sure this place sticks around. Go. You will not regret it.
(5)
Kate D.
Very affordable ad so fresh, local, and delicious! The pancakes are delicate and almost crepe like. The huevos are the best I've ever had. I could eat it every day! Definitely worth the trip! Don't be deceived, the outside is divey, but inside is clean and spacious!!
(5)
Roisin F.
I had lunch here today. I ordered "The Best BLT Ever", and indeed it was! I can't wait to go back for breakfast.
(5)
Beth J.
My family & I just had a delicious breakfast at Elmwood diner. The staff is so nice. Our girls have nut allergies & they made sure to separately prepare food for them. I highly recommend the vegetable omelet too. We will definitely come back.
(5)
Dolores R.
I live nearby and finally made my way to dine at the Elmwood Diner for a late lunch (earlier today). I started with a caramel mocha latte with soy milk -- it was so delicious and beautiful that I pounded it down like a glass of cool, refreshing water on a hot day. I now know that I should have ordered this AFTER my meal because its strength coupled with its sweetness overpowered my palate and ability to enjoy the subtleties of the coffee-cup size order of butternut bisque with toasty pistachios and tarragon cream. It was good, but, I don't know how good since my palate was in flavored-latte-overdrive. My latte did not, however, take anything away from the flavorful AWESOMENESS of the most special special of this day -- THE Reuben, with their house-brined corned beef, horseradish 1000-island, craut and creamy swiss ~ WOW ~ talk about a sandwich to-die-for!!! This, by far, is the most delicious and bestest-best sandwich I have ever eaten in my over five decades of living -- no kidding!! I am not a huge fan of beef, although, I do like to eat it a few times a month -- and this sandwich was TOTALLY and ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!! The corned beef was lean * lean * lean -- there wasn't a speck of fat on it. And, better yet -- it was piled oh-so-high -- I could not believe how much corned beef they stuffed between the fresh layers of beautiful marbled rye bread. YUM. THE Reuben was SO GOOD and SO DELICIOUS that I told them if some horrific event tragically struck me down to my death after leaving the diner, that I would die a very happy and content woman because I had the pleasure of eating THIS MARVELOUS SANDWICH. Yeah, no kidding -- like a last meal of sorts. Yes, indeed -- THE Reuben is THIS good. I will definitely return when they serve THE Reuben again -- no doubt about it. It was also my pleasure to meet Zoe, the owner, Diana -- who enjoyed her very first day of employment there, and two women whose names begin with "A" -- one being Alex, and, the other being Andrea? Oh my goodness ... I cannot remember if her name is Andrea, although -- I do remember how much I LOVE THE REUBEN. Check it out and try THE Reuben -- you will be quite happy you did!!! ETA on 10-24-14: Make sure to check out their FB so you won't miss out on THE Reuben !!!
(4)
Danielle B.
Friendly and affordable! I came here with my family recently and had an enjoyable breakfast. I ordered 'the Frenchie' and I will be back for it. French toast on Portuguese sweet bread with nice scoop of fruit on the top. Portion was not huge, but also only $6 (extra for real maple syrup but i think its worth it). They have New Harvest coffee, homemade cinnamon buns, and a really cute retro high chair for the little ones! I want to go back soon to try the chicken and waffles.
(4)
SueFly B.
Overall, it did not live up to my expectations. The waitress was 'off', not responding to our needs, like ordering our meals with out her co-workers prompting her, and brought me exactly what I asked to NOT be brought. Hard to rate the food when what I was brought was something I despise to begin with. Overall, poor service, no attention to details and simply not my scene, and beyond frustrating to pay for food I didn't eat.
(2)
Marlena A.
Yummy breakfast! Everything's fresh & homemade. Great service. Will definitely come back.
(5)
Mariana B.
Overall: Although what I ordered wasn't exactly to my taste, other menu items looked great and it was a wonderful atmosphere. I came here with family for a quick Sunday morning brunch. The place is adorable and comfortable. Parking is available on the side and it's near my neighborhood. The owners stopped by our table and were extremely friendly, as was our waitress. They all seemed committed to making this place work. As to the food, I ordered the standard 2 egg-homefries-toast breakfast and it wasn't the best I've ever had, but it was definitely edible. The eggs taste very "real" and the herbed butter on the toast was yummy, but it wasn't anywhere near the greasy, sloppy diner food I truly crave on Sunday mornings. My sister ordered the hash and LOVED it, although she definitely called it a gourmet interpretation. My dad ordered something off the kid's menu--which we were happy they let him do as he was sick and had a small appetite--and also really liked it. We also saw yummy dishes others were ordering near us--like the chicken and waffles and the cinnamon bun which looks to die for--that we definitely want to come back to try. As a note to the owners: The hangover burger looked delicious, but I'm a vegetarian. Look into making black bean patties or veggie burgers an option?
Loved the Corned Beef Hash and the Herbed Butter on Toast!! Corned Beef is in a home made brine and sits for a good week plus!! Awesome toast is grilled with herb butter for an extra crunch! As for the coffee, AMAZING!!!!
(5)
Kelly B.
Awesome breakfast! Love that they use local vendors too! The bacon is to die for and the omlets are so fluffy! New Harvest coffee is so good too!
(5)
Jose M.
Restaurant is in a hispanic neighborhood, Im hispanic and I like to give reviews, before the greed, this person ( server ) gave me the looks and for that look the restaurant gets a 2 stars. And to mention the $2.00 pancake that it was one of the most expensive pancake and not the greatest. I Will Not Go Back there Again..... :(:(:(:( I think that those good reviews are from friends an families.
(2)
E B.
I drive by the diner all the time but have never actually eaten at the diner. One Saturday morning I decided to pay Elmwood Diner a visit. Y not, I was starving like Marvin, and was in the area. I ordered The Old School $4; scrambled eggs, French bread, and home fries. I had to add an order of swine for $3 and pancake for $2.50 to make my meal complete. Everything was amazing and could not complain. The home fries were really delicious and were topped with scallions. A different twist then the usual regular white onions. I was offered regular syrup or the real deal maple syrup. Needless to say only the best for me, so I went with maple not knowing it was going to be $2 for about 1/4 tsp (honestly I couldn't tell the difference between that and aunt jemima BUT that's what I get for trying to be boogie lol. Nothing bad about this place, staff was friendly, place was clean and organized and food was good. I will definitely return and maybe take my girl next time. If you are in the area give them a visit and support the local business as much as I love a deal and would much rather go to Denny's for that $2, $4, $6, $8 menu you can't compare quality made from scratch food!
(4)
Sean G.
I can't say I'm a fan of Elmwood Dinner. From the outside, it seems like a nice enough greasy-spoon of sorts, and the interior definitely lends to the old-school dinner feel. The wait staff were pleasant and personable as well. However, when it came to the food, Elmwood Diner is certainly lacking. Weekends are the Brunch Menu which is a more limited version of their regular menu, which isn't exactly an expansive menu to begin with. I got The Monte with a side of bacon and a mug of coffee, while my SO ordered the Veggie Omelet. The Monte's strong point is the Portuguese sweet bread French toast, however, whatever their dip is made of is very bland. The same went for the home fries. They lacked flavor, the chopped green onions that covered them didn't do much but overpower any other flavors. As for the Veggie Omelet, it did not look pretty to say the least. From what I gathered from the waitress, the vegetables that go into it are pre-mixed and thus you can't select which vegetables you want or don't want in the omelet. My SO wanted to add jalapenos and hold the onions, however, the order came out with onions and without jalapenos. On top of that, the vegetables came together in a red mushy glob in the omelet, they were largely unidentifiable as there seemed to be sweet potatoes permeating everything and overpowering all other flavors. The best description I can come up with is, "weirdly bland." The eggs, advertised as local, were in fact very good. Though, I can't imagine you can really make bad eggs. The coffee much the same, albeit weak. Lastly, the bacon. It was candied bacon that as a side came out three strips for $3.00. Seems a bit pricy, right? On top of that, the bacon was not good. I don't know how I can say that bacon is bad, but I'm saying it right now. It could have been very good as it was a thick cut of nice smokey bacon that otherwise seemed very crispy. But the attempt at making it candied was a complete failure and assaulted the taste buds and offended the senses. The bacon was gooey, chewy, and cemented to my teeth, the flavor was that of fake maple syrup, and were not even hot coming out. If it weren't for the wait staff and the atmosphere, I'd give Elmwood Diner a 1 star due to the sub-quality food, limited menu, and the high prices. I don't get it, it's a diner and diner food is supposed to be simple, tasty, and cheap. Elmwood Diner is none of those things.
(2)
Rita L.
Recently re opened. Cleaned up, but mostly still original interior. Menu is nice quality. "Sage butter" "candied bacon" and real maple syrup. Foodie quality, diner price. Owner came and introduced her self. Friendly staff.
(5)
Sarah I.
Waited 25 minutes for two over cooked eggs swimming in some dark mystery liquid... how do you make salsa flavorless? Not sure. Ask elmwood diner. Then try to get a waitress... very disappointing. I usually don't use this word, this dish is bordering on disgusting. I now have to go home to make another breakfast. -.- oh, and I forgot to add, you literally have another couple sitting in the same booth with you. Two tiny tables crammed into one booth. So no privacy with horrible food.
(2)
Frank T.
Great place - super meal - outstanding staff - we'll be back and will tell others about how great this place is
(5)
W W.
We spent the beautiful July 5th morning with friends--up from Jersey--at Roger Williams Park, when we started to get a little hungry. We needed someplace that would please both carnivorous and vegetarian adults, and kids as well. I remembered that Elmwood Diner had opened and suggested we go check it out. None of us were disappointed. The place is clean, the food is good, the prices are right, the service was both friendly and attentive. My significant other had the pancakes which she said were excellent. A friend and I each had the Old School--eggs, toast, and home fries. The farm fresh eggs were well cooked, and the home fries were better than any I have had elsewhere in New England. Another friend had the Huevos Rancheros and she testified it was delicious. Their kids were happy too, each having the pancakes. Don't be fooled by the exterior of the building, which is a historic diner that could use a little more polishing up. This is the best diner food I have had. We will be back!
(4)
John M.
I've been wanting to go here for awhile based on all of the great reviews and it did not disappoint. My bf and I came in for Sunday brunch around 1pm and we were greeted by the nicest and sweetest girl, who also wound up being our server. As we were being seated, I noticed how clean the place was. It definitely looked like a classic diner, but in no way was it run down or dingy. The same can be said for the food, which is elevated from the usual greasy spoon fare you'll find at your run of the mill diner. I ordered the Veggie Omelet, which was filled with spinach, tomatoes and sweet potatoes. It was fantastic. My bf got the Fried Chicken Waffle Sandwich, which he couldn't stop raving about. The portions were huge, and the food was not heavy or greasy. We could tell the food was prepared with fresh, local ingredients and we definitely appreciated it. We finished the meal by splitting one of their house made donuts, which was more like a mini cake subtly spiced with nutmeg. It was fantastic. The bill was a little under $30 for the two of us, and it was totally worth it for what we got. The food and the service made our experience a good one, and I will definitely recommend and come back.
(4)
Juan Carlos J.
Food was ok, NOT "GREAT" like other reviews described it. I expected more after reading the reviews.
(3)
Celeste L.
WOW! The food was super. I had the old country breakfast with their specialty bacon! It was SO DELICIOUS! There were four in our party and each person got something different. Everyone raved about how yummy and fresh everything was. We started with a homemade cinnamon roll that was very delicious! We all had our breakfasts and we finished with a slice of their (from scratch) apple pie with caramel sauce! HOLY COW! It was so yummy! Their bacon alone will have me going back again and again. Throw in their home fries and desserts....I'll be there all the time! Definitely worth the trip!
(4)
Gwen M.
The diner has opened! My son and I were excited to be part of the opening day and have breakfast, 2 thumbs up from my son on the pancakes, I had the "Benny" which is the diner's take on egg's benedict, herbed buttered toast crispy proscuitto and a light lemony hollandaise sauce, a little unexpected from a diner, and GREAT! Vegetarian and gluten free options too!
(4)
Sonia G.
Elmwood Diner is my new staple Saturday morning breakfast joint. It's just that good. The corned beef hash was a huge hit at our table, and the breakfast sandwich on French toast with candied bacon is to die for (add cheese, it gets even better!). They brew New Harvest coffee, so you don't have the watered down, burnt, stale diner coffee, not here. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the owner, Zoe, has come out to chat and introduced herself when we visited. It really is a great restaurant, but I'm primarily basing that on the sandwich and the hash. I suppose I will have to try something else there eventually, if I can ever pull myself away from that sandwich!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Accepts Bitcoin : No Good For : Breakfast Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Average Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes Good for Working : Yes
Ken P.
Found out about this spot while doing the rifoodfights iced coffee summer celebration. Our second trip here and had to try the chicken and waffles. My wife who loves her ice coffee loved the banana foster ice coffee. Had to come back a second time was just as good.
(5)Cristin S.
I finally made it down the road to the Elmwood Diner. The food was acceptable and the server was nice but I felt like it need some BOOM. In the past I have always tried to visit places that Guy has visited and most of the times I am let down. Not to say the food was bad but I guess I was just expecting more. I had the reuben which had good flavor but go soggy on the bottom. My sister had the chicken and waffles and said the chicken was relish but the waffle was missing something. Overall if I have a hankering for some diner fare I may stop by again.
(3)Sandra O.
The waitress today was great! I ordered the Huevos and she said they were out of salsa. The waitress decided to double check. The cook made made us fresh salsa!
(5)Jennifer R.
I want to love it here, I really really do. It went from pretty great, to somewhat inconsistent, to a confused (and confusing) little diner. The service and the food varies greatly from one day to the next, it's like being in a relationship with a bipolar breakfast joint. Sorry, Elmwood Diner, I tried to wait it out with you.
(2)Emily W.
Elmwood Diner is only about a mile down the road from my new apartment and it's very likely that I drove by this place a million times the last time I lived in Providence, but it's very easy to miss. In fact, I almost flew right by it when I was going there this weekend. One of my friends told me that this place is her favorite so I had to try it out. I went in with a friend on a Sunday morning around 10. No wait, no lines, plenty of open tables. The menu is small but everything that you could want on a breakfast menu. My friend got a giant waffle with chocolate chips and strawberries on top and loved it. I got the full on bacon, eggs, toast, potatoes breakfast and it was awesome. Prices are reasonable and service was friendly. I'll definitely be back to Elmwood Diner!
(4)Douglas C.
Don't try to be something your not. I thought I would give it a try since I knew it had changed hands. First off the pricing is way out of control for a diner. I think 17.00 dollars with tip for a Reuben with fries and two iced teas may be a bit much. I eat out often because of my job. Gets too expensive to pay that kind of money. Second. When you put Reuben on the special board don't charge ten dollar for less than 8oz of pot roast meat instead of corned beef. There is a reason why you get more for corned beef. The inside of the diner is unkept and should be cleaned. Hello. Stainless should be stainless. This guy will not be back and will not recommend. I'll give the diner four more months unless they can Change drastically Get back to the diner roots. Contact me if you serious about making it. P.S. You probably should take down Guy Ferris stamp saying he ate there because he didn't. That was when it was Liberty Elm Diner.
(1)Kendra N.
Had a food fights iced coffee coupon which brought me in, I would have never checked this place out had I not had that. The diner is deceiving when you first walk in, seems very small with just a breakfast bar but the back has plenty of seating. The servers were really friendly and immediately brought us the banana fosters iced coffee....an banana flavored iced coffee with caramel and whipped cream!!!! Delicious!!! Ordered the eggs, maple bacon, French toast with fresh fruit, wheat toast, and home fries ( that was just one dish!) everything was cooked perfectly and prior to coming out the waitress said the kitchen hadn't gotten the ticket for my food in error but it would be right out (we had been waiting a mere 10 min so the food must come out super quick). The bacon was thick and cooked great, flavored were fantastic! Home fries for little potatoes perfectly seasoned. The chicken and waffles were delicious! The chicken was fried to perfection and very tender inside. I can't wait to return to this diner for breakfast!
(5)Gillian B.
Yesterday I went here I've been dying to try their bananas foster coffee and wow it did not disappoint. The coffee tasted just like a real banana I was so surprised if u want a good coffee try this one
(4)Robert S.
One of the breakfasts, I've had in RI. I ordered a veggie omelette with egg whites ($1 extra). It had nice veggies, mashed potatoes and provolone cheese. It was flavorful, tasty, good size. My BF got the french toast with home fries and he Loved the dish. A friend got the Eggs Benedict and she also loved her dish. Service is attentive, friendly and prompt. A winner on my book !!!
(5)Therese S.
I tried the Elmwood today since it's new opening. The atmosphere is a little sterile though I do like the vintage vinyl seating. It's definitely lost some of its character. The big whammy to me was the food. It's definitely taken a hit. The Monty was made with bacon not ham and missing the swiss....not cool. The homemade hash sounded great but in reality it was super dry, hard to pick up with the fork, but, also the veggies felt more like filler than ingredients. I was disappointed. Lastly, the chef needs to understand the difference between over hard and over easy.
(2)Andy B.
First let me say that I didn't eat here. I went in, and got a MASSIVE case of sticker shock!!! Then I left, but not before experiencing the terrible seats at the counter. I'm six feet tall, and have a long torso. So I sit very high up, normally. The counter was up to my nipples. Having to have my arms that high hurt my back right away. It was very hot on there. I am not gonna spend my money anywhere on a hot day that doesn't have good AC, EVER!!! The waitress "recommended" some stuff, but it felt more like a warning against the other food they have IMO. Then I saw the overly fancy menu. The only thing tinier then the selections was the size of the typeface. No person with bad eyesite could ever read it. So this leads me to the sticker shock I mentioned before. $3.00 for 1 pancake!!! Three dollars for a single pancake? Is there good flakes in the batter? There are very few things cheaper to make then a pancake. It better be a 15 inch round 3/4 inch thick one for that price. All the breakfasts that weren't just eggs, were around $10.00. So let's do some math. Ten bucks for a plate of food , probably $3.00 or more for a juice. Tax tip, and I'm out almost $20.00 for what seems by these reviews to be an average breakfast with rock hard homefries that most likely won't even fill me up. Um no thanks. I just walked out, and will never come back. Its just breakfast people. C'mon. Who can afford this? I could, but just like I won't believe the hype, and buy Nike Air Jordans. I won't overpay at this want to be hipster type diner. I don't know about other people, but I expect cheap food at a diner. And to top it off. This isn't the East Side, or Newport. It's GD Elmwood Ave people. Give me a break. This place had everything backwards. These people can't be restaurant types like myself (30 years in the biz now). They just can't be. If they are, then they're obviously just clueless. I'm amazed at how badly they are running this place, and I can only imagine how disappointed I would have been if I actually spent my hard earned money on the food. Thank god I can spot a crappy place, before it's too late! Stay away! Stay FAR away!!!!!!
(1)John S.
Reuben Sandwich Special, Huevos, and the Hangover Burger have all been delicious, served quickly, and wonderfully cooked! Also, get the pancakes whenever you can, they're terrific!
(5)Evan V.
Apparently I drink coffee on Sundays which is news to me. As one third of my party, I was quite pleased with my first visit to Elmwood Diner (and the two cups of coffee I sucked back). Having experienced Liberty Elm's offerings in years past, a part of me went in with the expectation that more weirdo options would tempt me from the pages of their menu. Not quite the case, but I refuse to give up on this place just yet. The service was magnificent, care of an enthusiastic and knowledgable waitress who we soon learned was also the resident baker here. It was also refreshing to find out that all of their egg dishes could be subbed with tofu and prepared with olive oil in lieu of butter. Gaining points. The "Vegan Plate" caught my eye, which at $9.50 sort of misled me into believing that I would be leaving with a fuller-than-full belly. Unfortunately, this was not the case. Do not misconstrue any of this, please. The tofu was seasoned with an interestingly flavorful pesto, along with roasted tomatoes and onions. The cruelty-free scramble was piled atop a sweet potato mash and served with my choice of herb-brushed toast. I opted for marble rye, because well, duh. It was quite tasty, but again for the price tag I require more tofu (goodness, that sounds demanding) or perhaps some sort of faux breakfast meat - feel free to read my Garden Grille review to see just how serious and willing to exchange recipes I really am. Now I completely understand - ED (that is the diner, not the old-timer's dysfunction) does not specialize in weirdo offerings, but as I suggested to my server, perhaps vegan pancakes might be an excellent addition to the current offerings (and a way to cut in on the Julian's/Grange/heck, even Doherty's has weirdo-cakes, brunch crowd). All told, a solid Sunday morning treat with all the mid-century Americana charm that only a place with formica-topped tables and soda selections served in glass bottles could yield. Now, if only I didn't have to pay an extra two dollars for the novelty of actually being able to order something without needing to modify it further (which again, is cool and I appreciate), then this here would have easily been a 5 star rating.
(4)Alissa M.
Very content with the breakfast I had here! Their chicken and waffles satisfied my long lived quest for them in Rhode Island. The waffle was light, and fluffy yet still had substance and a good chew. The fried chicken is a breast piece without bones and battered relatively lightly. Next time I'd ask for real maple syrup for $2, because the commercial stuff diluted the taste of the meal. They also have very good iced coffee! The service was fantastic! Our waitress was very attentive and actually cared about our wellbeing. Will definitely be returning!
(5)Roger W.
The latest edition of the Elmwood Diner is as underwhelming as the previous ones. A new menu (with cloyingly cutesy language and higher prices) along with some jarringly borrowed décor is the facelift after the latest change of hands. For some reason, the new owners think you really care about the history of the Elmwood Diner. They appear to have paid as much (maybe more) attention to what's on the front of the menus than what's inside it. On the plus side, lots of parking. And everything came out of the kitchen reasonably fast. On the downside? Just about everything else. For $10, I ordered their version of a Monte Cristo - eggs and bacon sandwiched by French toast (maple syrup? $2 extra) with home fries. As noted, everything came out of the kitchen pretty quick, but wasn't really up to snuff. The home fries were less than generous, and mine were so overdone they failed "the clink" test: if you drop a home fry on a plate, and it bounces off and makes a clinking sound? Overcooked. All of my almost comically overcooked home fries failed the clink test at the Elmwood Diner. That alone guarantees you a C minus grade, guys. Visibly overcooked anything should never leave the kitchen. The service likewise underwhelmed me. Our waitress, and older blonde woman, spent most of her time gabbing away with people up front. We waited about 10 minutes for the check to arrive while she was socializing. We could also hear the kitchen staff howling away to the Beatles' "Hey Jude" at unpleasantly loud volumes. Glad you're enjoying yourselves, girls, but hey!, this is a business, and you might want to act professional while customers are around. Just an idea. The rest of their menu looked interesting, and if you're on the gluten free or vegan bandwagons, they theoretically have you covered. However, my curiosity isn't piqued enough to make the trip out here for lackluster food and service at these prices. For the same money, I could have done way better for breakfast in my own neighborhood: The Classic Café, Nick's on Broadway, hell, even Kitchen, and I hate going to Kitchen! If you want to overpay for brunch, and you happen to live in that neighborhood? You could probably do worse. You could also do a whole lot better (J P Spoonem's). I just can't recommend this place until the new owners get their act together, but by then, this place will probably change hands again.
(2)Dorothy R.
Wanted to try this place based on good reviews. Unfortunately that was my first and last time at Elmwood Diner. Our waitress was horrible. She was blonde with short hair. At first she seemed nice when she brought our drink orders to the table. But when our food came, she had my order completely wrong. She didn't bother to check on us to see how we were doing. She never came with the check when we clearly had our dishes stacked and off to the side. She wasn't even busy! After waiting so long for our check I just went up to her and asked for it and still left her a $7 tip for doing her job. Never again!
(1)Rebecca V.
I went to the Elmwood Diner for breakfast last week to find it woefully empty. It's a little off the beaten path, but I really hope they find more support in the coming months! I was a big fan of the old Liberty Elm Diner, and might like it even a little more as its new incarnation. The menu features more locally sourced items: eggs and chicken from Baffoni farms, New Harvest Coffee (brewed *strong*), and more. My friend had the chicken and waffles, and I was envious of that decision -- great, fluffy waffle, well-seasoned fried chicken with crispy skin, and eggs to boot. I had a veggie omelette, and as others have noted, it was not beautiful--kind of a thick scrambled egg pancake folded over some vegetables. Presentation aside, it was very tasty, as were the accompanying home fries. I will definitely be going back soon!
(4)Caroline M.
The best corned beef hash I've ever had - none of the out of the can garbage. Unbeatable charming diner decor of the former Liberty Elm Diner + new ownership under Zoë Neves and Paul Smith brings a menu that is both down to earth and sophisticated all at the same time - a gourmetification of the typical greasy spoon diner experience. The Elmwood diner rocked the service, food, decor, value and the spirit. They also have a page dedicated to smaller meals (one egg, one slice of toast) for example which isn't something I see any breakfast places doing these days. Did the mention how affordable it is? Or that they serve New Harvest coffee and source local what they can? Or that the cinnamon buns are homemade? I just can't stop. I loved it.
(5)Nicole W.
I'm giving the Elmwood a very generous 3 stars for two reasons: First, they can cook eggs. The ability to do over-medium and over-hard is a true diner test. Second, they actually make good pancakes. Real pancakes! Of a proper thinness and not some super thick, cakey thing that gums up your mouth, which the majority of people will mistake for "fluffy". (I may have a pancake bias) The one downside is that their homefries are way overcooked. I didn't even touch mine.
(3)Allie P.
This place doesn't have that true "diner" atmosphere that so many people love. This is actually the closest breakfast restaurant to my house and I will not eat here. The food is alright, but they do not have much to choose from, it's overly fussed with and they try too hard to make it "fancy" and the prices reflect that. I didn't even like the coffee as it was super dark and bitter, not something that should be served at a diner. Plus it's cold and quiet and empty in there most of the time. To me it looks like they are trying to appeal to hipsters and they lack the skills in the kitchen to serve up true home style diner fare.
(2)Zared G.
Delicious? Yes. Friendly? Yup. Affordable? Quite. My new fave spot in the hood? Def! Finally got to hit up the Elmwood Diner after months of driving by and watching the progress via social media. The wait paid off! Welcomed by the friendly staff as soon as we entered. Grabbed a table in the back. The coffee was flowing so much I was jittery all day! Chicken & waffles are bomb! I need to go back often to try the rest of the menu and fresh baked goods, and I will!
(4)Emily M.
My first time at this place since it was The Liberty Elm. I think that I probably won't go back. I ordered two eggs over easy with multigrain toast and a blueberry pancake. The good- my eggs were cooked PERFECTLY and they were tasty. The coffee was pretty good too. The bad- the pancake was awful. It was really thin and dense and it just didn't have any flavor. Neither did the toast which wasn't toasted, just sort of bread from a bag. There wasn't much flavor in the food and it was just an overall bummer. My sister got the waffle/fried chicken thing and she reported that the chicken tasted like frialator grease and her waffle was bland. But she liked the coffee and HER eggs were cooked perfectly too (poached). So, if you really like a well cooked egg and sides without flavor than this is the place for you. But I'll be sticking with Spoonems or T's.
(2)Gail A.
Friendly service and comfortable seating. This cute diner is a Sunday morning treat to your busy week. They have gluten free bread and offer New Harvest Coffee.
(5)Meredith A.
The Elmwood diner is truly a gem! They have a wonderful, innovative menu that puts a spin on traditional diner breakfast. Everything is homemade, and you can tell. It is quirky and unique without being a hipster slap in the face. The space is a Providence landmark, and I am so pleased that they have managed to keep it open and thriving. I recommend this spot to everyone.
(5)l b.
So glad we stopped to eat here on the way to Boston. We are on a family road trip, and we have had our share of diner food. The locale may be a cute, renovated diner, but the food is far above standard diner fare. We are a family of four: a tween, a teen, and parents. We ate heartily and deliciously for $35! The food is very high quality and fresh. The fresh fruit on the crepe-like pancakes, the candied bacon, the large farm-fresh eggs and smooth, strong coffee, the home made bread and pastries are all reasons to enjoy a meal here. The diner is also nicely renovated in a simple, attractive style. The service is personal and efficient. It's also spotlessly clean! The neighborhood is a bit drab, but the food, service and price are truly attractive. If we are nearby, we will definitely visit again. A diner to emulate.
(5)Ted B.
Another great breakfast at Elmwood Dinner. The owner(s) and staff are always friendly and make you feel welcomed. The food was served quickly as ordered. The seasonal fruit was great.
(5)J. M.
I work at an office nearby, and have ordered take out twice from the Elmwood Diner. The food here is simply excellent. The first time I ordered, I got the BLT which was a couple notches above average. I ordered "white bread" and honestly was expecting two slices of wonder bread, but was pleasantly surprised when I tasted the quality of the bread; it was large, meaty toasted bread with just the right amount of basil aioli smeared on it. The bacon was perfectly crisp and not greasy by any means. I am typing this review as I finish eating my Monte Jr., a piece of fluffy french toast, two pieces of bacon, and homefries that give Nick's on Broadway a run for their money. This meal was heaven in a plastic container.
(5)Katalyst S.
I will definitely be coming back to this little diner! Came her kinda late on a weekday and ordered the chicken and waffles! Happy to report that with the fresh maple it tasted even better than Roscoes! Love it! Great service too :D Good people!
(5)Michele M.
Barely Warm waffle would not melt the hard pat of butter. I had to ask for the syrup I ordered ($2 extra for real maple), it was stone cold from the fridge, which really helped with the barely warm waffle. Service was next to non existent, the waitress asked my friend if he needed more coffee and never asked me anything. Oh and the waitress spilled hot water on the table and my seat and didn't say a word.
(1)Ratt S.
Yum! Yum! Yum! I'm never disappointed with any dish I order from the Elmwood Diner. The menu is a mix of innovation and comfort food, all made from scratch with love and inspiration. The staff is consistently friendly and efficient. All in all, it's the best dining experience in Elmwood and is worth the ten minute trip from any other part of Providence. So happy this retro historic diner is in my neighborhood! My faves so far are the Monte: french toast, a fried egg and maple bacon drizzled in maple syrup...the Veggie Omelet: healthy flavor explosion of fresh veggies with spiced sweet potatoes on the inside. I ordered the marble rye toast and asked for a side of their house made 'salsa verde' for a savory toast topping that totally made the meal...Chicken Fried Waffle Sandwich!?!!!: enough said.
(5)Brad C.
New name, same excellent food! Was very upset when The Liberty Elm went out of business but so glad it was resurrected as the Elmwood Diner under new ownership. The new owners stayed true to what the previous owners built the Liberty on, fresh, inventive dishes. I consider myself a breakfast connoisseur and when a restaurant has so many delicious meal options, I know I might have struck gold. I enjoyed the special of the day, Greek Scramble, fluffy scrambled eggs with kalamata olives, spinach and Narragansett Creamery feta. This should be a regular dish! You can't beat bottomless coffee either, especially when it's local roaster New Harvest, great choice! Also, get the iced coffee it's delicious, I'm often skeptical of restaurant iced coffee but don't be here! I will most certainly be visiting the Elmwood Diner when I'm in town next.
(4)Heather B.
Well the food didn't disappoint but some things went on did- owners kid running around restaurant and touching clean silverware, my waitress simultaneously eating at the end of the counter and waiting on people without washing her hands and that a breakfast place would charge for maple syrup. Go figure. The owner is nice but needs to run a tighter ship. Probably won't be back
(2)David S.
A fabulous menu and wonderful, lively service and atmosphere create a place that makes you feel just like part of the family. Menu and specials are always changing, so there's always something new and wonderful to try. Some of the staples include the brown-sugar bacon and amazing Monte! Always a good choice for brunch and lunch with friends and family.
(5)Victor R.
Had to update my review. I did give a one in my previous review but I took all emotions of it being a busy day and eating my food a little late out of the picture. The owner is an amazing person you can tell this business is her pride and joy. After waiting a long period of time for two plates of food I was irate. The fact that the owner realized that and personally came to each table and took ownership of that problem I can tell from here on that problem will not happen again. The food was delicious, this is the second time I came to seek consistency in my review. I always get the special no matter what it is and I have yet to be dissappointed. Just a tip to management please train your waitresses/waiter to be attentive and check back with the customers. I know it was busy but it doesn't take much time to stop at a customers table to say "im sorry for the wait, is there anything I can do for you?" Otherwise not a great experience but will return again to see if they redeem themselves.
(3)A I.
SO yummy! My indicted co-conspirator and I stopped in this afternoon for brunch. He ordered one of the specials, the sweet potato melt, and I got "The Old School," 2 eggs, home fries, toast (I ordered rye), and a pancake on the side. He ordered fries to go with his sweet potato melt. First off, the sweet potato melt was awesome. Like a grilled cheese sandwich with veggies and caramelized onions. (if you ever managed to get to Kafe Lila in Pawtucket during its brief existence, you know the glory of butternut squash on a sandwich, and this was right up there with that deliciousness.) The fries were also good. Fresh tasting, and just the right amount of salt. My eggs were eggs, albeit tasty ones! The home fries were clearly never frozen, and had bits of scallion mixed in. The pancake, though... I took a bite and it reminded me of the pancakes I had as a kid. Light, fluffy, and beautifully done. It did take us a little longer than we anticipated to get our food, but from arrival to exit was 40 minutes, so it was absolutely nothing terrible. The service was great, too. Now, if you're looking for "typical" greasy diner food, this might not be your thing, but if you're looking for diner food that tastes like it was made by people who really care about food, you're in the right spot. It wasn't very busy when we came in, but the food was so good that we want to make sure this place sticks around. Go. You will not regret it.
(5)Kate D.
Very affordable ad so fresh, local, and delicious! The pancakes are delicate and almost crepe like. The huevos are the best I've ever had. I could eat it every day! Definitely worth the trip! Don't be deceived, the outside is divey, but inside is clean and spacious!!
(5)Roisin F.
I had lunch here today. I ordered "The Best BLT Ever", and indeed it was! I can't wait to go back for breakfast.
(5)Beth J.
My family & I just had a delicious breakfast at Elmwood diner. The staff is so nice. Our girls have nut allergies & they made sure to separately prepare food for them. I highly recommend the vegetable omelet too. We will definitely come back.
(5)Dolores R.
I live nearby and finally made my way to dine at the Elmwood Diner for a late lunch (earlier today). I started with a caramel mocha latte with soy milk -- it was so delicious and beautiful that I pounded it down like a glass of cool, refreshing water on a hot day. I now know that I should have ordered this AFTER my meal because its strength coupled with its sweetness overpowered my palate and ability to enjoy the subtleties of the coffee-cup size order of butternut bisque with toasty pistachios and tarragon cream. It was good, but, I don't know how good since my palate was in flavored-latte-overdrive. My latte did not, however, take anything away from the flavorful AWESOMENESS of the most special special of this day -- THE Reuben, with their house-brined corned beef, horseradish 1000-island, craut and creamy swiss ~ WOW ~ talk about a sandwich to-die-for!!! This, by far, is the most delicious and bestest-best sandwich I have ever eaten in my over five decades of living -- no kidding!! I am not a huge fan of beef, although, I do like to eat it a few times a month -- and this sandwich was TOTALLY and ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!! The corned beef was lean * lean * lean -- there wasn't a speck of fat on it. And, better yet -- it was piled oh-so-high -- I could not believe how much corned beef they stuffed between the fresh layers of beautiful marbled rye bread. YUM. THE Reuben was SO GOOD and SO DELICIOUS that I told them if some horrific event tragically struck me down to my death after leaving the diner, that I would die a very happy and content woman because I had the pleasure of eating THIS MARVELOUS SANDWICH. Yeah, no kidding -- like a last meal of sorts. Yes, indeed -- THE Reuben is THIS good. I will definitely return when they serve THE Reuben again -- no doubt about it. It was also my pleasure to meet Zoe, the owner, Diana -- who enjoyed her very first day of employment there, and two women whose names begin with "A" -- one being Alex, and, the other being Andrea? Oh my goodness ... I cannot remember if her name is Andrea, although -- I do remember how much I LOVE THE REUBEN. Check it out and try THE Reuben -- you will be quite happy you did!!! ETA on 10-24-14: Make sure to check out their FB so you won't miss out on THE Reuben !!!
(4)Danielle B.
Friendly and affordable! I came here with my family recently and had an enjoyable breakfast. I ordered 'the Frenchie' and I will be back for it. French toast on Portuguese sweet bread with nice scoop of fruit on the top. Portion was not huge, but also only $6 (extra for real maple syrup but i think its worth it). They have New Harvest coffee, homemade cinnamon buns, and a really cute retro high chair for the little ones! I want to go back soon to try the chicken and waffles.
(4)SueFly B.
Overall, it did not live up to my expectations. The waitress was 'off', not responding to our needs, like ordering our meals with out her co-workers prompting her, and brought me exactly what I asked to NOT be brought. Hard to rate the food when what I was brought was something I despise to begin with. Overall, poor service, no attention to details and simply not my scene, and beyond frustrating to pay for food I didn't eat.
(2)Marlena A.
Yummy breakfast! Everything's fresh & homemade. Great service. Will definitely come back.
(5)Mariana B.
Overall: Although what I ordered wasn't exactly to my taste, other menu items looked great and it was a wonderful atmosphere. I came here with family for a quick Sunday morning brunch. The place is adorable and comfortable. Parking is available on the side and it's near my neighborhood. The owners stopped by our table and were extremely friendly, as was our waitress. They all seemed committed to making this place work. As to the food, I ordered the standard 2 egg-homefries-toast breakfast and it wasn't the best I've ever had, but it was definitely edible. The eggs taste very "real" and the herbed butter on the toast was yummy, but it wasn't anywhere near the greasy, sloppy diner food I truly crave on Sunday mornings. My sister ordered the hash and LOVED it, although she definitely called it a gourmet interpretation. My dad ordered something off the kid's menu--which we were happy they let him do as he was sick and had a small appetite--and also really liked it. We also saw yummy dishes others were ordering near us--like the chicken and waffles and the cinnamon bun which looks to die for--that we definitely want to come back to try. As a note to the owners: The hangover burger looked delicious, but I'm a vegetarian. Look into making black bean patties or veggie burgers an option?
(3)Jeffrey H.
I was sad when Liberty Elm Diner closed at this same location a few years earlier. As I drove by the diner, I noticed a new one opened in its place. I decided to turn around. Now called Elmwood Diner, I was happy to see on their menu that hey sourced their ingredients locally. A few days later, I decided to stop in again and brought my apatite with me. I was about to order their corned beef hash with eggs and toast, but they were out of the hash. I went with the vegetable omelet. It was filled with sage roast tomatoes, melted onions, sautéed spinach, maple mashed sweet potatoes, and Swiss cheese (I substituted the Provolone). ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS! It was like no other omelet I had experienced. All the flavors melded together beautifully. The plate was finished off with whole wheat toast and home fries. (And the home fries were beautifully prepared without being soaked in grease and over-salted like in most diners.) It was all so tasty that I asked to compliment the cook personally. I also ordered an orange juice (not from concentrate). The breakfast came to $10.70 with tax, and the service was friendly. Yes, of course I'll be back!
(5)Chris G.
Loved the Corned Beef Hash and the Herbed Butter on Toast!! Corned Beef is in a home made brine and sits for a good week plus!! Awesome toast is grilled with herb butter for an extra crunch! As for the coffee, AMAZING!!!!
(5)Kelly B.
Awesome breakfast! Love that they use local vendors too! The bacon is to die for and the omlets are so fluffy! New Harvest coffee is so good too!
(5)Jose M.
Restaurant is in a hispanic neighborhood, Im hispanic and I like to give reviews, before the greed, this person ( server ) gave me the looks and for that look the restaurant gets a 2 stars. And to mention the $2.00 pancake that it was one of the most expensive pancake and not the greatest. I Will Not Go Back there Again..... :(:(:(:( I think that those good reviews are from friends an families.
(2)E B.
I drive by the diner all the time but have never actually eaten at the diner. One Saturday morning I decided to pay Elmwood Diner a visit. Y not, I was starving like Marvin, and was in the area. I ordered The Old School $4; scrambled eggs, French bread, and home fries. I had to add an order of swine for $3 and pancake for $2.50 to make my meal complete. Everything was amazing and could not complain. The home fries were really delicious and were topped with scallions. A different twist then the usual regular white onions. I was offered regular syrup or the real deal maple syrup. Needless to say only the best for me, so I went with maple not knowing it was going to be $2 for about 1/4 tsp (honestly I couldn't tell the difference between that and aunt jemima BUT that's what I get for trying to be boogie lol. Nothing bad about this place, staff was friendly, place was clean and organized and food was good. I will definitely return and maybe take my girl next time. If you are in the area give them a visit and support the local business as much as I love a deal and would much rather go to Denny's for that $2, $4, $6, $8 menu you can't compare quality made from scratch food!
(4)Sean G.
I can't say I'm a fan of Elmwood Dinner. From the outside, it seems like a nice enough greasy-spoon of sorts, and the interior definitely lends to the old-school dinner feel. The wait staff were pleasant and personable as well. However, when it came to the food, Elmwood Diner is certainly lacking. Weekends are the Brunch Menu which is a more limited version of their regular menu, which isn't exactly an expansive menu to begin with. I got The Monte with a side of bacon and a mug of coffee, while my SO ordered the Veggie Omelet. The Monte's strong point is the Portuguese sweet bread French toast, however, whatever their dip is made of is very bland. The same went for the home fries. They lacked flavor, the chopped green onions that covered them didn't do much but overpower any other flavors. As for the Veggie Omelet, it did not look pretty to say the least. From what I gathered from the waitress, the vegetables that go into it are pre-mixed and thus you can't select which vegetables you want or don't want in the omelet. My SO wanted to add jalapenos and hold the onions, however, the order came out with onions and without jalapenos. On top of that, the vegetables came together in a red mushy glob in the omelet, they were largely unidentifiable as there seemed to be sweet potatoes permeating everything and overpowering all other flavors. The best description I can come up with is, "weirdly bland." The eggs, advertised as local, were in fact very good. Though, I can't imagine you can really make bad eggs. The coffee much the same, albeit weak. Lastly, the bacon. It was candied bacon that as a side came out three strips for $3.00. Seems a bit pricy, right? On top of that, the bacon was not good. I don't know how I can say that bacon is bad, but I'm saying it right now. It could have been very good as it was a thick cut of nice smokey bacon that otherwise seemed very crispy. But the attempt at making it candied was a complete failure and assaulted the taste buds and offended the senses. The bacon was gooey, chewy, and cemented to my teeth, the flavor was that of fake maple syrup, and were not even hot coming out. If it weren't for the wait staff and the atmosphere, I'd give Elmwood Diner a 1 star due to the sub-quality food, limited menu, and the high prices. I don't get it, it's a diner and diner food is supposed to be simple, tasty, and cheap. Elmwood Diner is none of those things.
(2)Rita L.
Recently re opened. Cleaned up, but mostly still original interior. Menu is nice quality. "Sage butter" "candied bacon" and real maple syrup. Foodie quality, diner price. Owner came and introduced her self. Friendly staff.
(5)Sarah I.
Waited 25 minutes for two over cooked eggs swimming in some dark mystery liquid... how do you make salsa flavorless? Not sure. Ask elmwood diner. Then try to get a waitress... very disappointing. I usually don't use this word, this dish is bordering on disgusting. I now have to go home to make another breakfast. -.- oh, and I forgot to add, you literally have another couple sitting in the same booth with you. Two tiny tables crammed into one booth. So no privacy with horrible food.
(2)Frank T.
Great place - super meal - outstanding staff - we'll be back and will tell others about how great this place is
(5)W W.
We spent the beautiful July 5th morning with friends--up from Jersey--at Roger Williams Park, when we started to get a little hungry. We needed someplace that would please both carnivorous and vegetarian adults, and kids as well. I remembered that Elmwood Diner had opened and suggested we go check it out. None of us were disappointed. The place is clean, the food is good, the prices are right, the service was both friendly and attentive. My significant other had the pancakes which she said were excellent. A friend and I each had the Old School--eggs, toast, and home fries. The farm fresh eggs were well cooked, and the home fries were better than any I have had elsewhere in New England. Another friend had the Huevos Rancheros and she testified it was delicious. Their kids were happy too, each having the pancakes. Don't be fooled by the exterior of the building, which is a historic diner that could use a little more polishing up. This is the best diner food I have had. We will be back!
(4)John M.
I've been wanting to go here for awhile based on all of the great reviews and it did not disappoint. My bf and I came in for Sunday brunch around 1pm and we were greeted by the nicest and sweetest girl, who also wound up being our server. As we were being seated, I noticed how clean the place was. It definitely looked like a classic diner, but in no way was it run down or dingy. The same can be said for the food, which is elevated from the usual greasy spoon fare you'll find at your run of the mill diner. I ordered the Veggie Omelet, which was filled with spinach, tomatoes and sweet potatoes. It was fantastic. My bf got the Fried Chicken Waffle Sandwich, which he couldn't stop raving about. The portions were huge, and the food was not heavy or greasy. We could tell the food was prepared with fresh, local ingredients and we definitely appreciated it. We finished the meal by splitting one of their house made donuts, which was more like a mini cake subtly spiced with nutmeg. It was fantastic. The bill was a little under $30 for the two of us, and it was totally worth it for what we got. The food and the service made our experience a good one, and I will definitely recommend and come back.
(4)Juan Carlos J.
Food was ok, NOT "GREAT" like other reviews described it. I expected more after reading the reviews.
(3)Celeste L.
WOW! The food was super. I had the old country breakfast with their specialty bacon! It was SO DELICIOUS! There were four in our party and each person got something different. Everyone raved about how yummy and fresh everything was. We started with a homemade cinnamon roll that was very delicious! We all had our breakfasts and we finished with a slice of their (from scratch) apple pie with caramel sauce! HOLY COW! It was so yummy! Their bacon alone will have me going back again and again. Throw in their home fries and desserts....I'll be there all the time! Definitely worth the trip!
(4)Gwen M.
The diner has opened! My son and I were excited to be part of the opening day and have breakfast, 2 thumbs up from my son on the pancakes, I had the "Benny" which is the diner's take on egg's benedict, herbed buttered toast crispy proscuitto and a light lemony hollandaise sauce, a little unexpected from a diner, and GREAT! Vegetarian and gluten free options too!
(4)Sonia G.
Elmwood Diner is my new staple Saturday morning breakfast joint. It's just that good. The corned beef hash was a huge hit at our table, and the breakfast sandwich on French toast with candied bacon is to die for (add cheese, it gets even better!). They brew New Harvest coffee, so you don't have the watered down, burnt, stale diner coffee, not here. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the owner, Zoe, has come out to chat and introduced herself when we visited. It really is a great restaurant, but I'm primarily basing that on the sandwich and the hash. I suppose I will have to try something else there eventually, if I can ever pull myself away from that sandwich!
(5)