Oops, my diner list consists of Brooklyn only. Again, no offense to other boros….it’s just what I know. I spent much of my youth in diners with the fries and the egg creams, so I know from diners.

1. Caravelle, Midwood. No longer with us, unfortunately. But I had to include it because there never a better diner was. And also because I see a sign on the building that says “Caravelle Glatt”. It won’t be the same, but at least it’s not becoming a bank. What will those Murrow kids do now? After every school play, sing rehersal or just cutting class, this was the place to go. In my day, anyway.

2. Vegas, Bensonhurst

Must give credit to my parents for finding this one. I have no idea how they came across it as it’s nowhere near where they lived and they didn’t have a car, but the family went here often. Think George and Estelle Costanza arguing over whether to sit in a booth or table. Anyway, this is one of those diners where you can fill up on cole slaw, pickles and bread before you even order. Popular place. Be prepared to wait.

3. King’s Plaza Diner aka KPD, Mill Basin

I had a friend who lived in Mill Basin, so we spent some time here. I was big on the jukeboxes at each table. Used to hold friends hostage until I heard every one of my songs. I’ve been back in recent years and it’s still one of the best diners in Brooklyn. Which means “in the world”.

4. Juniors, Downtown Brooklyn

Everybody knows about the cheesecake. But I like their food! Another pickles and coleslaw place (most of these are), I come here when I’m craving a pickled green tomato. Good egg creams!

5. Tom’s Diner, Prospect Heights

I always believed the popular rumor that this was the Tom’s Diner immortalized by Suzanne Vega in her 1987 song of the same name. There’s even a sign on the wall. But Wikipedia says that’s actually Tom’s Restaurant (of Seinfeld fame) in Morningside Heights. Suzanne Vega or not, Tom’s is one of the best breakfast spots around. Wonderful pancake creations with flavored butters and a great atmosphere. More like a greasy spoon than a glitzy diner. My only complaint is that they don’t have those typical 24/7 diner hours.

6. El Greco’s, Sheepshead Bay

Word on the street is El Greco’s won’t be around for much longer. The building is being sold. I can’t remember if this was a truly spectacular diner or it was just the only place open late at night when I lived in Coney Island. Either way, there’ll always be a place in my heart for you, El Greco.

7. Hollywood Diner , 16th & 6th

I had to get one other boro in here! The food is ok. Here’s what I love about the Hollywood Diner: Sit at the counter and watch the owner/manager whip his staff into shape. He’s a lunatic! It’s like that old SNL sketch “Cheeburger, Cheeburger”. The last few times I’ve been here, I sat at a table, so I hope he’s still around.

Related: Jeremy/BushwickBK review of Ridgewood Eats

So what are your favorites?