Located in Syracuse near the border of the Italian-American hamlet of Lyncourt, New York, Carl’s Kountry Kitchen is a classic greasy spoon right out of the 1960s. Like the surrounding neighborhood, not much has changed here in decades.
On my visit, I ordered the Belgian waffle with blueberries and sausage. The Diet Coke came in a can, which is a pet peeve of mine. They are also a cash only establishment, but provide an ATM. I got the impression Carl’s catered to older regulars, but the waitress was nice and attentive. There is some booth seating, but it has a unique counter setup. There are two, U-shaped counters. The waiter or waitress can walk right up to patrons without ever having to leave the serving area. Condiments, napkins, and silverware are all within easy arms reach behind the counter.
Breakfast is served all day at Carl’s. They offer standard fare of omelettes, breakfast sandwiches, a Belgian waffle, and numbered specials–most of which include two eggs and some kind of side with coffee. They do serve silver dollar pancakes, which is something I haven’t noticed at other diners in the region. Polish Kielbasa, a thick, smoked sausage, is also available.
Carl’s has a 4.7/5 average out of 7 Google reviews. Regular patrons praise Carl’s for the consistently good quality of their food, and these are definitely “regulars.” If one thing stands out, it’s the loyalty customers have to this diner, returning year after year. Yelp user Joe C. writes, “I’ve been going to Carl’s for about 20 years now. it is always a very pleasant experience. the food is absolutely delicious and has tasted the same since my first visit.”
The only negative comments that pop up in reviews are that Carl’s is a cash only business. I found a single 1-star review, and it is nit-picky at best. Yelp user E.T. writes, “The toasts were served soaked in margarine, not even butter. Only when we sent it back, the server brought us a couple of single serve butter.” How can anyone even tell they use margarine instead of butter? Give me a break!
Carl’s Kountry Kitchen is located at 2300 Teall Avenue Syracuse, New York. Phone: (315) 463-4845. They are open Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturday, 6:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m., and Sunday, 7:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m.
M.A. Kleen 