+1 518-434-0233
Nestled in the heart of Rensselaer, NY, Skyline Diner is a beloved breakfast destination that brings traditional diner charm together with a diverse and satisfying menu. From the moment you step inside at 314 Columbia Street, you’re welcomed by an inviting atmosphere that feels both cozy and vibrant — a true local spot where the aroma of freshly brewed strong coffee mingles with sizzling eggs and crispy bacon.
Skyline Diner excels in serving classic American breakfast fare, all elevated with a comforting, homemade touch. Their Bacon and Cheese Omelette is a standout, rich and fluffy, filled with smoky bacon and melted cheese that delights the palate. For those craving something a bit more indulgent, the Eggs Benedict offers perfectly poached eggs atop delicate white toast, smothered in velvety hollandaise. The Monte Cristo and Breakfast Quesadilla add a creative spin with their satisfying layers of flavor and texture, while the Silly Side Eggs Hash Browns Corned Beef Hash conjures up nostalgic diner vibes with every hearty bite.
The menu showcases thoughtful variety beyond breakfast: fresh salads like the Buffalo Chicken Salad bring a punch of flavor with tender, crispy chicken bathed in spicy Buffalo sauce, complemented by sharp cheddar cheese. For sandwich enthusiasts, the Corned Beef Reuben, served on warm grilled rye with Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut, is a comforting classic done right. The Traditional Gyro Pita offers a taste of Mediterranean zest, with tender lamb and beef wrapped in pita and accompanied by refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Skyline Diner’s drink selection perfectly rounds out the meal – whether you crave a classic cup of strong coffee, a generous 24 oz iced coffee on a warm day, or the rich, soothing warmth of their signature hot chocolate. These comforting beverages make every visit feel like a small indulgence.
What truly makes Skyline Diner shine is how it balances hearty portions and homestyle cooking with attentive, friendly service. Customers repeatedly praise the consistent quality and value—Marc Almy noted his savory western omelet was “the best I had in a while” complete with coffee, all for just about $15. Another guest, Haroon Sarwer, highlighted not only the delicious food but also the spotless environment and courteous staff that keep this diner bustling with loyal regulars.
The warmth extends beyond just food: the community spirit is palpable, as Joyce Lago recounts attending a heartfelt memorial breakfast where the care for guests and quality of food created a genuinely comforting experience.
While the diner maintains a classic vibe, some dishes might surprise you—Katrina Chelnokov’s experience with the Baltimore crab melt serves as a reminder to explore the menu with an open mind and try their more familiar specialties. Overall, Skyline Diner offers a dependable, satisfying meal that feels both familiar and comforting, ideal for starting your day or enjoying a midday pause.
For anyone seeking hearty breakfasts, flavorful sandwiches, and a welcoming atmosphere where friendly service is the norm, Skyline Diner stands out as a genuine gem in Rensselaer’s dining scene.
It was the best western omelet I had in a while, Great Service, and the price was $15 with cheese, wheat, and coofee too. Not bad. Also, $5 tip.
Had the lunch special - soup, sandwich and soda for $13. The creamy chicken and rice soup was superb - not too salty (my common complaint about soup is that it is way too salty). The turkey sandwich was also excellent with plenty of meat and nicely toasted bread. The potato salad had a little bit of a vinegar taste which some may like (think of German potato salad) but is not to my taste. Service was very quick and the server was experienced. Atmosphere is classic diner. One wall (pictured and shown near the ceiling) had the history of diners in this location going back to 1935.
Everything was excellent! The place is spotless, the servers are courteous, and the food is delicious. The prices are very reasonable, which makes it no surprise that they’re always so busy. Highly recommended!
The atmosphere of this place is awesome though you wouldn't know it from driving by. The Baltimore crab melt was a huge letdown unfortunately. It was made out of Pollock which is imitation crab meat. It was basically a cold seafood salad which you'd get from Hannaford thrown onto some toasted rye bread with yellow cheddar and a slice of tomato. Totally misleading from the description on the menu. The spinach triangles on the other hand were amazing and I'd definitely get it again.
I recently attended the breakfast here honoring Matthew Mardon, a young man who was tragically killed when he was struck by a drunk driver on I-90 on September 30, 2025. The memorial breakfast was beautifully done. The staff was kind and accommodating; the coffee was piping hot and delicious; and the food was tasty and satisfying. I had the scrambled eggs, home fries, sausage, and rye toast. I enjoyed every bite and will definitely return! May Matthew Mardon rest in paradise. Please don't drink and drive. Call Uber. Make a plan. Save a life.
My friend and I decided to try this place, and we absolutely loved it! The waitress was so kind and friendly — her service made us feel very welcome. The place itself is cozy and beautiful, perfect for having breakfast and catching up on everything that’s been going on. It’s such a lovely spot, and I would definitely come back. Highly recommended!
This place is a favorite place for us to go to breakfast. The food is always delicious and the service is excellent with pleasant staff. The atmosphere is a typical busy diner. Worth the trip every time.