If you are looking for a quiet meal with good service, Karen’s Diner is not for you. But, if like us, you are in the mood for frivolity after lockdown, head to World Square in Sydney to the diner where rudeness is embraced. Amelia has, on more than one occasion, suggested I’m being a Karen (someone who often asks to speak to the manager). And it’s true, I do ask to speak to the manager but it usually relates to feedback regarding access. I figured I may as well embrace my inner Karen and go somewhere that my complaints would be encouraged.
The website for Karen’s Diner says “Our staff are rude, our manners are non-existent and we’re the perfect place for Karen’s every-where to vent their anger and dismay at the world. Come on, ask for the manager…WE DARE YOU.” No-one can arrive at the diner and say they weren’t warned.
Braeden loved the atmosphere at Karen’s Diner. As we walked through the door a staff member picked up a megaphone and barked orders at us. I sheepishly mentioned we were early for our booking and wondered if they could accommodate us or if we should come back. The request was met with exasperation and disdain. We expected nothing less of an establishment which promised rude behaviour.
Album covered menus were slapped down on the table and our waiter promptly plonked himself sloppily down on a seat beside us ready to take our drinks order. He showed a distinct lack of interest in any of our queries but took our order anyway.
While we sipped on our delicious milkshakes staff dragged in a colourful spinning prize wheel. Make no mistake, there were no prizes on the wheel. Written on the various segments of the wheel was a range of activities diners who volunteered would need to complete. Fellow diners braved a spin of the wheel and endured the ridicule of the staff as they played truth or dare, were challenged to tell a joke or strut their stuff. Watching on was lots of fun and Braeden loved the atmosphere of the playful crowd.
The menu is worth a read just for the tongue-in-cheek names of the food choices. The traditional diner-style food includes vegetarian and gluten free options. I stuck with the Basic Karen and it was delicious.
Karen’s Diner is filled with retro items that Hubby and I may or may not have remembered from our childhood. It’s funny how your childhood memories date you!
ACCESSIBILITY AT KAREN’S DINER SYDNEY
Karen’s Diner is located on level one of World Square in the heart of Sydney. Lift access is available to level one and the diner offers step-free entry.
Indoor and outdoor seating is offered but the interactive dining experience would be missed if you choose to sit outside. There is good circulation space around the diner for wheelchair users but Braeden’s wheelchair didn’t fit under the table. He sat out from it a bit which didn’t affect his dining experience but I thought it was worth mentioning for others.
A unisex accessible bathroom is available at the back of Karen’s Diner.
At the time of our visit, only diners who had proof of vaccination were able to make a reservation.
Our verdict on Karen’s Diner Sydney is, it’s lots of fun, the food is great and it’s just what we need after a serious couple of years. Is it gimmicky? You bet, but that’s half the fun, especially given we don’t have many diners in Australia. For any sensitive little ears, it’s not just the waiter’s service that is rude, there are a few swear words thrown around. Although there were a few families eating in the diner we really think this is best appreciated by 14 years and up. Just our opinion but perhaps that’s just me being a Karen.
You can read more about Karen’s Diner Sydney and check out the menu on their website.
