Name: First Prize Mike's
Price range: $$

First Prize Mike's Information

If you're ever in Schenectady, NY, and craving a hearty meal in a laid-back atmosphere, look no further than First Prize Mike's. Located at 1135 Erie Blvd, this cozy diner offers a warm, welcoming environment that instantly feels like home. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, the friendly service and delicious food will make your visit memorable.

The menu at First Prize Mike's is a perfect mix of classic diner staples and creative comfort food. From the moment you step in, the smell of sizzling burgers and freshly brewed coffee hits you, setting the stage for a satisfying meal. The breakfast options are particularly popular, with fluffy pancakes and savory eggs cooked to perfection. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, the sandwiches and wraps are always a hit. The classic bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich is a crowd favorite-simple, yet incredibly flavorful. And if you're someone who enjoys a bit of variety, the daily specials are always worth checking out, offering something new with each visit.

One of the standout features of this diner is its commitment to quality. The ingredients are fresh, and it’s clear that a lot of care goes into preparing every dish. The burgers, for example, are juicy and packed with flavor, topped with just the right balance of cheese, lettuce, and tomato. They also offer a range of sides, from crispy fries to perfectly seasoned onion rings, which are great additions to any meal.

The atmosphere at First Prize Mike's is everything you want in a classic diner-bright, cheerful, and full of character. The interior is cozy, with old-school diner charm, from the retro booths to the classic checkered floors. The staff are always friendly and eager to make sure you're taken care of, which adds to the overall comfort of dining there. It's the kind of place where you feel like a regular after just one visit.

For those who love a good dessert, don't skip the milkshakes-they’re thick, creamy, and come in a variety of flavors, perfect for rounding off your meal. And if you're stopping by for lunch or dinner, be sure to try one of their signature burgers or comfort food platters. The portions are generous, ensuring you won’t leave hungry.

With its convenient location in Schenectady, First Prize Mike's is a true local gem. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, this diner is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The combination of great food, friendly service, and a cozy vibe makes it a standout choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Business Info

What People's Say About Place

First Prize Mike’s is a historic American diner in Schenectady that’s been around since 1947, and it shows in the best way. The hot dogs are really tasty, classic and done right. Old-school, comfortable diner vibe with a relaxed atmosphere. Excellent service and friendly staff make it an easy place to enjoy a meal.

Have driven by many times, finally stopped in. This is an old school diner with a simple menu. Good portions, fair prices, friendly service. Had breakfast and will definitely come back to try the lunch menu. Thank you!

Was in a rush this morning to grab food on the way into work these guys pumped out breakfast that was absolutely fantastic nothing tasted like grease everything was cooked well with zero aftertaste. Eggs were so good you needed nothing on them. Ham was nicely browned but not burnt and nice and moist and not a dry hockey puck... Pancakes were spot on with not being burnt or overcooked and dry they were nice and fluffy and moist. phenomenal job guys. thank you very much for the Fantastic breakfast this morning

We have wanted to stop in here for so long and today was finally did. We walked in and were greeted by the sweetest woman! She made us feel like family. The food was incredible - prices were even better! We got the mikes dogs and cheese burger with curly fries and we ate every crumb. The staff was so friendly and thanked us more than once for coming in. There’s no place like this place! We cannot wait to come back.

One of those unique places you stumble on when traveling. It is a little hole in theme wall place that you will easily miss if you blink. The service was excellent from the moment I walked in the door. The food was delicious. Everything cooked in front of you in a diner setting from a by gone era. Definitely worth checking out.

Wow! Yummm! Had soft scrambled eggs, pancakes and bacon. Eggs were done to perfection which somehow is usually not done. Bacon was exactly as I like it - crispy. One staff person wasn’t entirely welcoming (bad day??) but the person who served me and another staff were amazing. Definitely coming back!

I was super impressed. Not with the building, condition, dining area, but the place is semi renown in the area. You can tell theyve been doin their thamg the way they do it for a long time. Kikass wait staff, typa place that gets You excited about something as unexciting as Hot dogs. Ill defly go back.

First Prize Mike's is defiantly a restaurant that is worth trying. Their hotdogs with mustard, onions, and meat sauce are very good. They have been in business since 1947 and it is a well known spot in Schenectady. Service is very fast and friendly. Good meals can be had here at affordable prices. The restaurant serves fresh coffee, but only has a vending machine for soda or water. You can eat in or takeout. If in the area stop by for some food at a well known local spot.

First Prize Mike's