Carpenter's Diner

518 Jefferson St, Waterloo, IA 50701, United States

Carpenter's Diner

+1 319-252-4386
Carpenter's Diner
welcome to Carpenter's Diner

About Carpenter's Diner

Tucked away at 518 Jefferson St, Waterloo, IA 50701, Carpenter’s Diner is one of those cozy local spots where the food feels like home and the service makes you want to come back every weekend. This friendly neighborhood restaurant has earned a loyal following for its hearty breakfast plates, comforting brunch menu, and a laid-back atmosphere that perfectly fits a casual morning or midday meal with friends.

The moment you step inside Carpenter’s Diner, you’re greeted with the warm aroma of sizzling hashbrowns and freshly brewed coffee. The Supreme Omelet Hashbrowns with Cheese is a local favorite - fluffy, rich, and packed with flavor. If you prefer something sweet, their 2 Pancakes or the One Pancake and Meat combo offer that perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Everything tastes homemade, and it’s clear that the kitchen takes pride in every plate that leaves the pass.

Locals rave about the Biscuits and Gravy and Hash Browns, a dish that defines comfort food in Waterloo. It’s hearty, perfectly seasoned, and pairs beautifully with a side of ham and eggs for those who crave a classic diner breakfast. Whether you’re grabbing brunch with friends or fueling up for the day ahead, Carpenter’s Diner always delivers a satisfying experience.

One of the things that makes this restaurant stand out is its friendly table service - the kind that feels personal and attentive without being rushed. Guests also appreciate the free street parking, which makes it easy to stop in for a meal without worrying about finding a spot downtown. For those looking to unwind, Carpenter’s Diner even serves beer, making it a nice option for a relaxed weekend brunch or a casual lunch.

The diner accepts debit cards, so convenience is never an issue. Between its welcoming atmosphere, flavorful menu, and reliable service, Carpenter’s Diner has become a favorite location for both locals and travelers exploring Waterloo. Whether you’re here for pancakes, omelets, or just a friendly place to eat, Carpenter’s Diner truly captures the charm of classic American dining - delicious food served with heart and hospitality.

Carpenter's Diner Gallery

Services & Amenities

Service options

  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Delivery

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great coffee
  • Serves local specialty

Popular for

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Toilet

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cosy

Crowd

  • Locals
  • Tourists

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards

Children

  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu

Parking

  • Free of charge street parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Paid street parking
  • Parking

Reviews

Retro Lunch Counter vibe. I arrived shortly before closing (at 2:00pm) for a late lunch, but the full menu was available. Service was prompt, friendly and efficient. My fish sandwich with a side of potato salad was delicious. I ordered an Arnold Palmer and hadn't finished it. My waitress offered a to go cup, which I really appreciated.

Debra Shoopman

Our first time there. Staff was excellent & friendly. Food was great. It's "cozy", so get there early...but worth the wait if you have the time. If not, just come back at a less busy time. Enjoy!

Greg Smith

True to form small town diner/greasy spoon. The food is delicious, and the staff is very friendly. It's clean and bright. You just eat breakfast here if you're in Waterloo/Cedar Falls.

Jonathan Yeomans

Nice little mom & pop establishment. Super friendly staff, delicious food and very reasonably priced. Well worth the stop.

Bob Montgomery

Perfect. Classic diner. Family run business. Loved the food! Good value. My husband said, “best sausage gravy I’ve ever had!” My daughter had a pancake and sausage. Her quote was “thick, fluffy and absolutely massive!” I had a vegetarian omelette and it was tasty and well cooked. Raisin toast and English muffin were well buttered and delicious. The servers and cook were friendly and checked on how we were doing. Clean restrooms. Well worth the stop!

Roxanne Molskness

Food was great! My had a huge pancake, and I had the country fried steak with hash browns and eggs with some french toast. Everything was great except I was not a fan of the steak or else this would have been a 5!

Adan Muñoz

Such a cute diner and nice staff. I think the pricing is fair and the food was pretty good. Food came out like within 15 minutes. The biscuits and gravy were perfectly not too salty and the pancakes were so fluffy. I would visit again.

Beverly Holister

Great local breakfast place. We enjoyed pancakes eggs bacon and biscuits and gravy. Plenty of on street parking

Matt Holden

location restaurant

Location & Contact

call us book a table & delivery
+1 319-252-4386
information restaurant

518 Jefferson St, Waterloo, IA 50701, United States

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Openning Hours

Monday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Tuesday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Wednesday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Thursday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Sunday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM

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