There are two pancake houses in Montauk, New York – and they are diagonally across from each other. But while Anthony’s and John’s are morning mainstays (both opened until 2 pm), they have their own distinct vibe and experience.

The Modern Spot: Bright, Sleek, and Packed

Anthony’s was first founded in 1952, but the popular restaurant feels modern, like stepping into a trendy, open-concept commissary. The space is bright, lined with blue-and-white decor, and accented by sleek wood-slatted walls that give it a beach-chic vibe. 

Anthony’s famous fluffy pancakes come with a price tag of $9.31 (with card) or $8.95 (cash).

Friendly service softens the blow of the wait, but when the food finally arrives, there’s a noticeable gap between expectation and reality.

The pancakes, while buttery and floury, lack the promised fluffiness and fail to pair well with the coffee, which turns bitter with successive bites.

Still, the flapjacks are tasty enough, and the maple syrup is good, but the three flat discs leave you wanting more.

As for the details: the coffee refills are welcome, but the cash-only tip policy can throw a wrench in an otherwise convenient experience. And despite Anthony’s modern flair (this isn’t a cozy breakfast nook) and friendly servers, the lack of fluff in the pancakes is hard to ignore.

Total cost: $14.61 plus a $3 cash tip.

The Classic Diner: Old-School Charm Across the Street

Just across the way, John’s, established in 1967, offers an entirely different energy. Older, darker, and steeped in beach-town character (and smelling of Fabuloso-like cleaner), it feels more lived-in and intimate. 

Faux-wood tables (mine had a chip) and vinyl-cladded booths lend a sense of laid-back nostalgia, while a marlin on the wall – complete with a Ken-sized action figure in its mouth – reminds you that this place is only serious about the food.

Here, you’ll find “Mr. John’s Famous Pancakes” for $10.50 - priced a skosh higher than Anthony’s.

After some deliberation, we skipped the counter (it was a little too low for us) and opted for a table seat. 

The vibe here invites you to linger, with two older gentlemen reading at the counter and ESPN quietly playing on the big screen.

Service was slower than expected, with an apologetic server admitting to forgetting our order. 

When the pancakes finally arrived, they were piping hot, noticeably fluffier, and a smidge smaller than those across the street. 

These pancakes soaked up the butter, and paired beautifully with a sweet butterscotch-like syrup (that’s shipped in a plastic jug and delivers on artificial indulgence).

The pancakes themselves leaned more toward floury than buttery, with the overall experience both comforting and classic.

While there, a group entering John’s found out the restaurant is cash only – and left. But for those who stay, the diner’s appeal lies in the quality of its pancakes and its unhurried pace.

Total cost: $16.85 with a $4 tip (all cash).

Verdict: Two Sides of the Pancake

If you like a bright vibe, prefer paying with a credit card, enjoy real maple syrup, and seek fresh-smelling air, Anthony’s won’t fully let you down (though the thickness of their “famous” and “fluffy” pancakes will). 

For those seeking an old-school diner with fluffier, hotter pancakes and a slower pace, John’s wins. It offers local charm and lends itself to an unpredictable, fun and adventurous breakfast experience.

Also, John’s proudly displays an autographed photo from Montauk resident Dick Cavett (one of our favorite all-time interviewers) - so it earns extra bonus points.

You even forgive the smell of all-purpose cleaner that hangs in the air after a while – the older gents reading at the counter didn’t seem to mind at all. 

CONTACTS

John’s Pancake House

6 am - 2 pm

721 Montauk Hwy, Montauk

ph: (631) 668-2383

Anthony’s Pancake House

7 am - 2 pm

https://www.anthonys-pancake-house.com

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