The Best Diners in New Jersey: 2023 Edition is written by Vinny Parisi.
If New Jersey is known for anything, it’s diners. But what makes diners so great? We think it’s partly because they are open late and offer huge menus. So from large groups to picky eaters, there is something for everyone. Which is why our list of The Best Diners in New Jersey is one of our most popular features every year.
The diners on our list boast scrumptious breakfast feasts as well as late-night snacks. They also offer friendly service, delicious food, and, for frequent patrons, fond memories for years to come. Check out the full list below, featuring our statewide picks of New Jersey’s best diners.
Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find The Best Diners nearby.
| North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey |
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North Jersey
The Randolph Diner Bar & Grill
Where: 517 NJ-10 E, Randolph
Details: The Randolph Diner promises “restaurant food at diner prices” and they are true to their word. Patrons rave about the high-quality, fairly-priced, well-portioned meals in addition to their happy hour and bar specials. Their sizeable menu is packed with all sorts of options, including a number of signature burgers. Standout examples include the Pizza Burger, Bacon Dijon Burger, and Mac N Cheese Burger. But their “Southern Delights” section is a showstopper, boasting BBQ Ribs & Chicken, Shrimp in a Basket, and Fajitas. Just be sure to save room for one of their classic diner desserts. This includes cake slices, pie slices, cheesecakes, ice cream, chocolate mousse cake, baked pastries, rice pudding, and more.
Why I like it: Their “famous” Baklava Cheesecake is a unique treat and is the perfect ending to any meal.
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Bendix Diner
Where: Hasbrouck Heights
Details: For classic diner aficionados, it doesn’t get much more authentic than the Bendix Diner. There’s the neon lettering (that typically has the light out on at least one letter), plus the newspaper vending machines. Not to mention the tried-and-true menu and mix of booth and counter seating. The Bendix is basically what most people imagine when they picture a Diner in their head. Go-to options include the pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich, or classic cheeseburger.
Chit Chat Diner
Where: Hackensack | West Orange
Details: Come to check out the festive decor and stay for the food at Chit Chat Diner. They offer a fancier menu than the typical diner, and their signature dishes are all creative and flavorful dishes. We like the Pulled Pork Tots as a snack, with hot sauce, bacon, and cheddar cheese. Then for an entree, check out their Chicken Amore with house-made bruschetta, mozzarella cheese, and balsamic glaze. As for drinks, they offer everything from fresh fruit smoothies to a full bar menu.
City Diner
Where: Jersey City
Details: This is a popular spot for many diner classics. City Diner regulars rave about the French onion soup, Monte Cristo sandwich, and Chicken & Waffle Breakfast. This is also a great place to get a full rack of BBQ Baby Back Ribs; or their ribs and Cajun shrimp combo, complete with thick cut sweet potato fries and Creole slaw. Their weekday Happy Hour — from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm — offers discounts on drinks and appetizers like Coney Island Eggroll.
Colonial Diner
Where: Lyndhurst
Details: The Colonial offers a 1950s aesthetic in a prime location for guests heading to either the Meadowlands or NYC. They are no longer open 24 hours, and instead typically close around 9:00 pm (4:00 pm on Mondays). The decor and design is unmistakably authentic, and the pricing matches that classic New Jersey diner experience. The menu ranges from breakfast hits like the 3-egg omelette to their specialty 1/2 pound burgers like Portobello Swiss.
Hampton Diner
Where: Newton
Details: The Hampton Diner boasts everything from breakfast wraps and pancakes to gourmet burgers and fresh salads. Now celebrating 30 years in business, this local landmark is best known for their signature, over-the-top Crazy Shakes. These full desserts in a cup come in flavors like Cookielicious, M&M, Cotton Candy, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, and S’mores. Though they often roll out limited time creations, like the Brownie shake, as well.
Pompton Queen Diner
Where: Pompton Plains
Details: This local favorite features an international menu with global flavors. For instance, they serve Greek gyros, Mexican tacos, Italian pastas, American burgers, and even chicken kabobs. Of course, all the classic breakfast options are available, including pancakes, omelettes, french toast, and waffles. Their dessert options include sundaes, hand spun shakes, and more. Pompton Queen even has a cappuccino bar for drinks that pair well with any meal.
Tick Tock Diner
Where: Clifton
Details: Tick Tock Diner has been around since 1948. Previously known as New Jersey’s Quintessential 24/7 diner, the restaurant is now open from 7:00 am – 10:00 pm. Their menu offers an impressive array of sandwiches, from the Short Rib Grilled Cheese to the Buffalo Chicken Stack. Their popular “Great Balls of Fire!” mac n cheese balls come with Sriracha ranch dipping sauce, and are the perfect starter. Of course, they still offer breakfast all day as well.
Tops Diner
Where: Harrison
Details: Tops has been a staple of both the city of Harrison and the state of New Jersey since 1942. In fact, the restaurant estimates they serve over 15,000 patrons every week. Breakfast sandwich lovers can select from classics like Taylor Ham, egg, and cheese or the Manhattan Bagel with prime sirloin. Likewise, their Brioche French Toast is a hit with options including Banana Foster and Sweet Chicks. The latter comes with buttermilk fried chicken and bacon bits.
Washington Diner
Where: Washington
Details: Customers love the friendly waitstaff and clean environment at Washington Diner, as well as the menu. Nutella fans can select between their Fruity Pancake Nutella, Fruity Waffle Nutella, or Fruity French Toast Nutella options. We recommend the Baby Shrimp & Avocado Quesadilla starter, Buffalo Chicken Panini, and Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake for dessert. Patrons also love the assortment of crispy fries, including Pizza Fries, Disco Fries, and Waffle Fries.
Central Jersey
Daphne’s Diner
Where: Robbinsville Township | Hamilton
Details: Daphne’s Diner is no longer a small operation. Owner Daphne Jean Kent-Wilczynski now runs Daphne’s Dining & Catering which, as the name suggests, also offers catering. In addition, she has a second restaurant and catering setup in Hamilton, aptly named Daphne’s of Hamilton. But no matter where or how patrons receive their food, they’ll get top quality meals at fair prices. We’re partial to “Alexandra’s Omelette” with spinach, roasted peppers, and portobello mushrooms.
Edison Diner
Where: Edison
Details: The Edison Diner promises nothing but fresh, from scratch meals. Their menu features all of their most popular dishes in one section, aptly named Diner Greats. This is where patrons can find standout choices like the Smothered Steak Sandwich, Pork Souvlaki Platter, and Corned Beef Reuben. Meanwhile, their “Breakfast Anytime” section boasts a variety of juices, plus food like Buttermilk Pancakes, Omelets, and Waffles & Chicken.
Flemington Diner
Where: Flemington
Details: This diner offers perfect pairings between breakfast and coffee thanks to an extensive coffee bar. For example, hot coffee goes great with the Croissant Royale, a French toast croissant with cream cheese filling. But save room for their signature Fried Ice Cream dessert. This treat is a flash-fried ball of vanilla ice cream with cinnamon, honey, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and cherry. In fact, all of their ice cream, whipped cream, and syrups are homemade.
Summit Diner
Where: Summit
Details: This cash-only spot in Summit looks and feels like a classic New Jersey diner. The signature train car restaurant serves breakfast that can’t be beat, especially when it comes to omelettes and eggs benedict. For over 80 years, locals and tourists alike have been coming hungry and leaving full; thanks in part to their large menu and even larger portions.
We recommend just about all of their egg sandwiches, paired with either bacon, sausage, or Taylor Ham.
Time to Eat Diner
Where: Bridgewater
Details: Time to Eat Diner is known for fast service as well as great meals. They even have an Everything Sampler for people who can’t decide what to eat. It comes with a choice of pancakes, waffles, or French toast, plus eggs, ham, sausage, bacon, hash browns and toast. One unique part of the menu is their Polish section which features pierogies, stuffed cabbage, and Polish pork chops. This longtime landmark is no longer 24/7, but they open early and close late.
Westfield Diner
Where: Westfield
Details: Healthy eaters looking to bulk up will find their breakfast of choice at the Westfield Diner. This spot serves a Cross Fit Omelette packed with six egg whites, chicken, portobello mushrooms, and spinach with Baby Greens. On the flipside, those with a sweet tooth can order the Campfire Pancakes that come with marshmallows and chocolate chips. But no matter which way patrons lean, everything on the menu is well portioned and fairly priced.
Jersey Shore
Broad Street Diner
Where: Keyport
Details: A Keyport classic, Broad Street specializes in breakfast and lunch. The portions are particularly large here, even by diner standards, but the prices are only a tad higher. One breakfast favorite is the Rocky Mountain French Toast or Waffles, with granola, raisins, and bananas. Meanwhile, they serve classic entrees like Penne Vodka, Mom’s Meatloaf, Country Pork Chops, and Chicken Francaise. (Note: This spot is not affiliated with the Hamilton diner of the same name.)
Marge’s Diner
Where: Cape May Court House
Details: This cozy spot has been around since 1942. Over 80 years later, Marge’s Diner is still a local landmark and diner of choice for nearby patrons. They got top marks across the board, from friendly service and fair prices to rapid order fulfillment and inviting atmosphere. The menu includes longtime staples as well as seasonal favorites, including pumpkin pancakes in the fall. Marge’s is also a great spot for lunch, with daily specials on popular sandwiches and more.
Rainbow Diner
Where:Brick
Details: Rainbow Diner devotes their menu to both sweet and savory options. For example, their Wake Up Wrap mixes scrambled eggs with ham, American cheese, onions, and jalapenos in a tortilla. Then there’s the French Toast Parisienne, deep-fried French toast sticks with honey and powdered sugar. Their kids menu stands out with creative names like Ninja Turtles (grilled cheese), Super Mario (chicken fingers), and Snoopy’s Delight (spaghetti and meatballs).
Shore Diner
Where: Egg Harbor Township
Details: The Shore Diner is definitely a restaurant that challenges patrons to come hungry. They serve breakfast all day, with a menu full of classic diner favorites and more. Options range from healthy egg omelets to indulgent blueberry hot cakes. One popular pick for either lunch or dinner is the crab cake sandwich with fries, coleslaw, and a pickle. They also get top marks for their Eco-friendly practices (including recycling nearly all glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard).
Silver Coin Diner
Where: Hammonton
Details: There is fierce debate over the best diner in Hammonton, but Silver Coin is our pick. The iconic 50s exterior (despite opening in 1982), stellar service, and top notch specials are hard to beat. We recommend the Pulled Pork Cheeseburger or their signature “G & G Thanksgiving Day Sandwich” chef specialty. The latter is turkey, cranberry sauce, and gravy on multi grain bread served with sweet potato fries and soup. Those with room for dessert should order the cheesecake.
South Jersey
Monarch Diner
Where: 500 Delsea Dr, Glassboro
Details: Monarch Diner offers every meal of the day, plus dessert. The price range is in line with most modern diners, and many patrons agree the service is top notch. Their breakfast options, in particular, offer generous portions that will leave most guests with leftovers. We recommend the Oreo Blast breakfast; nutella, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and Oreo crumbs over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. The robust menu also features their signature handcrafted house specialties. This collection of full dinner entrees include popular picks such as Shrimp and Eggplant Parmigiana. Other standout options are the Apple Jack Pork Chops, Seafood Jumbalaya, French Onion NY Strip, and classic Chicken Croquettes.
Why I like it: The owners have a serious pedigree that includes Marblehead Chowder House and the Limerick Diner (PA).
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Colonial Diner
Where: Woodbury
Details: The Colonial Diner describes itself as a “Modern American Diner” open seven days a week. They offer breakfast all day as well as classic diner options like Baked Meatloaf and Fried Chicken. For a fun way to combine breakfast and lunch, try the new Cheesesteak Skillet. This dish combines Philly cheese steak and American cheese with home fries and eggs. They also have a section of the menu all about club sandwiches, with over a half dozen to choose from.
Deepwater Diner
Where: Carney’s Point
Details: It’s difficult to choose from the menu at the Deepwater Diner. Not only because of the sheer number of options, but also because every pick is a winner. As one might expect, Deepwater is home to a number of seafood options. They serve flounder, shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, tilapia, salmon, and more. But landlubbers have nothing to fear, as they also have plenty of steaks, chops, and burgers. Kids love the Mickey Mouse pancakes, in particular.
Golden Pigeon Diner
Where: Bridgeton
Details: Breakfast at the Golden Pigeon has options for even the hungriest of patrons. Their griddle specialties offer hot cakes, French toast, or pancake short stacks with butter, syrup, and choice of meat. Meanwhile, the Hungry Man Special includes two hot cakes, three eggs, two slices of bacon, two sausages, and home fries. Patrons say their “famous” hoagies are the standout choice, with options like cheeseburger, chicken cheese steak, and cold cut combo.
Lamp Post Diner
Where: Clementon
Details: The menu at Lamp Post changes often, with a rotating selection of monthly specials. This diner also flaunts a signature salad menu, with creative choices like Seafood Inferno, BBQ Chicken Ranch, and Club House. The latter includes sliced turkey breast, turkey bacon, pickled beets, chopped tomatoes, peppers, onions, cucumbers and hard boiled egg. They make all desserts on site in their bakery, from puddings and Jello to ice cream, cheesecakes, pastries, and pies.
Vincentown Diner
Where: Southampton
Details: Combining fresh ingredients, premium products, and generous portions, Vincentown Diner raises the bar for modern diners. Their blueberry hotcakes feature local Jersey blueberries, as do their blueberry waffles. They offer classic starters such as chicken tenders and fried mozzarella, along with a large variety of sandwiches. We recommend the Truffle Shuffle Burger, with Swiss cheese, fried onions, sauteed mushrooms, baby arugula, and smoky truffle mayo.
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The Best Diners in New Jersey FAQs
Best of NJ’s list of The Best Diners in New Jersey features the best diners from across the state. To find one nearby, visit https://bestofnj.com and check out our feature!
Unfortunately, post-pandemic and with the inflated costs of ingredients, the days of the 24/7 diner are over. However, some diners in New Jersey are still open late. For instance, Time to Eat Diner in Bridgewater closes at either 10:30 pm or 11:30 pm nightly.
Of course! Most diners are open from morning until evening, so they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Shore Diner in Egg Harbor Township serves all three meals, and offers large portions to boot.
Breakfast all day is a classic diner staple. Spots like Colonial Diner in Woodbury and Tick Tock Diner in Clifton are fan-favorites diners for all-day breakfast. These serve everything from eggs and breakfast sandwiches to pancakes, waffles, and skillets.
While diners aren’t as cheap as they used to be, many spots still offer generous portions at fair prices. In particular, The Randolph Diner Bar & Grill promises restaurant food at diner prices. The Monarch Diner in Glassboro is also a fan favorite for big portions at low prices.
Top (Hero) Photo: © The Randolph Diner Bar & Grill / Facebook
Other Photos (in Order):
The Randolph Diner Bar & Grill / Website
Monarch Diner / Website
