Here in Jersey, we’re not known as the Diner Captial of the World for nothing. We channeled our best Guy Fieri and narrowed down some popular diner spots in North Jersey and rounded them up for you here. Hold onto your endless menus and bottomless coffee, Montclair locals, because we are taking you into the booths of many of our favorites in the great state of Jersey. Read on for a list of the best North Jersey diners to visit.
Brownstone Diner + Pancake Factory | Brick, Englewood Cliffs, + Edgewater
If Guy Fieri dubs it worthy, you know this spot is really that good. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, + Dives, Fieri boasts that it’s all about the pancakes. While each order is different, there is one thing that makes these buttermilk beauties better than any we have ever tasted: confectioners sugar. Pigs in the Blanket (sausage links stuffed inside an oversized pancake, like a burrito) and the Nut “n’ Honey Pancakes (with walnuts, almonds, + pecans drizzled with honey) are fan favorites here. Other than pancakes, diners can expect many family recipes from Greece to be on the menu, too like the Moussaka, which is layers of fried eggplant, chopped meat, and potatoes, topped with a bechamel sauce and plated with Greek salad. Read more about a recent visit here.
The Coach House | 921 JFK Boulevard, North Bergen
(Photo credit: @coachhousenb)
This typical Jersey diner is second-to-none. Sure, it has the everyday diner menu and bottomless coffee, but what sets The Coach House apart from most is the cheesecake. Not just for dessert anymore: The Coach House’s cheesecake pancakes a draw for diners all over North Jersey. The Shepherd’s Pie is another favorite here and is one of their daily specials. In addition to great diner food, the staff is always kind, helpful, and pleasant.
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Tops Diner | 500 Passaic Avenue, East Newark
This eatery has been in operation from the 1940s is everything a hungry patron could wish for and more. Montclair Diner will certainly not disappoint. From diner classics like burgers and breakfast platters to modern additions like smoothies and vegan items, there’s something for everyone.
Montclair Diner | 613 Valley Road, Montclair
Whether it be breakfast, lunch, dinner, or something in between, the robust menu has something on the menu for each moment. Patrons will see the endless possibilities of diner food along with some Montclair Diner favorites and specials. The diner is good for blueberry pancakes and crispy bacon at breakfast, and it’s important to note that the Diner makes an especially good cup of coffee.
Tick Tock Diner | 281 Allwood Road, Clifton
Yet another famous Jersey diner, Tik Tock Diner features a menu filled with diner grub and most importantly, disco fries. Voted the ‘Second Best 24-Hour Diner in The United States’ by The Daily News, this eatery is like a home away from home for most. With some of the biggest portion sizes patrons have ever seen, the food is outrageous and a step above the rest. The eggs Benedict are out of this world and a must-try.
Raymond’s | 28 Church Street, Montclair
Raymond’s has been a staple of Montclair, and more specifically the Church Street scene, since 1989 when Raymond Badach opened the luncheonette. From the moment diners step into Raymond’s, they are transported back to a time when “happening” establishments such as this one were on every corner, complete with white tile walls and a classic bar adorned with leather barstools. The menu at Raymond’s is often a pleasant surprise to patrons who walk in expecting diner-esque dishes to match the vibe and decor. Whether going for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night dessert, Raymond’s menu is expertly crafted to offer something that any diner may want.
White Mana | 470 Tonnele Avenue, Jersey City
A meal at White Mana is an actual taste of history. The burgers served here are the original recipe and method used when White Mana was a booth at the 1939 World’s Fair, demonstrating the future of fast food. With the simple menu of burgers, fries, and cheeseburgers with onion rings on the side, patrons can’t get enough of these classic items. White Mana is open seven days a week from 8AM to 11PM.
The Bendix Diner | 464 NJ-17, Hasbrouck Heights
Barely bigger than a home kitchen and built in 1947, this diner is wrapped in the typical aluminum exterior and even features the original turquoise floors. Bendix Diner is located in the middle of Route 17, making it unmissable for miles. This old-school spot is so eye-catching that it is frequently used as a set for films, TV shows, and advertisements. As for food, stick with the classics like a stack of fluffy pancakes with warm syrup. New menu additions include vegan options.
Suburban Diner | 172 Route 17, North Paramus
Paramus has a handful of diners, but the most popular is this one on Route 17 North. This diner has been around since the mid-1960s and has only grown better with age. The extensive menu has a ton of healthy options and Greek dishes, too. The diner also features a full drink menu and TBH, the Bloody Marys are top-notch. The restaurant has been renovated but still has that old charm we all know and love.
Chit Chat Diner | 515 Essex Street, Hackensack + 410 Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange
Diners will be grinning like the Cheshire Cat upon finishing their meals at the Chit Chat. The MacKenzie Childs ‘Courtly Check’ print that adorns practically every surface paired with the colorful, mix-matched patterns on the rest of the exposed surfaces is reminiscent of the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in Alice in Wonderland. While the menu covers all of the diner classics like breakfast through late-night choices, we like the creative takes on favorite menu items. For example, pulled pork tater tots or gouda cheese and fig-stuffed French toast.
Four Star Diner | 543 32nd Street, Union City
Established in 1951, this family-owned-and-operated diner has a classic New Jersey-style vibe with a retro aesthetic provided by the combining booths, wood tables, and a long sit-down counter served by staff. Breakfast is served all day, featuring farm-fresh eggs any style, omelets, pancakes, waffles, french toast, and more.
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Miss America Diner | 322 West Side Avenue, Jersey City
There aren’t many restaurants that have the pleasure of staying in business for 80 + years, but Miss America happens to be one of them. Situated beside New Jersey City University, this legendary diner has been a go-to for students and Chilltown residents alike. This is a traditional American diner that serves up classic fare all day long with daily specials and house-made desserts.
Broadway Diner | 226 Broadway, Bayonne, 1075 Broadway, Bayonne + 55 River Road, Summit
(Photo credit: Broadway Diner)
If there is one thing the Broadway Diner is known for, it’s the pancakes. People travel from all over the county to get their hands on the buttermilk pancakes that this diner has been serving up for the past several decades. In fact, Broadway Diner claims to have the world’s best pancakes. It seems like a tough job to make that call, but we’re up for the task. In addition to the breakfast menu, the Broadway Diner has a full menu of entrees, sandwiches, and brick-oven pizzas available.
