New Jersey is home to a handful of amazing arcades. You'll find a magnificent mix of retro (YESTERcades, Billy's Midway...) and modern (Barcade, iPlay...), but only one of our arcades is among the oldest in America. Now, gaming has a long history in the USA. Penny arcades and amusement halls date all the way back to the 1930s but many have closed down over the years. Arcades as we know them got their start in the early 1970s, and this New Jersey arcade has been a favorite since 1973.
Welcome to 8 On The Break! While the games are (mostly) modern, you'll feel like you're stepping into the past.
This is The Break in the 1970s...
...and this is The Break today. The pinball machines (my personal favorite) are a mix of new and old. They've been hosting tournaments and leagues for decades.
They still have billiards, with tables dating back to the '70s and prices that will remind you of the good old days. They've also got some classic arcade games like Pac Man and Galaga.
You'll be transported to the '70s when you head to the kitchen. You won't believe the prices. The star of the show is their Break Steak Special. It's 1/4 pound of shaved flank steak, your choice of onions, peppers, and BBQ sauce (they recommend all three), a side of shoestring fries, and a 16 oz. soft drink, all for $4.98! The price has been the same for YEARS.
We love the delectable desserts, like the Hershey's Wiffle... your favorite flavor of ice cream sandwiched between deep-fried waffles and overflowing with Hershey's Syrup and powdered sugar. Did I mention that it's just $3?
But there's a modern side, too. For many years, The Break has been a testing bed for the development of some of the best video games on the market. People come from all over to play their selection of imports, driving games, shooters, and especially the rhythm games.
Many games such as In The Groove 1 & 2, Rerave, and Friction were created in cooperation with The Break Arcade. How cool is that? The games located at the arcade are prototypes or first run editions of these games. It's a legend among arcade fans and it's right here in New Jersey. Interested in visiting? Bring cash and coins (there is a machine if needed).
Address: 340-346 North Avenue, Dunellen, NJ, 08812.
Hours: Monday through Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Thursday 12 p.m. to 1 a.m., Friday 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday 1 p.m. to 1 a.m., Sunday 1 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Website: https://www.thebreak.net/
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