It's no secret that New Jerseyans love our diners! New Jersey and diners go together like fries and gravy, or ham, egg, and cheese. There are over 500 diners in the state and we are often called the "Diner Capital of the World". Everyone has their favorite, and choosing the best would be nearly impossible. However, we've attempted to identify some of the best diners in New Jersey. Each is unique with diverse menus and friendly staff. Each of the following offers up something special that makes them stand out, from top reviews to unique themes.
1. Tops Diner, East Newark
This diner TOPS "best of" lists every year, and gets more mentions on social media than any other diner in the state. Learn more about why Tops Diner is considered one of the best diners in the nation.
2. Doo Wop Diner, Wildwood
Located right on the Wildwood Boardwalk, this doo-wop themed diner is just seconds from the beach. Crowded during summer months, fall is the perfect time for a visit. Learn more about Doo Wop Diner by visiting the official website. And, while you're at it, you can check out what makes Wildwood the most retro town in New Jersey.
3. The Summit Diner, Summit
Built in 1929, this is believed to be the oldest diner in New Jersey still in operation. It is well known for its taylor ham/pork roll slider. Plus, some believe that the best pancakes in New Jersey are made at Summit Diner.
4. Vincentown Diner, Vincentown
This local favorite serves traditional diner fare, with a twist. Expect the freshest locally grown produce and organic ingredients! You can learn what's on the menu by checking out Vincentown Diner online.
5. Americana Diner, East Windsor
Americana was Inside Jersey's choice for best diner in New Jersey, and it is a local favorite. Stop by for the good food, good service, and free bread! Learn more by visiting Americana Kitchen & Bar online.
6. Tick Tock Diner, Clifton
Open since 1948, Tick Tock Diner boasts some of the best cake and chicken tenders around! Guests are served up some delicious food. Curious to learn more about this iconic establishment? Check out Tick Tock Diner online for more information.
7. Mustache Bill's Diner, Barnegat Light
This quirky diner owned by Bill Smith (Yes, he does have a mustache!) won an America's Classics award from the James Beard Foundation in 2009 -- the first diner to do so in the award's history. Learn more about what you can look forward to at this delightful New Jersey diner by visiting Mustache Bill's Diner online.
8. State Line Diner, Mahwah
This New Jersey diner, located right near the New York border, offers a full service bakery and bar! The menu is massive and offers a mix of American and Mediterranean cuisine. Learn more by visiting State Line Diner online.
9. Salem Oak Diner, Salem
Named the "Best Classic Diner in New Jersey," barely anything has changed here since 1955. It isn't vintage-themed; it's just vintage. The decor may be dated, but both the food and the service are exceptional. Learn more about why Salem Oak Diner is considered one of the best diners in New Jersey.
10. Jefferson Diner, Lake Hopatcong
Voted "Reader's Choice Best Diner" by the New Jersey Herald, this retro diner was also featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." Did we mention that they also offer free delivery? Learn more by checking out the Jefferson Diner website.
11. Bendix Diner, Hasbrouck Heights
Named after a local aviation plant, Bendix has soared from small town diner to big screen star. You can catch glimpses of the restaurant in films including Boys on the Side, and Jersey Girl.
12. Skylark Diner, Edison
Definitively a diner, this restaurant also doubles as a lounge. Enjoy breakfast all day and dancing all night. Jerry Seinfeld is a fan, having featured Skylark on his web series. Learn more by visiting Skylark Diner online.
13. Ponzio's Diner, Cherry Hill
Another diner with a full bakery and bar, Ponzio's is popular on social media. It is one of New Jersey's most tweeted about and top reviewed diners. The breakfast is so good, customers drive in from Philadelphia. For more information, check out the Ponzio's Diner website.
14. Malibu Diner, Hoboken
A Hudson County staple, this diner is a popular spot for younger diners after the local bars close. Open since the 1940s, it's also a nostalgic hot spot for older residents. Learn more about how you can order delicious food 24 hours a day from Malibu Diner.
We have hundreds of diners in the Garden State, and this is just a small sample of the best diners in New Jersey. These aren't the only diners in New Jersey, but they are some of the most popular. We all have our own favorites, so be sure to share in the comments below and let us know what makes your favorite New Jersey diner so great!
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