New Jersey's Very First Diner Has Literally Been Around Forever
Raymond Goldfield
Author
In New Jersey, the diner is still king. We have old-school diners, slick modern diners, and even diners loved by big-name stars. However, where did it all begin? Most of New Jersey’s oldest diners have closed, but one old-school institution is still hanging on – and claiming the title of the oldest diner in New Jersey. This would be the Dumont Crystal Diner in the town of the same name, and if it looks like it hasn’t changed in almost 100 years, that’s because it hasn’t in a lot of ways! This diner is still doggedly old-school, from the exterior to the decor to the menu full of oldies-but-goodies. The locals still love bellying up to the old-school stools in the compact diner, and if you’re paying a visit to Dumont, you’ll be happy you joined them.
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Have you visited the Dumont Crystal Diner? Tell us what you thought of the oldest diner in New Jersey in the comments section! This diner is an old-school place and doesn’t have a website, but the Dumont Crystal Diner Facebook page is a good place to learn about the latest specials. If you’re looking for a place to spend the night in the region, the Clinton Inn and Event Center in Tenafly is a fantastic spot less than ten minutes away. That will put you minutes away from the Tenafly Nature Center, a charming little museum and garden with a beautiful butterfly house.
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More to Explore
Historic Dining In New Jersey
What Are Some Of The Most Unique Diners In New Jersey?
- The Chit Chat Diner in West Orange serves the same kind of classic diner grub that you'd expect, but the setting is something else entirely - it has more in common with Game of Thrones than The Sopranos! This is a unique castle-themed restaurant that features a stone exterior, hanging crystal chandeliers, and countless other impressive touches. The food is excellent and the menu is extensive, but the massive dessert case might be the star attraction.
- The Reo Diner in Woodbridge is my hometown diner, and I love this place for its classic art deco style and extensive menu - I always get the roast sirloin platter. But the most unique thing about it might be the display of celebrity guests right by the entrance. This diner has had quite the boldface clientele over the years, including Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and plenty of local politicians.
What Are Some Of The Most Historic Restaurants In New Jersey?
- The Rocky Hill Inn in the town of the same name has been open in some form since 1745, before New Jersey was part of a country, and it's no surprise that it is said to have played host to George Washington when he called the area home! Today, it still has a great heroic vibe thanks to restoration efforts over the centuries, and serves a delicious menu of pub classics like fish and chips with modern burgers and barbecue.
- The Black Horse Tavern in Mendham dates back to 1742, one of several colonial restaurant in the state. It's a much bigger building than it was back then, with a modern but stately facade, and it has expanded to have several dining rooms adjoining the original public house. There are still hearty classic options like steak, but they share menu space with fried eggplant sandwiches and grilled mediterranean shrimp.