This Popular New Jersey Diner Has Been Serving Hungry Locals for Nearly 85 Years

New Jersey has long been regarded as the "Diner Capital of the World." But Garden State residents know where the best ones in the state are hiding, including an award-winning eatery so popular that it's been around for several decades. That would be Tops Diner in East Newark. It was named the best diner in the whole country by Time Out Magazine a few years ago, and we tend to agree: This place is nothing short of legendary.

This historic New Jersey diner has been a local and tourist favorite for almost a century. Tops Diner is known for its amazing comfort food, delicious breakfast options, and welcoming atmosphere. The next time you're looking to experience the best diners in America, look no further than Tops Diner in NJ. Read on to learn more about this iconic eatery before you go.

Why Tops Diner Stands Out in New Jersey

Tops Diner has been in business for 84 years. The neighborhood spot opened its doors in 1942 and has been offering friendly service ever since. The moment you walk into this family-owned business, you'll notice all the makings of a classic diner: big comfy booths, festive lighting, a steel interior, and lots of framed photos.

Aside from its retro feel, the restaurant has a vibrant energy, clearly reflected by its happy customers. It's super popular—if you stop by Tops on the weekend, you could encounter a small wait. But in such a classic diner environment, you won't mind slowing things down a bit. Tops Diner can be found at 500 Passaic Ave., East Newark, NJ 07029.

The Must-Try Dishes at This Iconic Diner

Tops is a hidden gem diner that offers just about every known and loved classic Americana dish. Breakfast and brunch are always popular times to visit, especially over the weekend. Locals love the restaurant's classic breakfast, which includes bacon, eggs, and crispy seasoned potatoes fried up with peppers and onions, with a side of fresh-squeezed orange juice.

Other popular favorites include the New York steak and eggs, short rib hash, and George's special, which includes farm-fresh eggs any style, hashbrowns, two buttermilk pancakes, applewood smoked bacon, and sausage.

If you're in the mood for something sweet, visitors rave about the stacked Pancake Deluxe meal served with sweet strawberries, bananas, and blueberries, the fluffy Short Stack French toast made with thick brioche bread, and seasonal offerings like the decadent Banana Biscoff pancakes and the Red Velvet pancakes. You'll feel like you're eating dessert!

But breakfast isn't the only thing offered at this beloved eatery. If it's your first visit to Top's, you have to order the rich and creamy lobster mac and cheese, appetizers like firecracker shrimp or crab cakes, chicken tenders, cheesburger sliders, and New Jersey sandwich favorites like JG's Pastrami Sandwich, with layers of tender meat, spicy mustard, and rye bread.

The menu is lengthy, so be sure to take your time to peruse all the options. And if you can't decide? Bring your appetite and come hungry so you can enjoy everything your heart (and stomach!) desires. Wash it all down with a cup of piping hot coffee or a milkshake.

Several house specials are offered weekly, too. If you live nearby, pop in for lunch specials like a grilled chicken pesto wrap with sweet potato fries, or upscale offerings like Amazon Fried Rice with baby back ribs, sweet plantains, and chorizo sausage.

What to Know Before Planning Your Visit to Top's Diner in Newark

There are many things to love about this unique diner in New Jersey. Apart from the extensive menu and cozy, retro vibes, Tops also offers stellar catering and bakery services. You'll love eating hot sandwiches, breakfast trays, entrees like chicken parmesan and jambalaya, and homemade Tres Leches cakes at your next party or event, straight from the diner's fantastic chefs.

Tops Diner also offers e-gift cards, so you can share the diner love with your friends and family. In our opinion, it's the perfect gift!

And while you can order takeout, with both pickup and delivery options, we highly recommend getting a reservation for a meal in-person. If you go on Friday-Saturday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., or Saturday-Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., you'll get to hear DJ NYXX spinning some awesome tunes. Where else can you listen to a DJ set and eat bacon and eggs at the same time?

Ultimately, the Garden State is widely regarded as "The Diner Capital of the World." But Tops Diner is certainly a foundational eatery that helped put New Jersey on the radar for this pretisgious title. The friendly service, late-night hours, plethora of comfort meal options, and cozy diner atmosphere that brings you right back to old-school Americana all make Tops a must-visit restaurant when you're in New Jersey.

Have you been to this iconic diner loved by celebrities and Jersey residents alike? If not, plan a trip for breakfast or dinner soon. The diner is open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. And if you're hoping for more delicious diner fare? Take a food-themed road trip to more of the best diners in New Jersey, including spots like Doo Wop Diner in Wildwood, the Vincentown Diner in Southampton Township, and more.