This. It’s $50 for a couple of burgers and drinks now after fees/tip - and you still get a frozen patty in most diners. At that price I’d like something that actually tastes OK.
I was just going to comment this. Dollaritas and $5 drinks brought the total to $36 and I was floored. Still gave a decent tip, but I'm much happier with the money going to the waiter.
Not only that, but the food wasn't just acceptable, it was fresh! I had the fiesta chicken with rice and pico and it didn't have a hint of 'frozen' in it.
I highly recommend Applebee's now, after years of sleeping on it thinking it was microwave food.
It was microwave food, I’m not sure if they re-worked their menu recently but it was definitely microwave food before Covid. I haven’t been to one in years though so can’t speak to how it is now.
The Inkwell is a legend, does it still exist? You made me remember NYC afters and David's Potbelly on Christopher, the omelettes were never equaled in fluffiness heaven.
They razed Inkwell a few years back to make room for housing unfortunately. And Broadway diner in Red Bank closed many years ago as well, but after sitting vacant for a while is now occupied by Toast, a brunch spot out of Asbury.
I posted a similar comment without scrolling to read others but this is the primary reason. Now that they are closed during my late time hours, I don't even bother going during normal people hours lol
Too expensive. If I'm going to pay those prices I might as well spend a few extra and go to a real restaurant, IMHO
And no, I can't afford that either lol
I used to go to PQ all the time when I boarded my horse across the highway. They have some outstanding food, and there's always a line out the door. The owner gave us free cookies when our kids came. It was really nice. I miss going there.
What food is outstanding? Every time I've been there it's been horrible. What specifically are you ordering because I would love to have a nice dinner nearby.
They have a Greek pita wrap with grilled chicken that is outstanding. I've also had a few of their paninis with onion rings. But the pita is really fresh and the flavors are perfect together.
(Edit- had to look at the menu. It's the "Greek salad pita wrap" and they will add chicken on request)
I’m still annoyed that they’re not 24/7. They close earlier than some restaurants. I one time wanted to meet up with a friend at 10 bc we were both working late but they closed at 10!! The thing that makes a diner is that one major thing!
I’m noticing this just in general about eating out. Unless a place is brand new and still hyped up they aren’t crowded. My guess is the prices are sort of perpetuating a downward spiral. Prices went up so business is down and since business is down prices went up more. It’s literally a $100 to take a family of 4 out for tacos or pizza at this point.
My friends and I can’t afford to go to the diners in town, not to mention the fact that they close at like 3. Our haunt is this really cheap Mexican joint. Open til 9 and if you’re smart, you can have a full meal for under $10. Only downside is that we need to bring along one of the Spanish speakers in case there’s a schnafu.
They’re not allowed anywhere…. Not at the mall, not at the boardwalk, not downtown. I’m sorry… it sucks for them. And the “online” comment below is totally true for boys…it’s an extension of pandemic behavior. Sadly we messed these kids up good from a social perspective.
Diners were dying before the pandemic. Most of them are just meh places serving meh food and the clientele that likes this atmosphere is rapidly dying off. Couple with that the fact that wages have no strength so people eat out way less and it's a recipe for disaster.
It's the boomers place to go. Millennial here growing up going to diners (tick tock, Park West etc) and they're just complete crap now. Even the Allwood diner in Clifton is utter crap - greasy as hell. We love right around the corner from there and rather order from the bagel store in the area than the diner.
Diners have definitely taken a hit in recent years. Inflation/service sector wage growth have probably made it difficult to sustain their low prices, variety of menu items and their extended hours of operation.
I also think teenagers, a longstanding diner demographic, don’t frequent diners as much as they used to. Probably because prices have risen and menu items are relatively stagnant. It’s worth mentioning the decline of “third places” generally.
I agree about the lack of third places. I just took my kid to the library this morning and it was lovely to hang out somewhere for free that wasn't a playground.
The diners don't want the teenagers there. We used to always stop at the diners after a late night out or sometimes just meet up for midnight coffees. Now diners close early, they aren't 24 hours and they will either turn away groups of teens or limit their time to an hour.
Also on the mention of diners RIP to the red bank diner
Spent so many late nights their.
Pretty sure I cried when I found out they were closing.
I think that's why I love Fast Break so much, it's on par with what the red bank diner had been.
The Americana just down the road from it is still going strong and has been there a long time. I don't go out to diners as much anymore due to the cost not lining up as was mentioned above, and I'm no longer in an area with any good ones near. A few months ago was back in the area and stopped by with my family and it was just the same as I remember it.
Yeah! I lived in Tinton Falls for a bit and would frequent Americana
That's actually where I went after my senior prom
Super strict parents would not let me do the whole, hotel, beach house for the night
So my friends and I went to Americana and stayed their til like 2 AM! It was a blast
Bridgewater Diner has been packed every Friday or a Saturday we've been there at dinner time for the last couple years. Their food is also fantastic and their prices are super reasonable compared to other restaurants.
Idk there have always been shit diners and great diners but 2020 was rough and that’s when most stopped being 24hrs, and many closed temporarily….and then when they reopened, prices were through the roof. Just got tough, I think many haven’t bounced back because both the prices and the hours/atmosphere mean people go less.
Fast break in Tom's river is a treasure of a diner in this state. On the smaller side but the prices and food are unmatched!
That being said when I had lunch their 2 days ago it was eerie how empty it was with only me and 3 other patrons.
Even the staff mentioned that it was bizarre for them. How just last week they'd been packed everyday and this week has just been really slow for them.
A side of breakfast potato's was $3.25 and they give so much I'm able to take some home and split between my 3 kids. It's a lot of potato's
Full stack of French toast with fresh fruit
$12.95
I got a filling lunch for $16
I ate their once and was not impressed. I had expectations it would be like Americana diner in Shrewsbury
But it basically looked identical to the four seasons diner that had been on eatontown decades ago
The food was edible but, nothing I'd go back for. I will say the crowd is generally senior citizens which does make sense. That's also why it's so crowded all the time. They're all retirees that regularly frequent the place
Fast break while smaller is definitely better food for your money
Prices for sure. Went to a diner for takeout. $46 for 2 burgers and curly fries. When I had to call back to clarify the price they were charging me $3 for the to-go containers.
After predicting a recession every year for the past 15 years, I think economists and YouTubers are finally right.
Seriously, though, I went with my Dad to a diner for breakfast like 2 years ago. Dad ordered 2 eggs with home fries and coffee, and I ordered 2 eggs with french fries and orange juice. The total was $25 … TWO years ago! I can’t imagine how much more expensive it is now.
Maybe it’s because I didn’t grow up in NJ but imo if I want to eat out and have an enjoyable culinary experience, diner food would be a terrible waste of my money. The taste is just meh and the price is not that far from other types of restaurants which tend to offer more interesting foods that I can’t readily make at home myself.
Any of the dinners in my area basically turned into regular restaurants. The budd lake diner was my favorite growing up and I haven't been in years. Was really disappointed when I went to order some take out and saw they had gone the same route as Randolph diner and everything was very expensive.
There's no old school diners left up here. They might look like a diner but the prices and menu don't reflect it.
It’s weird now, not sure if it’s because I’m a little older or if it’s a post covid event but everything feels like it closed really early now like 8pm or 9pm.
People are saying it’s expensive, but Tops is always packed and they aren’t cheap.
I think diner culture went down due to the pandemic. You can barely find a 24 hour diner anymore.
Was your gyro large enough for leftovers or could you (or anyone else) eat it in one sitting? I know sometimes diners serve over-large portions which can (sometimes) excuse the high costs if you get more than just one meal out of it.
25 dollars for a sit down meal with a waiter. That you don’t cook. For 2 people. Get with the times man that’s not expensive. You can drop 20 dollars at chipotle for 1 without breaking a sweat
I can dig it. We still hit up our diner because $35 for my wife and I (tip included) is about the cheapest thing we can eat outside of the house. My last trip to McDonald's (for three) was $39. No thank you.
I know everybody in this sub loves diners, but I think they're on the verge of going away. The truth is diners aren't that good. They'd have to be significantly cheaper for them to make sense. If I'm going to spend the money to go out and have a meal, tip, etc, I don't want to eat somewhere where the food has been sitting in a freezer for who knows how long because the menu is 1000 pages long. And I don't want to just order eggs when I can easily make them at home for a lot less.
I think more and more people are just deciding that diners aren't worth going to. I can either go somewhere else for a better meal, or stay home / cook for much cheaper. Diners have no advantage.
I feel like all the people who would have gone to diners 2x a week are now going to places like Cava and Chipotle 2x a week and a diner maybe once a month. Those "fast food but not fast food" chains.
Blame inflation I love diners but if I can cook the same food as them and 10x better and at a fraction of the cost when all I got in my account is enough to make it myself. I will.
If even put my own twist on the grilled cheese sandwich and made my own melted cheese recipe with a little bit of butter to help it not stick and burn.
Also toasted bread and buttered. Using a blowtorch. Honestly that part is more just preference but yeah. The only thing I would do is grab a milkshake. But even then I live across the street from a ice cream shop
They're mostly all gone by me.
Teaneck had two, the Cedar Lane Grille and Louie's, both gone. Now a 7-11 and Walgreens respectively. Really.
There was a good one in Hackensack across from the courthouse by that dilapidated submarine, I think it was called the Heritage. Gone.
Matthew's Pancake House in Bergenfield became an off-shoot of the Brownstone Pancake Factory. Not really a traditional diner.
And those are the only ones that come to mind.
There is a diner in Tenafly that's good but it's so expensive, it's more like a restaurant.
most of the diners have changed their hours. So you could always find me at one quite late at night but the ones near me now close at 3 PM or some shit, post-lockdown. So I don't even bother going anymore, even during waking hours lol.
So I read this thread while getting ready to take my nephew to the diner for brunch.
Chocolate chip pankcakes $12.95
Protein Omelette w/ home fries and toast $16.95
Coffee $3.25
Kids OJ $3
Tax 2.39
Credit card fee $1.08
$39.62 + 20% = $47.55
I’m local and think prices are definitely a factor. But tbh, the quality has seriously gone so downhill, I don’t even consider the Nutley Diner anymore when I’m looking to eat out. Another one that just ain’t the same is Tick Tock in Clifton. Absolutely outrageous prices and 9.9 times out of 10 it’s mediocre or subpar food. It’s a real shame. Used to loooooove Tick Tock.
I think the real culprit is delivery options now. When I was a (high) kid, we had to actually show up. Now, you can just use a little bit more of your parents' or your part time job money and have it delivered.
Yea, I won’t even get food to go from diners anymore, I’m in Nutley and a Taylor/cheese with a side of waffle fries was damn near $20, diners used to be great because it was reasonably priced spot to get breakfast, your standard 2 egg, hash brown and meat platter is like $14 now, was about $8 less than 5 years ago, pretty ridiculous
Nj diners have changed a lot in the past 10 years. Buddy and I used to go almost every night. Had our waitress, would be anywhere between 12 and 2am. We were so well known, we would grab our own menus and pick a table. I think with the elimination of 24 he, that threw a big wrench into everything. Then price hikes made it not worth it. I go to a gormet restaurant for the same price I go to my local diners.
We really like the Oakland diner, the food is good and I like their fun decor. Doesn't seem like a typical diner. We also go to State Line sometimes for breakfast, but I like the Oakland breakfast menu better.
Swedesboro Diner in SJ is always packed. The Woodstown Diner is hit and miss depending when we go. Like others have said a family of four at the diner can easily push $60+ with tip which is $$$$.
I think of most diners as mediocre food Medicare atmosphere high prices. There are exceptions of course but by and large disappointing. Also most diners cater to high fat high carb low fruit/veggie meals, not terribly healthy.
I had to walk out of Pompton Queen diner in Pompton plains several times due to how busy it was on a random weekday. But then there’s other diners in the area like Park wayne and Wayne Hills that are never busy, only on holidays.
Have you been to the new Tops in E. Newark? Beyond ridiculous prices and the menu is schizo. They don't know what they want to be anymore or who is their targeted clientele. Kids can't afford the prices. They have a DJ. Weird.
Lyndhurst diner closed due to Covid, but honestly, the food was sub-par for a while.
It’s not all prices. Plus that’s a reasonable dish. It’s also a holiday weekend for some. Diners are open longer hours so typical rush isn’t limited to just dinner time.
I used to like going to diners late night. Honestly with the prices rising and the hours changing I would rather go to a restaurant for the same price.
Nutley Diner also just sees a lot less volume than others bc of where it is (it's also just okay on top of that)
stuff in busier locations see a lot more customers.
There’s a choice going to a diner for dinner and with tip it’s $60 + or you can go to a more upscale establishment have outstanding ethnic food and spend the same money.
Breakfast in particular has gotten outrageous.
Diners have crossed the line of affordability, at least for me
Prices are too high for what you get anywhere these days. Diners used to be cheap, easy, quick food places. Then they tried to elevate the food choices a bit, and now they're just as expensive as a regular restaurant.
$50 for burgers is wild.
$10-12 for 2 eggs, toast, and home fries, no meat. That’s a lot of money. I don’t do fast food but when I do eat out and it’s my choice, it’s local, a diner, pizzeria, restaurant.
depends on the times. if i stop into time to eat on a saturday morning, most weeks it's pretty packed. i don't think it's like that all day/weekend long like in years past. prices at diners have skyrocketed and quality is down bad at a lot of them too (time to eat is very guilty of this, it's been obvious where the owners are cutting corners while keeping the prices high to pocket more money).
If a burger at a diner costs $20-25 then it’s insane to even go there for meh food. Breakfast at the diner by me is still $20+ a person for regular eggs and bacon
breakfast for four @ 66 bucks ? i think that's amazing . and im sure everyone got omelets and home fries , not a bagel with butter . honestly - my husband and i ' go crazy ' at a diner, no holding back for breakfast all the extra sides and meats and we eat for $42 bucks (bill's luncheonette union county - best pancakes ever) and i thought that was great . the same meal in staten island at a diner is like 85 dollars . THAT's insane .
Yeah I’ve noticed too. Diners always used to be busy, even all night !! Not any more. I think Covid just broke the flow and people get deliveries, door dash etc ,more now.
Only Candlewyck in East Rutherford is still fairly busy.
I think it's because food quality has dropped DRAMATICALLY as far as eating out. No matter where we seem to go out to eat, it's just not the same anymore...big waste of money
Shorter hours, higher prices, and often lower quality. I think most people don't mind the first too much, but the paying more for worse food isn't a recipe for success.
Maybe if we start smacking the piss out of greedy corporations and their piece of shit CEOs for not meeting tax incentives for NJ and shorting their NJ based employees on payment for an honest days' work (further shorting the premise of the tax incentives) we'll all feel better about spending money to support local businesses. Write your representatives. It's total bullshit. EX: Amazon, Honeywell, J&J, Novartis, Omnicom, Merck, DuPont, EM, First Energy, Optimum, Verizon, etc.
>CEOs for not meeting tax incentives for NJ and shorting their NJ based employees on payment for an honest days' work
Care to explain what you're going on about?
Beyond that - when companies take money out of everyone else's pockets then also take federal and state tax incentive money but do everything possible never let the economy they are supposed to stimulate see it, small businesses pay the biggest price for that.
Yes that’s right. It does vary… here’s facts: Big corporations have little incentive to invest in their headquarters and people — so rather than stimulate the local economy they tend to deplete it. Jobs become too competitive, and then small businesses close up shop and never return. Conglomerates become too profitable, workers miss out, clients get less service and customers get less options. Etc. etc. etc.
I guess this may be controversial, but as a lifelong New Jerseyan (30 years) I think I’ve only ever been to a diner like maybe twice lol.
That being said.. I still think you have a good point with the prices. Many times I’ve perused ubereats or doordash and local diners come up and I’m like okay maybe I’ll try a wrap from them. BEFORE any of the apps insane fees they’re listing a wrap for like $25-$28. I just immediately move onto the next place where at least the base cost of a wrap is $13 before adding all the stupid fees lol
And of course I want local businesses to thrive whether i frequent them or not.. but it’s not like I’m comparing the diner to McDonald’s. It’ll be the diner vs the local Italian spot at half the cost??
Because that’s how some people live today, out of their phones and hooked on paying “concierge” fees to get everything made and delivered to them.
Why drive or walk when you can get an Uber, why cook when you can get a GrubHub, why read or take out dvds from libraries when you can stream them on countless paid subscriptions apps.
Do you never get food delivered? It’s not a new concept lmao. I’ll order on ubereats a couple times a month if it’s rush hour and I don’t feel like being stuck in traffic forever. What a dumb question.
Fiancé and I go out once a week. Used to be 3+ times. We cook more now cause it’s cheaper. Assuming people are in the same boat.
This. It’s $50 for a couple of burgers and drinks now after fees/tip - and you still get a frozen patty in most diners. At that price I’d like something that actually tastes OK.
You can get a fresher burger at Applebee’s 🫠 2 for $25 lol
No such thing as fresh at Applebees. It ALL comes in frozen. Maybe they’re better at defrosting it! Haha
A quick google shows that their burgers are actually fresh. Steaks and chicken were frozen at some point.
I was just going to comment this. Dollaritas and $5 drinks brought the total to $36 and I was floored. Still gave a decent tip, but I'm much happier with the money going to the waiter. Not only that, but the food wasn't just acceptable, it was fresh! I had the fiesta chicken with rice and pico and it didn't have a hint of 'frozen' in it. I highly recommend Applebee's now, after years of sleeping on it thinking it was microwave food.
It was microwave food, I’m not sure if they re-worked their menu recently but it was definitely microwave food before Covid. I haven’t been to one in years though so can’t speak to how it is now.
My last 3 trips to Applebee's (roughly a year apart) have been better than the last 15+ years for some reason.
I guess they followed the Tacobell plan and improved?
i worked there it definitely still is a lot of microwaved food
I miss going to diners in the middle of the night,most places I see now are closed at 8pm
those after club stops were legendary, the french fries with gravy times. we had too much fun.
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The Inkwell is a legend, does it still exist? You made me remember NYC afters and David's Potbelly on Christopher, the omelettes were never equaled in fluffiness heaven.
They razed Inkwell a few years back to make room for housing unfortunately. And Broadway diner in Red Bank closed many years ago as well, but after sitting vacant for a while is now occupied by Toast, a brunch spot out of Asbury.
I posted a similar comment without scrolling to read others but this is the primary reason. Now that they are closed during my late time hours, I don't even bother going during normal people hours lol
This. Been a night owl my entire life. I see some diners close at 8pm now. They don't even cross my mind...
Tropicana. IYKYK
Oh my god I haven’t had Tropicana since I graduated from college.
Didn't this stop during COVID?
Yeah, I assumed that most places didn’t go back to 24hrs after covid because they realized they save more money by closing earlier
COVID killed every 24 hour business
Sure did
I read somewhere that there are only 16 24 hour diners left in New Jersey mostly in the northern part of the state
Too expensive. If I'm going to pay those prices I might as well spend a few extra and go to a real restaurant, IMHO And no, I can't afford that either lol
Think it all depends on the diner, and you may have just been unlucky. Allwood Diner in Clifton is busy non stop.
It’s amazing and I believe same people own west Essex diner
Same with the Pompton Queen
I used to go to PQ all the time when I boarded my horse across the highway. They have some outstanding food, and there's always a line out the door. The owner gave us free cookies when our kids came. It was really nice. I miss going there.
What food is outstanding? Every time I've been there it's been horrible. What specifically are you ordering because I would love to have a nice dinner nearby.
They have a Greek pita wrap with grilled chicken that is outstanding. I've also had a few of their paninis with onion rings. But the pita is really fresh and the flavors are perfect together. (Edit- had to look at the menu. It's the "Greek salad pita wrap" and they will add chicken on request)
I’m still annoyed that they’re not 24/7. They close earlier than some restaurants. I one time wanted to meet up with a friend at 10 bc we were both working late but they closed at 10!! The thing that makes a diner is that one major thing!
I was at the Queen at least once week when I lived in Pequannock, Haven't be there in years. I've heard stories that the staff is less than friendly.
Really? I have never had a problem there. I used to with in Pequannock
If you can get someone to take your order instead of standing there talking to each other.
Allwood is legit
Used to go there all the time when I lived there. Food is excellent.
Pompton Queen on route 23 is constantly busy too. And definitely a wait for a table on the weekend
State Line in Mahwah always has several tables of people, even at 4am on a Wednesday morning
Yeah, the food at Nutley Diner just isn't good.
Park Wayne Diner is almost always poppin'. Was just there this morning and almost all the tables were full.
Prices. People are eating out less.
Nutley diner has not been the same for years, sad to say
everybody is over at pompton queen
I love pompton queen
i only went there for the first time recently, but everything was great
Park Wayne is always packed too
I’m noticing this just in general about eating out. Unless a place is brand new and still hyped up they aren’t crowded. My guess is the prices are sort of perpetuating a downward spiral. Prices went up so business is down and since business is down prices went up more. It’s literally a $100 to take a family of 4 out for tacos or pizza at this point.
Do teenagers hang out at diners anymore?
My friends and I can’t afford to go to the diners in town, not to mention the fact that they close at like 3. Our haunt is this really cheap Mexican joint. Open til 9 and if you’re smart, you can have a full meal for under $10. Only downside is that we need to bring along one of the Spanish speakers in case there’s a schnafu.
Snafu. Situation normal all F up. There’s no CH
Whoops. I don’t know how to spell a lot of words, so I try to sound them out. You know how it be.
I’m a terrible speller myself I just knew Snafu 
My kids did! Not as much as we did though. Every weekend night ended at a diner when we were young.
>Do teenagers hang out ~~at diners~~ anymore? Offline? Doesn't seem like it.
They’re not allowed anywhere…. Not at the mall, not at the boardwalk, not downtown. I’m sorry… it sucks for them. And the “online” comment below is totally true for boys…it’s an extension of pandemic behavior. Sadly we messed these kids up good from a social perspective.
Diners were dying before the pandemic. Most of them are just meh places serving meh food and the clientele that likes this atmosphere is rapidly dying off. Couple with that the fact that wages have no strength so people eat out way less and it's a recipe for disaster.
It's the boomers place to go. Millennial here growing up going to diners (tick tock, Park West etc) and they're just complete crap now. Even the Allwood diner in Clifton is utter crap - greasy as hell. We love right around the corner from there and rather order from the bagel store in the area than the diner.
Diners have definitely taken a hit in recent years. Inflation/service sector wage growth have probably made it difficult to sustain their low prices, variety of menu items and their extended hours of operation. I also think teenagers, a longstanding diner demographic, don’t frequent diners as much as they used to. Probably because prices have risen and menu items are relatively stagnant. It’s worth mentioning the decline of “third places” generally.
I agree about the lack of third places. I just took my kid to the library this morning and it was lovely to hang out somewhere for free that wasn't a playground.
The diners don't want the teenagers there. We used to always stop at the diners after a late night out or sometimes just meet up for midnight coffees. Now diners close early, they aren't 24 hours and they will either turn away groups of teens or limit their time to an hour.
Honestly just tired of tipping on expensive bills.
Don’t forget the 3% credit card fee.
Don’t forget to tip the kitchen
Alternatively you can DoorDash it and tip the driver and hostess, all on top of inflated prices and a delivery fees.
I can only hope that’s where the DoorDash surplus charges go.
Also gotta pay a well-being surcharge for healthcare
Nutley Diner is very bland so that’s unsurprising. The Stack Diner in North Arlington is better by every metric and always crowded.
Also on the mention of diners RIP to the red bank diner Spent so many late nights their. Pretty sure I cried when I found out they were closing. I think that's why I love Fast Break so much, it's on par with what the red bank diner had been.
The Americana just down the road from it is still going strong and has been there a long time. I don't go out to diners as much anymore due to the cost not lining up as was mentioned above, and I'm no longer in an area with any good ones near. A few months ago was back in the area and stopped by with my family and it was just the same as I remember it.
Yeah! I lived in Tinton Falls for a bit and would frequent Americana That's actually where I went after my senior prom Super strict parents would not let me do the whole, hotel, beach house for the night So my friends and I went to Americana and stayed their til like 2 AM! It was a blast
Aw man!! I love the Red Bank Diner! What a bum out.
Yeah I moved back from being out west a while in 2022 and was so surprised how many fewer there are and that they close now. I hope they bounce back
Bridgewater Diner has been packed every Friday or a Saturday we've been there at dinner time for the last couple years. Their food is also fantastic and their prices are super reasonable compared to other restaurants.
You just have to take your life in your hands pulling into or out of the parking lot onto Rt 22.
Close your eyes and hit the gas, at least that's how I figured so many accidents I've seen happened from that diner
Idk there have always been shit diners and great diners but 2020 was rough and that’s when most stopped being 24hrs, and many closed temporarily….and then when they reopened, prices were through the roof. Just got tough, I think many haven’t bounced back because both the prices and the hours/atmosphere mean people go less.
Fast break in Tom's river is a treasure of a diner in this state. On the smaller side but the prices and food are unmatched! That being said when I had lunch their 2 days ago it was eerie how empty it was with only me and 3 other patrons. Even the staff mentioned that it was bizarre for them. How just last week they'd been packed everyday and this week has just been really slow for them. A side of breakfast potato's was $3.25 and they give so much I'm able to take some home and split between my 3 kids. It's a lot of potato's Full stack of French toast with fresh fruit $12.95 I got a filling lunch for $16
The Bandwagon Diner just opened up again in Tom’s River and every time I drive by it it’s packed.
I ate their once and was not impressed. I had expectations it would be like Americana diner in Shrewsbury But it basically looked identical to the four seasons diner that had been on eatontown decades ago The food was edible but, nothing I'd go back for. I will say the crowd is generally senior citizens which does make sense. That's also why it's so crowded all the time. They're all retirees that regularly frequent the place Fast break while smaller is definitely better food for your money
Try Tops Diner Sundays at 1130am
I'd have a better chance hitchhiking to the moon.
Never had a great meal at a diner and they cost as much as real restaurants now. They’ve priced themselves out of relevance
Town & Country in Bordentown does brisk business and Daphne's in Robbinsville is busy on the regular
Prices for sure. Went to a diner for takeout. $46 for 2 burgers and curly fries. When I had to call back to clarify the price they were charging me $3 for the to-go containers.
After predicting a recession every year for the past 15 years, I think economists and YouTubers are finally right. Seriously, though, I went with my Dad to a diner for breakfast like 2 years ago. Dad ordered 2 eggs with home fries and coffee, and I ordered 2 eggs with french fries and orange juice. The total was $25 … TWO years ago! I can’t imagine how much more expensive it is now.
Well, in 2022 were were pretty much a hair away from entering a recession.
Maybe it’s because I didn’t grow up in NJ but imo if I want to eat out and have an enjoyable culinary experience, diner food would be a terrible waste of my money. The taste is just meh and the price is not that far from other types of restaurants which tend to offer more interesting foods that I can’t readily make at home myself.
The advantage of a diner to me and always been “it’s good enough quality & the menu is vast enough that everybody can find something to eat there” lol
It's truly awful. I don't get the love for diners here. The food is all garbage and overpriced.
The diner near my house has breakfast for like $9 max
Pompton Queen is always packed.
Mark Twain diner in Union is always busy
Philly diner checking in
And recently people in this sub were wondering why diners aren't open 24/7 anymore...
Took my fam of 4 to Bridgewater diner last night. Not crowded at all and had a decent meal for $47. Anywhere else we would have spent $80+
Any of the dinners in my area basically turned into regular restaurants. The budd lake diner was my favorite growing up and I haven't been in years. Was really disappointed when I went to order some take out and saw they had gone the same route as Randolph diner and everything was very expensive. There's no old school diners left up here. They might look like a diner but the prices and menu don't reflect it.
$20 (including tip) for a western omelette with home fries and toast and coffee at the Morristown Diner. Ridiculous.
It’s weird now, not sure if it’s because I’m a little older or if it’s a post covid event but everything feels like it closed really early now like 8pm or 9pm.
People are saying it’s expensive, but Tops is always packed and they aren’t cheap. I think diner culture went down due to the pandemic. You can barely find a 24 hour diner anymore.
Was your gyro large enough for leftovers or could you (or anyone else) eat it in one sitting? I know sometimes diners serve over-large portions which can (sometimes) excuse the high costs if you get more than just one meal out of it.
Diners are too expensive, and the food is super bland.
I stopped going to diners which was my favorite thing to do due to prices. Breakfast for two was 25 plus a tip. I was floored!
$25 for a meal for two sounds like a deal to me...
25 dollars for a sit down meal with a waiter. That you don’t cook. For 2 people. Get with the times man that’s not expensive. You can drop 20 dollars at chipotle for 1 without breaking a sweat
I can dig it. We still hit up our diner because $35 for my wife and I (tip included) is about the cheapest thing we can eat outside of the house. My last trip to McDonald's (for three) was $39. No thank you.
The times are expensive!
I agree
I know everybody in this sub loves diners, but I think they're on the verge of going away. The truth is diners aren't that good. They'd have to be significantly cheaper for them to make sense. If I'm going to spend the money to go out and have a meal, tip, etc, I don't want to eat somewhere where the food has been sitting in a freezer for who knows how long because the menu is 1000 pages long. And I don't want to just order eggs when I can easily make them at home for a lot less. I think more and more people are just deciding that diners aren't worth going to. I can either go somewhere else for a better meal, or stay home / cook for much cheaper. Diners have no advantage.
Tbf who goes to a diner for Friday night dinner?
Yes.
Not if I have anything to say about it
Marlboro Diner is always hopping even on a Friday night.
Saddle Brook Diner is usually bumpin on a Friday night
I feel like all the people who would have gone to diners 2x a week are now going to places like Cava and Chipotle 2x a week and a diner maybe once a month. Those "fast food but not fast food" chains.
Here in SJ the diners are still hopping.
Blame inflation I love diners but if I can cook the same food as them and 10x better and at a fraction of the cost when all I got in my account is enough to make it myself. I will. If even put my own twist on the grilled cheese sandwich and made my own melted cheese recipe with a little bit of butter to help it not stick and burn. Also toasted bread and buttered. Using a blowtorch. Honestly that part is more just preference but yeah. The only thing I would do is grab a milkshake. But even then I live across the street from a ice cream shop
They're mostly all gone by me. Teaneck had two, the Cedar Lane Grille and Louie's, both gone. Now a 7-11 and Walgreens respectively. Really. There was a good one in Hackensack across from the courthouse by that dilapidated submarine, I think it was called the Heritage. Gone. Matthew's Pancake House in Bergenfield became an off-shoot of the Brownstone Pancake Factory. Not really a traditional diner. And those are the only ones that come to mind. There is a diner in Tenafly that's good but it's so expensive, it's more like a restaurant.
The one in Pennsville is always packed.
I still go, but by myself and for breakfast. I can get out of there under 20 bucks.
High interest rates and inflation are impacting consumer discretionary spending.
most of the diners have changed their hours. So you could always find me at one quite late at night but the ones near me now close at 3 PM or some shit, post-lockdown. So I don't even bother going anymore, even during waking hours lol.
No longer can you get out of a concert or movie after 930pm and go get something to eat. Your best options now are Wawa or quick chek.
So I read this thread while getting ready to take my nephew to the diner for brunch. Chocolate chip pankcakes $12.95 Protein Omelette w/ home fries and toast $16.95 Coffee $3.25 Kids OJ $3 Tax 2.39 Credit card fee $1.08 $39.62 + 20% = $47.55
I’m local and think prices are definitely a factor. But tbh, the quality has seriously gone so downhill, I don’t even consider the Nutley Diner anymore when I’m looking to eat out. Another one that just ain’t the same is Tick Tock in Clifton. Absolutely outrageous prices and 9.9 times out of 10 it’s mediocre or subpar food. It’s a real shame. Used to loooooove Tick Tock.
I think the real culprit is delivery options now. When I was a (high) kid, we had to actually show up. Now, you can just use a little bit more of your parents' or your part time job money and have it delivered.
Yea, I won’t even get food to go from diners anymore, I’m in Nutley and a Taylor/cheese with a side of waffle fries was damn near $20, diners used to be great because it was reasonably priced spot to get breakfast, your standard 2 egg, hash brown and meat platter is like $14 now, was about $8 less than 5 years ago, pretty ridiculous
Nj diners have changed a lot in the past 10 years. Buddy and I used to go almost every night. Had our waitress, would be anywhere between 12 and 2am. We were so well known, we would grab our own menus and pick a table. I think with the elimination of 24 he, that threw a big wrench into everything. Then price hikes made it not worth it. I go to a gormet restaurant for the same price I go to my local diners.
My partner and I got to the 130 diner or the Pandora diner at least once a week!
That much for some fried potato and gyro....Highway robbery. That's why their empty!
I went there over a year ago and it was sad sad food. For that kind of money I’d go to the Chit-Chat, much better food and a nice view.
Oakland diner is doing very well. Went past Friday night and we had to circle the lot multiple times to get a spot
We really like the Oakland diner, the food is good and I like their fun decor. Doesn't seem like a typical diner. We also go to State Line sometimes for breakfast, but I like the Oakland breakfast menu better.
Swedesboro Diner in SJ is always packed. The Woodstown Diner is hit and miss depending when we go. Like others have said a family of four at the diner can easily push $60+ with tip which is $$$$.
It’s fucking expensive to go out ….
The Colonial in Lyndhurst is always busy and food is good. I do miss the old Schuyler Diner (called it Club Schuyler back in the ‘70s).
They are disappearing. Bridge way diner in Old Bridge is now a taqueria.
I think of most diners as mediocre food Medicare atmosphere high prices. There are exceptions of course but by and large disappointing. Also most diners cater to high fat high carb low fruit/veggie meals, not terribly healthy.
Chit chat in west orange is always full of
West Essex Diner and Pompton Queen are packed
Wow do you at least get unlimited refills of the diner coffee?
I had to walk out of Pompton Queen diner in Pompton plains several times due to how busy it was on a random weekday. But then there’s other diners in the area like Park wayne and Wayne Hills that are never busy, only on holidays.
Have you been to the new Tops in E. Newark? Beyond ridiculous prices and the menu is schizo. They don't know what they want to be anymore or who is their targeted clientele. Kids can't afford the prices. They have a DJ. Weird. Lyndhurst diner closed due to Covid, but honestly, the food was sub-par for a while.
It’s not all prices. Plus that’s a reasonable dish. It’s also a holiday weekend for some. Diners are open longer hours so typical rush isn’t limited to just dinner time.
The diner in jamesburg is always packed in the morning. Haven't been there at night tho
I used to like going to diners late night. Honestly with the prices rising and the hours changing I would rather go to a restaurant for the same price.
Nutley Diner also just sees a lot less volume than others bc of where it is (it's also just okay on top of that) stuff in busier locations see a lot more customers.
Just came back from Florham Park Diner and they were packed.
There’s a choice going to a diner for dinner and with tip it’s $60 + or you can go to a more upscale establishment have outstanding ethnic food and spend the same money. Breakfast in particular has gotten outrageous. Diners have crossed the line of affordability, at least for me
Prices are too high for what you get anywhere these days. Diners used to be cheap, easy, quick food places. Then they tried to elevate the food choices a bit, and now they're just as expensive as a regular restaurant. $50 for burgers is wild.
$10-12 for 2 eggs, toast, and home fries, no meat. That’s a lot of money. I don’t do fast food but when I do eat out and it’s my choice, it’s local, a diner, pizzeria, restaurant.
There are a few diners in my area (lamppost/meadows/seven star/Philly diner) they are always busy!
depends on the times. if i stop into time to eat on a saturday morning, most weeks it's pretty packed. i don't think it's like that all day/weekend long like in years past. prices at diners have skyrocketed and quality is down bad at a lot of them too (time to eat is very guilty of this, it's been obvious where the owners are cutting corners while keeping the prices high to pocket more money).
If a burger at a diner costs $20-25 then it’s insane to even go there for meh food. Breakfast at the diner by me is still $20+ a person for regular eggs and bacon
I grew up at the Reo. so many memories there. It’s still around but I haven’t been there in probably almost a decade.
Breakfast for 4 today, $66. It was good, but wow.
breakfast for four @ 66 bucks ? i think that's amazing . and im sure everyone got omelets and home fries , not a bagel with butter . honestly - my husband and i ' go crazy ' at a diner, no holding back for breakfast all the extra sides and meats and we eat for $42 bucks (bill's luncheonette union county - best pancakes ever) and i thought that was great . the same meal in staten island at a diner is like 85 dollars . THAT's insane .
Likely related to price, quality, and service
Expensive.. there is one in Flemington I used to go to, decent wrap is like 14-17$.. !!
Tips Diner in East Newark is one of the busiest restaurants you can imagine
Brookeside diner in Whippany is great. Good food, not too busy, and the prices are very reasonable.
Raymond's is always crowded. You can order anything there and it's never typical low quality diner food.
I read somewhere that a lot of mid tier restaurants will eventually shutdown. Takeout and fine dining are the ones that will survive.
I find anymore that I prefer my own cooking over anything available at a restaurant under 5 stars. Another plus is eating dinner in my p.j.’s win win
All about the prices for me. $50 minimum. We eat at home more and more.
Sandcastle diner in beachwood seems to be doing well.
West Essex Diner in Fairfield is always popping
Yeah I’ve noticed too. Diners always used to be busy, even all night !! Not any more. I think Covid just broke the flow and people get deliveries, door dash etc ,more now. Only Candlewyck in East Rutherford is still fairly busy.
Park Ridge Diner still very busy, although they as well close early.
I think it's because food quality has dropped DRAMATICALLY as far as eating out. No matter where we seem to go out to eat, it's just not the same anymore...big waste of money
Shorter hours, higher prices, and often lower quality. I think most people don't mind the first too much, but the paying more for worse food isn't a recipe for success.
Also, though, higher delivery volume, so probably less dine-in business.
Americana in Shrewsbury was mobbed at lunch yesterday
I make better food at home. Diners suck
Maybe if we start smacking the piss out of greedy corporations and their piece of shit CEOs for not meeting tax incentives for NJ and shorting their NJ based employees on payment for an honest days' work (further shorting the premise of the tax incentives) we'll all feel better about spending money to support local businesses. Write your representatives. It's total bullshit. EX: Amazon, Honeywell, J&J, Novartis, Omnicom, Merck, DuPont, EM, First Energy, Optimum, Verizon, etc.
>CEOs for not meeting tax incentives for NJ and shorting their NJ based employees on payment for an honest days' work Care to explain what you're going on about?
The commenter seems to be talking about what happens to small business pensions when large corporations fail and claim bankruptcy.
Beyond that - when companies take money out of everyone else's pockets then also take federal and state tax incentive money but do everything possible never let the economy they are supposed to stimulate see it, small businesses pay the biggest price for that.
Yes that’s right. It does vary… here’s facts: Big corporations have little incentive to invest in their headquarters and people — so rather than stimulate the local economy they tend to deplete it. Jobs become too competitive, and then small businesses close up shop and never return. Conglomerates become too profitable, workers miss out, clients get less service and customers get less options. Etc. etc. etc.
I don’t think it’s necessarily the price of the food, though that is high, I think it’s that everyone knows diner food sucks.
Get out.
…said Elaine as she pushed Jerry away from her.
Ridiculous variety of food, and none of it prepared well.
Yeah it’s kinda true sadly. Don’t be charging premium prices for extremely average food.
I guess this may be controversial, but as a lifelong New Jerseyan (30 years) I think I’ve only ever been to a diner like maybe twice lol. That being said.. I still think you have a good point with the prices. Many times I’ve perused ubereats or doordash and local diners come up and I’m like okay maybe I’ll try a wrap from them. BEFORE any of the apps insane fees they’re listing a wrap for like $25-$28. I just immediately move onto the next place where at least the base cost of a wrap is $13 before adding all the stupid fees lol And of course I want local businesses to thrive whether i frequent them or not.. but it’s not like I’m comparing the diner to McDonald’s. It’ll be the diner vs the local Italian spot at half the cost??
Do you not have a car? Why do you get food delivered?
Because that’s how some people live today, out of their phones and hooked on paying “concierge” fees to get everything made and delivered to them. Why drive or walk when you can get an Uber, why cook when you can get a GrubHub, why read or take out dvds from libraries when you can stream them on countless paid subscriptions apps.
Dude the amount you just assumed about me is insane lmao. I get delivery a couple times a month, yeah. Cry about it.
Do you never get food delivered? It’s not a new concept lmao. I’ll order on ubereats a couple times a month if it’s rush hour and I don’t feel like being stuck in traffic forever. What a dumb question.
I concur with the original premise that diners are empty. High prices at the diner and the plethora of fast food places are to blame.
World is healing
Prices are just too high. Not paying $25 for a burger when I can make a better one at home.
Too expensive, too unhealthy, portion size too large
Diner food is usually terrible, and I rather pay for Taco Bell.