New Jersey is often overshadowed by its neighboring culinary giants, but for those in the know, the Garden State is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights. If you’re a fan of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, you’re in for a treat. Join us as we journey beyond the hype to uncover the hidden gems and iconic restaurants that have earned their spot on Guy Fieri’s must-visit list.
From classic American diners to innovative culinary hotspots, these New Jersey eateries promise to tantalize your taste buds and redefine your dining experience. Buckle up, food lovers – it’s time to dive deep into the flavors that make New Jersey a true foodie destination.
Dolce & Clemente’s
Nestled in Robbinsville, NJ, Dolce & Clemente’s is an old-school Italian deli that has captivated the taste buds of many, including Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Located at 2 N Commerce Square, this deli dazzles with its immense selection of fresh items made daily. Among the standout dishes are the prosciutto bread, stuffed with provolone cheese and a medley of Italian meats, and the “Boss of the Sauce,” a hearty dish featuring beef braciole, pork braciole, sausages, and meatballs in a rich, homemade sauce. Fieri couldn’t help but rave about the depth of flavor, making this a must-visit spot for any food lover.
Jersey Girl Café
Jersey Girl Café, located at 731 Rte 33 in Hamilton Township, NJ, has gained fame for its inventive and comforting menu, particularly the Kogi Steak Sandwich. Former tech professional Kathy Rana brings her passion for food to life, serving thinly sliced top round beef marinated in a rich Bulgogi sauce, on a torpedo roll with lettuce, Jersey tomatoes, and spicy pickles. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Guy Fieri lauded the sandwich’s tender and flavorful meat. This hidden gem is a must-visit for sandwich aficionados.
Jammin’ Crepes
Located at 20 Nassau St in Princeton, NJ, Jammin’ Crepes is a must-visit for fans of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. This charming eatery is famous for its wide variety of crepes, both savory and sweet. A standout is the Jammin’ Turkey Club, featuring a crisp crepe slathered with housemade peach chutney and stuffed with roasted turkey breast, mozzarella cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, and mixed greens, all finished with horseradish aioli. Guy Fieri raved about the flavor, declaring, “You haven’t missed a beat in this.”
Rocky Hill Inn
Located at 137 Washington St in Rocky Hill, NJ, Rocky Hill Inn is a hotspot for elevated bar bites, all crafted within a beautiful, historical building. Chef Evan Blomgren has redefined comfort food with signature dishes like the Pork Belly Disco Fries. This dish features seasoned and cubed pork belly atop housemade fries, garnished with banana peppers, fontina cheese, scallions, and a drizzle of malt vinaigrette, which Guy Fieri says “turbocharges the dish.” With its creative menu and charming ambiance, Rocky Hill Inn is a must-visit for fans of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
Vincentown Diner
Vincentown Diner, situated at 2357 US-206 in Vincentown, NJ, has earned fame for its fresh, locally sourced dishes that are made from scratch. The Mile High Meatloaf, a fan favorite, features caramelized slabs of grass-fed beef meatloaf, layered with creamy mashed potatoes and smothered in a rich gravy made from mirepoix, veal bone stock, and prime rib. Guy Fieri lauded the dish for its tenderness and juicy flavors, enthusiastically saying, “Look at me — I can’t stop eating it.” This classic diner is a must-visit for fans of hearty comfort food.
Bagel Street
Bagel Street, at 660 Plainsboro Rd in Plainsboro Township, NJ, has become famous for its high-quality, inventive bagels. Owned by brothers Jimmy and Doug Rohr, the shop churns out an impressive 15,000 bagels weekly, featuring 20 different varieties. The Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel, a fan favorite, combines shredded cheddar and chopped jalapenos, proofed overnight and baked to crispy perfection. Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives fans will find their creative combinations, like the pork-roll-studded burger on an Asiago bagel with Tater Tots, absolutely irresistible.
Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House
Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House, situated at 672 N Trenton Ave in Atlantic City, NJ, is famous for its elevated comfort food, surpassing typical pub fare. Brought back to life after Hurricane Sandy, the tavern features standout dishes like the Turkey Apple Brie Sandwich, which combines oven-roasted turkey, brie cheese, and fresh apples on cranberry-walnut toast. Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives fans will find the inventive menu, including The Three Way Sandwich and Tequila Shrimp Bangers, particularly intriguing. This spot is a must-visit for those seeking unique culinary experiences in a cozy setting.
Sam’s Rialto Bar & Grill
Located at 18 S Main St in Pleasantville, NJ, Sam’s Rialto Bar & Grill has become a beloved spot for Southern comfort food, thanks to the culinary prowess of Sam Hunter and his widow who continues his legacy. The diner is renowned for its Chicken ‘n Waffles, featuring buttermilk-marinated chicken and a waffle sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar—a combination that won high praise from Guy Fieri on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives. Don’t miss out on their mouth-watering ribs either, a staple that keeps locals coming back for more.
Piccini
Nestled in Ocean City, NJ at 1260 West Ave, Piccini has captured the attention of comfort food aficionados and Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives fans alike. Guy Fieri highlighted their bacon cheeseburger pizza, a creative mash-up using ketchup and mustard in place of traditional sauce, topped with ground beef, cheddar, bacon, and pickles. This inventive dish, along with their delicious chicken and farfalle with vodka sauce, has made Piccini a standout spot. Don’t miss a visit to this unique and lively eatery when in town.
10th Avenue Burrito
Driving an hour and a half from NYC brings you to 10th Avenue Burrito in Belmar, NJ, located at 801 Belmar Plaza. Known for its California-inspired Mexican dishes, this restaurant has been featured on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives. Their standout dishes include adobo-spiced mac ‘n’ cheese and chicken wings, as well as a burrito drenched in Chipotle Cream Sauce. For a unique and flavorful culinary experience, this funky little joint is worth the trip.
Bayway Diner
Bayway Diner, found at 2019 S Wood Ave in Linden, NJ, has evolved from a tiny nine-seater into a hotspot with outdoor seating and catering services, thanks to its overwhelming popularity. Featured on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri raved about their no-fuss dishes, such as the Philly cheese steak, Buffalo chicken, and the Bayway Monster Burger. The master burger is another fan favorite, showcasing the diner’s knack for hearty, satisfying meals. Bayway Diner offers a classic American dining experience that continues to draw food enthusiasts from near and far.
La Isla Restaurant
Located at 104 Washington St in Hoboken, NJ, La Isla Restaurant is renowned for its exceptional Cuban cuisine served in a cozy, down-home setting. Featured on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri couldn’t resist indulging in their flavorful dishes, even joking that the spicy food made his eyeballs sweat. Specialties include the irresistible Papa Rellena and Tasajo Con Boniato, drawing food enthusiasts from near and far. If you’re craving authentic Cuban flavors, La Isla is the place to be.