Best Diners at the Jersey Shore

5/20/14 - By Kristen Haas

If you live in New Jersey, you know that our state is often referred to as “the diner capital of the world", with more than 600 joints! So, what makes a good diner? This subject is always up for debate, especially at the Jersey Shore. Some think it’s the coffee that says it all. Others feel that home fries should be the crown jewel. Or is it the pancakes? Whatever your preference, here are some of the best diners for NJ families and for even more shore fun, check out our Jersey Shore Family Guide.

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Amy’s Omelette House, Long Branch, NJ
Amy’s is hailed for their breakfast food, but has an extensive menu for any time of day. The diner offers 220 varieties of omelettes alone! Plus, they are generous with substitutions and special orders, as they want you to get what you want. You can even sub pancakes or French toast instead of regular toast for no additional charge. Plus, they have a great kiddie menu with fun items like Mickey Mouse Pancakes. 732-222-1206 

Broadway Diner, Red Bank, NJ
The Broadway is noted for its delicious pancakes. (The menu boasts “The World’s Best Pancakes” right on the front!) There are many options including the classics and unique choices like ham pancakes or candy bar pancakes. Located in downtown Red Bank, it’s the perfect spot after shopping or strolling around. 732-224-1234 

Doo Wop Diner, Wildwood, NJ
The Doo Wop is a 1950’s themed diner located directly on the boardwalk in Wildwood. The servers in 1950's costumes add to the ambiance. This family-friendly diner is drenched in chrome and has a great selection of unique burgers. Get a free T-shirt if you finish the Doo Wop Big Bop, a 2 pound burger with onions, three kinds of cheese and french-fried onion strings! Their menu features an impressive array of shakes, malts and specialty sundaes. 609-522-7880

Mustache Bill’s Diner, Barnegat Light, NJ
This wildly popular diner in Long Beach Island is Zagat rated and was featured on Food Network as one of “the quintessential NJ diners.” Mustache Bill’s was even awarded a James Beard award as one of “America’s Classics.” Everything is made from scratch, including the famous “Cyclops Pancake,” which is a pancake with a fried egg in the middle. 609-494-0155 

Rainbow Diner, Brick, NJ
This is an all-time favorite with my family. There were always two dueling diners in Brick and most people were split down the middle with their allegiances. As the other diner is no longer there…I guess that means Rainbow won! With an extensive menu, fair prices and yummy food, this Greek-style diner won’t disappoint. Although it’s spacious inside, this diner can stack up a hefty wait time, so get there before church lets out on Sunday! 732-840-1555

Shut Up and Eat, Toms River, NJ
This locally-loved (and very family-friendly) diner used to be located on Water Street. It has since taken up residence in the old Friendly’s building on Main Street, right off Route 37. Shut Up and Eat is famous for unique dishes like the Hawaii 5-0 Sandwich (chicken salad on banana bread with a pineapple slice) and the Day After Thanksgiving Sandwich (turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce on white bread).  The servers all wear pajamas and if you do the same, you’ll get a 13% discount on your meal! 732-349-4544

 

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