New Jersey’s diner dominance isn’t just about quantity (although, yes, the state boasts more than 500 diners, more per square mile than anywhere else in the country). It’s also about history.

Back in 1912, the first stationary diner was opened in Newark. Before that, lunch wagons—portable food carts—served late-night workers. But Jersey took things further, anchoring those wagons to the ground, adding booths, and building what we now think of as the quintessential American diner.

It’s not just the chrome, the jukeboxes, or the retro vibes (though that helps). It’s the menu. Walk into any Jersey diner, and you’ll get:

24-hour service

Pages upon pages of options: pancakes, omelets, triple-decker sandwiches, Greek specialties, Italian pastas, meatloaf, seafood, and so much more

House-made desserts under glass domes: cheesecake, rice pudding, rainbow layer cakes

Real-deal coffee refills and that “hon” service that makes you feel like family

The Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) Tour

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing wine tour experience, the Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) offers a unique opportunity to visit multiple wineries across the state. The GSWGA runs special events, such as **Jersey Fresh Wine Weekends**, where you can explore different wineries in one trip.

Popular Wineries Along the GSWGA Tour:

- Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery*

– Located in the heart of New Jersey’s wine country, this winery specializes in fruit-based wines and is perfect for those who enjoy a variety of flavors.

- Sharrott Winery*– Situated in the Mullica Hill area, Sharrott Winery offers a wide selection of wines, from classic reds to experimental blends.

- Old York Cellars– A hidden gem in the hills of Hunterdon County, known for its exceptional customer service and wide selection of wines.

Tour Highlights:

- Wine Tasting Passports– Purchase a wine passport that grants you access to multiple wineries, offering great discounts and special experiences at each stop.

- Food and Wine Pairings– Many of the GSWGA wineries host food trucks, cheese boards, and other culinary experiences to pair perfectly with your wine tastings.

- Special Themed Tours– From harvest tours to holiday wine festivals, these themed tours are a great way to explore the vineyards in a fun and festive atmosphere.

In an era of TikTok food trends and high-concept restaurants, Jersey diners stay true to their roots. They’re nostalgic, yes—but they’re also still legit. Families gather for Sunday brunch, night-shift workers rely on 24/7 service, and late-night crowds keep the booths buzzing.

If you're heading through New Jersey, skip the chains and hit up some local legends. Here are a few must-visits:

Tick Tock Diner – Clifton: “Eat Heavy” is their motto. Enough said.

White Rose Diner – Linden: A tiny spot with huge flavor.

Summit Diner – Summit: Housed in an original O'Mahony stainless-steel structure from the 1930s.

Broad Street Diner – Keyport: Cozy vibes and top-tier pies.