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New Jersey is famous for many things; the boardwalk beaches, Atlantic State casinos and food are also some of the main attractions. Bearing the title of “Diner Capital of the World,” despite the state's shorter perimeters, it boasts countless famous eateries, which have become the cultural norm of the state.
From New Jersey pizza to breakfast classics like hoagies, hot dogs, and bagels, the journey of food never stops in this state. However, if you ask for top picks that are a statement of the state’s culinary identity, you'll find a few iconic favourites that are quintessentially tied to New Jersey.
Start your day with the iconic Pork Roll, try the brunch favourite tomato pie during midday, and finish your food trip with the famous blueberry muffins. Travel around New Jersey and explore these top restaurants in the state.
Top 5 Famous Foods Of New Jersey
1) Pork Roll : Johnny's Pork Roll and Coffee Too
Image Credit: Johnny's Pork Roll and Coffee Too
Pork rolls are a beloved culinary icon in the New Jersey food scene. Known to locals as Taylor Ham, this breakfast staple has captured the hearts (and appetites) of Jersey's people since its making in 1856 by John Taylor. Among all the numerous eateries that serve this savoury treat, Johnny's Pork Roll and Coffee stands out for its sliced and expertly grilled pork roll. The pork roll at Johnny’s comes sandwiched between layers of fluffy eggs and gooey cheese snuggled inside a toasted bagel. Pair your pork roll with a hot coffee brew to complete the meal.
Location: 8A Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ 07701
Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 am–2 pm; Sat-Sun: 8 am–3 pm
Must Try: Pork Roll, Coffee
Price for 2: $20, approx.
2) Tomato Pie: De Lorenzo's Tomato Pies
Image Credit: De Lorenzo's Tomato Pies
Tomato pie is a famous treat in New Jersey that comes loaded with freshly sliced tomatoes placed on a crusty base. Some call it pizza, while others refer to it as a pie. Originating from Sicilian roots, this dish has found a cherished home in Trenton, New Jersey, particularly at De Lorenzo's Tomato Pies.
Established in 1936, this family-owned gem in Robbinsville continues to draw crowds with its iconic tomato pie. Their tomato pies come with generously layered mozzarella cheese, and the dough holds perfectly well. You can also try sausage pie, pepperoni pie and clam pie for a delectable meal.
Location: 2350 NJ-33, Robbinsville Twp, NJ 08691
Open Hours: Tue-Fri: 11 am–2 pm, 4–8:40 pm; Sat-Sun: 4–8:40 pm; Mon: Closed
Must Try: Tomato Pie, Sausage Pie, Pepperoni Pie, Clam Pie
Price for 2: $20, approx.
3) Disco Fries: Tick Tock Diner, NJ
Image Credit: Tick Tock Diner, NJ
Disco fries are like New Jersey's version of Canada's poutine. The Tick Tock Diner in Clifton says they were the first to make them, but other places in New Jersey also claim they came up with the idea. Most people in Jersey think of the Tick Tock when they want crispy French fries covered in melted mozzarella and warm gravy.
The name "disco fries" supposedly came from the 1970s, when people would eat them after dancing all night. They're still popular in New Jersey, especially in North Jersey, and you can find them at lots of diners and restaurants. The grilled cheese, home fries, pastrami and Taylor ham are also some popular eats that you should try here.
Location: 281 Allwood Rd., Clifton, NJ 0701.
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 7 am–10 pm
Must Try: Disco Fries, Taylor Ham, Grilled Cheese, Pastrami
Price for 2: $20 approx.
4) Sloppy Joe Sandwich: Town Hall Deli
Image Credit: Town Hall Deli
In New Jersey, a Sloppy Joe isn't what you might expect! Forget the messy ground beef and tomato sauce—here, it's a mouthwatering sandwich from Town Hall Deli in South Orange. Since 1934, they've been stacking three thick slices of rye bread with layers of deli meats, cheese, and coleslaw. And don't forget their homemade Russian dressing! Inspired by a Cuban sandwich, this Jersey favourite has become a must-try. You won't find it like this anywhere else—head to Town Hall Deli to taste the real deal.
Location: 74 1st St., South Orange, NJ 07079
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 8 am–6 pm; Sun: 9 am–1 pm
Must Try: Sloppy Joe Sandwich, Coleslaw
Price for 2: $20, approx.
5) Blueberry Muffin: Small World Coffee
Image Credit: Small World Coffee
In New Jersey, the Blueberry Muffin has a special place in peoples’ hearts. With roots tracing back to 1916 when local growers Elisabeth White and Frederic Coville cultivated the first plump, sweet blueberries, it's no wonder our state produces about 41 million pounds of these juicy gems every year.
While the exact origins of the muffin are unclear, it's believed to be a delightful blend of the UK's plain muffin and our authentic North American blueberries. At Small World Coffee in Princeton, you'll find some of the best blueberry muffins around, alongside delicious hot chocolate, espresso, and pastries.
Location: 254 Nassau St., Princeton, NJ 08542.
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 6:30 am–5 pm; Sun: 7 am–5 pm
Must Try: Blueberry Muffin, Hot Chocolate, Espresso, and Pastry
Price for 2: $10, approx.
