Over the years, certain businesses have become New Jersey institutions. Whether it’s the good food, friendly service, or all the amazing memories created there, we never want to see them go. It’s always a shame to see Garden State staples close… Who remembers Zaberers in North Wildwood/Egg Harbor City, Circus Drive-In in Wall, the Clam Broth House in Hoboken, or Bertrand Island Park in Mount Arlington? Many of us know, love, and miss these businesses. Luckily, dozens of beloved businesses still exist – New Jersey favorites for decades. Read our list for a few top picks, in no particular order.
- The Stone Pony, Address: 913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ, 07712
Acroterion/Wikipedia The Stone Pony opened in 1974 and forever changed the New Jersey music scene. Big names like Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, KISS, Blondie, The Ramones, Southside Johnny and Steven Van Zandt have all played here.
- White Manna, Address: 358 River Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601
White Manna/Facebook An old-school slider institution, White Manna has been serving up the best burgers since 1946. Foodies from all over New Jersey make the trek here to try them.
- Donkey’s Place, Address: 1223 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ, 08103
Google The best cheesesteaks are in New Jersey, and you can find them at this iconic eatery. It’s been delighting customers since 1943.
- Rutt’s Hutt, Address: 417 River Road, Clifton, NJ, 07014
Google It may not look like much but once you’ve had their deep fried hot dogs, you’ll be hooked. Their Rippers have had a loyal following since 1928.
- Storybook Land, Address: 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, 08234
Storybook Land/Facebook This award-winning amusement park has been making children’s fairy tale dreams come true since 1955.
- Tops Diner, Address: 500 Passaic Avenue, Harrison, NJ, 07029
Google A Garden State staple since 1942, customers keep coming back for their burgers, meatloaf, and lobster mac and cheese. It’s received many accolades over the years, even being ranked among the most iconic restaurants in America. Visit soon to reminisce, before it’s entirely remodeled.
- Jim’s Lunch, Address: 105 East W Main Street, Millville, NJ, 08332
Google A South Jersey institution since 1923, Jim’s Lunch has been through a lot recently. We’re rooting for this beloved eatery to stay in business for a century more! Set to open for the season again in October, it’s famous for its special sauce and spectacular staff.
- Hoffman’s Ice Cream, Address: 800 Richmond Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, 08742
Google When I think of this spot, I think of summers spent down the shore. It got its start in 1955 as one of New Jersey’s first Carvel’s but became its own business in 1976.
- Land of Make Believe, Address: 354 Great Meadows Road, Hope, NJ, 07844
Land of Make Believe/Facebook I have fond memories of this place and so do thousands of other New Jerseyans. This family-friendly park was opened in 1954 and focuses on safe and wholesome fun.
- White House Sub Shop, Address: 2301 Arctic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ, 08401
Google This legendary sandwich shop ships nationwide - people all over can’t get enough of their subs. Open since 1946, their secret is using the finest meats and freshest bread. The most popular item? Their Italian sub.
- Jimmy Buff’s, Address: 60 Washington Street, West Orange, NJ, 07052
Google The home of the Italian Hot Dog, Jimmy Buff’s is a cultural icon. Open since 1932, their deep fried franks are served in pita-style pizza bread stuffed with peppers, sauteed onions, and deep fried potatoes wedges. Yum!
Does this article have you feeling nostalgic? I sure am… To learn about some of our favorite New Jersey businesses that have closed over the years (Two Guys, Packard’s…), click here. Most importantly…share your favorite iconic New Jersey businesses of all kinds in the comments. I’ve got dozens of places for part two, including Twisties Tavern in Strathmere and Holsten’s in Bloomfield but I want your input.
Acroterion/Wikipedia
The Stone Pony opened in 1974 and forever changed the New Jersey music scene. Big names like Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, KISS, Blondie, The Ramones, Southside Johnny and Steven Van Zandt have all played here.
White Manna/Facebook
An old-school slider institution, White Manna has been serving up the best burgers since 1946. Foodies from all over New Jersey make the trek here to try them.
The best cheesesteaks are in New Jersey, and you can find them at this iconic eatery. It’s been delighting customers since 1943.
It may not look like much but once you’ve had their deep fried hot dogs, you’ll be hooked. Their Rippers have had a loyal following since 1928.
Storybook Land/Facebook
This award-winning amusement park has been making children’s fairy tale dreams come true since 1955.
A Garden State staple since 1942, customers keep coming back for their burgers, meatloaf, and lobster mac and cheese. It’s received many accolades over the years, even being ranked among the most iconic restaurants in America. Visit soon to reminisce, before it’s entirely remodeled.
A South Jersey institution since 1923, Jim’s Lunch has been through a lot recently. We’re rooting for this beloved eatery to stay in business for a century more! Set to open for the season again in October, it’s famous for its special sauce and spectacular staff.
When I think of this spot, I think of summers spent down the shore. It got its start in 1955 as one of New Jersey’s first Carvel’s but became its own business in 1976.
Land of Make Believe/Facebook
I have fond memories of this place and so do thousands of other New Jerseyans. This family-friendly park was opened in 1954 and focuses on safe and wholesome fun.
This legendary sandwich shop ships nationwide - people all over can’t get enough of their subs. Open since 1946, their secret is using the finest meats and freshest bread. The most popular item? Their Italian sub.
The home of the Italian Hot Dog, Jimmy Buff’s is a cultural icon. Open since 1932, their deep fried franks are served in pita-style pizza bread stuffed with peppers, sauteed onions, and deep fried potatoes wedges. Yum!
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