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    The Pilgrim Diner

    2.6 (223 reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 10:00 pm

    Order The Pilgrim Diner Takeout or Delivery

    The Pilgrim Diner Photos

    THE PILGRIM DINER ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - The Pilgrim Diner

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    Greek Omelette (added bacon)
    Sophie K.

    TLDR: Typical NJ diner. Food, service, ambiance are all fine. Food isn't great but it is definitely edible. I used to come to the Pilgrim diner when I was in high school, and this was my first time back since it had reopened. It's definitely improved since my high school days. FOOD: On the whole, I would say the food was fine -- it was certainly edible, but definitely lackluster. Schmoop and I shared a waffle with fresh fruit and huevos rancheros. Gotta say the huevos rancheros was very disappointing. Basically it's just eggs however you want them with a little bit of salsa on top served with corn tortillas, black beans, and some white cheese. We both thought the black beans were a little weird and the white cheese was not very good. The waffle was good, but you can't really mess up a waffle if you have a waffle machine. I was impressed we could get fresh strawberries and fresh blueberries though, they get points for that. I also stole a bite of my friend's pierogi and it was decent, although covered in cheddar cheese and bacon, which I wasn't expecting. I did enjoy my chicken and rice soup before my huevos rancheros, although it needed a little more salt. SERVICE: Generally fine to good. We took a long time to order (we were meeting high school friends and catching up) and they didn't rush us at all. Waiter was kind and reasonably attentive. AMBIANCE: Classic diner, nothing to write home about. It's nostalgic for me though.

    Rachel's Chopped Salad
    David D.

    Lunch at this local diner with friends (on their recommendation). Comfortably laid out space, spacious seating, well staffed with helpful and courteous servers. The Honey chose the Rachel's Chopped Salad, I, the Mixed Tuna Salad Platter. The salads come with a complimentary cup of soup - the Vegetable soup for the Honey, I had the Chicken Noodle soup. The soups were flavorful, actually tasted the soup - not overly salted. Compliments to the kitchen for that! The salads were fresh, generously portioned and nicely plated. Tender grilled chicken in the Rachel's salad, well prepared tuna salad in the platter. Delicious. We even had some leftovers to take home! A diner we will definitely be returning to!

    Jerry D.

    A buddy of mine told me this place was really good. Last time I listen to him. The place looks very clean. No welcome greeting. I got a hot cocoa and that was bland only thing good about it was the whip cream. The coffee too was bland to me (comparing it to other diners). The French toast was nothing to write home about. I make better ones at home. Seriously. The home fries are in need of an overhaul. No seasoning to them at all. Had to go heavy on the black pepper and ketchup to even eat them. I was truly disappointed. The only two good things about the entire experience was the toast and the bacon. Only reasons for the one star. Some of the staff do not wear masks either, that's if it's of concern to you. Bathroom hot water was running cold.

    a plate of food and a cup of coffee
    Daniel R.

    First off, thanks to my daughter for getting back there to try. Under new ownership and I applaud their changes. The breakfast specials, served until 11:00am, are great bargains and come with a generous amount of food. I opted for the Southern Special and give major props for the warm syrup with the pancakes. A much better touch over those packets you get in many diners! If you remember the old pilgrim diner toward the end of its demise, don't be afraid to go back. Overall, I highly recommend and wish the new owners success.

    House chocolate cake
    Ian D.

    Another dad and I went here while waiting for the kids who were at a dinner. I ordered Veal parmigiana, but no cheese, with garlic mashed potatoes, no extra vegetables and my buddy ordered fried pork chop dinner special and substituted mashed potatoes for the fettuccine. The waiter brought out the plates with metal covers on them. He placed them down and said "Viola" as he lifted the covers. My veal was covered in cheese and my buddy had kielbasa and pirogies. We explained to the waiter about my cheese and he grabbed the plate and ran back into the kitchen. He came back a few minutes later after they obviously scraped the cheese off and covered the remaining cheese with more red sauce. I put my fork into it and pulled up and the cheese was still all around the chicken and under the sauce. My buddy pointed out that he never ordered the food he got but the waiter had to refer to the menu to confirm. He agreed to remake mine and have the other dad's food made. About 12 minutes later the waiter came out with the plates covered with the same type of metal cover again. He removed the covers and my buddy had fettuccine instead of mashed potatoes and mine was chicken thighs. At this point I said I was done but my buddy was much more understanding and just ate his. The waiter covered the chicken thighs and ran back into the kitchen and came right back out with my order and it was finally correct but there wasn't any sauce so he gave me a side of red sauce. The place was very clean and the staff was very nice. The waiter explained that the cook was new and he was very apologetic. Once I got the food it was actually pretty good. Not sure I will go back since I'm usually not in the area

    Kyle B.

    Okay , I guess this is one of the first reviews of the brand new Pilgrim Diner. It just opened a few weeks ago. The place has been completely renovated and looks brand new, while keeping the classic Pilgrim Diner vibe . Even the menus authenticate the original Pilgrim Diner menus . Just one thing to note . It appears most of the photos on this Yelp page appear to be from the old then closed original Pilgrim Diner. But mine are from tonite at the newly opened diner. It was great, very simple . All the classic diner food. The staff are still learning the ropes. But, expected at a brand new diner . Not their fault . Food was solid diner food . Disco fries were great . Hamburger at the other table looked better than at any other diner! The diner looks really nice and very similar to its predecessor. Appears to be three owners and I was told they also own a diner down in Union, NJ. So I guess it's good that they know what they are doing . The owners seem really nice and very attentive to the customer's thoughts and needs . I was also told that all baking done on premises , like most good diners . The chocolate chip cookie was also very good and fresh . Prices are reasonable and not overpriced . Only downfall is no Heinz Ketchup, just no name brand . I will definitely go again .

    Breast of Chicken Parmesan

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    1 year ago

    excellent food and service. we eat every meal here. love the breakfast. kswidjakdjeisndbdks

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    5 years ago

    Great new Diner! Same name different owners....wait was longer than expected..yesterday was first day, some kinks to work out. Will be back!

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    4 years ago

    Fantastic selection of food , amazing service definitely ask for Fred! Also try their desserts absolutely delicious

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    Page 1 of 6

    Ask the Community - The Pilgrim Diner

    Is this place ran by the same people since 1978?

    Can't say since 1978 but Been going here for over ten years and the owners have been the same

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    The Parkside Social

    The Parkside Social

    4.2
    (134 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    After receiving food posioning and the associated hospital expenses, I've contacted the Management…read moregroup and absolutely no response. Dear Management Team, I am writing to formally report a severe case of food poisoning resulting from a takeout order I purchased from Parkside Social on April 17, 2026. Following the consumption of this meal, I became violently ill and required a two-day hospitalization. As a direct result of this incident, I have incurred significant medical bills and out-of-pocket costs, which are detailed in the attached documentation. While I understand your organization may not yet have accepted formal responsibility, the timeline and medical diagnosis directly link my illness to the food consumed from your establishment. I request a full reimbursement for the attached out-of-pocket medical expenses totaling $596.93. Please review the attached receipts and documentation. I look forward to your prompt response to resolve this matter amicably.

    What a lovely restaurant! We went in for brunch for my cousin's birthday. There was potentially if…read morespace available for a group, however, we did make reservations in advance. The service was good, the servers were very kind and patient. My family said the oysters were really good, they ended up ordering a second round. The deviled eggs were perfectly seasoned and moist, great consistency. The French toast was excellent! It was a generous size, I ended up taking some leftovers. Grandma had the Parkside pancakes which was just delightful. Nice spot with delicious food and plenty of space for a large gathering. Would definitely recommend here.

    Photos
    Inside seating
    Inside seating
    Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich
    Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich
    Sweet nothings mocktail

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    Sweet nothings mocktail
    Verona American Grill

    Verona American Grill

    3.9
    (131 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    This bistro was formerly 'The Verona Diner' and I admit I never frequented it. I always envisioned…read moreit on the small side, but when I recently visited, the interior surprised me with well over ten tables and booths (plus a dining counter). The Verona American Grill comes across as a recently-renovated, cute cafe with a new menu, yet still having some diner-ish style dishes. I ordered a cheeseburger and it came with fries and coleslaw. The presentation was really nice, near perfect if the fries were warmer. The cheeseburger was excellent and cole slaw was fresh. Add some points for service and hospitality, so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this business for breakfast/lunch/dinner.

    This used to be my absolute favorite diner, but lately the menu changes have been disappointing…read more The first time I came, I had the best shoestring fries I've ever had--crisp, thin, and perfect. The next time I came back, they had already been swapped out for regular fries. Still, I became a regular and found my go-to favorites: the Cuban, the short rib tacos, and the short rib grilled cheese. When I came in today, all of those items were gone from the menu. I ended up just having a coffee and leaving. Removing staples like slow-cooked pork or beef feels like an odd choice. I understand times are hard for restaurants and costs are high, but those dishes are what made this place unique and worth seeking out. Shrimp tacos or regular burgers I can get at any diner. Please seriously consider bringing back the old menu items that set you apart.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Verona American Grill
    Verona American Grill

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    Libélula Bakery and Kitchen

    Libélula Bakery and Kitchen

    4.7
    (110 reviews)
    1.6 mi

    Another great spot for breakfast/Brunch!…read more Great location too at Montclair with street parking and walking distance to Crescent Deck Garage. Place is welcoming and had nice natural lighting. We got their Huevos Rancheros, roasted chicken, tuna chaufa and lomo saltado. everything was great - good portions and beautiful flavors! Especially loved their Earl Grey latte too. the flavors of tea and espresso were very well balanced I would love to get that drink again. Also got their smores cookie for a nice sweet ending. We ended up chatting away even after we dined. Staff was very polite reminding us they needed the spot and was also kind enough to give us a some time even before the reminder. Would definitely recommend this place!

    Went to Libélula for the first time today, as I'm very picky with the Peruvian places I try (I was…read moreborn and raised in Perú, so I just have a very set palate for Peruvian food). My friend and I asked if they sell pan con chicharrón, and though they don't have it on the menu, the chef (Brian) said he'd make it for us! First impression of the service ... amazing. We got the pan con chicharrón and I truly almost cried! I have not had one as delicious as this one in Jersey! The pork was tender, yet nicely fried, and there was not as much fat on it which is always hard as the fat gives it the flavor but too much can be overpowering. After talking to the chef, he mentioned that it is no longer on the menu because people didn't really order it ... so here I am, asking you all to go in and order it, so it can hopefully go back on the menu and everyone can try authentic and delicious Peruvian breakfast!! HUGE shoutout to Brian for creating something that brought both me and my friend a true sense of home

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Tres leches pancakes
 IG: @thephotographerfoodie
    Tres leches pancakes IG: @thephotographerfoodie
    Coquito (coffee special with espresso, coconut cream, condensed milk, and spices)

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    Coquito (coffee special with espresso, coconut cream, condensed milk, and spices)
    Cloverleaf Tavern

    Cloverleaf Tavern

    4.2
    (1.1k reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    Let me start by saying we go out to eat three times a week and we've been to a lot of upscale…read moreplaces probably 75% of the time. With that being said the service we received here yesterday was outstanding and better than any five star restaurant. I cannot say how wonderful our waiter was.. I can't remember his name because let's face it. I had a few drinks because that's what it's about there. I believe it was. Giancarlo? So the manager if you see this, please let me know if that's correct or not. This kid was incredible. He was helpful without being overbearing. He was great with his beer knowledge, but we really sold me was when there was a table behind us that had a son with special needs at this young man treated that table with kindness and compassion and really we need more of that. To the owner of this business, I know that the wait staff gets a very minimal amount per hour because they depend on tips, but if there's anyway you can raise his base pay, I would love to see that we were only gonna have one drink each, but because of how he treated us we ended up having two for me and three for my husband, that young man is an investment

    I can't believe how long it's been since my last Leaf. Looking back, my review was strictly beer…read morebased. It's time to add food to the menu and get a full picture of the tavern. (Also, after 14 years, I have a little better appreciation of craft beers.) This was takeout, so I can't offer if anything has changed about ambiance. The order was prepared quickly, on time, and fresh. The food came back to us still hot and crispy, a sign of good care. And the food quality? Mwah. Everyone loved what they got. My bacon beef burger was juuust before medium, exactly how I wanted Great flavor, more guac than I thought as I ate through it. Good amount of fries, just need one recommendation: Dipping sauce plz. The appetizer of cheese curds was well stocked to satisfy my craving and came with the perfect dip. I get the feeling if we ate in-house, more dips would be provided on request. So that's bringing up to 4 stars. If I revisit in person, pray I alter it further. ;)

    Photos
    Enjoy our Outdoor Patio for late night dining!
    Enjoy our Outdoor Patio for late night dining!
    Fresh Beer Battered Fish & Chips
    Fresh Beer Battered Fish & Chips
    NEW featured Burger of the Week every Monday

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    NEW featured Burger of the Week every Monday
    Chef Chen's

    Chef Chen's

    4.3
    (16 reviews)
    1.6 mi

    This is the sushi place I've been looking for…read more I went here for dinner with friends and we all had such a delightful experience. The person who seemed to be the owner greeted us with a smile and promptly seated us. We first got the large miso soup. The soup was absolutely just what I needed on this chilly day. Most places seem to drown their miso soup with sodium. But this was not too salty but still flavorful and tasty. I tried the salmon avocado, tuna avocado, and california roll. The rice to fish ratio was perfect for me. The salmon and tuna tasted so fresh, and the avocado as well. The sushi was cool unlike other places I've had. The california roll was tasty as well and had good amounts of crab cucumber and avocado. Everything delicious and at a good price. The vibe of the restaurant itself was nice. It was cozy, welcoming, and I felt at ease, like a zen vibe. Definitely coming again!

    Wow. Chef Chen is such a great addition not only to walnut street but also to the sushi restaurants…read morein Montclair. We can in with my daughter on a Saturday night and although we made reservations, there were plenty of tables available. The ambiance was very relaxed and the servers were so friendly. The food was fresh and delicious. At the end of our dinner, the offered my 5 yr old a complimentary dessert. We have found our new sushi spot! About a week later we ordered delivery from here and that was delicious too! Highly recommend!

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    California roll (top) and tuna avocado roll (bottom)
    California roll (top) and tuna avocado roll (bottom)
    Chef Chen's outdoor seating

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    Chef Chen's outdoor seating

    The Pilgrim Diner - diners - Updated July 2026

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