Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Tops Diner

    4.4 (5.1k reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 11:00 pm

    Order Tops Diner Takeout

    Tops Diner Photos

    TOPS DINER ATMOSPHERE

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

    Recommended Reviews - Tops Diner

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Crab & Shrimp Bisque
    Camille R.

    I've eaten at Tops Diner several times over the years, and I always order the same thing: Penne alla Vodka with grilled shrimp. It's my favorite dish there, and it's consistently been excellent. As a special treat while driving back to New York from South Jersey, my family and I decided to stop at Tops Diner for dinner. Since it was a Saturday night and I know how busy they can get, I made a 9:30 PM reservation. After a two-hour drive, we arrived on time and were looking forward to a great meal. I ordered my usual Penne alla Vodka with grilled shrimp, while my kids decided to try something new: Pasta Alfredo with grilled shrimp and Amazon Fried Rice. The food arrived fairly quickly, but when the server brought my dish to the table, it came with grilled chicken instead of grilled shrimp. I informed the server that the order was incorrect, and he promptly took it back. A few moments later, the waiter who had taken my order came to the table with the dish and insisted that he had repeated my order twice and that I had confirmed it. I respectfully disagreed and explained that I never order chicken. Even my husband chimed in and confirmed that I always order the shrimp version. Despite this, the waiter continued to insist that the mistake was mine. It was frustrating because I didn't drive two hours and make a reservation to eat something I didn't order. Eventually, I received the correct dish, and as always, the Penne alla Vodka with grilled shrimp was delicious and exactly what I was looking forward to. Unfortunately, the interaction with the waiter left a sour note on an otherwise enjoyable meal. The food remains excellent, but being challenged over an obvious ordering mistake was disappointing and unnecessary.

    Crispy Catfish & Grits
    Evin G.

    The absolute best diner I've been to. The place itself is stunning. It's newly renovated but still has a diner feel, just with some upgrades like a live DJ and a solarium-like addition. Parking is also highly convenient. The menu is extensive and I can't wait to go back to try everything they have. There are the classic breakfast items of course, but they also have some innovative dishes or familiar dishes with a spin. I ordered the jerk chicken pasta which was spicy, so flavorful and also a great portion size. Others in our party ordered pancakes, which were so fluffy, eggs, fried chicken, fried catfish and more. Everything was fried to perfection and the catfish tasted like it had literally just jumped out of the ocean. Our waiter was super nice and we had a big party so I'm sure it wasn't easy. My only suggestion is that they make their hot drinks hotter. Other than that, I'd seriously come back every weekend.

    Chicken parm with pasta (big enough to serve two)
    Peter K.

    Tops is the tops of all NJ diners. We had a special event near by, needed a good place to celebrate and eat well. Based on prior experiences, we made a reservation which saved us. Place gets packed despite the many tables. Service was amazing, food was great (slightly higher prices than others, but the quality execution and quantity balanced it out). We had cornbread (very good), fries (was fine), chicken parm with pasta (we asked for vodka sauce which they accommodated for small charge), fried chicken (must have), churrasco steak breakfast and turkey club. No false notes that we could tell. Some standouts were mashed potatoes (really good), cornbread (toasted and slight sweet, with strawberry butter which was wild), whole wheat bread toasted (it was good I tell you) and fried chicken (it will haunt me in my hungry moments). Didn't think a diner would impact me as much, but they over delivered. Go, but make a reservation unless you want to wait.

    Spinach & Artichoke Dip App
    Luckens L.

    The new Tops Diner is everything you want from a diner and then some! If you haven't been yet you're missing out The wait was longer than expected but being a Saturday afternoon that's understandable. Menu is filled with great cocktails, lemonades, and delicious bites from you to choose from. 4

    Crab and Shrimp Bisque
    Julian R.

    Top tier experience from a diner with great food. Was very surprised when even looking at the menu. In had steak and eggs and my family had the Rasta Pasta, Some drinks and our server was the vibe. I will definitely search this place out everytime I get to Jersey.

    Karina F.

    I don't come to Tops Diner very often, but every time I do, I'm reminded why it's so popular. One of my favorite things is the huge variety on the menu. It's perfect when you're with a group because everyone can order something completely different and still leave happy. They also offer both indoor and outdoor seating, which is a nice option depending on the weather or your preference. The service has always been friendly and attentive , and the food never disappoints.

    Cappuccino
    Rhea Z.

    Amazing! If only I lived closer..I'd probably be here once a week lol. Service was great. Our server was so sweet and was always checking up on us. The interior is so retro, but like an upgraded modern retro if that makes sense lol. They have a full bar and a take out area. Huge parking lot. Food was so good. I got the Dominican breakfast which was yummy. I'd love to come back to try more of the menu--just overall a great experience for a diner.

    Tops breakfast sandwich - turkey bacon, avocado, lettuce, and the freshest eggs you'll ever have. On brioche.
    Christie S.

    This food is stupid good, y'all. Best French toast I've ever had. (Soaked in a vanilla bourbon custard.) Best hash browns I've ever had. (Don't let the modest name scare you. Crispy crunchy tasty goodness.) Best cold-pressed juice I've ever had. (Californication - nice 90s reference btw = Orange, carrot, apple, celery, ginger) Best server I've ever had. When you come, ask if Virginia is working and get seated in her section. (Dear Tops manager, please give Virginia a raise and have her train new staff.) She was warm, funny, helpful, attentive, and sweet. Pro Tip: Ask to sit in "the garden," the new three-season patio, which is super pretty, cozy, and a lot quieter than the main restaurant. But only if Virginia is working there, otherwise go to her section. I'm a NJ native. My diner bar is pretty damn high. So it's no small thing that we are already thinking about cancelling our dinner reservations and coming back here tonight. Husband's take pretty much says it all: "People should come to Newark just to eat."

    Nick S.

    Tops Diner is a modern take on the classic American diner, combining the familiar comfort food menu with a much larger and more polished restaurant experience. We walked into a space that feels very different from a traditional neighborhood diner, with a spacious layout, updated design, and a lively atmosphere that makes it feel more like a full-service restaurant. The room has a contemporary energy, with bright lighting and a bustling crowd that adds to the sense of occasion. The menu is also much larger than expected, covering everything from breakfast classics to burgers, seafood, pasta, and desserts. The biggest highlight is the variety of food options. There is a lot to choose from, and the portions are noticeably generous. The diner classics are where the restaurant feels most comfortable, with dishes like chicken and waffles and French toast fitting naturally into the concept. The chicken and waffles arrived with a crispy exterior and a juicy interior, the syrup adding a sweet contrast that balanced the savory notes. The French toast was rich and well executed, with a custardy interior and a caramelized exterior that made it a satisfying choice. The menu also has more elevated options like lobster mac and cheese and pasta dishes, which give it more range than a typical diner. The lobster mac and cheese was creamy and indulgent, with generous chunks of lobster that made it feel more substantial than a standard side. The atmosphere is one of the strongest parts of the experience. The restaurant is large, modern, and has a lot of energy, especially during busy hours. It can get loud when crowded, but that also adds to the lively diner feel. The space is well designed and feels like a place where you could come for a casual meal or a bigger celebration. Service was efficient during our visit, and the staff kept things moving despite the size and popularity of the restaurant. The team handled the steady flow with a practiced rhythm, and the pacing of the meal stayed comfortable even as the dining room filled up. The biggest thing to plan for is the wait. Tops Diner is extremely popular, especially during peak times, so making a reservation can save a lot of time. The restaurant is large, but the demand matches the reputation, and the turnover moves quickly enough that even without a reservation, the wait does not feel excessive. The pricing is higher than a traditional diner, but the portions and overall experience help justify it. Some menu items can add up quickly with upgrades or extras, so it is worth paying attention when ordering. Still, the combination of food variety, atmosphere, and service makes it stand out. Tops Diner is a great example of how a classic diner concept can be expanded into something much bigger. It keeps the comfort food appeal while adding a more modern restaurant experience. The large menu, generous portions, and energetic atmosphere make it a spot worth visiting, especially if you plan ahead for the crowds.

    Kale Salad
    Grace Nicole C.

    I've always heard good things about this place so I decided to give it a try! I went on a Monday afternoon/night, we made a reservation so we were seated right away, but it did take them some time to come to our table to take our order. Our waitress didn't check on us, so we had to call her over to put in one more order and to get the check, which wasn't great as you could see other tables were getting checked in on regularly. The kale salad was okay. Nothing impressive, especially for the price (it was over $20 as I added chicken). They have a pretty big space, so it is good for bigger groups. However, they have a limit on your reservation, so you can only have the table for an hour and a half, which I understand is to continue people moving, but it makes the experience feel rushed.

    Hungry!
    Hayre D.

    Tops Diner continues to set the standard for what a modern diner experience should be--elevated, consistent, and service-driven. On this visit, Peter was exceptional. Attentive without intrusion, polished yet personable, and genuinely engaging. His energy carried the experience in a way that felt effortless, not performative. It's rare to encounter service that feels both refined and warm, but he struck that balance perfectly. The menu continues to impress. The warm butter lobster roll was indulgent and beautifully executed--buttery, tender, and rich without being overwhelming. The ube shake was equally memorable--luxurious in texture, subtly sweet, and a standout for anyone looking for something beyond the expected. I also appreciated the Meditation cold-pressed juice, which was clean, vibrant, and thoughtfully composed--a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meal. Tops Diner doesn't just serve food--it curates an experience. From service to execution, it consistently delivers at a level that keeps me coming back.

    Lil Caesar Salad Very fresh and bright! Not little at all.
    Amanda G.

    I just feel like if you ain't dropping 5 stars on this piece of culinary Eden you're a hater. I've been dying to go here for years even before the remodel and yesterday my cousin made it happen. We met up after my doctors appointment in West Orange (btw it's DIABOLICAL my doc said he'd get me for an endoscopy and a colonoscopy on the same day. From the rooter to the tooter ya feel me?!?). We arrived at the same time - EARLY. That's what we we call ::growth:: as we're both chronically late to everything. Look at us growing up in our late 40s lmmaaoooo. Apparently this restaurant considers the 3 season room as "part of the restaurant" when you ask for a table which is cute but baybeh it was 30 degrees yesterday. Ain't enough heat lamps in the world to make a sunroom ok in that weather. We waited for another table which put us back in the queue. Except the bar stools were open so we posted up to eat and drink there. Here's the rundown: --Sit at the bar. The service was outstanding. The bar is beautiful and gives a deco vibe. The stools were high, firm, and super comfortable. Even with no back support 3 hours sitting (mind your business) was super comfortable. Related, --My fellow fats: a variety of seating options. The booths looked alright but I'm unclear if the tables in them were movable. They had high bar tables and high chairs with generous seats. They also had tons of table height chairs with half circular arms. The sunroom chairs were almost like patio furniture with arms so even if the weather was warmer I likely would have asked for different seating. If I'm enjoying a night out I would like to Fat in Peace and not have to worry about hard plastic or metal digging in my thighs. Food: Followed their IG for years and still menu panicked. I opted to start with a lil Caesar salad and the General James honey wings and a cocktail with the idea to reassess as the night went on. Girl please I was stuffed to the gills. Sensational. My cousin ordered fries, a salmon kale Caesar and a lemonade with vodka sidecar. I love her. For dessert (omg I just remembered as I lay in bed yeessssss) I got the blueberry cornbread special to go. Bout to heat it up with my coffee ret now for brekkie. This place was awesome. I know long time Newark residents have feelings about the revamp so I won't debate that but it was an incredible experience and I look forward to returning! Good to know: AMPLE FREE ONSITE PARKING DEDICATED TAKE-OUT WINDOW DJ BOOTH SPAGHETTI WITH CATFISH I will not elaborate iykyk

    Tiramisu
    Gerald N.

    4.75 stars. My 11 year update! Last here 6/11/15 (rated 3.5 stars). Since then, Tops Diner has had a major overhaul and redesign. Still with lots of parking spots. Was told our wait would be 1.5-2 hours but the line moved quickly and ended up being 1 hour. Most impressive - Service was noticeably better, more timely, friendly and a lot of workers. Even the table turnover service was very quick and efficient. Hostess did a great job with crowd management as well since there were literally people coming in and out every minute. Whoever the manager/owner is and retrained staff did an EXCEPTIONAL job! Vibe - Had a DJ in house for V-day. Setting was beautiful with ample walking space inside, space between tables, and a ton of tables. Bathrooms were upscale as well. This reminded me of an expensive NYC restaurant. 1. Firecracker Shrimp - Delicious, hint of spice, came with some greens, tons of flavor. 2. Hong Kong Fried Rice - Large portion, good to split between 3-4 people. Salty, which is the drawback to dishes here. Lots of ingredients mixed in. 3. Lobster Mac - Good sized pieces of lobster. Creamy and full sized macaroni. Also salty. Didn't taste salty eating it but afterwards was super thirsty at night. 4. Tiramisu - 3/5. Not that great, was too dry and the ingredient mix was not right. Had way better elsewhere. 5. Chocolate cake - 5/5. Sweet, heavy, packed with chocolate flavor, loved the shaved pieces on top. Got a size of vanilla ice cream with this and it was very creamy and deliciouls. Overall, would love to come back here to chomp away at their huge menu! Great redesign and retraining of staff!

    Shanghai Steak Bowl

    See all

    7 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    21 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    18 hours ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    21 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nick S.
    24
    1787
    6992

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Jimmy G.

    Jimmy G.

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 2
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 4
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amit P.
    100
    303
    2934

    8 months ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 6
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 128

    Tops Diner Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Tops Diner

    Good day! I was wondering if you accept American Express credit card as a form of payment? Thank you.

    Yes. I used Amex here.

    Are there any gluten free options & do they take any precautions to prevent cross contamination?

    I'm not sure but you can check their menu online in order to see any Gluten free food.

    Do you guys have bottomless mimosas?

    No they do not.

    My two boys are on birthday today, I would like to know if the restaurant can prepare something for them?

    Let your server know (you'll get a birthday song at dessert) or you can use their reservation system and add a note about the birthday.

    I would like to know when are some of the items that was my favorites will be on the menu? Items ( Strawberry Shortcake, Braised Short Ribs, Pork Chops and Stir Fry)? All the…

    They Scaled Back The Menu ALOT!!! I Think The SB SCake Is Still There.

    Any way to make a reservation?

    Call them.

    Are you they doing indoor dining?

    Yes

    Is there outdoor dining after the remodel? I read there was an outdoor patio being added?

    Yes, actually they have some benches and tables set up and also a pick up window on the outside. Looks really cool. I checked the website and they are only doing Uber eats for this week but I stumbled on their new menu as well. Looks more or less… 

    Ia this location open as of September 2021?

    I don't think that previous answer is correct. They are in the process of remodeling. Been calling everyday lol and no answer and they haven't made any announcements on the IG page. Every other source says temporarily closed.

    Do they have outdoor dining?

    Only Indoor dining.

    Do they offer anything gluten free?

    They have rice and beans, corn tortillas, non-breaded potatoes, hash browns, grilled veggies and salad. I am not sure if they have gluten free pasta/bread.

    Did the location complete the announced expansion and renovation?

    looked the same the last time I stopped by back in September

    Is there off street parking?

    Yes, they have a large parking lot ☺️

    Do they serve any vegan options?

    Yes! They serve Beyond burger, besides other vegan dishes as well, salads and rice/pasta dishes without meat. I usually ask for the Burger Salad with Beyond burger replacement.

    Do they have any keto friendly food?

    Seriously? It's a diner! Go away, fool!

    How is it being a vegetarian here?

    Reasonable, you can def make it work. Salad, eggs Benedict, home fries, toast etc. you can make it work.

    Jimmy G! What happened to the coconut custard man!?? It was phenomenal but it's discontinued?

    The next time I go, I can take a look and let you know.

    Is this in east Newark or Harrison nj?

    East Newark. They boarder each other, Harrison is about 6 blocks away right where Harrison ave. intersects 280.

    What happened to the non sauce buffalo wings? Used to get them all the time several years ago because of the great flavor and recipe but they just stopped selling them cold turkey?

    Tops is the kind of diner that will guve you anything you request if you just ask be it on the menu or not.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    The Greeks

    The Greeks

    4.6(138 reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$

    I'm so glad we finally made it to The Greeks!…read more Parking: Street parking (some with meters and others without) Payment: Cash only. They didn't give us an itemized receipt when we went up to pay but it seemed to just about add up. Vibe: Warm and inviting. Service: So friendly! We were immediately greeted and seated. I love to see a family-owned business and they couldn't have been more inviting. Food and drinks: We were especially drawn to come dine here since they have Freddo Cappuccino on the menu (we fell in love with it in Greece and can't find it anywhere here). Their version definitely took us back so definitely recommend it! I got the Golden pancakes which were fluffy and tasted very good (even with them being plain I was impressed). My husband got the Greek omelette which came with toast and home fries. He said it was good but noted the tomatoes made it a little more watery than he would've hoped and the char on the outside almost tasted like pancake. Overall he still was very happy with his choice.

    I've been wanting to try this place out for a while now and finally did for Mother's Day…read more I definitely wanted their Taylor ham breakfast sandwich and pancakes. The Tiramisu latte was calling my name too. My son got the chocolate Freddo with coconut whip on top - both drinks were delicious The Taylor ham was packed with Taylor ham! Salty and savory which is what I wanted. Then a bite of the lava pancakes - the sweetness with the savory yummy. The pancakes tbh were okay. The pistachio sauce had a bit of after taste and the pancakes were off like they were crumbly and not soft and buttery fluffy taste. I'll definitely be back to try a different caffeinated drink and maybe come for lunch!

    Photos
    The Greeks
    The Greeks - Johnny's Hangover Special

    Johnny's Hangover Special

    The Greeks - My husband enjoyed the drip coffee, and I had the delicious hazelnut almond milk freddo espresso!

    See all

    My husband enjoyed the drip coffee, and I had the delicious hazelnut almond milk freddo espresso!

    The Yard - Newark - Black Joy (Watermelon) Salad

    The Yard - Newark

    4.6(237 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    We had the amazing experience of being in downtown Newark on Juneteenth and upon Yelping, found The…read moreYard and its 4.6 star average. We came for the Oxtail burger but on this day they were only making beef burgers, lamb burgers, and catfish sandwiches. The bonus, however, was the BBQ offerings in the backyard -- Mac n cheese, corn on the cob, fries, and plantains! Between the awesome cheeseburger and lamb burger, I was in seventh heaven. We had a great time sitting on the lawn and celebrating this glorious day with our brothers and sisters.

    I really wanted to support this restaurant, but unfortunately our experience left us feeling…read moreuncomfortable. When we arrived, the owner/chef told us the wait would be about 10-15 minutes. Shortly after, another couple came in and were told about 20 minutes. We were the only two parties waiting. When a table opened, the waitress began seating us, and the chef stopped her and asked the other (AA) couple if they were there first. He then told the gentleman, "I see you with family, and I'm not trying to start any problems." This was said while we were literally being seated, and nothing was said to us. It put us in an awkward and embarrassing position, as we would never intentionally skip ahead of anyone. As a Hispanic couple, the interaction also left us wondering if we were being treated differently, even if that wasn't the intention. Then the drink order added to the frustration. I ordered a hibiscus lemonade and my boyfriend ordered a regular lemonade. The waitress repeated it back incorrectly as strawberry, and I corrected her. About 10 minutes later she brought a strawberry lemonade anyway. When I said that wasn't what I ordered, the chef took the drink and handed it to the other couple who had just ordered a strawberry lemonade , saying it was freshly made and "they didn't want it." That was uncomfortable because I never ordered strawberry to begin with. Overall, the interaction felt dismissive and awkward. Mistakes happen, but the way this was handled -- especially the comments made -- left us feeling unwelcome. I hope this feedback helps improve communication and customer experience moving forward.

    Photos
    The Yard - Newark - Jazz band during brunch.

    Jazz band during brunch.

    The Yard - Newark - Live Jazz Brunch every Sunday 12-3pm

    Live Jazz Brunch every Sunday 12-3pm

    The Yard - Newark - Oxtail Burger

    See all

    Oxtail Burger

    Coperaco

    Coperaco

    4.0(185 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $

    L O V E It's like…read morewalking into an adult sized tree house. There are a bunch of different areas for working, chatting, lounging. Two floors with the main floor having tons of bar stools, Tabes and a lower nook area with a larger table and some couches. Upstairs offers a long community table with window lounge seating bright and even whimsical with a lovely floor to ceiling book case. Menu offers snacks, small bites and more substantial meal options. They also do a happy hour special beginning at 4! I opted for a dirty chai (5/5) and scrambled egg and cheddar sandwich (5/5) both were delish! Appreciated the side salad as well! If you're looking for a spot to work, meet a friend or enjoy some time to your self reading a book definitely check it out. Staff is friendly, noise is reasonable and not disruptive, space is bright and open. Free WiFi. Plenty of places nearby if you wanted to try another spot for food. The only bummer is the Parking. There is street or nearby parking lot but street parking was full even at 9:30 AM the lot is covered but $5 for 2 hours and up from there.

    I had such a lovely time here--it honestly felt like a little escape from my usual routine. The…read morefood was beautifully presented and full of flavor, every bite felt thoughtfully made. I especially appreciated how everything tasted fresh yet comforting at the same time. The service was warm and attentive without being overwhelming, which made me feel really relaxed and taken care of. And the ambiance? Just the right balance of cozy and charming--I could've easily stayed much longer. This is definitely the kind of place I'd come back to, whether for a quiet solo moment or to share with friends. It just has that effortless, welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger a little longer

    Photos
    Coperaco - Community table upstairs

    Community table upstairs

    Coperaco
    Coperaco - Tiramisu latte

    See all

    Tiramisu latte

    Pic-Nic Bar & Restaurant - Chourico

    Pic-Nic Bar & Restaurant

    3.9(134 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    [Over a decade since my original review... she's overdue for a refurbishing, for sure.]…read more East Newark basically consists of three things... Tops Diner, the (historic) Clark Thread factory (closed for decades and currently being made into a housing complex which is going to be insane for this area) and... Pic-Nic. (East Newark should be absorbed into Harrison, but I'll keep my nose out of zoning and redistricting and stick to the job at hand...) The sangria? Delicious. (But worth $30 a pitcher?) And only finding out when the bill arrived and we'd ordered two... ouch! The garlic shrimp appetizer? Yeah, still the best in the biz. (The sauce alone is worthy of a darn Michelin star.) We were a party of seven. We had a bit of everything when it came to the entrees. My chicken dish - brilliant. (The star might've been those roasted potatoes swimming in a delicious brown-garlic sauce.) The other adults all seemed to really love their dishes, too. But we need to discuss my kids' food. They're varsity athletes that run 8-10 miles a day. They were hungry and bragged about how much food they were about to put away. The older twin tried paella (for the very first time) and about halfway through? He had to quit. (But he really dug all the various seafood and proteins mixed in the saffron-infused yellow rice served in a tiny Portuguese cauldron of sorts.) The younger twin? Obsessed with steak. He ordered the "Beef à Pic-Nic" and... okay, anyone know the YouTuber 'Beard Meets Food' that travels the world to attempt ridiculous food challenges? That's what arrived at our table. Easily the most amount of food I ever saw that was technically for just one person. He went to work and eventually said, "Dad. Please do not make me breakfast or lunch tomorrow." (something I never heard before - all because he was THAT full right now) I looked over at his dish and... it didn't even look like he put a dent in it. When we asked for doggy-bags the two workers seemed to chuckle that we 'failed' the mission at hand. All things considered: the bill wasn't too bad for the amount of (tasty) food. (Overlooking the alcohol portion, of course!) Cool workers all around. Restaurant looks good. They have a (mighty small) lot and there's some street parking (if you're lucky). Recommended, for sure.

    Pic-Nic has been a family favorite restaurant since I began dating my husband. Their family is…read morePortuguese and Pic Nic is a Portuguese Grill and has been a special place for our family for birthdays, anniversaries and my husband and I even had our Rehearsal Dinner here. They have a bar and dining room as well as private room they use for events. This is where our Rehearsal Dinner was held. The private room has a separate entrance which is nice for guests! My step mother could not stop raving about the food, so when she came to visit again, we took her back. To start, we had red sangria and I think we went through 3-4 pitchers as a table. To start we had calamari and chorizo which comes flambéed, which is an awesome spectacle! We also ordered styles of paella, grilled shrimp Mozambique style - which is what I typically order, and my husband ordered one of the specials for the night, cordon blue which was To DIE FOR! Definitely, whole heartedly recommend if you are in the East Newark, Harrison area. The one and only down side is they have a very small lot, suiting about 8 -10 cars, but the driving around to find parking is totally worth it!

    Photos
    Pic-Nic Bar & Restaurant - Front entrance

    Front entrance

    Pic-Nic Bar & Restaurant - Table bread

    Table bread

    Pic-Nic Bar & Restaurant - Perfect ending to a meal

    See all

    Perfect ending to a meal

    Tops Diner - diners - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...