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. read more

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READ FULL REVIEW!!! March 2026: First time at this establishment was just ok. Hosted a very small get-together here (5 guest). Atmosphere was nice. Music was wayy too loud to hear the person you're sitting next to. Food was tasty and fresh. Coffee was good with great creamer selection (at the time). Our server was my least favorite part of this experience. He was over the top with his energy and upscale tactics (pushy with getting us to order extra drinks and appetizers despite declining). I was hosting this event and did not need him selling us after already being told "no, thank you" twice. It was awkward and ultimately changed the vibe. He hardly checked on us after that encounter and we constantly had to remind them about request that were never brought out to the table. Staff needs to be trained better. This was just an ok experience. April 2026 : What ultimately lead me to write this review was my 2nd experience at this diner. The server was a lot better than our first experience, but we did run into a few too many problems. First, we ordered coffee and are informed that per managements request, we can only have half-half or cream with our coffee. Previously they had French vanilla creamers and other flavored creamers but I guess management decided to save on the additional cost. This was a bummer especially realizing that they could easily afford creamers. This restaurant easily pulls at least $150,000 per week in revenue, so I didn't understand cheapening out like that. I still ordered the coffee. When it came to the table I added the cream into the cup only to find something floating in the coffee. I send it back and ask for a new cup, which the server politely provided. We order our meals and all goes well. Eventually two of the three meals come out and we wait for the final plate to come out. It's common courtesy to wait for everyone to have their meal before eating, so we wait. We wait about 6-7 minutes and the final plate comes out only for it to be cold. All of us ordered breakfast, so you can imagine trying to eat cold egg, potato, and sausage. We ask for the waiter, but before he could get to us the manager passes by and we let him know the issue. He takes the plate to the back and about two minutes later he comes back with the same exact plate. Before the manager arrived to take the plate away, I saw the guest split the egg half and add black pepper on everything so we knew it was the same plate and food she started eating off of that was reheated onto the kitchen grill where other food is being prepared for guest. The manager informs us that he had the chef heat the food up on the griddle and that it should be a perfect temperature. We refuse to accept the plate because it was reheated and not remade entirely. We were shocked that this was the solution even being offered. Reheating food on the griddle seemed unsafe (contamination risk, diseases, illness, etc) and offensive. No one pays these prices to have reheated breakfast served to them. I could've just made that at home for a fraction of the price. We politely refuse the reheated plate and he apologized and took the plate to the back. The server comes over to see what the issue is and we explain everything. He says that he will look into it and take that meal off the bill. Now I'm frustrated because one out of the three of us aren't eating anything and the experience was off. At this point, I'm not eating my meal but the 3rd guest is eating. So the guest who sent their plate back and myself are waiting for the 3rd guest to finish their pancakes. He ordered a stack of 4-5 chocolate chip pancakes and was happily eating away at layer by layer. Eventually he gets to the last 2 pancakes and before he adds syrup he notices what appeared to be an eyelash or short piece of hair imbedded in the pancake. Picture of the clearly imbedded hair included with this review. He immediately stopped eating and looks sick. He had already eaten 3-4 pancakes by then and the idea that he ate more of whatever that was felt unnerving, to say the least. We both start looking to see what he's looking at and long behold the hair was there. At this point we are extremely frustrated and completely over this experience. Management did not make this experience right even after addressing all of these issues both separately and together. I felt like my money was not valued and my business certainly wasn't. They did nothing to remedy these issues and I will NOT be going back to this establishment. This restaurant may look visually beautiful but the service is not. Staff needs more training, music needs to be turned down, chefs need to wear hairnets and everyone needs to follow safe food handling skills. You're putting your guest and your business at risk ignoring these issues. I really really wish I had a better experience. read more

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. read more

Tops Diner - Crab and Shrimp Bisque - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

Came here for brunch with a friend. Our server was super friendly and gave us enough time to decide what we wanted to drink and eat. Not pictured of the vanilla iced latte that I ordered which was really good. Then I ordered Nutella French Toast and a side of hashbrowns. I had ordered the hash browns extra crispy and they were okay not as crispy as I would've liked them. The French toast was delish! The whip cream they put on top of the French toast was so good too! read more

Tops Diner - Hash Browns - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

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I came here for a birthday brunch & we all ended up getting lunch. I personally ordered the Tomato Burrata pasta with grilled chicken & it was okay. The tomato sauce itself was slightly acidic & somewhat bitter but the burrata made up for the taste! The other two dishes we ordered was the Shanghai Steak Bowl (which had a kick to it) & the Bacon Cheeseburger which was super tasteful! What really blew us away was the firecracker shrimp appetizer that was amazing!! Our waiter seemed to be trying to keep up with us as the restaurant was super busy, but overall a good experience. Would come back for breakfast! read more

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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. read more

Tops Diner - Cappuccino - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

Stopped in for takeout on a quick trip to NJ. Very busy!! A ton of great options on the menu but had to go with breakfast. Got a simple platter with eggs and meat then a side of apple pancakes and added the cornbread app. The eggs/meat were as expected and tasty. The pancakes were decent but nothing to write home about. The cornbread was special though... and that strawberry butter, delicious! Would def come back to try different things. read more

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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." read more

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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. read more

Tops Diner - Kale Salad - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

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. read more

Tops Diner - Hungry! - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

I don't know why I've never reviewed tops diner before. We were regulars when we lived in NJ, and it is considered one of the best diners in the states. I miss many things about Tops. It got a makeover a few years ago and feels like an elevated experience dining there with friends. The food always came in large portions and is very tasty--I don't think I've ever had a bad meal here. Our go-tos included the nachos, tres leches, jambalaya, huevos rancheros, and French toast. We've also gotten delicious milkshakes, pancakes, branzino, burgers, and pasta dishes. The menu is huge and it's hard to make a decision sometimes. Service is always friendly. It was a little pricey but we'd order from here often when I was working a stressful job. read more

Tops Diner - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

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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 read more

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Food was so so good! Best food I've ever had from a Diner. Our server(unfortunately forgot his name), but he was so kind. Helped with some of his favorite recommendations which we had to get. The place was clean and very spacious, a little chilly inside, but didn't take away from the meal! read more

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Have not been to Tops in years so it was a pleasure to have the chance to dine in. The place looks stunning inside and out. I love the photo of Biggie on the wall when you walk in. It actually touched my heart and then to see his record displayed on my way to the restroom. I didn't order anything spectacular today so the breakfast was good. I really enjoyed my omelette. Babe did not enjoy his pancakes he stated that they were tasteless. His mother said it tastes just like batter. Our waitress was not the greatest it was a Wednesday morning about 10:30 and I feel we just came on an off day. All in all my food was ok and we will try again next time! read more

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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! read more

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I grew up on Tops Diner. It was the spot. Late nights, early breakfasts, family brunches, it felt like ours. As a local, it was more than just a diner. It was part of the neighborhood culture. But lately, the experience hasn't been easy for locals. It's wild to me that I now have to make a reservation to go to my own neighborhood diner, literally a block away from my house, just to grab breakfast. What used to be a casual "let's walk over and eat" has turned into planning ahead days in advance. I understand growth. I respect elevation. And I love seeing a Jersey staple get recognition. But somewhere along the way, it feels like the simplicity that made Tops special got lost. And when you finally do get a table? The food is... okay. Not bad. Not amazing. Just okay. For the wait, the hype, and the reservation process, I expected more, especially from a place I've been loyal to since childhood. I'll always have love for what Tops used to represent for locals. I just hope they remember the community that supported them before the spotlight did. read more

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This was my first time visiting Tops Diner and I was blown away. We were going to see Deon Cole at NJPAC and we decided to come here first for some dinner before the show. Everything was well prepared and delicious. The drink was so good and I ordered the Shrimp Caesar Wrap with French Fries for my entree. There was a great amount of shrimp in the wrap and the French fries were excellent. The diner was packed and busy. It was not noisy in there and they played great music. The diner is beautiful and they have a lot of nostalgic vibes. The bathroom was very clean and smelled nice. I enjoyed my meal with my siblings and cousin. We'll definitely be back soon and we'll also let everyone we know about this awesome diner! read more

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Diner is an understatement! This is a rocking, hoping restaurant! The wait and full parking lot tell a good story! FULL and told we had an hour and a half wait. We were hit with the dj vibes as we walked in the door. Good music! Since it was just hubby and I we decided to eat at the bar. We had drinks and delicious food! Menu was overwhelming with options. Something for everyone! Hubby had the burger with avocado and I had the BEST catfish dinner I have EVER eaten! Food came out quickly, too. Bar was busy but we always got the attention we needed and were happy with service, atmosphere, and food! Looking around people were dressed from super casual to super dressed up! All fit in just fine. Only not really negative was it was a bit pricey but what would you expect for the level of service and quality of food! Would 100% go back again. read more

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Everything 10/10!!!! Food was amazing , service was excellent! The wait was little longer than expected but it was worth it!! Was in town for my daughter's birthday and glad we found this place read more

This place is worth the hype. The service was great, the place is well run and there is enough staff to handle all the customers. All the dishes we ordered were great. The diner is neat and clean and the "hip hop" "east coast" decor is very nostalgic for those that grew up in the 90's. read more

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Great food, great atmosphere!!! Plenty of parking! I don't have any more words to fill up this space

Hubby and I had lunch for our anniversary and tried some new dishes. He's had the parm before but it's been awhile. Still delicious! I tried the Rasta pasta for the first time and it was delicious! The noodles were a little too Al dente for me but enjoyable. I like it a bit more spicy but the flavors were still there. We sat outside and it was perfect for a lunch date. Service was ok, you could tell he must've had a few tables going but we were satisfied nonetheless. We would absolutely order both entrees again! We always get the mozz sticks no matter what lol read more

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Always a great experience at Tops, the staff is wonderful very attentive and friendly sat at the bar when I was told the wait time was an hr and a half and it was the best decision the bar tenders Gabriel and Nick were a blast to talk to, the place is fast pace, the turnover with tables is speedy my wait time end up being 35min but we were so comfortable at the bar we stayed there, the restaurant is loud, the food was out in record time, the presentation was impeccable, and delicious. Always a great experience. read more

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TOPS! You never disappoint me. My recent visit to recover after multiple nights out was amazing. The food was so bomb and the service was good. We ate so many different freaking things. My two favorites were the truffle fries and the blueberry cornbread. I think these might have been the best truffle fries I've ever had. They were heavy on the truffle and you could smell the plate of fries as it was coming around the corner. Also, the blueberry cornbread, which was far more cornbread than cake like, was amazing. I spread some butter on it and ate it while warm and have been thinking about it for weeks. Our server was new, but she still did an amazing job, catered to our needs, helped us pack up our leftovers, and made sure to pay this attention to us throughout our visit. Honestly, as huge as the portions are here and as good as the food is, it doesn't make sense that the prices are what they are. They are so freaking reasonable. I LOVE Tops and may have to plan a visit up here soon for more blueberry cornbread. read more

- what hasn't been already sed - excellent service - great soundtrack - super large portions - fried chicken is crispy and juicy - steak is well made - wagyu meatballs are delicious, even if the spaghetti itself does taste regular it is more on the al dente side - make that reservation 1.5 hour wait on a Saturday afternoon at noon - excellent key lime cheesecake - good mimosas - excellent coffees. read more

I've been going to tops since before all the renovations and I've fell in love with this place since day one. It's delicious for any meal of the day! 10/10 recomm read more

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Nice place to eat with friends and family, the new renovations are nice! The cocktails and appetizer were tasty and my burger was decent. The waitresses service was very attentive and handled our orders well. I will be going back! read more

Tops Diner is probably the most popular and busiest diner at NJ. My husband made a reservation for Saturday lunch and I agreed that's the best move. Upon arrival, we were greeted and sent to the Blue Room to wait for our tables. There's a bar and take out counters. Menus for you to start deciding what to get. It's a big menu. Nice interior. Modern and clean. Many tables and booths. There are bar seats too. Our waitress is very friendly and attentive. It's very loud in the dining area. You really have to project your voice. We got Disco Fries, Beignet, egg Benedict, shrimp and grits. I like all of them. The egg yolk is orange! So thick and flavorful. Disco fries reminds me of Canadian poutine, gravy on top cheese fries. Beignets are light and come with 3 dippings. Big portion on everything. You can absolutely eat it for 2 days. A must visit when you are in the neighborhood! read more

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Sad to say, I am disappointed in the service, for the first time in decades. It simply sucked. Had it been my first time, I wouldn't return. I dined in on a bustling evening with a few friends, one who joined a little later and was treated as if he was an inconvenience and would not be served. Food - as always, for me, up to par. Tops rarely misses on the cuisine. I can not and will not deny that! It was my first time trying their tuna melt and it was delicious and filling. Now the fries, horrible! Overcooked! And perhaps that's partly my fault for not asking them not to be fried TOO hard when I made the order. Still, they were barely edible. Do better!! Ambiance - despite the crowded atmosphere, it was still a great setting. It didn't FEEL as crowded as it was. And I loved that! The DJ was also excellent!!! Big tunes! Not sure how soon or when I'll be back, but I sure will remember the face(s) of who made the experience less enjoyable. read more

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The best diner around in the Newark/Kearny area. I had many late night journey here back when I went to Rutgers Newark. I believe is also ranked one of the best diners in NJ, if not the country? Tons of food variety, something for everyone. I'm only giving a 4 star because prices were definitely more affordable before all of the renovations, but I guess they're trying to attract a different crowd now with all the high rises going up in the area with that upscale feeling. Nonetheless the food always hits and the drinks are surprisingly really good! All the servers are so friendly and check up on your several times. I do wish it was easier to walk to from Penn station, but if you drive, have no worries there's plenty of parking. However, since it's so popular now (more than before especially after the upgrade) I highly recommend security in that parking lot to direct traffic and also to keep an eye on everything outside m. read more

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Had a great experience at Tops Diner. The food came out hot, fresh, and honestly exceeded expectations. We ordered the meatloaf with veggies and scalloped potatoes, the cheese tortellini with shrimp, and a side of truffle fries--everything was packed with flavor and clearly made with care. The meatloaf was hearty and comforting, the tortellini was rich and creamy with perfectly cooked shrimp, and the truffle fries were addicting. On top of that, the interior is beautiful--modern but still has that classic diner feel--and the staff was super friendly and attentive throughout. Definitely a spot worth coming back each and every time! read more

Much better this time around. Love the heated outdoor area. It's plexiglassed in. It's more quiet and you can hear the conversation. The brines are a staple when we go for breakfast. It takes that sugar craving away and no more needs for a sweet breakfast. I had a great and big make your own omelette. This was a regular weekday and that may be why the attention was better. read more

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This place is awesome. Every single time we come they deliver awesome food and service. We started with the MINI BURGERS. Man were they good! These and the Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are our favorite. We then ordered the half rack ribs and southern fried chicken. Two new entrees we haven't tried. The ribs fell right off the bone and were cooked to perfection. The Cole slaw complemented the meal so well. The southern fried chicken felt like a home cooked meal. The chicken was crunchy and juicy. The mashed potatoes were melt in your mouth. This place is always worth the stop. The Christmas decorations were an added touch on top of this already beautiful Diner. read more

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Location, parking and ambience is all good. For a place in Newark you can't go wrong. Menu is extensive but every item I've had did not Disappoint. Service is quick and on point. I enjoyed coming here with friends for a nice place to meetup centrally located for everyone. They do not like you to linger if you stop ordering so be mindful this is not a place to take up space after you've eaten. You either keep ordering or leave. They have a quick turn around due to the wait to get into this place. read more

I was trying to make a reservation for 10 people but Nobody ever answered the phone 0 stars read more

Tops Diner - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

THE GOOD ---------------- + Still the same great food as they had prior to the renovation in 2021! ++++ Ox Burger - Excellent burger, which was on the Specials menu. Had a sweet, yet savory flavor to it because of the bacon jam on top of the 1/4 pound short rib patty. Delicious slow cooked oxtail was laid on top of the patty with caramelized onions. Burger was cooked perfectly medium. Steak cut fries and pickle accompanied the burger, but I prefer regular fries over the steak fries. ++++ Churrasco Steak and Eggs - Another Specials menu item. Skirt steak was 8 oz. and was accompanied with 2 eggs, yuca, black beans, pico de gallon, garlic toast and, of course, chimichurri was delicious! A unique, but excellent take on the breakfast staple of steak and eggs. ++++ Junior Spaghetti and Wagyu Meatball - The dish was rather ordinary, but there was a big, tasty Wagyu meatball in the middle for the kids surrounded by tomato sauce. ++++ Junior Mac and Cheese - Super cheeeeesy! I mean cheeeeeesy! If you love gooey mac and cheese, this is perfect for you. ++++ Strawberry Shake - Yes, it's a bit pricey at $10.50, but realllly good!! ++++ Hot Mess - Tres Leches lovers rejoice! This dessert was hugggge and soooo good. Easily can be shared amongst 4 people (and I mean adults). + The restaurant interior and exterior are IMMACULATE. ++++ Decor is sleek, classy and, let's just say that every penny of the $10 million they spent on the renovation years ago shows! ++++ Space is hugeeeeee with over 300 seats in the restaurant, which includes booths, tables and bar seating. ++++ Parking lot is so much bigger (and flatter) than it used to be pre-reno. It's massive too. ++++ There is an outdoor indoor seating area called The Garden, but it's very well heated. + Reservations are allowed on their website! Back in the day, pre-renovation, it was first-come, first-serve, which is still the case if you're a walk-in. + Service was blazingly fast. ++++ We were seated shortly after we arrived for our Saturday morning/noon reservation. ++++ Food came out within minutes of us ordering, which was shocking considering how busy it was. ++++ Waitress was very friendly and accommodating. THE NOT SO GOOD ---------------------------- - Music does blare from speakers and it can be a tad loud, but this is just nitpicking. However, the music IS good though. MIXED THOUGHTS --------------------------- = Nada. RANDOM OBSERVATIONS -------------------------------------- = We made a reservation for 12 PM on a ridiculously cold January Saturday and the restaurant was absolutely packed! Do not come here on a weekend without reservations. I overheard someone being quoted a 1.5 hours wait, however, turnover seemed pretty fast. CONCLUSION -------------------- = Our first post-renovation trip to Tops Diner felt like this was an IT type of restaurant. It just has it going. Lots of people, diverse crowd, music blaring, phenomenal interior, spacious, fantastic food. We hadn't been here since pre-pandemic times and we were aware of the renovations, but the renovation really just put Tops Diner in another stratosphere of diner/restaurant. The food was already top notch, but the aesthetic changes to the restaurant pretty much solidifies Tops as the best diner ... period. read more

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- Parking can be challenging despite the large lot--this place is extremely popular; waits can run up to 1.5 hours on a Saturday afternoon; highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time; we booked about a week in advance and were seated within 5 minutes of checking in - Very spacious layout with large, well-spaced tables and booths, plus counter seating by the bar; a couple of separate dining areas around the sides of the restaurant, including an enclosed garden area that's well-heated during colder months - Moderate noise level, with the expected hum of crowd conversation mixed with modern hip-hop playing in the background - Friendly, attentive, and efficient service; our waitress checked on us several times and made sure we had everything we needed - Food was very good overall: Churrasco Steak & Eggs featured a generous cut of steak--tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked medium--paired with over-medium eggs ideal for dipping the crispy garlic toast; Ox Burger was juicy and very tasty, leaning slightly sweet, and served with plenty of steak-cut fries; Kids' Mac & Cheese was very creamy; Kids' Spaghetti & Meatball was flavorful but could've used more sauce; Mango Iced Latte was very sweet and overpowered the espresso; Strawberry Milkshake was extremely thick but didn't stay cold for long; Hot Mess dessert was the standout--moist tres leches cake that isn't overly sweet, topped with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream, decadent dulce de leche, candied pecans, and toasted coconut--just YUM! read more

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I've loved tops since my first visit several years ago- it's still very good since the reno and although the vibes are different I still love the service and food! My husband is now a huge fan too, we love the omelettes, breakfast quesadilla, disco fries, and tres leaches cake (a must!! Even if you take it to go!) thanks for a great experience!! Excellent servers too - the hosts aren't that friendly but make sure you have a reservation and you're good!!! (Otherwise be prepared to wait) read more

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Always a win when you have Tops! Quality food & service. Since the revamp the inside looks gorgeous, but has made it so popular that a reservation is kind of necessary! read more

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We went on a sat morning and waited maybe 30 min for a table for 3. Amazing service, vibes, and portion sizes. One note is that the music was so loud that the server could not hear us order and I swear we were screaming at some point, so like maybe we can turn it down one notch but I respect it. Vibes: I felt like I was in a set for the new fantastic four movie (2025 one) Food: sooooo good seriously insane amount of portions we could've ordered like 2 things and shared between 3 adults and perhaps still had leftovers. also coffee!! so good! Parking: they have their own lot dw read more

Tops Diner - Cuban coffee and an iced caramel macchiato - Diners Near Me - East Newark, New Jersey

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