Dumont Crystal Diner – Dumont New Jersey

Depending on who you ask, the Dumont Crystal may be the oldest diner in New Jersey. Built by the Jerry O’Mahony diner company somewhere in the late 1920s - 1930s, its age (almost 90!) certainly would make it fit the bill. And while the outside isn’t particularly Instagram worthy (‘cept for that possible Signtronix sign) the interior, and the folks you find there, more than make up for that.

Stepping inside the tiny diner (15 stools, 5 booths) you’d be hard pressed to find a peek of the actual walls. The walls and backboards are covered with vintage photos - local faves, stars from the bygone era, sports stars and more.

Signs reminding you that there’s no wi-fi, so talk to your neighbor clue you into the camaraderie that you’ll witness once you find your seat. I had no idea my meal would come with a floor show, but the teasing banter between owner “Louie” Saleh and his customers (some that have been coming here 40+ years) set the vibe for the place.

The menu is stocked with diner staples - breakfast is served every day, and everything is cooked within full view on the grill directly behind the counter. When questioning why the BLT was “loaded”, Louie exclaimed, “That’s how I like my sandwiches, so I make them that way” and sure enough, there were ample layers of bacon in my toasted sandwich.

If you want “good food and bad jokes” stop in Dumont, and say that you ate at the oldest diner in New Jersey.

Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch

Sandwiches are named after local sporty teams - pick your fave!

Credit cards? Nope. Cash only