The Jefferson Diner

Location: 5 Bowling Green Pkwy #12 (Off Route 15) in Lake Hopatcong, NJ

The first time I passed a sign for the Jefferson Diner that boasted “#1 Diner in Morris County”, I was not sold on its claims.  However, months later as I salivated over the Moussaka being prepared on an episode of Food Network’s Diners, Drive-In’s and Dives, I abandoned all doubt and made it my mission to visit. Three years later, I continue to make it a routine stop on my way home from days on Lake Hopatcong.

I’ve anticipated blogging about this place since I kicked off the Jersey Diner Series and hope that this review will be able to capture what it is that makes the Jefferson Diner so irresistible.

With a large appetite and eagerness to eat some good food, we took on the Jefferson Diner’s huge menu in search of finding what it is that makes this a Top 5 Diner in NJ.

Here’s how we did it:

Soups, Soups, Soups!

While no matzo ball will ever compare to my grandmother’s, the light, fluffy and flavorful matzo balls were a close competitor and served with homemade chicken broth. I may be requesting some for Passover in Ann Arbor next year…

Burgers and fries:

Before getting into the burgers, I have to point out that when you come to Jefferson Diner, you MUST order the sweet potato fries. Fresh sliced and lightly fried, I advise ordering an extra plate to share for the table. To go alongside our fries, we tried out two very different, yet equally delicious burgers.

The Parmigiana burger, a char-grilled (and very fresh) burger on a bun with melted mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, with an option of onion rings on the side.

The Curly Joe “Hammy” burger, a char-grilled burger on a bun topped with grilled ham and melted swiss cheese.

Both burgers were excellent, however, being both picky and a purist when it comes to burgers, I’d go for the Cool Hand “Duke” Burger, a hand rolled seasoned and pressed fresh black Angus sirloin, served on a toasted bun with melted American cheese.

Sandwiches:

Simplicity at it’s finest, the pastrami sandwich is stacked with thin sliced, smoky and peppery pastrami atop quality rye bread. A classic and no-fail diner selection.

Greek Dish:

Since watching it’s preparation on Food Network, I’ve been eager to try the Moussaka and thought that it’d be a perfect pick for the Jersey Diner Series. Stuffed and piled high with pan fried eggplant, zucchini, potatoes (all hand sliced) and chopped meat with a light cream farina layer on top, this entrée stole the meal. The sweetness of the light and creamy layer balances the robust flavors of the meat and vegetables. It is served with a Greek salad and pita and large enough to feed two people. ***HIGHLY RECOMMEND***

Although I strayed slightly away from my original meal guidelines of burgers, pancakes, omelets and a Greek entrée, it was all with good intention. Jefferson Diner’s quick service, welcoming wait staff, and palate-pleasing meals are what consecutively makes this diner one of the top rated in the state.

So head on over soon, I promise you won’t regret it.

If you want to check out their menus and other information before heading over, visit:  http://www.jeffersondiner.com/Home-page.html