Locals love these classic North Jersey restaurants
Okay, readers, we hear you loud and clear.
Recently we published a list of "8 classic restaurants every North Jerseyan should try." And, food lovers that you clearly are, many of you let us know via Facebook and email that not only have you chowed down at these longstanding spots, but that there are other vintage restaurants that should have been included.
So, in addition to Rutt's Hutt, The Fireplace, Baumgarts,Tick Tock Diner, Saddle River Inn, Ho-Ho-Kus Inn, Cafe Panache, Berta's Chateau, your list would have included the following well-established joints.
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Hot Grill, Clifton
The details: Two words: Texas weiner. That's the Hot Grill's claim to fame, though it also serves soups, sandwiches and soft ice cream. And, oh yes, something that sounds suspiciously like disco fries but on the menu presented as French fries "with gravy, sauce, cheese extra" ($2.45). The weiner costs $2.55. FYI: According to the Hot Grill's website, "the Texas Weiner had its beginnings not...in the state of Texas, but in the state of New Jersey, in the city of Paterson."
Go: 669 Lexington Ave., Clifton. 973-772-6000, thehotgrill.org.
White Manna, Hackensack
The details: This fast-food restaurant has been selling one-fisted burgers since 1946, on the banks of the Hackensack River. The chopped meat is served on potato rolls and costs $1.50; cheeseburger $1.76. Asked which is more popular, one counterman answered, "If you like cheese, cheeseburger. If you don't, hamburger." Guess he's right. White Manna has been featured on a bunch of food shows, including "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations" on the Travel Channel.
Go: 58 River St., Hackensack. 201-342-0914, facebook.com/whitemannaburgers.
Kinchley Tavern, Ramsey
The details: Just look for the horse atop of the building of this unassuming tavern and pizzeria that has been a local hangout since 1937. According to its website: "Kinchley’s Tavern offers a casual, family-friendly setting, along with a full menu and bar featuring 10 taps flowing with a rotating selection of seasonal and regional brews. Plus, a night out with the family at Kinchley’s Tavern won’t bust your budget." Entrees cost from $10 to $16 and served with salad, linguine or French fries. A large cheese pizza: $9.25.
Go: 586 N Franklin Tpke, Ramsey. 201-934-7777, kinchleyspizza.com.
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Johnny & Hanges, Fair Lawn
The details: Johnny & Hanges was founded on River Street in Paterson on July 4, 1939, the same day baseball legend Lou Gehrig gave his farewell speech at Yankee Stadium. In 1999, it moved into its current home in Fair Lawn. What hasn't changed: the popularity of its Texas wiener, served "all the way," that is with mustard, chopped raw onions, and J&H's original chili sauce. Cost: $2.79. Look for the parking sign hanging on its red brick facade: "Elvis Fan Parking: Violators Will be All Shook Up."
Go: 23-20 Maple Ave., Fair Lawn, 201- 791-9060, johnnyandhanges.com.
Hiram's Roadstand, Fort Lee
The details: This Palisade Avenue roadstand — Callhan's used to be right across the street from it (today it's in Norwood) — has been frying hot dogs since 1932. It's counter service only. The hot dogs cost $3.25. Anthony Bourdain featured Hiram's on his show "Parts Unknown." According to co-owner Jeff Escudero, Bourdain — celebrity chef, author and television personality who grew up in Leonia — has come to Hiram's "many times" to enjoy a hot dog.
Go: 1345 Palisade Ave., Fort Lee. 201- 592-9602
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Editor's note: This story has been updated to remove The Hearth in Clifton, which has permanently closed.