McCobb's in Wayne
Posted on 11/26/2012 10:57:26 AM PST by Coleus
Photos: Classic burger and hot dog joints of North Jersey
They are remnants of an earlier, pre-fast-food era, places with names like Skip's or Bud's, where Dad always parked the station wagon for the family to take a break from a long trip. Summer is road trip season, and it's always a treat to stumble upon some iconic roadside eatery, famous with the locals for its burgers, fries, hot dogs and milkshakes – the foods that just seem to taste better ordered from a takeout window. Despite the success of Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," in which Guy Fieri travels the country spotlighting America's hidden gems, many of these beloved places remain "best-kept secrets." We have some right here in North Jersey. So jump in the car and take a local road trip — to discover more of these longtime favorites still serving up the American foods of summer.
Hiram's
Where: 1345 Palisade Ave., Fort Lee
Since 1932, Hiram's has been deep-frying and serving hot dogs and onion rings the same way. Pete Demiris and Jeff Escudero bought the landmark eatery in 2002, and since then they have welcomed famous patrons such as Martha Stewart, Frankie Valli, Vince Curatola and The Doobie Brothers.
Info: 201-592-9602
Goffle Grill
Where: 1140 Goffle Road, Hawthorne
Famous for their "all-the-way" dogs, loaded with chili and raw onions, this family-owned business has been open since New Year's Day 1979. The Texas wieners were only 70 cents back then, but today, Goffle Grill is still a bargain. Former Giants linebacker Harry Carson has been spotted munching on some deep-fried dogs.
Info: 973-423-0881, gofflegrill.com
Rutt's Hut
Where: 417 River Road, Clifton
Rutt's Hut has been around long enough for there to be rumors that Babe Ruth was a loyal customer. Best known for their "rippers" (deep-fried hot dogs that rip open when they're dropped in the fryer) topped with homemade sweet relish, this eatery is famous for one other thing: It might be the only place where chili is never served on the hot dog. Their homemade chili is available only in a cup or bowl.
Info: 973-779-8615
McCobb's Restaurant and Ice Cream Bar
Where: 2391 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne
McCobb's started out as a simple roadside hot dog stand in 1940. Since then, save for an expansion and a handful of new menu items, not much has changed – owners Dean and Spero Mamakos work hard to make sure it stays that way. Milkshakes boast eight scoops of ice cream, and the restaurant's signature homemade chili sauce is shipped across the United States to anyone craving a taste of the past.
Info: 973-835-0858, mccobbs.com
The Fireplace
Where: 718 Route 17 north, Paramus
Paramus may be known as the mall capital of New Jersey, but it also has The Fireplace. Open since 1956, this classic cheeseburger joint abides by a philosophy that has kept it busy for years and regulars like WCBS anchor Chris Wragge coming back again and again: "Serve good food fast, not fast food," says general manager Frank Wierzbicki.
Rutts Hut is my favorite, Rippers and draft beers.
Where is the Hotgrill?
No Hot Dog Johnny’s (Rt 45, Sussex County)?
No White Manna (Hackensack and Jersey City)?
Their list is a good start, though.
Oops! Rt 45 = Rt 46!
Sorry, but I live right here only 3 or 4 miles from both Goffle Grill and The Fireplace. They are both CRAP.
Spend another buck or two and go to the newly opened FIVE GUYS in the Kohl’s/Panera/Staples mall on Rte. 17 North in Ramsey. An outstanding hamburger.
White Manna in Hackensack is good but I don’t go during peak lunch hours, gotta kind of fight your way through a crowd to the front counter and make your presence known to get service, usually a long wait.
Sorry, I should’ve mentioned the one thing about the Fireplace I did like, which is the breakfast room on the side
rear which has ample seating and does serve up a good breakfast (or used to, because I haven’t eaten there in about 4-5 years)
Or just go to the Orange Lantern and have a drink.
Hot Dog Johnny’s - is that the one up near the town of Washington? There was something like that up there IIRC.
The best fried chicken I ever had was at Mrs. Bee’s in Summerville circle.
Yikes! Is that place still standing? Have they changed out the oil since the 70's?
Try the Hoagie Hut on Rt 28 and Adamsville Road. Can't be beat.
Mrs. Bees in wonderful - haven’t been out that way in years, though.
The Fireplace is certainly polarizing - my ex-wife hated it. My new girlfriend loves it. (Note: that’s not the reason for the divorce....)
That would be Warren County.
There is no good food in Sussex County, other than that which I cook myself.
Ha! I remember those tables with the fake bees in honeycombs under clear plastic. Good food, good times.
Regarding the Hoagie Hut, it’s the best! The original owner, Domenic, passed away earlier this year. He was a WWII vet and a great patriot. His son Robert continues to operate the place with the highest degree of quality.
'Once heard tell Bertha & her family were big around those parts.
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