14 Hole In The Wall New Jersey Burger Joints That Show Simple Is Always Best
In New Jersey, some of the best burgers aren’t found in flashy chains or trendy spots but in small, unassuming joints where flavor reigns supreme.
These hole in the wall burger spots prove that simplicity, quality ingredients, and a perfectly cooked patty can beat elaborate menus any day.
Locals know the secret: crispy edges, soft buns, melty cheese, and sauces that elevate every bite.
From quiet neighborhoods to tucked-away streets, these hidden gems serve burgers that feel like a reward for those who seek them out.
In New Jersey, good food doesn’t need fanfare, just honest, unforgettable taste.
1. White Manna — Hackensack, NJ
Step inside this tiny diner car from 1946, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
White Manna sits at 358 River Street in Hackensack and has been slinging sliders since it was moved from the New York World’s Fair.
The building itself is a classic stainless steel diner with only 15 stools lining a U-shaped counter.
Burgers here are thin, griddled to perfection, and topped simply with onions on soft Martin’s potato rolls.
The whole place smells like sizzling beef and caramelized onions from the moment you walk in.
Fun fact: the griddle has been seasoned for over 75 years, adding layers of flavor you can’t replicate anywhere else.
Locals swear by ordering at least four sliders because one is never enough.
Cash only, so hit the ATM before you go.
2. White Rose System — Highland Park, NJ
Founded in 1946, this little gem on Raritan Avenue has been feeding Rutgers students and burger lovers for generations.
White Rose System at 708 Raritan Avenue in Highland Park operates out of a compact brick building with a cozy counter setup.
The menu is refreshingly short: burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
Their sliders are cooked on a flattop grill with a technique that creates crispy edges and juicy centers.
People love the simplicity of the seasoning, just salt, pepper, and a perfectly toasted bun.
The interior features classic diner stools and a no-frills vibe that puts all the focus on the food.
Regulars often order a half dozen sliders with a side of their crispy fries.
Here’s a quirky detail: the staff has perfected the art of stacking burgers in paper bags without them getting soggy.
3. White Diamond — Clark, NJ
Grab a seat at the counter of this 1930s-era diner and prepare for burger magic.
White Diamond is located at 1121 Raritan Road in Clark, and it’s been a local favorite since it opened decades ago.
The building is a small, charming structure with vintage appeal and a warm, welcoming interior.
Their signature item is the slider, cooked fresh on a griddle with onions that caramelize into sweet, savory perfection.
The buns are steamed, which gives them a soft, pillowy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy beef patty.
Most people order them by the half dozen because they’re small but incredibly satisfying.
The space inside is tight, with just a handful of counter seats and a few booths.
Fun fact: this place inspired the creation of several other White-themed burger joints across New Jersey.
4. Krug’s Tavern — Newark, NJ
Tucked away in Newark’s Ironbound district, this no-frills tavern has been serving up legendary burgers since 1932.
Krug’s Tavern is located at 118 Wilson Avenue, and it’s the kind of place where the bartender knows your name and your order.
The building is a classic old-school tavern with dark wood paneling, neon beer signs, and a laid-back neighborhood vibe.
Their famous Kruger Burger is a half-pound beast topped with a special sauce that locals guard like a state secret.
The patties are thick, juicy, and cooked to order on a well-seasoned grill.
People come from all over the state just to sit at the bar and enjoy this iconic burger with a cold beer.
The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, perfect for a casual meal.
Insider tip: ask for extra pickles and napkins because things get deliciously messy.
5. New Park Tavern — Jersey City, NJ
Opened in 1931, this Jersey City institution has been perfecting the art of the burger for over 90 years.
New Park Tavern sits at 8015 Tonnelle Avenue and features a classic tavern exterior with brick and wood details.
Inside, you’ll find a spacious bar area with plenty of seating and a warm, community-focused atmosphere.
Their burgers are hand-formed daily and cooked on a flattop grill that’s been in use for decades.
The signature Park Burger comes with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a house-made sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
What sets this place apart is the quality of the beef, always fresh and never frozen, with a perfect char on the outside.
The building itself has a timeless charm that makes every visit feel special.
Fun fact: this spot has been featured in several local publications as one of the best burgers in Hudson County.
6. Steve’s Burgers — Garfield, NJ
Craving a burger that’s both massive and affordable? Steve’s has you covered.
Located at 80 Outwater Lane in Garfield, Steve’s Burgers operates out of a small, unassuming building with a simple storefront.
The interior is basic but clean, with a focus on quick service and quality food.
Their burgers are known for being generously sized, with thick patties that are seasoned perfectly and cooked to juicy perfection.
The menu is straightforward: burgers, fries, and shakes, all made fresh to order.
People love the no-nonsense approach here, where the food speaks for itself without any gimmicks.
The building’s simple design reflects the philosophy of the place: keep it simple, keep it delicious.
A fun detail: Steve’s has been a family-run operation for years, and regulars are treated like extended family. Order the cheeseburger with everything and thank me later.
7. Eighty Twenty — Westwood, NJ
Sometimes the best burgers come from the most unexpected places, and Eighty Twenty proves that point perfectly.
Located at 240 Center Avenue in Westwood, this spot operates out of a modern, minimalist building with clean lines and a welcoming storefront.
The interior is sleek but comfortable, with an open kitchen where you can watch your burger being made.
Their signature burger features an 80/20 beef blend, hence the name, which creates the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Toppings are creative but never overdone, letting the quality of the meat shine through.
The fries here are hand-cut and fried to golden perfection, making them the ideal sidekick to your burger.
The building’s modern design contrasts nicely with the classic burger joint vibe.
Fun fact: they source their beef locally, ensuring freshness with every bite. Try the house special with caramelized onions and bacon.
8. Marty’s Burgers — Fort Lee, NJ
Right near the George Washington Bridge, Marty’s has been a Fort Lee staple since it opened its doors.
You’ll find Marty’s at 1465 Anderson Avenue, housed in a compact building with a friendly neighborhood feel.
The exterior is modest, but inside, the walls are covered with photos and memorabilia that tell the story of this beloved local spot.
Their burgers are hand-pressed and cooked on a griddle that’s been seasoned over years of use.
The result is a perfectly crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful center.
Regulars swear by the classic cheeseburger, which comes with fresh toppings and a soft, toasted bun.
The building’s cozy interior makes it a great place to grab a quick bite or settle in for a relaxed meal.
Fun fact: Marty’s has been serving bridge workers and locals alike for decades, creating a loyal following that spans generations.
9. Diesel & Duke — Montclair, NJ
Burgers with a twist await you at this Montclair hotspot that balances creativity with classic technique.
Diesel & Duke is located at 657 Bloomfield Avenue and operates out of a stylish building with industrial-chic decor.
The interior features exposed brick, metal accents, and a cool, contemporary vibe that attracts a younger crowd.
Their burgers are made with high-quality beef and cooked to perfection on a flattop grill.
The menu offers both classic options and inventive creations with gourmet toppings like truffle aioli and arugula.
Despite the upscale touches, the prices remain reasonable and the portions are generous.
The building’s modern design creates a hip atmosphere without feeling pretentious.
Fun fact: they also serve craft beers and creative cocktails, making it a great spot for dinner and drinks.
Try the signature Duke Burger with bacon jam and aged cheddar for a flavor explosion.
10. The Committed Pig — Morristown, NJ
Bacon lovers rejoice because this place takes pork and burgers seriously.
The Committed Pig sits at 20 Washington Street in Morristown, housed in a charming building with a rustic yet polished exterior.
Inside, the decor features reclaimed wood, vintage signs, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Their burgers are crafted with premium beef and topped with house-made bacon that’s thick-cut and perfectly crispy.
The menu is creative, offering everything from classic cheeseburgers to wild combinations featuring fried eggs and pork belly.
What makes this spot special is the attention to detail in every ingredient, from the freshly baked buns to the hand-cut fries.
The building’s cozy design makes it feel like a neighborhood gathering place.
Fun fact: they cure and smoke their own bacon in-house, which you can taste in every delicious bite.
Order the Pig Candy Burger for a sweet and savory experience you won’t forget.
11. Tierney’s Tavern — Montclair, NJ
Another Montclair gem, Tierney’s has been serving up classic tavern fare since 1932.
Located at 80 Valley Road, Tierney’s operates out of a historic building with a traditional tavern exterior featuring brick and wood.
Inside, you’ll find dark wood paneling, a long bar, and plenty of cozy seating.
Their burgers are straightforward but absolutely delicious, made with quality beef and cooked to your preference.
The tavern burger comes with all the classic fixings and is served on a soft bun that soaks up the juices perfectly.
The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
The building’s historic charm adds to the experience, giving you a sense of dining in a piece of local history.
Fun fact: Tierney’s has survived Prohibition, the Great Depression, and countless trends, proving that good food never goes out of style.
12. The Claremont Tavern — Bernardsville, NJ
Nestled in the charming town of Bernardsville, this tavern has been a local favorite for generations.
The Claremont Tavern is located at 11 Claremont Road and occupies a beautiful historic building with classic colonial architecture.
The exterior features white clapboard siding and black shutters, giving it a timeless New England feel.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a mix of bar seating and dining tables.
Their burgers are made with fresh, locally sourced beef and cooked to perfection on a well-seasoned grill.
The tavern burger is a crowd favorite, topped with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and house-made pickles.
The building’s historic charm and friendly service make every visit memorable.
Fun fact: this spot has been a gathering place for locals since the early 1900s, and the recipes have been passed down through generations of owners.
Pair your burger with one of their craft beers for the full experience.
13. Burger 25 — Toms River, NJ
Down the shore in Toms River, this casual spot serves up burgers that rival any beachside joint.
Burger 25 is located at 1501 Route 37 East and operates out of a bright, modern building with a clean, welcoming exterior.
Inside, the decor is simple and focused on comfort, with plenty of seating for families and groups.
Their burgers are made with fresh beef and cooked to order, with a variety of toppings to choose from.
The signature Burger 25 comes with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce that keeps people coming back.
The fries here are crispy and perfectly salted, making them the ideal complement to your burger.
The building’s modern design and friendly atmosphere make it a great stop before or after a day at the beach.
Fun fact: they offer a build-your-own burger option with over 20 toppings, so you can customize your meal exactly how you like it.
14. Frankie’s Bar & Grill — Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Just steps from the boardwalk, Frankie’s has been feeding hungry beachgoers for years.
Located at 710 Arnold Avenue in Point Pleasant Beach, Frankie’s operates out of a casual beach-town building with a relaxed, laid-back exterior. Inside, the vibe is friendly and unpretentious, with a bar area and plenty of tables.
Their burgers are thick, juicy, and grilled to perfection, with a smoky flavor that comes from their charcoal grill.
The Frankie Burger is loaded with cheese, bacon, and all the fixings, making it a satisfying meal after a day in the sun.
The building’s casual beach-town design fits perfectly with the surrounding area, creating a welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
The outdoor seating is perfect for warm summer evenings.
Fun fact: Frankie’s has been a Point Pleasant Beach institution for decades, and many families make it a tradition to stop here every summer.
Grab a burger and a cold drink, and you’ll understand why.