Quick Bite

Tops Diner in Harrison Is a True Destination Diner

The iconic eatery accepts reservations, boasts a Champagne vending machine and bakes pastries on the premises.

Eggs, hash browns, bacon and sausage at Tops Diner in Newark
George's Special at Tops Diner  includes eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausage and—not pictured—two buttermilk pancakes. Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Mroz

TOPS DINER IN HARRISON

Time Out magazine in 2017 called Tops the best diner in America. With its friendly staff and delicious food, Tops is definitely a destination diner. Open since 1920, it was purchased by George Golemis in the 1970s; his sons now run it. All desserts and pastries are made on premises.

STYLE

Tops boasts Art-Deco décor, a shiny retro exterior and skylights in the main dining room. A renovation last year tripled its size.

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THE MENU

Portions are generous, to say the least. For breakfast, start with the delicious Cuban coffee with steamed milk. George’s Special includes eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausage and two buttermilk pancakes—easily feeds two. Also great: Nutella French toast and the New York steak and eggs. Lighter options include avocado toast and egg-white omelets. For lunch, try the short-rib grilled cheese, the calamari or the famous meatloaf. 

HEADS UP

The place is popular! On weekends, you might have to wait up to two hours for a table if you don’t have a reservation—but Tops may be one of the few diners that takes reservations. If you’re celebrating, there’s a vending machine stocked with real Champagne.

What are Quick Bites? Short takes on casual, affordable dining.

Restaurant Details

  • Cuisine Type:
    American - Diner - Fusion/Eclectic
  • Price Range:
    Moderate