Tucked along Route 539 in Warren Grove, Lucille’s Country Cooking has been a Jersey institution since 1975.
Voted best breakfast hole-in-the-wall in New Jersey, this no-frills diner lures hungry travelers with fluffy pancakes, heaping pies, and a side of Pine Barrens charm.
Anthony Bourdain even dropped by in 2015, cementing its status as a must-visit for Southern comfort food with a Jersey twist.
Food Highlights
- Blueberry Pancakes: Fluffy stacks bursting with fresh blueberries, praised as “the size of your head” by regulars. Pair them with a side of crispy hash browns.
- Sausage Gravy & Biscuits: Creamy, peppery gravy smothering buttery biscuits—a Southern classic that locals call “soul food at its best.”
- Sticky Bun French Toast: A decadent special featuring caramelized cinnamon rolls transformed into French toast. Bring your sweet tooth.
- Homemade Apple Pie: Flaky crust with tart-sweet filling. Reviewers swear it’s “the best they’ve ever tasted.”
- Creamed Chipped Beef: A nostalgic diner staple served over toast, dubbed “just like Mom used to make.”
Atmosphere
Quirky, cozy, and unapologetically retro. A giant Jersey Devil statue greets guests, while Bourdain’s photo hangs proudly inside.
Outdoor picnic tables and a tire swing add to the laid-back vibe. Expect friendly banter from staff and locals debating hunting trips over coffee.
Why It’s One of the Best in New Jersey
Lucille’s nails the trifecta: generous portions, homemade flavors, and a vibe that’s equal parts nostalgic and weirdly magical.
Whether you’re road-tripping the Pine Barrens or craving pie worth a detour, this is New Jersey’s breakfast heartland.
Address: 1496 Route 539, Warren Grove, NJ