Chit Chat Diner, West Orange, NJ:
A Restaurant Review

Chit Chat Diner, West Orange, NJ

Chit Chat Diner
410 Eagle Rock Ave.
West Orange, NJ

Chit Chat Diner: Highlights

Fare: American Diner

Price: Moderate - Above average for typical diner prices.

Food Quality. Typical Diner food quality served in huge portions.

Decor/Ambiance: Entertaining. Alice and wonderland theme, with a bold, kitschy vibe.

Service: Friendly, though can be slow at times, especially for weekend breakfast/brunch.

Recommended For: Diners who enjoy a large diner styled menu in a bold amusement themed atmosphere.

Not Recommended For: Diners who prefer a traditional, formal setting with fine dining amenities.

Recommended dishes: When available, for breakfast, the light fig and Gouda French toast w/ creamy Gouda cheese stuffed between pan challah French toast; For Lunch, The Bourbon Street Burger, w/ Jack Daniel's sauce, Applewood smoked bacon, Monterey Jack cheese, & crisp fried red onions. Served with French fries; For dessert, The Big Fat Chocolate cake, a hefty piece of moist seven-layer confection topped by chunks of super-rich chocolate brownie.

Liquor: Full bar service

Restaurant Review

The Chit Chat Diner in West Orange, NJ is one of two locations (the other in Hackensack) is an example of the new wave of Jersey diners: Big, bold, and brassy, with an alcohol menu.

Compared to the older, classic new jersey diners, Chit Chat isn't a diner. It's an entertaining dining experience. You could as easily find yourself dining theme park.

They are family friendly and a great place to take kids.

The Chit Chat Diner is Co- owned (with Frank Shizas -- his son-in-law) and operated by Gus Katsanos, who also Co-owns the Chit Chat Diner in Hackensack with his brother-in-law. Katsanos is a restaurant veteran beginning his career in Manhattan in 1978. In 2017 he purchased the Eagle Rock Diner (closed since 2015) and completely renovated the restaurant and reopened it as the Chit Chat Diner in 2018.

located on top of a hill with a stellar view of the New York City skyline, this bizarre-looking dark-stoned castle like structure is hard to miss as you drive by along Eagle Rock Ave. near Eagle Rock Park.

The layout in the 180-seat diner resembles an Alice and wonderland theme, with spacious high ceilings, radiant chandeliers dripping with varicolored crystals, booths upholstered in kitschy red, purple, green and polka-dot fabrics, and black-and-white checkerboard design throughout.

On a cloudless day, with the sun setting behind you, there is an awesome view of New York City.

One of the highlights of the Chit Chat Diner is its extensive breakfast menu. From classic favorites like fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to unique creations like avocado toast and breakfast burritos, there is something for everyone. The diner also offers a variety of omelettes, made with fresh ingredients and served with a side of crispy hash browns.

If you're looking for brunch, the Chit Chat Diner has you covered. Their brunch menu features mouthwatering dishes such as eggs Benedict, chicken and waffles, and savory crepes. Pair your meal with a refreshing mimosa or a cup of freshly brewed coffee for the perfect brunch experience.

They are child friendly, offering a a huge selection of breakfast items for kids under twelve with their "mini chit chatters" menu.

The Chit Chat Diner is open 7days/week

(Updated: September 2024)

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