There's An Old-School Diner In New Jersey With A James Beard Award
NEWS
BY SARAH LINTAKOON
Only the United States’ most iconic outposts get the James Beard foundation’s America's Classics designation — and one such restaurant is Mustache Bill's Diner in New Jersey.
Mustache Bill's Diner opened in
1959 and was originally called Joe's Barnegat Light Diner. Smith purchased the restaurant in 1972 after working there as a cook for several years.
Despite the change in ownership, the high-quality comfort food remained. One of the most popular menu items is the Cyclops, two pancakes with two medium eggs cooked in the middle.
Mustache Bill's Diner received its James Beard award in 2009. Not only was the diner loved for its food, but restaurant goers enjoyed owner Bill Smith’s service and jolly attitude.
Unfortunately, Smith stepped away from the kitchen for good in 2023. The future of the beloved restaurant may be uncertain, but as of the
end of 2024, it is still operating.