Hibernia Diner - Open 24 Hours

The Hibernia Diner
9 Green Pond Road
Rockaway, NJ 07866
973-625-3255

Making the 3 1/2 hour drive from Upstate New York to New York City is a regular occurance for me.  Depending on the time of year, I have been known to make the trip 4 or 5 times per month.  If you are not familiar with the area, you might find it strange to learn that the quickest way to the 'Big Apple' from the center of New York State, is to drive south through Pennsylvania; cross the Delaware Water Gap; drive an hour through New Jersey; and finally land in New York City via tunnel or bridge.

On the drive home, off Rt. 80 West (exit 37) is the Hibernia Diner, which has become a regular stop.  Since they are open 24 hours a day, there is never a concern about my arrival time.

The menu is loaded with options to please any taste.  From omlets, eggs and homemade potato pancakes, to burgers, wraps and panini's, the choices are pretty much endless.  One of my favorites is the fresh Raspberry Chicken Waldorf salad, which includes field greens, grilled chicken breast, raisins, toasted walnuts, apples, strawberries and raspberry vinaigrette.

The staff is always friendly and welcoming; the diner is spacious with plenty of seating; and there is ample parking space.

A plus:  There are two gas stations right next to Hibernia Diner and without fail, I will fill up before getting back on the road -- the main reason: I am in New Jersey and they will pump my gas for me!  NJ is one of the last remaining states that requires full service at the pump.  There are good arguments on both sides of whether this controversial law should remain, or if the public should be allowed to pump the gas themselves.  Since I don't live in the state, I appreciate the service -- but I bet if I worked in NJ full time and was in a hurry (as many residents are), I might get a bit aggravated if I had to wait for an attendant to pump my gas.

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