It was an experience that ruined my appetite and day. My wife and i had gone in for breakfast/lunch optimistic about the food. The atmosphere which had felt cozy when we first walked in soon turned into the twilight zone. We seated our selves and waited 10 min before we saw the only waitress working who brought us the menu. The menu seemed full of diverse and well thought out dishes so we got excited for the meal. We ordered two appetizers (hummus plater and fried tomatoes), and 2 mains (veggie burger and garden omelette), my first choice the portobello burger was not available so i had to settle for something else. We then proceeded to wait 1HR AND 20MIN before we saw our first appetizer. We came to find out that each dish is made to order “from scratch” with only one cook in the kitchen. When the food finally came it was nothing but disappointment. The meal felt slapped together unseasoned and just wet?. My wife's omelette had no favor and the vegetables in it were not cooked, and her home fries were also undercooked and bland. My burger was just flavorless mush and while bun looked homemade it was chewy like it had been in the microwave for too long. Neither me nor wife could finish our food. We had been there for over 2 hrs by now and had barely eaten anything, We were hungry and desperate for something to get the bad tastes out of our mouth so we went over to the bakery counter which we had held out hope for. The baked goods were just as terrible, each item too sweet to taste anything but sugar, and textures were confusing. We left having paid the highest i have ever paid for a meal that disgusting, and i was left depressed and unable to eat for the rest of the day. My wife was also mad at me because it was my idea...
Read moreGreat food and service at the local diner in Farmingdale, NJ (just outside of Howell off the 33-34 circle). It's a very cozy place with about a dozen or so booths - I think there were 2 large booths (maybe they just put them together- so if you have a large party, you can be accommodated. Ok on to the review...
Our server Angela as well as the owners, James and Terry were outstanding. We were seated promptly on a Saturday (around 9am). My wife had the Avocado Benedict and I had an omelette with bacon, spinach, mushrooms and cheddar. The portions were -in my opinion- perfect. Both were served with homemade home fries. Everything was just great. The coffee was smooth very mellow without being bitter. My cup was never empty :)
Of course we had to peek at the desserts. After having our fill we decide don taking them to go. We ordered two pieces of Meyer Lemon cake which was delicious as well as a banana nut muffin (which to be honest, I'll prob have tonight as a late afternoon snack - we had the cake after some lunch I made at home). Super happy we found this place on the local FaceBook and decided to give it a try.
I should have taken pictures, but to be 100%, we were so hungry, I remembered after we nearly cleared our plates (no prisoners).
One final note - and it's not a ding on the restaurant at all - Just be a little careful pulling up to the diner it's right before the circle which can get busy - so just be prepared to turn in - plenty of...
Read moreNestled in the heart of Farmingdale , NJ, the Local Diner and Bakery stands as a charming haven for food lovers, offering a delightful blend of comfort food and culinary finesse. My recent visit was nothing short of remarkable, leaving me eager to share my experience.
The star of my meal was undoubtedly the lemon ricotta blueberry pancakes. These pancakes were a triumph in texture and flavor—light, airy, and imbued with a comforting taste that transports you straight back to the warmth of home. The delicate balance of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries created a delightful harmony, making each bite a memorable one.
Owner Terry is not only an exceptional cook but also a passionate advocate for fresh, quality ingredients. It’s clear that she takes great pride in her work and truly loves to feed people. This passion reflects in every dish that leaves her kitchen. The corn beef hash was equally extraordinary, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Each bite was a savory adventure, highlighting the diner’s commitment to using fresh ingredients.
The Local Diner and Bakery is a testament to what happens when great food meets heartfelt hospitality. If you’re looking for a place that offers a taste of home along with an inviting atmosphere, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting this gem in Farmingdale, You won’t leave...
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