Greasy Spoons in the Garden State: Couple Visiting Every Diner in New Jersey

December 1, 2023

Any diner devotee knows New Jersey is the diner capital of the world. There are over 400 greasy spoons across the state. One couple embarked on a mission to eat at every single one within state lines.

In 2015, Jon and Karri Ricklin began their journey to eat at every diner in the Garden State. “We just thought it would be cool to drive around the state and sample and eat at every one of them,” says Jon. “It’s turning out to be a bigger quest than we originally anticipated!

What Inspired Their Adventure?

“You gotta eat!” says Karri.

The quip is funny, but there’s more to the backstory. One day while eating at a local diner, Karri took out her phone to take a picture of her husband while he was holding the menu. Jokingly, he said, “Wouldn’t it be cool if we took this same exact picture at every diner in New Jersey?”

At the time, he was unaware of the quantity of diners across New Jersey and the challenge they’d set for themselves. New Jersey is particularly known for its diners, of which there are approximately 425, the most of any state. Various foods invented in the state, such as the pork roll, and saltwater taffy, remain popular there today. How do they keep up? “I have a database and I try to keep up with it as best I can,” says Jon.

So far, the couple have visited nearly half. Does being able to make it to the remaining locations seem daunting?

“Nah,” says Karri. “It’s a piece of cake – or maybe I should say key lime pie!”

At every location, Karri takes a picture of Jon holding up a menu that they post on their social media.

Another highlight of their road trips for Jon? “Talking to some of the waitresses is great! They’ll call you “hon”.

Road Trips Are Great, But Be Prepared

Accidents and health issues are always a possibility while driving long distances on highways (and who’s to say a pork roll might not agree with your stomach?). A ground ambulance or air transport could cost thousands of dollars. Medicare may not cover this. It’s important to protect yourself. Medical Air Services Association (MASA) provides the MASA Emergency Shield Plan for lifesaving emergency transportation services. Services are paid in full, with no deductibles, co-pays, or dollar limits. Whether you’re home or traveling, MASA Emergency Shield covers your ambulance or airlift, regardless of your age or medical condition. Plus, you can get your plan through a trusted source: your very own association and AMBA.  Get your plan now at www.AMBAmedtransport.com or call 855-961-5267.

Source: https://abc7ny.com/new-jersey-diner-couple-visits-every/13304251/

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