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The legendary Disco Fries: A classic of New Jersey diner culture

NEW JERSEY— In the 1970s, when disco music was all the rage in America, New Jersey, as always, took it a step further. After a long night of partying and dancing at local clubs, New Jerseyans would flock to their favorite restaurant to eat late into the morning.

At that time, a New Jersey diner, the Tick-Tock Diner in Clifton, took advantage of this and invented the Disco Fries to feed the masses cheaply, affordably and deliciously.

Today, the restaurant takes disco fries to the next level of Jersey deliciousness, offering pork roll, egg and cheese with a side of disco fries (photo above).

At the heart of New Jersey’s vibrant diner scene, a dish called “Disco Fries” is the undisputed star, embodying the essence of comfort food with a local twist. Found in nearly every diner across the Garden State, this popular menu item features a decadent combination of crispy French fries smothered in melted cheese and rich gravy.

Disco fries are a variation of Canadian poutine and have been woven into New Jersey’s culinary identity since their rise to popularity in the late 1970s. The name is said to have come from the late-night, post-disco crowd that frequented restaurants in search of a hearty snack. Over the decades, these fries have become a popular staple, symbolizing the state’s bountiful and unpretentious food offerings.

The origin of the Disco Fries marks a specific period in New Jersey’s diner history. The state is often referred to as the “Diner Capital of the World,” a title well-earned by its extensive collection of classic stainless steel diners that line the highways and communities. These diners became cultural icons in the 1950s and 1960s, serving as social gathering places where people from all walks of life could meet at any time of the day or night.

The history of diners in New Jersey goes back even further, to the early 20th century, when diners were prefabricated buildings reminiscent of railroad dining cars. These establishments were originally intended to provide inexpensive, simple meals to the working class. As the popularity of the automobile increased, so did the popularity of diners, which promised convenient, 24-hour service.

Today, New Jersey diners remain a staple of the local landscape, offering extensive menus for a diverse crowd. From classic American breakfasts to Italian-American dinners to unique regional specialties like disco fries, these diners preserve a nostalgic yet dynamic element of New Jersey’s food culture.

As disco fries retain their status as a diner staple, they serve not only as a link to the past, but also as a reminder of the state’s ongoing culinary evolution. In New Jersey, a visit to a diner for a plate of disco fries is more than just a meal for locals and visitors alike – it’s an experience steeped in tradition and local pride.