Sure, half of the state disagrees when we use the term taylor ham, but that doesn’t mean we don’t serve up some of the best. You don’t need to head down the shore to find fantastic taylor ham sandwiches, you can score spectacular regional breakfast meat right here in North Jersey.
Map Created By Author
According to a 2014 poll with over 14,000 responses, this map highlights the pork roll/taylor ham divide. Counties in blue (Sussex, Passaic, Bergen, Warren, Morris, Essex, Hudson + Union) overwhelmingly use the term taylor ham, while counties in red typically use the term pork roll. Hunterdon, Somerset, Middlesex and Monmouth counties were fairly divided, though pork roll was still the more popular term. Even though many consider these counties to be part of North Jersey (geographically, they are), they were considered South Jersey for the purposes of this article.
1. Olde Towne Deli, Boonton
As you can see, Olde Towne Deli was named Best Taylor Ham, Egg and Cheese Sandwich by NJ.com. Fresh and flavorful, I agree that it's among the best in New Jersey.
2. Burger Express, Carteret
YES, Carteret is in Middlesex County - pork roll territory. BUT, they're in northern Middlesex County and they call it taylor ham on their menu. Besides the classic THEC, they have previously offered a specialty burger (The Rambler, pictured) topped with taylor ham, cheese, and French fries.
3. Clark White Diamond, Clark
This classic diner serves up some fantastic taylor ham, egg and cheese along with delicious burgers.
4. Cafe 401, Union
The sandwiches are great, but be sure to give the taylor ham omelette a try.
5. Prestige Diner, New Providence
The taylor ham, egg and cheese sandwich offers gooey goodness, and reviewers also recommend the mac n' cheese bites and nutella stuffed French toast.
6. Ridgedale Lunch, Morristown
The taylor ham sandwich is a favorite, along with the bacon, egg and cheese, pictured.
7. Alfa Bagels, Randolph
Though many of us enjoy our taylor ham on a hard roll, the bagels here are so good that you might want to switch it up.
8. Carver's, Denville
You'll find a great breakfast, and a very cheesy taylor ham, egg and cheese. Be sure to build your own pancake trio when you're here, as well.
9. Jersey Dog, Newton
There's more than just one way to eat taylor ham - have you tried it on a hot dog? Jersey Dog's "Jersey Dog" is a taylor ham-wrapped hot dog with American cheese and crumbled hash brown.
10. Sparta Classic Diner, Sparta
The classic taylor ham, egg and cheese is called the N.J. Sandwich here, and it's a reader favorite. Another hit is the Jersey Shore Burger, pictured, with taylor ham, hot peppers, caramelized onions and provolone, served with a side of disco fries. If someone in your party isn't a fan of taylor ham (GASP!), Sparta Classic offers a full, fresh, innovative menu.
11. River Road Hot Bagels, Fair Lawn
You only need to head to the Yelp page for this business to see how much the taylor ham, egg and cheese is loved. Reviewers rave about it and are more than happy to share their mouthwatering photos.
12. Lucky Larry's Luncheonette, Wood-Ridge
Go for a grilled taylor ham sandwich along with one of their specialty sodas. Other favorites include the buttermilk pancakes and cinnamon French toast.
13. The Greeks, Kearny
You'll find friendly service and some of the best taylor ham sandwiches around. The classic THEC is amazing, but they'll put taylor ham on anything! If you're feeling adventurous, try one of their more unique dishes.
14. Tops Diner, Harrison
This Jersey favorite is comfort food heaven. Go for a classic taylor ham sandwich or try the Brick City Burger, pictured. Other favorites include the Fat Elvis French Toast, Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls and Mocha Mudslide Milkshake. They also offer brunch cocktails.
15. Bagel Nosh, Waldwick
Reviewers say this spot delivers a perfect taylor ham, egg and cheese sandwich every time. The bagels and bialys alone make this place worth a visit.
16. Crossroads Diner, Belvidere
I'm not sure which is better, the taylor ham sandwich or the friendly staff.
17. Benny's Luncheonette, Fair Lawn
After enjoying your taylor ham, you'll want to stay for dessert. The attached ice cream shop/bakery offers some of the most amazing shakes on the planet (if I do say so myself) and you won't want to miss these flavorful treats. If you can finish the "Fishbowl" (pictured) in 15 minutes or less, it's free.
18. The Elias Cole, Sussex
Try the taylor ham, egg and cheese on a French roll - it's a reader favorite. You'll also want to check out the incredible pies while you're here.
Please note that this list is not a ranking, and is based on reader recommendations and reviews. Each location offers something truly unique, so check them ALL out if you’re a big fan of New Jersey’s favorite meat! Are you more into the classic THEC, or are you willing to try taylor ham served up a new way? I know everyone has a favorite, so share yours! Where can you find the best taylor ham/pork roll sandwiches in New Jersey?
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