New Jersey Diner Review #303: The Shamong Diner

March 1, 2020 newjerseyisntboring

The Shamong Diner is a family owned and operated Diner and Restaurant that features local produce , a wide range of vegetarian options, PIZZA and seasonal soft-serve ice cream. It definitely had one of the more exciting menus I’ve seen in a while.

The diner itself has humble beginnings. For over 20 years it was a simple coffee shop until 2006 when chef Manny Monteiro took over making it the diner it is today. It is definitely a popular hot spot in the community…try finding a seat on a Sunday morning.

Items on their Menu That Stood Out:
– A wide range of Pizzas including a chicken tikka masala pizza
– a large range of vegetarian and vegan options including vegetarian buffalo wings, veggie burgers, vegetarian cheese steak, lots of options with tofu and more.
– homemade tortilla chips
– fried clams and calarami
– pretzel melts
– a full page of salads
– a NY strip steak
– The “Fisherman’s Platter” (Sea Scallops, Filet of Flounder, Jumbo Shrimp & Crab Cake)

Plus they also have lunch specials that they offer Monday – Friday that come with soup of the day or salad.

Other meals on their menu pay homage to their Pine Barrens location by having cranberry hot cakes, a Pine Barrens salad (lots of cranberries), and homemade cranberry sauce.

Ultimately I was intrigued by their vegetarian and vegan options, and since they weren’t serving dinner until 4pm it made the choice easier. My friend and I started our meal off with spliingt vegetarian buffalo wings, which sounded too good to pass up.