What I Learned Since Writing About South Jersey’s Northfield Diner

I've written many stories the last couple of years.

The stories range from serious crime, to food reviews, and silly off the wall stuff.

Its not unusual to see a reaction to my stories.  My audience spans the state, and I like to provoke thought and reaction.

We don't have to agree, but I just want you to read my thoughts.

When I decided to look into the Northfield Diner in Northfield, I did so out of sincere curiosity.

For those who missed my story, I'm post a link.  It's worth checking out.

Read More:  The Enigma Of Northfield Diner: Exploring New Jersey's Classic Eateries

In essence, I couldn't understand why everyday when I drove by the Northfield Diner, the place was open, but there were never any cars out front.

How does a business stay open with no customers?

I decided to try the place myself.  It had to be filthy right?  Or the food must be terrible.

Why don't people eat there?

One morning, I stopped in for breakfast.

It was the weirdest thing.  The place was empty.  Not one customer.

I looked around and was surprised by how clean it was.  It was bright, the floors were clean, and the booths were in great condition.

If I'm being honest, it looked better than the other diners in the area.

So it must be the food.

A very nice woman came from the back and I was given the choice of booths.

She was a bit quiet.  Maybe even shy, but she was friendly and had a smile.

I ordered an omelet and it was quite good.

What gives?

I never identified myself, but I did have to ask why the place was always empty.

She didn't have an answer.

I wrote and published the story.  The response was unlike anything I've seen.

Everyone seemed to have the same question.

There were a few folks who were critical of the owner.  I don't know if their complaints were true or not.

I didn't witness anything amiss.

The overwhelming majority of people said they didn't go, because there were never cars out front.

A co-worker and I returned for lunch a few days later.  I told her, "You have to see this."

This time there were 3 tables occupied with who I later learned were regulars.

No one knew who I was, but they were discussing my story!

That's it!  I couldn't hold back.  I introduced myself and asked, what the heck is wrong with this place?

My lunch was delicious.  The place was still clean, and the woman serving me was very friendly.

Why don't people eat here?

In fact, I even tried to drag the owner out to my table.  I wanted to meet the guy.  He wouldn't come out.

Since that day, I've been noticing more cars out front.

I've even seen Facebook threads, and the reviews have been all positive,

The reviews were all positive.

I'm not here to sell anyone on the place.  I'm a supporter of local business.

The more local successes we have, the more businesses will locate here.

If you've hesitated to try the Northfield Diner, I think you'll be surprised.

Let me know what you think.