This New Jersey Diner Classic Isn’t Poutine—But It’s Just As Iconic

Welcome to Off the Eaten Path, a series where our Test Kitchen creator Noah Tanen dives deep into regional recipes. Next up? New Jersey Disco Fries.

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If you’ve ever stumbled out of a New Jersey diner at 2 a.m., belly full and slightly regretful, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with Disco Fries—the lesser-known cousin to Canada’s poutine.

Disco Fries are a Garden State staple, born in the fluorescent glow of the state’s iconic diners. While their initial origins are murky, they became popular in the state around the 1970s, at the height of disco culture. 24-hour diners opened their doors to late-night dancers fresh from the club and offered a salty, indulgent plate to soak up the night’s decisions.

Disco Fries and poutine share a similar DNA—crispy fries drenched in gravy and cheese—and I would never argue that they are fundamentally different. Poutine, a Quebecois classic, relies on squeaky cheese curds that hold their shape under the heat of beef gravy, creating a distinct texture. Disco Fries, on the other hand, embrace melty mozzarella or sometimes, less ideally, American cheese. Other than that, they are more or less the same idea, but I don’t think it’s fair to think of Disco Fries as a poutine rip-off, as many commenters on my recent recipe video seem to believe. Isn’t it possible that New Jersey and Montreal independently had the same bright idea? Gravy + fries + cheese = delicious. I would have figured that one out too.

However, not all Disco Fries are created equal. The best ones start with sturdy fries— crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside—thick enough to withstand the onslaught of gravy. The gravy should be rich and savory, while the melted mozzarella creates a satisfying stretch.

While you can find Disco Fries at diners across New Jersey, some spots have turned them into an art form:

• Tick Tock Diner (Clifton) – A classic Jersey diner known for serving up a textbook-perfect plate of Disco Fries.

• Tops Diner (East Newark) – Often ranked among the best diners in the country, their Disco Fries are the ideal balance of crispy, cheesy, and saucy.

• The Jefferson Diner (Lake Hopatcong) – A must-visit for those who like their fries extra cheesy.

Even after their 70s and 80s heyday, Disco Fries still hold a special place in Jersey’s food culture. They are everything a diner should be: unpretentious, comforting, and right for any hour of the day. If you’re not in the area, you can try them yourself at home with my recipe.

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