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Nestled in the vibrant heart of Jersey City’s Journal Square, VIP Restaurant JSQ - Barshay's stands as a beloved beacon of traditional American dining with a rich local legacy. This cozy yet lively establishment effortlessly blends the nostalgic charm of a classic American diner with a polished, contemporary atmosphere that welcomes guests seeking comforting, hearty meals throughout the day.
The diverse menu at VIP Restaurant JSQ is a celebration of authentic American flavors, offering an extensive range of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that cater to all tastes. Their breakfast plates, including fluffy Chocolate Chip Pancakes and savory Omeletteaux Champignons, perfectly set a comforting tone for the day. For lunch and dinner, classic heroes like the Sausage & Peppers Hero and Philly Cheesesteak Hero deliver rich, savory satisfaction with every bite. Seafood lovers will appreciate delicately broiled dishes such as the Broiled Filet Of Sole and Shrimp Scampi, each bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors balanced by expert preparation.
One standout feature is their indulgent assortment of sides and sweets, from crispy Fried Chicken Skins to luscious Blueberry Pie and dense, creamy Cheesecake Slice, complemented perfectly by a thick, velvety Chocolate Milkshake. Whether you're craving the bold heat of their signature hot sauce or the refreshing zest of freshly squeezed Orange Juice, VIP’s menu invites you to savor every sensation.
Stepping inside, the restaurant’s warm, inviting décor speaks to an authentic American diner experience with a modern twist. Regulars and newcomers alike appreciate the comforting familiarity of the cozy booths and polished wood accents, while subtle nostalgic touches like a mirror featuring the NYC skyline, complete with the iconic Twin Towers, forge an emotional connection to the rich history of the city and its community.
Customer experiences underscore the special place VIP Restaurant holds in the hearts of Jersey City locals. LR Smith fondly recalls visiting with family, describing it as a cherished spot filled with memories and promising a consistently satisfying meal. Similarly, Betty Gerena was impressed by the recent upgrades, highlighting the freshly updated décor and vibrant social offerings like open mic and karaoke nights – perfect for those who appreciate both good food and good company. Shima also notes the authentic, old-fashioned American vibe, making it an ideal destination for diners craving comforting, classic dishes in a welcoming setting.
Whether you're stopping by for a hearty breakfast to jumpstart your day, seeking a fulfilling lunch, or planning a special event with friends and family, VIP Restaurant JSQ - Barshay's skillfully combines traditional American flavors with a warmly familiar atmosphere. It’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a cherished local institution where every meal feels like home.
The VIP Diner was a favorite of my Dad's after he relocated from Queens NY to Jersey City in 1999. We would sometimes go to the diner when I visited. He passed away in 2007. I personally am not one who eats out, but when I am at the condo here on business and my Mom and stepdad come out to visit with me from Brooklyn, we have a meal at VIP as we did yesterday. I have always enjoyed whatever I've ordered and have only had positive experiences with the staff. My short stack pancakes were delicious. My 6 year old great-nephew devoured his eggs and 2 sausages. Mom ate the entire fish sandwich and did not once judge it. Mom is a cooker and will judge other people's cooking. Lol! My Stepdad enjoyed his classic burger and fries. Me and nephew also enjoyed some of those fries. I will say the prices are higher, but that is everywhere. And because I do not eat out regularly, the price increase probably seems higher to me than it would to someone who has seen prices gradually increase. I am not including crazy post pandemic increases.
I went to the VIP Diner for breakfast and I hadn't been there in years. I was pleasantly surprised by the updated decor and the different dining sections. They even have open mic and karaoke nights from what the staff person told me. It was a really nice upgrade. I had scramble eggs, pork sausage, home fries and a toasted English muffin. Very tasty. The eggs were done and fluffy and my home fries were cooked just as I requested. Crispy on the outside fluffy underneath. The sausage was cooked perfectly, well done but moist on the inside. I didn't see any pastry displays like they use to have. The bathrooms were old school and there is a sign on the door that they only have air dryers no paper towels. It just so happens that I was there on the specials day. Only paid $9.62 for the entire breakfast. Good staff and they kept asking me if I wanted my coffee to be refilled. And I gladly said yes. I'll be going back more often. Parking is ample and free.
Cute not so little diner in the heart of Journal Square. I loved how cozy and old fashioned American this place was. Their food was good, nothing super special about it just good old fashioned American breakfast. They even have a mirror art of NYC skyline and it has the twin towers in it, good old fashioned American!