2 NJ 'Dive Bars' Named Among Best In U.S. For Food

NEW JERSEY — Two New Jersey "dive bars" have been named among the best in the United States for food, according to a new ranking.

The Highland Tavern in Gloucester City and Ye Olde Rathskeller in Cranford were included in the list of 120 dive bars compiled by Geek Nexus, a personal finance and pop culture website. The establishments came in at No. 67 and No. 88, respectively.

To determine which businesses made the list, Geek Nexus surveyed 3,000 bar-goers to find the top dive bars serving "surprisingly good food."

"Dive bars have always been about community and character, but now they’re becoming known for their unexpectedly great food," Jake Valentine, operations manager of Geek Nexus, said in a release.

"The results of our survey highlight just how diverse and creative dive bar menus have become, proving that you don’t need a fancy setting to enjoy a standout meal," he continued. "From inventive burgers to iconic local flavors, these bars are redefining what it means to eat well on a budget."

The Highland Tavern, located at 308 Orlando Ave., bills itself as Gloucester City's "best-kept secret." While there's no menu available online, reviews suggest newcomers try the chicken wings or the Reuben sandwich.

Ye Olde Rathskeller, located at 523 Centennial Ave., features classic American fare such as wings, beer-battered fish and liverwurst on rye bread. Reviews recommend sampling the cheesesteak, burgers or pizza.

See the full list of dive bars at GeekNexus.com.