Historic Hightstown Diner An Integral Part Of Mercer Co. Food Map

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — When it comes to the culinary scene in Mercer County, Princeton often walks away with all the accolades for fine dining. But there’s one place that is special to many County residents.

The Hightstown Diner has been around for over 90 years. Started in 1927 by the Corcodilos family, it soon changed hands, and ownership was taken over by the Antonellos family. In December 2018 the ownership was passed on to the Lopez family.

Generations have worked at the diner, helping it gain its iconic status.

Such is the popularity of the Hightstown Diner that it was featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The diner is popular among many residents as it has a very “homely feeling.”

“We have patrons who are 80-years-old. They’ve been coming to our diner since the time it opened,” said Yelsy Lopez, daughter of owner Noel Lopez. "Our patrons are an integral part of our diner."

Serving favorites like the Hightstown sandwich and the Hightstown Burger, the diner has adapted over time, now offering healthy fares like the Athenia Burger and the Hot Vegetable Platter.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating effect on the hospitality industry, resulting in many eateries shutting down across the country. But the Hightstown Diner survived and adapted.

After closing for two weeks during the pandemic shutdown, the diner opened for takeout only. They then introduced outdoor dining for patrons. “We didn't have a patio, so we built one and introduced outdoor dining,” said Lopez. “Our community stood by us and supported us all through the pandemic.”

To thank the community for its support, the diner offered free food to everyone on Easter this year. “We are part of this community; we are connected to it. This was just our way to thank everyone and help community members in need,” said Lopez.

On a regular day, the Hightstown Diner serves around 300 guests. On the weekend, their busiest days, the diner serves over 700 patrons.

As for the future, the Hightstown Diner has a few plans. They hope to renovate the diner and create a special section highlighting its history.

“Our diner is part of this town’s history. When we renovate, we hope to have a section that highlights our history, so patrons can come in and have a look,” said Lopez.

“Our biggest strength is our community," said Lopez. "We place a lot of emphasis on family values and our diner atmosphere reflects that.”

The diner offers indoor and outdoor dining, take-out and catering. They are located at 151 Mercer St., Hightstown, New Jersey.

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