BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — An iconic burger joint in Bergen County is getting a new home, just up the street.
White Manna, an 80-year-old Hackensack diner and hamburger shop, will be moving from its original location at 358 River St. to 112-120 Hackensack Ave., about three-quarters of a mile away.
Instead of demolishing the iconic diner, with its neon signage and retro aesthetics, the entire building will be transported to the new location.
According to the Hackensack Planning Board application, the existing River Street location has long been "constrained by its size," offering little room for kitchen operations, storage, or accessibility improvements. The proposal aims to modernize the business while retaining the character that has made White Manna a local institution.
"As a part of the ongoing initiatives to promote revitalization... the City has put together this redevelopment plan that would support the goals and objectives of the downtown rehabilitation plan by providing a plan that keeps the White Manna restaurant in Hackensack," the redevelopment plan states.
In addition to the relocation, diners can expect a larger dining area, kitchen, and parking lot, with a new one-story addition behind the historic structure to accommodate more customers.
See a rendering of the White Manna in its new location here.
The establishment, opened in 1946, has been a staple in North Jersey for decades. It's won numerous awards and has been featured by some of the most recognizable food personalities in the world, including Anthony Bourdain and Guy Fieri.
While the Hackensack Planning Board approved the application earlier this month, it's not clear exactly when White Massa will make its move a few blocks north.
Click here to view the planning board application paperwork.
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