Beloved Pine Barrens Eatery Up For Sale

WARREN GROVE, NJ — One of the most beloved Pine Barrens eateries and a classic New Jersey hidden gem is up for sale. But don't worry, it won't be gone for good.

The current owners of Lucille's Luncheonette, tucked away on Route 539 in Warren Grove, shared on Facebook that they were looking for a buyer.

"Spending most of our lives in this restaurant as our family has had it for the last 50 years, has been a true Joy," the owners wrote. "But along with that, it has been a lot of hard work. Not that we like to admit it... noone gets younger, and we have to look to the future."

The family-owned eatery was listed for $650,000.

"Lucille's has been a fixture of Stafford Township for close to 50 years," the listing description reads. "A favorite for both locals and visitors on the way to LBI, this little luncheonette is extremely popular. People rave about the fresh baked pies, big breakfasts and delicious sandwiches."

Locals and regulars don't need to worry about the restaurant changing too much, though.

"We want to find a buyer that is interested in continuing to serve our clientele in the best way possible, who is open to continuing our 'PINEY' traditions and still bringing some fresh ideas to 'the counter'," the owners said.

And in the meantime, Lucille's Luncheonette isn't going anywhere. They'll stay open until the perfect buyer is found.

The diner - once featured on "Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown" and part of the celebrity chef's official New Jersey food trail - has had a bit of a crazy year. In the summer of 2023, the iconic Jersey Devil statue that sits out front was stolen. But there was a happy ending when the original artist almost immediately began work on a new statue.

"Restaurants can take time to sell, we did list once before and had a few offers but the right fit just didn't come along at that time and we don'tknow if it will now..... so please don't think this is 'the end' or that we are closed/closing (except for Mondays cause everyone needs a break)," Lucille's Luncheonette owners said.