Crystal Lake Diner (Haddon Township)
Many moons ago, the Crystal Lake Diner was one of the first diners I reviewed in South Jersey (Not to be confused with another favorite in Toms River: The New Crystal Diner).
When we originally went to the Crystal Lake Diner, were living in central Jersey at the time and taking a day trip to the Haddonfield area. Oddly enough the following year, we ended up moving about a quarter of a mile from the Crystal Lake Diner. We have since moved again, but we aren’t the only ones who have gone through changes in the last few years.
We never went to the Crystal Lake Diner while living so close because shortly after we originally went, there was a massive fire which left it closed for about two years.
When the Crystal Lake Diner reopened several months ago, I knew eventually I had to go back.
Crystal Lake Diner Atmosphere: A
To be honest, I don’t remember a whole lot from the previous visit a few years ago. Now, the interior of the Crystal Lake Diner is brand new. It’s modern, clean and had plenty of space. We were immediately greeted with a dessert case, including red velvet cake.
Crystal Lake Diner Coffee: A
The Crystal Lake Diner brewed Lacas coffee which is a personal favorite of mine. It’s a local blend and it’s hard to mess it up. The waitress brought plenty of refills with plenty of whipped cream. I couldn’t ask for better coffee.
Service: A
The waitress at the Crystal Lake Diner was one of the best I’ve had in a while. Even though it was a busy Saturday night, she was always attentive to our table. She made sure we had plenty of refills the entire time. She was also extremely friendly.
Crystal Lake Diner Food: B
I do remember Crystal Lake Diner menu is similar to their previous menu. It’s typical of a diner, and they have several specials but nothing too unique. If you’re looking for a stereotypical diner menu, the Crystal Lake Diner is ideal. They are also known for their mini meals.
Our dinner at the Crystal Lake Diner came with a homemade bread basket which came with cinnamon rolls, cheesy bread, and corn muffins. Each were great, but my favorite was the cheesy bread.
I decided to order the lobster ravioli at the Crystal Lake Diner. It came out in a nice marinara sauce. The plates of ravioli themselves had plenty of lobster stuffed in without being overpowering. I would have preferred something else to come alongside the portions of ravioli or just more of them. I was surprised the portion size was not more significant.
Dessert: B
The lobster ravioli came with a pudding dessert, so I chose the bread pudding. The waitress asked if I wanted whipped cream, and how could I refuse?
The bread pudding at the Crystal Lake Diner was good and it was apparent they made it in the house (and it didn’t just come from a tube). It was one of the better bread puddings I had, especially for coming with the meal.
Price: $
For my lobster ravioli and coffee, the cost was $15, which wasn’t bad for the amount of food I got. Especially considering it came with dessert!
Overall Thoughts/Summary of the Crystal Lake Diner (Haddon Township):
I enjoyed the Crystal Lake Diner both times I’ve been. I will be back and it’s nice to see it reopen after the fire. The service was by far one of the best I’ve had in a while.
Summary:
Atmosphere: A
Service: A
Coffee: A
Food: B
Dessert: B
Cost: $8-15
Overall: B
You can see more of the diner reviews here.
Questions for you:
Have you ever been to a restaurant after it reopened?
What is your favorite type of pudding?