White Manna facts for kids
White Manna and White Mana are the names of two popular fast-food diners in New Jersey, USA. These diners are famous for their tasty hamburgers. The name "Manna" comes from a special food mentioned in the Bible. Both restaurants are often listed among the best burger places in America.
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The Story Behind the Diners
The first White Manna diner was opened by Louis Bridges in Jersey City. He bought the original diner building from the 1939 New York World's Fair. This special building was made by the Paramount Dining Car Company in 1939. Louis Bridges owned five diners, all called "White Manna." Some people say this diner is where the famous "Slider" burger was invented!
Where to Find Them
Jersey City's White Mana
The White Mana diner in Jersey City is located at 470 Tonnele Avenue. This is the very first White Manna diner, and it still uses the original building from the 1939 World's Fair! Back then, it was called the "diner of the future" and helped introduce "Fast Food" to many people.
The current owner, Mario Costa Jr., says the spelling "Mana" happened by mistake when the sign was fixed. This diner is super popular for its hamburgers, selling about 3,000 every week! In 1997, the Jersey City Historic Preservation Committee officially named the diner a local landmark. This means it's an important historical building that should be protected.
Hackensack's White Manna
The White Manna Diner in Hackensack is another famous spot. It has been serving burgers at 358 River Street since 1946. This diner is right by the Hackensack River.
The Hackensack White Manna has been featured on many TV shows. You might have seen it on the Food Network shows Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and The Best Thing I Ever Ate. It also appeared on Man v. Food and Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations on the Travel Channel.
Many articles have also praised its burgers. Thrillist named it the best burger in New Jersey. The Daily Meal put it on their list of the top 101 burgers in America. Even GQ magazine included it in their "20 Hamburgers You Must Eat Before You Die" list! Both the Hackensack White Manna and Jersey City White Mana were featured in an episode of the Food Network series Food Feuds.
