The Brook, North Plainfield

Behind The Brook's modern exterior lies a vintage burger joint and soda fountain. Here, the cooks serve classic burgers alongside those dressed with innovative ingredient combinations such as The Hangover's pork roll and fried egg, the Baja's avocado and chipotle mayo, and the Athens' lamb burger with hummus and feta. And any burger can be altered with a veggie or turkey patty. Their hot dogs mirror the iconic tube-steaks from cities including Chicago—slathered in pickles and peppers—and New York—covered in sauerkraut.

And, if The Brook staffers have anything to say about it, every meal ends with ice cream. Scoops can be sprinkled in the shop's 18 colorful toppings, piled into banana splits and belgian-waffle sandwiches, or spooned directly into diners' pockets for later snacking.