Our Family Story at Essl’s Family Restaurant in Pleasantville

Every great restaurant has a story, and ours begins with a simple idea: good food should be made from scratch, served with pride, and shared with the community. For more than fifty years, Essl’s has been Pleasantville’s favorite stop for homemade breakfasts and hearty lunches, the daily fuel for local families, first responders, and hardworking crews across Atlantic County.

Our Family Story at Essl’s Family Restaurant in Pleasantville

A Family-Owned Tradition Since 1972

When Essl’s opened its doors in 1972, it wasn’t just about serving meals; it was about building a place where neighbors could gather, families could connect, and everyone felt welcome. Over the decades, Essl’s became known for generous portions, comforting flavors, and a diner-style atmosphere where regulars were treated like family.

After founder Bob Essl retired in 2018, the Hettmannsperger family proudly took over, promising to keep his legacy alive. Today, that same promise guides every plate we serve: tradition, quality, and family values at the heart of it all.

The Messl and Other Local Legends

Ask any Pleasantville local what they recommend at Essl’s and you’ll probably hear about the Messl — our signature messy eggs-and-home-fries sandwich. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a rite of passage. Loaded with potatoes, eggs, choice or meat, cheese, and toppings, it’s the kind of hearty meal that built our reputation for serving the best breakfast and lunch in Pleasantville, NJ.

But the Messl is just the beginning. Our menu is full of classics that generations of customers have come back for again and again; fluffy pancakes, sandwiches stacked high, and soups.

Baked Goods With Quality Ingredients

From the moment our ovens fire up, the smell of muffins, breads, pies, and cookies baked on-premise fills the restaurant. Baking isn’t just a side note here; it’s part of who we are. It’s the kind of food that makes people slow down, sit together, and share a meal worth remembering.

Renovating History at Our Pleasantville Home

The building we call home is nearly 100 years old, and we’ve taken great pride in preserving its history. Recently renovated, Essl’s Family Restaurant now features a vintage Atlantic City theme; a nod to the region’s past and a celebration of its timeless charm.

When you step inside, you’ll find a space that feels both new and familiar, with updated touches that make dining comfortable while honoring the character of the building’s long history.

More Than a Restaurant — Catering & Deli Services

Over the years, Essl’s has grown into more than just a place to eat. Our catering services bring homemade comfort food to your events, from business meetings to birthday parties. With breakfast trays, sandwich platters, and baked goods, hosting becomes simple, affordable, and — most importantly — delicious.

Our deli food truck extends that same tradition into your daily life. Whether you’re looking for grab-and-go meals, baked treats, or specialty items, the deli makes it easy to enjoy Essl’s quality outside the restaurant.

Why We Do What We Do

At its heart, Essl’s Family Restaurant is about more than food. It’s about carrying on a tradition that began in 1972 and making sure every guest feels like they’re part of that story.

We’re proud to be Pleasantville’s go-to family restaurant, a place where locals really feel “right at home.” For us, the best reward isn’t just full tables, it’s the generations of families who continue to share their lives with us over breakfast, lunch, and everything in between.

Why Pleasantville Locals Love Us

Our reputation isn’t built on advertising — it’s built on word of mouth. Residents of Pleasantville, Atlantic City, NJ, and beyond keep us going strong with glowing reviews and repeat visits.

With hundreds of reviews and a 4.6★ rating, it’s clear why Essl’s is considered one of the best breakfast and lunch restaurants in Pleasantville, NJ.

“Only the locals know about this little hidden gem. Family owned. Friendly service and staff. They have been around forever and serve great food. You know it’s good when you see all of the vehicles in the parking lot- work trucks, cops, firemen, etc…”

“I had the Messl egg sandwich very good steak and eggs were right on point. .”

“Enjoyed eating here. Everything tasted superb. Food came quickly and friendly service. Definitely coming back soon.”

Visit Essl’s Family Restaurant in Pleasantville, NJ

Whether you’re a local who’s been dining with us for decades or a first-time visitor passing through, we invite you to experience the warmth, tradition, and homemade comfort food that make Essl’s special.

On Black Horse Pike at the Pleasantville / West Atlantic City line, minutes from Egg Harbor Township.

Our Family Story at Essl’s Family Restaurant in Pleasantville