20 Best New Jersey Restaurants (2024)
New Jersey is just a short ride away from “The Big Apple,” but has its own restaurants with several delicious cuisines worth diving into!
The Garden State has officially snagged the title of being the ‘diner capital of the world’ for the highly advanced transportation system that allowed diners to flourish.
While New Jersey has over 500 diners, the state also has plenty of fine dining and Michelin-star restaurants boasting their own ambiance and food items.
Tip: Most of these restaurants don’t officially open till 4:30-5 pm. Some of the restaurants are also closed on select days like Monday or Tuesday. Make sure to visit the official websites for restaurant hours and days.
Here are some of the best restaurants to try on your next trip to New Jersey!
Iconic New Jersey Foods to Try
One way to immerse yourself in another culture or state is to try signature foods. Here are some of the foods and snacks that are worth trying on your adventure to New Jersey:
- Pork Roll
- Hoagies
- Salt Water Taffy
- Tomato Pie
- Hot dogs
Best Restaurants in New Jersey
1. The Frog & The Peach
Step into a gourmet American-style restaurant by dining at The Frog & The Peach! Located in New Brunswick, this upscale restaurant is a place for all visitors to explore various cuisines with savory wines inside a beautiful garden room.
The Frog & The Peach also has quite a few classic dishes to draw guests into the Garden State with Cacio E Pepe, Hanger Steak Frites, and Long Island Duck Breast.
Address: 29 Dennis St, New Brunswick, New Jersey
2. Faubourg Restaurant and Bar
Bring nature to your next dining experience in New Jersey at the Faubourg Restaurant and Bar! Fill your taste buds with tantalizing French cuisine and signature cocktails.
Faubourg Restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike with its industrial-chic interior and patio area. Some of the signature dishes include Coq Au Vin, Grilled Octopus, and French Toast with Blueberries.
When planning your trip, reserve your seat at this upscale restaurant in Montclair!
Address: 544 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, New Jersey
3. Just Restaurant
In the heart of Central New Jersey, Just Restaurant is a contemporary American-style restaurant with an array of unique food options. This restaurant in particular is great for visitors on a gluten-free or plant-based diet.
Try their delectable wines, the Volcano Seared Tuna, and the Pretzel bread. If you plan your trip accordingly, the restaurant may have a selection of signature desserts for special holidays or occasions.
Address: 2280 US 9 South, Old Bridge, New Jersey
4. SLA Thai
With a contemporary dining setting, the Thai dishes bring flavor and colors to the overall dining experience. Compared to fine dining restaurants, SLA Thai is casual and more laid-back with a cozy ambiance.
Take advantage of the outdoor seating and endless tea options with family or on your own. Offering plenty of healthy options, the menu consists of a few popular dishes that locals recommend: Tuna Arugula Salad, Tom Yum, and Papaya Salad.
Address: 596 Valley Rd, Montclair, New Jersey
5. The Circle
With top-notch chefs, The Circle restaurant brings the culinary arts to life with savory dishes in a contemporary setting. While this American restaurant has fewer menu options than other places, The Circle enhances every dish with lasting flavors.
The best part about this restaurant is the quality service. Hang out or plan a date night at The Circle with its wide selection of wines and desserts.
Top menu items: oysters, scallops, gnocchi, and burrata
Address: 310 NJ-94, Newton, New Jersey
6. Cellar 335
Immerse yourself in a medley of delicious food and cocktails at Cellar 335. One of the best restaurants in New Jersey, Cellar 335 combines Asian cuisine and New Jersey culture with the funky decor in a basement setting.
Even though Cellar 335 is a great place for a romantic night out, it is most popular for solo dining with happy hour drinks and a casual atmosphere.
Top menu items: Avocado Fried Rice, Korean Style Wings, Charred Edamame, and Bao Buns
Address: 335 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ
7. Corto
Combining vintage and Italian ambiance, the Corto restaurant is located in a casual neighborhood with seasonal Italian cuisine.
The airy setting invites visitors inside even before the food appears on the table. With outdoor seating and healthy options, Corto is a great place for lunch and dinner.
Top menu items: Rigatoni, Angry Chicken, and Octopus
Address: 507 Palisade Ave, Jersey City, NJ
8. Ondo
Located at 3 Second Street at Harborside, Ondo is a Korean restaurant that combines the Korean food scene with the cozy ambiance of New Jersey. Offering a number of main dishes and small plates, every visitor can expect to be presented with colorful and flavorful food.
At the Ondo, you don’t have to worry about dressing up and instead place all your focus on tasting new dishes and making memories with friends.
Top menu items: Galbi & Mushroom Rice, Chickpea, Spicy Korean Fried Chicken, and Green Tea Yuzu Cake
Address: 3 2nd St, Jersey City, NJ
9. Hearthside
Hearthside ensures that every visitor is granted large plates with unique food. This contemporary American restaurant provides a wood-fired oven and grill with a few pasta dishes.
Although foodies are immersed in a cozy and romantic ambiance, Hearthside is on the pricey side with an array of expensive ingredients.
Popular Menu Items: Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, Prime Dry-Aged Porterhouse, and Wine
Address: 801 Haddon Ave, Collingswood, NJ
10. Osteria Crescendo
Delight yourself in the flavors of Italy at the Osteria Crescendo! While the menu offers unique and familiar dishes, their selection of wine and cocktails creates a blend of coziness and elegance in both indoor and outdoor seating.
Although Osteria Crescendo can be on the expensive side, the service and the food make spending more money worthwhile for a nice dining experience.
Top food items: Hanger steak, Berkshire pork chop, and Orecchiette.
Address: 36 Jefferson Ave, Westwood, NJ
11. Viaggio
Experience an elegant Italian dining experience when visiting one of the best restaurants in New Jersey. Viaggio in Wayne greets guests with a charming tavern and classic Tuscan cuisine from local ingredients.
Recently, Viaggio created space for outdoor seating with delivery and take-out options. Offering visitors a cozy and upscale experience, Viaggio is a great place for a night out with large and small groups.
Top food items: Lamb Ravioli, scallops, Yellowtail Crudo, and Calamari Fritti.
Address: 1055 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne, NJ
12. Heirloom Kitchen
For a more intimate dining experience, Heirloom Kitchen in Old Bridge is the perfect place to try unique American dishes and take cooking classes. This restaurant works to enhance all of your senses from the aroma to the artistic accents in every dish.
The perks of the Heirloom Kitchen are that it is women-owned and LGBTQ+ friendly!
Top food items: pork belly, scallops, duck breast, and venison
Address: 3853 County Rd 516, Old Bridge, NJ
13. The Hill
Bring your family and friends to this American-style restaurant in Closter! While the menu only has a few unique items, The Hill provides an inviting atmosphere for sports nights and romance.
Some of the best aspects of this restaurant are the outdoor patio, fireplace, and live music.
Top menu items: steak, wine, fish tacos, and Tuna Tartare Nikkei
Address: 252 Schraalenburgh Rd, Closter, NJ
14. Barelis Restaurant and Bar
Italian elegance meets nighttime club at the Barelis Restaurant and Bar. In the heart of New Jersey, experience authentic Italian cuisine with an array of healthy food options and desserts.
While the restaurant is popular for watching sports, Barelis offers just enough coziness for an ideal romantic date night.
Top food items: Linguini with Clam Sauce, Swordfish, and Tiramisu
Address: 219 NJ-3, Secaucus, NJ
15. James on Main
One of the best restaurants in New Jersey, James on Main offers a unique dining experience with a comfortable blend of casual and sophistication.
From the dishes to the ambiance, this beautiful restaurant creates a lasting impression for visitors and locals alike. The classic American dishes are flavorful and made with fresh ingredients.
Top menu items: Pan-Roasted Icelandic Cod, Wine, and Pain Perdu
Address: 105 Main Street, Hackettstown, NJ
16. Turtle+ the Wolf
One of the more budget-friendly options on this list, Turtle+ The Wolf is a classic American restaurant with a stunning industrial design that reminds visitors of the essence of New Jersey.
From the interior to the food, Turtle+ The Wolf flawlessly brings the New Jersey food culture to life.
Guests can also dine outside as they enjoy their flavorful dishes.
Top menu items: Chicken Liver Mousse, Duck Pot Pie, and Brick Chicken
Address: 622 Valley Rd, Upper Montclair, NJ
17. Ivy Inn Restaurant & Bar
Surround yourself in a low-key fairytale garden at the Ivy Inn Restaurant & Bar! This fine dining restaurant elevates American dishes perfectly, accompanied by a fireplace, brick walls, and live piano.
Despite the building once being a stagecoach inn, this stunning restaurant opens the doors for visitors craving food and a little bit of history.
Top menu items: Zeppoles, Breakfast Pizza, Shrimp Cocktail, and Crab Cake
Address: 268 Terrace Ave, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
18. Stage Left Steak
Step inside an elegant room filled with chandeliers and small dining tables made of wood. Stage Left Steak is a cozy place to dine for large groups with both indoor and outdoor seating.
The outdoor seating is just as beautiful as the inside with small black tables near a breathtaking cathedral. Every dish created at Stage Left Steak is an artistic masterpiece with unique flavors.
Keep in mind that this restaurant may be full since this place is high on every tourist’s list.
Top menu items: Tomahawk Steak, The Stage Left Burger, and Bread Pudding
Address: 5 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ
19. Fornos of Spain
Located in Newark, Fornos of Spain is one of the best restaurants in New Jersey. A mix between an Old-World setting and an elegant dining area, Fornos of Spain has made a name for itself with its flavorful cocktails, romantic ambiance, and classic Spanish cuisine.
Top menu items: Paella Valenciana, Spanish Churros with Chocolate, and Lobster Tails
Address: 47 Ferry St, Newark, NJ
20. Park Place
Stop by the quaint town of Merchantville and eat at Park Place. This small BYOB is known for its great service and world-changing dishes that keep visitors coming back for more.
While the outside of Park Place looks like a regular building that mixes a diner and a cafe, the interior provides a memorable coziness that blends well with the creative dishes.
Top menu items: Beet Cured Salmon, Duck Breast, and Charred Spanish Octopus
Address: 7 E Park Ave, Merchantville, NJ
Best New Jersey Restaurants Guide
When visiting cities that are close to New York City like Secaucus, it is easy to overlook the food scene in New Jersey and instead travel into the city for restaurants.
If you happen to find yourself in New Jersey for a few days, stop by a couple of these restaurants to better immerse yourself in the culture and the classic dishes that many locals love.
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