New Jersey’s food scene is seriously underrated, and after visiting several times over the years, I’ve discovered just how diverse and exciting it really is. From cozy waterfront bistros along the Hudson River to rooftop eateries in Hoboken with stunning skyline views, this state has it all. Whether you’re into classic Italian spots in Jersey City, seafood shacks on the Jersey Shore, or trendy cafes in Montclair, you’ll find a little bit of everything here.
Each town has its own flavor, and the mix of cultures makes dining in NJ a real treat. Here are 20 of the most unique and fun restaurants across New Jersey that every foodie should try at least once!
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this dinner cruise with dolphin watching in Cape May. It’s a scenic sunset dinner cruise that brings you to landmarks in Delaware Bay, including Cape May Lighthouse, as well as whale and dolphin spotting. This tour is an absolute must-do on any New Jersey itinerary in my opinion. A great birthday gift, too!
Unique Restaurants in New Jersey
Are you excited to explore the most fun and unique restaurants in New Jersey? There are incredible places to eat in NJ that will please all locals and travelers alike. Are you looking for a Venetian gondola dining experience by the water? Or would you prefer a journey through time with dishes from different decades? Whatever you’d like to eat, there are unique places to eat in New Jersey that got you covered. These eateries are some of the best spots on the East Coast, hands down.
1. The Melting Pot (Red Bank & Maple Shade)
- Location: Red Bank Galleria & Maple Shade (Route 38)
- Price range: $55 – $65 per person for four-course experience
- Cuisine Style: Interactive fondue dining
- Standout Features: Cheese fondue with artisan breads, tableside chocolate preparation, social communal cooking, Sam Adams beer cheese blend
- Perfect For: Date nights, anniversaries, group celebrations, fondue newcomers, special occasions
The Melting Pot delivers an experience you can’t replicate at home. The “Four-Course Dinner for Two” currently runs between $111 and $129 per couple, but you’re paying for theatrical dining where every course unfolds over two hours. Start with their signature Wisconsin cheese fondue enhanced with Sam Adams Boston Lager – it’s served with fresh vegetables, artisan breads, and seasonal fruit that changes monthly. The chocolate course showcases live preparation where servers demonstrate proper dipping techniques using everything from cheesecake to strawberries.
The Red Bank location features modern, intimate design with social bar seating and communal areas where you can watch chocolate fondue preparation on display. The Maple Shade location relocated from Philadelphia and maintains authentic Swiss traditions. Their bacon mac and cheese fondue represents the chain’s evolution toward American comfort flavors. This isn’t fast dining – plan three hours minimum and embrace the communal aspect that makes conversations flow as smoothly as the melted cheese.
2. Rat’s Restaurant – Hamilton
- 📍 Location: Hamilton (Grounds For Sculpture)
- 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: French Country / Upscale
- 🔥 Standout Features: Monet’s Giverny setting, sculpture garden views, refined French.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic occasions, art/garden lovers, and upscale French dining.
Step into a living Monet painting at Rat’s Restaurant, nestled within the breathtaking Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton! This enchanting spot is designed to evoke Giverny, with charming country French architecture, lily pad-dotted ponds, and stunning views of the surrounding sculptures. The air is filled with an atmosphere of romantic artistry.
You’ll definitely want to try the classic French onion soup gratinée or the flavorful Escargots de Bourgogne. For a main course, the steak frites is a popular choice. Their wine list is excellent. It’s a truly magical dining experience.
3. Zeppelin Hall (Jersey City)
- Location: Jersey City (Liberty View Drive, near Grove Street PATH)
- Price range: $15 – $25 per person
- Cuisine Style: German-American biergarten
- Standout Features: 100+ beer selection, communal 30-foot tables, live music weekends, giant Munich pretzels
- Perfect For: After-work groups, beer enthusiasts, casual dates, sports watching, late-night dining
Zeppelin Hall operates as an authentic European-style biergarten with both indoor and outdoor spaces where hundreds of guests gather under trees and stars. The communal seating isn’t a gimmick – it’s designed to spark conversations with strangers over liter steins of German imports and American craft selections. Their Hindenburger stacks bratwurst and bacon on a beef patty, creating the kind of indulgent combination that pairs perfectly with Spaten or Stella Artois. The giant pretzels imported from Munich and the pulled pork and brisket are standout dishes.
After 9PM, they lower lights and turn up music, presenting live party bands on Fridays and DJ dancing to house music on Saturdays. The space transforms from family-friendly afternoon spot to 21+ nightlife destination. They maintain a constantly changing selection of over 100 European imports and U.S. craft beers. Free parking eliminates the Jersey City headache, and the self-service ordering system with electronic buzzers keeps things moving efficiently during peak hours.
4. Delsea Drive-In – Vineland
- 📍 Location: Vineland
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person (Movie ticket + concessions)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Drive-In Fare / Movie Snacks
- 🔥 Standout Features: NJ’s only drive-in, retro double features, classic concessions.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Nostalgic movie nights, unique family fun, and American drive-in eats.
Roll back the clock for a double feature of fun and food at the Delsea Drive-In in Vineland, New Jersey’s last remaining drive-in movie theater! This beloved institution offers a wonderfully nostalgic experience, where you can watch movies from the comfort of your car under the stars. The aroma of popcorn and grilling burgers is pure Americana.
Grab classic drive-in fare from their concession stand. People rave about their juicy cheeseburgers and crispy fries. Of course, a movie isn’t complete without hot popcorn, and for a sweet treat, the funnel cake is a must. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a night out.
5. The Walpack Inn (Walpack Center)
- Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- Price range: $35 – $50 per person
- Cuisine Style: American steakhouse
- Standout Features: Famous brown bread, salad bar, deer feeding outside windows, wilderness location
- Perfect For: Weekend escapes, nature lovers, romantic dinners, special occasions, wildlife enthusiasts
The Walpack Inn includes their famous salad bar, choice of one side, and homemade brown bread with every entree. This place epitomizes “hidden gem” – you’ll drive through remote forestland wondering if GPS led you astray, then discover a packed dining room with deer literally feeding outside the windows. The brown bread arrives warm and dense, with a slightly sweet flavor that locals have craved since 1949. Their prime rib is cut thick and served Pittsburgh-style if requested.
The inn is known for its famous Walpack Inn brown bread, large salad bar, prime rib, great steaks, fresh seafood, and a large selection of pies – all made in-house. The greenhouse dining room provides panoramic views of Walpack Valley, where white-tailed deer gather every evening like clockwork. Located in a very remote part of New Jersey, getting there can sometimes feel like being in an episode of “The Twilight Zone”. Their Prince Edward Island mussels in tomato-wine broth represent sophisticated preparation in an intentionally rustic setting. Weekend-only operation means reservations are essential. The drive becomes part of the experience – plan to arrive before sunset for optimal wildlife viewing.
6. Medieval Times – Lyndhurst
- 📍 Location: Lyndhurst
- 💲 Price range: $50 – $80+ per person (Dinner & Show)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Medieval Feast / Dinner Theater
- 🔥 Standout Features: Live medieval tournament, jousting/horsemanship, utensil-free castle dining.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Theatrical family outings, medieval fantasy fans, and interactive dinner-shows.
Huzzah! Prepare for a feast and a battle of epic proportions at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Lyndhurst! Cheer for your knight as they joust, sword fight, and perform incredible feats of horsemanship in a grand arena, all while you devour a utensil-free meal.
The castle setting and thrilling tournament create an electrifying atmosphere. The feast includes hearty roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, and herb-basted potatoes. You also get a tasty tomato bisque. It’s a full-blown spectacle where you eat with your hands!
7. Liberty House Restaurant (Jersey City)
- Location: Liberty State Park waterfront
- Price range: $40 – $60 per person
- Cuisine Style: Modern American Mediterranean
- Standout Features: Manhattan skyline views, Statue of Liberty backdrop, outdoor patios, tableside preparations
- Perfect For: Special occasions, tourists, romantic dinners, business entertainment, wedding venues
Now operating as Maddy Rose Restaurant, Liberty House boasts unsurpassed views of the New York City skyline, Ellis Island, Lady Liberty, and Liberty Landing Marina. The location inside Liberty State Park provides unobstructed sightlines that photographers dream about. Their Maddy Rose tower features 12 east coast oysters, 6 west coast oysters, 6 clams, 6 jumbo shrimp, tuna crudo, and crab ceviche for $125. The crab cake with spicy mayo and pineapple salsa showcases Mediterranean influences that distinguish this from typical waterfront establishments.
The Mediterranean inspiration touches design elements and throughout the menu, with highly crafted food that makes you feel like you’re dining al fresco on Greek or Italian beaches. Their wrap-around terrace on the second floor provides elevated perspectives during sunset hours. The liberty burger with onion compote represents elevated comfort food execution. Their beverage program is unmatched in Jersey City with highly curated cocktails. Free parking eliminates the usual Liberty State Park headaches. The venue doubles as a premier wedding location, so weekend availability requires advance planning.
8. The Silverball Museum – Asbury Park
- 📍 Location: Asbury Park
- 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person (Game play, food separate)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Boardwalk Fare / Snacks
- 🔥 Standout Features: Vintage pinball/arcade, playable games, casual boardwalk eats.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Pinball wizards, retro arcade fans, and fun boardwalk bites.
Get your game on at The Silverball Museum in Asbury Park, a haven for pinball wizards and lovers of all things retro arcade! This isn’t just a museum; it’s a playable archive of hundreds of classic pinball machines and arcade games. They also offer classic boardwalk-style fare.
Grab quick and tasty boardwalk eats. Many visitors enjoy a classic hot dog or some salty fries. A warm soft pretzel or a slice of pizza also hit the spot to fuel your gaming adventures. The flashing lights create an incredibly fun atmosphere.
9. The Highlawn Pavilion (West Orange)
- Location: Eagle Rock Reservation summit
- Price range: $45 – $70 per person
- Cuisine Style: Contemporary American
- Standout Features: NYC skyline panoramas, recently renovated space, sunset dining, elevated location
- Perfect For: Special occasions, romantic dinners, milestone celebrations, sunset cocktails, impressive business meals
Perched atop Eagle Rock Reservation, Highlawn Pavilion commands the most spectacular elevated views in North Jersey. The recently completed renovation transformed this historic venue into a sophisticated dining destination where floor-to-ceiling windows frame Manhattan’s skyline like living artwork. Their contemporary American menu features dishes like pan-seared duck breast with cherry gastrique and herb-crusted rack of lamb that justify the elevated pricing. The bar program emphasizes craft cocktails designed to complement the golden hour experience – arrive 90 minutes before sunset for optimal timing.
Sunday brunch becomes a destination experience when the dining room fills with natural light streaming across the reservation’s tree canopy. The outdoor terrace provides unobstructed views stretching from the George Washington Bridge to the Verrazano. Their commitment to seasonal ingredients means the menu evolves quarterly, but the signature filet mignon with truffle butter remains constant. Valet parking eliminates the challenge of navigating Eagle Rock’s winding roads in formal attire. The wine list emphasizes old-world selections that pair naturally with the elevated setting and refined preparations.
10. The Knife & Fork Inn – Atlantic City
- 📍 Location: Atlantic City
- 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Steakhouse / Seafood / Historic
- 🔥 Standout Features: Iconic AC institution, Prohibition-era history, classic fine dining.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Historic fine dining, Boardwalk Empire fans, and upscale steak/seafood.
Step into a piece of Atlantic City history at The Knife & Fork Inn, an iconic institution since 1912. This legendary spot, once a haunt of Nucky Thompson, exudes old-world charm, serving up classic American steakhouse and seafood fare in a refined setting.
For a truly classic experience, many recommend their famous Lobster Thermidor. The filet mignon is cooked to perfection, and their crab cakes are a local favorite. It’s a timeless choice for an upscale, atmospheric meal steeped in AC history.
11. The Barrow House (Clifton)
- Location: Historic Clifton neighborhood
- Price range: $30 – $45 per person
- Cuisine Style: Farm-to-table American
- Standout Features: Restored 1860s farmhouse, multiple dining rooms, seasonal outdoor patio, local sourcing
- Perfect For: Farm-to-table enthusiasts, intimate dinners, group dining, seasonal menu lovers, historic atmosphere seekers
The Barrow House operates inside an authentically restored 1860s farmhouse where original wide-plank floors and exposed beam ceilings create intimate spaces throughout multiple dining rooms. Each room maintains distinct character – the tavern features a working fireplace, while the main dining room showcases original architectural details. Their farm-to-table commitment runs deeper than trendy marketing, sourcing vegetables from Schuyler Farms and proteins from local suppliers within 50 miles.
The seasonal menu changes quarterly, but their signature braised short ribs with root vegetables exemplifies their approach to elevated comfort food. The outdoor patio, shaded by mature oak trees, becomes the preferred seating during spring and fall months. Their wine program emphasizes small-production American vintages that complement the rustic-elegant atmosphere. The cheese board features selections from local creameries, served with house-made accompaniments that change with seasonal availability. Sunday brunch transforms the space with natural light streaming through original windows. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for the coveted fireplace tables during winter months. The intimate scale means parties larger than eight require advance coordination.
12. Lucy’s Kitchen – Princeton
- 📍 Location: Princeton
- 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Polish / Eastern European / Home-Style
- 🔥 Standout Features: Homemade Polish cuisine, cozy/unpretentious, beloved local gem.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Polish comfort food, pierogi/kielbasa lovers, and Eastern European taste.
Get ready for a delicious taste of Poland right in Princeton at Lucy’s Kitchen! This cozy and unpretentious spot is a beloved local gem, serving up authentic, homemade Polish cuisine that’s pure comfort food. The air is filled with wonderful aromas.
You should certainly try their incredible pierogi, handmade with fillings like potato and cheese or meat. A hearty plate of kielbasa and sauerkraut is a must, and their stuffed cabbage (golabki) is wonderfully satisfying. It’s like a Polish grandmother’s kitchen.
13. Brick Farm Tavern (Hopewell)
- Location: Working farm in Hopewell Township
- Price range: $35 – $50 per person
- Cuisine Style: Farm-to-table contemporary
- Standout Features: On-site working farm, seasonal harvest menus, rustic barn setting, ingredient transparency
- Perfect For: Farm-to-table purists, seasonal diners, romantic countryside meals, agricultural tourism, weekend escapes
Brick Farm Tavern operates on an actual working farm where dinner ingredients are literally harvested steps from the kitchen. The rustic barn setting features exposed wooden beams and industrial fixtures that complement rather than compete with the pastoral surroundings. Their menu changes with growing seasons – spring features asparagus and peas from on-site gardens, while fall emphasizes squash and root vegetables. The roasted chicken arrives with vegetables that were growing in adjacent fields hours earlier. Their commitment to transparency means servers can detail the specific farm source for every ingredient. The wine list emphasizes natural and biodynamic selections that align with their agricultural philosophy.
Weekend dinner seatings fill quickly as word spreads about their genuine farm-to-table execution. The cheese course features selections from nearby Hopewell Valley farms, served with house-made preserves using on-site fruit. Their bread program utilizes heritage grains milled locally, resulting in distinctive flavors that change seasonally. The setting becomes magical during sunset when golden light streams across the surrounding farmland. Reservations open exactly 30 days in advance and disappear quickly for prime weekend slots.
14. Heirloom Kitchen – Old Bridge
- 📍 Location: Old Bridge
- 💲 Price range: $70 – $150+ per person (Often tasting menu/prix fixe)
- 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Farm-to-Table / Tasting Menu & Cooking School
- 🔥 Standout Features: Chef’s counter/tasting menus, cooking school, hyper-seasonal/local.
- 🎯 Perfect For: Serious foodies, unique culinary experiences, and local/seasonal cuisine.
Experience food as art and education at Heirloom Kitchen in Old Bridge. This unique spot is part intimate restaurant offering incredible tasting menus and part interactive cooking school, all driven by a passion for hyper-seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Reservations are essential for the tasting events. Expect dishes highlighting Jersey Fresh produce, like creative seasonal vegetable courses. Perfectly prepared local seafood, such as scallops, and inventive handmade pasta dishes are common features.
15. Franklin Social (Jersey City)
- Location: Jersey City downtown
- Price range: $25 – $40 per person
- Cuisine Style: American tavern
- Standout Features: Speakeasy atmosphere, craft cocktail program, intimate lighting, live music
- Perfect For: Cocktail enthusiasts, date nights, after-work drinks, intimate conversations, craft beer lovers
Franklin Social captures authentic speakeasy ambiance without resorting to password gimmicks or hidden entrances. The dimly lit space features exposed brick walls and vintage fixtures that create intimate conversation pockets throughout the narrow room. Their cocktail program emphasizes classic preparations with house-made bitters and seasonal syrups – the Old Fashioned arrives with a perfectly clear ice cube and expressed orange peel. The kitchen focuses on elevated tavern fare like duck confit sliders and truffle mac and cheese that complement rather than compete with the beverage program.
Live jazz performances on Wednesday evenings transform the space into an intimate music venue where conversations pause for exceptional musicianship. The beer selection emphasizes local breweries and Belgian imports, served in appropriate glassware that enhances aromatics. Their charcuterie board features selections from local producers, paired with house-made accompaniments and artisan crackers. The narrow space means tables are limited – arrive early for optimal seating, especially during weekend evenings. The wine list emphasizes small-production vintages that pair naturally with the sophisticated tavern atmosphere and refined bar snacks.
16. Porta (Jersey City & Asbury Park)
- Location: Jersey City waterfront & Asbury Park downtown
- Price range: $20 – $35 per person
- Cuisine Style: Neapolitan pizza
- Standout Features: Wood-fired ovens, late-night atmosphere, live music, craft beer selection
- Perfect For: Pizza enthusiasts, late-night dining, group gatherings, music lovers, casual dates
Porta transcends typical pizzeria expectations by combining authentic Neapolitan techniques with an energetic atmosphere that extends well beyond dinner hours. Their wood-fired ovens reach temperatures exceeding 900 degrees, creating properly charred crusts with characteristic leopard spotting that signals authentic preparation. The Montanara features fried pizza dough topped with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella – a technique rarely executed properly outside Naples. Their beverage program emphasizes Italian wines and American craft beers that complement the rustic pizza preparations.
The Jersey City location transforms into a music venue after 9PM, featuring local bands and DJs that create an energetic atmosphere uncommon in most restaurants. The Asbury Park location captures the boardwalk’s laid-back energy while maintaining the same high-quality pizza standards. Their antipasti selection includes house-made charcuterie and imported Italian selections that provide authentic appetizer options. The open kitchen allows diners to watch pizza-making techniques that require years to master. Late-night service until 2AM makes this a rare option for quality food after traditional dinner hours. Weekend reservations are recommended, but walk-in bar seating provides flexibility for spontaneous visits.
17. Maritime Parc (Jersey City)
- Location: Liberty State Park waterfront
- Price range: $40 – $65 per person
- Cuisine Style: Contemporary seafood
- Standout Features: Manhattan skyline views, fresh seafood focus, outdoor terrace, Liberty State Park location
- Perfect For: Seafood lovers, romantic dinners, business entertainment, waterfront dining, special occasions
Maritime Parc occupies a privileged position within Liberty State Park where panoramic harbor views create a dining backdrop that rivals any restaurant in the tri-state area. The seafood-focused menu changes daily based on market availability, but their raw bar consistently features east and west coast oysters alongside littleneck clams and jumbo shrimp. The pan-seared halibut with seasonal vegetables exemplifies their commitment to preparation techniques that enhance rather than mask natural seafood flavors. Their wine list emphasizes coastal vintages from California, Oregon, and France that complement the maritime setting and menu focus.
The outdoor terrace becomes the preferred seating during temperate months when harbor breezes provide natural air conditioning. Sunset timing transforms the dining experience as golden light reflects off Manhattan’s glass towers across the harbor. Their lobster roll features chunks of fresh lobster meat with minimal mayonnaise, served on a buttery brioche roll that doesn’t overwhelm the primary ingredient. Weekend brunch features seafood Benedict and smoked salmon preparations that justify early weekend reservations. The location within Liberty State Park provides free parking but requires navigation through park roads that close at specific evening hours.
18. Rod’s Steak & Seafood Grille (Convent Station)
- Location: Historic Convent Station
- Price range: $50 – $80 per person
- Cuisine Style: Steakhouse
- Standout Features: Private railway car dining, historic setting, premium steaks, intimate atmosphere
- Perfect For: Special occasions, romantic dinners, milestone celebrations, unique dining experiences, steak enthusiasts
Rod’s Steak & Seafood Grille transforms dining into theater through their private Parlour Cars – authentically restored turn-of-the-century railway cars that provide the most unique intimate dining setting in New Jersey. The main dining room features classic steakhouse ambiance, but the railway cars offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience where couples dine in completely private restored train compartments. Their dry-aged steaks are sourced from premium suppliers and prepared using traditional steakhouse techniques that emphasize proper searing and temperature control.
The lobster tail and filet mignon combination represents classic surf-and-turf execution at its finest. Their wine cellar emphasizes bold reds that complement the rich steak preparations – the sommelier provides expert pairing recommendations that enhance both food and wine. The historic setting in Convent Station adds authentic charm that cannot be replicated in newer establishments. Service operates at white-tablecloth standards where servers demonstrate proper wine service and table-side preparation techniques. The private railway cars require advance reservations and command premium pricing, but deliver an experience that creates lasting memories. Their commitment to traditional steakhouse preparations means consistency across visits, making this a reliable choice for important celebrations.
19. St. Eve’s (Ho-Ho-Kus)
- Location: Historic Ho-Ho-Kus
- Price range: $45 – $65 per person (BYOB)
- Cuisine Style: French-influenced American
- Standout Features: BYOB policy, intimate setting, seasonal menu, chef-driven cuisine
- Perfect For: Wine enthusiasts, intimate dinners, BYOB fans, seasonal cuisine lovers, sophisticated diners
St. Eve’s operates as a hidden gem where chef-driven cuisine meets intimate BYOB charm in a restored historic building that seats fewer than 50 guests. The seasonal menu changes monthly based on market availability, but their commitment to French techniques applied to American ingredients remains constant. The duck breast with cherry gastrique exemplifies their approach to sophisticated preparations that avoid pretension. Their BYOB policy creates exceptional value for wine enthusiasts who can bring premium bottles without restaurant markup – corkage fees are minimal and service includes proper wine service with appropriate glassware.
The intimate scale means every table receives personalized attention from servers who understand each dish’s preparation and suggested wine pairings. Their commitment to seasonal ingredients means spring features asparagus and peas, while fall emphasizes game and root vegetables. The chef personally sources ingredients from local farms and adjusts preparations based on product quality rather than rigid menu requirements. Reservations are essential given the limited seating capacity and growing reputation among sophisticated diners. The intimate setting makes this ideal for special occasions where conversation and food receive equal attention. Their dessert program features house-made selections that change seasonally but consistently demonstrate pastry techniques that rival dedicated dessert restaurants.
20. The Avenue Restaurant (Long Branch)
- Location: Long Branch oceanfront
- Price range: $35 – $55 per person
- Cuisine Style: French brasserie
- Standout Features: Oceanfront views, rooftop bar, French technique, beachside location
- Perfect For: Ocean views, French cuisine lovers, rooftop drinks, beachside dining, summer evenings
The Avenue Restaurant brings authentic French brasserie atmosphere to the Jersey Shore where oceanfront views provide a distinctive backdrop for sophisticated cuisine. Their French-trained chef applies classical techniques to seasonal ingredients, creating dishes like bouillabaisse with local seafood that showcases both technical skill and regional awareness. The rooftop bar transforms into Long Branch’s premier sunset destination where craft cocktails complement panoramic ocean vistas. Their wine list emphasizes French vintages alongside American coastal selections that pair naturally with both the cuisine and maritime setting.
The ground-floor dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the Atlantic Ocean, creating an atmosphere where the natural setting enhances rather than competes with the culinary experience. Their steak frites exemplifies proper French bistro execution with hand-cut fries and classic béarnaise sauce. Weekend brunch features French toast made with brioche and eggs Benedict with house-made hollandaise that justify early reservations. The beachside location provides a unique combination of sophisticated dining and casual shore atmosphere that appeals to both locals and seasonal visitors. Summer evening service extends to the outdoor terrace where ocean breezes provide natural cooling during the peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unique Restaurants in New Jersey
Searching for more content to help you decide where to eat in New Jersey? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about New Jersey’s best restaurants.
What is New Jersey’s most iconic food?
If there’s one dish that stands out in New Jersey, it’s the Taylor Ham (or Pork Roll) sandwich. This breakfast staple, often served with egg and cheese on a bagel or roll, has been a favorite among locals for decades. Whether you’re at a diner or a food truck, you’re sure to find this unique New Jersey delicacy on the menu!
What is one thing New Jersey is known for?
Aside from New Jersey’s restaurants, New Jersey is famously known as the “Garden State.” With its lush farmlands and fresh produce markets, the state boasts a rich agricultural heritage. From juicy tomatoes to sweet blueberries, New Jersey’s produce is a testament to its fertile lands and farming traditions.
Are there any unique places in New Jersey to eat that cater to vegetarians?
Absolutely! New Jersey’s dining scene is diverse, with many restaurants offering extensive vegetarian and vegan menus. Places like “Green Goddess Cafe” in Princeton or “Veggie Heaven” in Teaneck are just a couple of the many establishments catering to plant-based diets.
Which areas in New Jersey are best for food enthusiasts?
New Jersey is an incredible destination for food lovers. Here’s a quick rundown of areas that are a must-visit for any culinary enthusiast:
- Newark’s Ironbound District: Known for its Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian eateries.
- Asbury Park: A mix of trendy cafes, bakeries, and fine dining options.
- Princeton: Home to upscale restaurants and charming bistros.
- Hoboken: Famous for its Italian delis and waterfront dining spots.
How does the fine dining scene in New Jersey compare to New York?
While New York City has a globally recognized dining scene, New Jersey’s fine dining establishments, like “The Ryland Inn” or “Restaurant Latour,” offer top-notch culinary experiences without the Manhattan price tag. Plus, many of New Jersey’s best restaurants provide a cozier, more intimate setting.
Are reservations necessary when dining at popular New Jersey restaurants?
For most of the best restaurants in New Jersey, especially during weekends or holidays, I recommend making a reservation. Some popular spots can get booked weeks in advance, so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.
What’s the best way to discover hidden gem restaurants in NJ?
Local food festivals, farmer’s markets, and word of mouth are great ways to uncover lesser-known dining spots. Additionally, online platforms and food blogs often feature reviews and recommendations for hidden gem restaurants in NJ.
What is the most famous food in New Jersey?
New Jersey is known for a variety of iconic foods. Some of the most famous include:
- Taylor Ham (or Pork Roll): A type of processed pork product that’s often enjoyed as a breakfast sandwich with egg and cheese.
- Salt Water Taffy: Originating from the boardwalks of Atlantic City, this chewy candy comes in a variety of flavors.
- Tomato Pies: A type of pizza where cheese and toppings are placed directly on the crust, followed by a tomato sauce on top.
- Jersey Tomatoes: Widely regarded as some of the best in the U.S., they’re a staple in summer salads and sandwiches.
- Disco Fries: Similar to Canada’s poutine, disco fries are made with french fries topped with cheese and gravy.
- Italian Hot Dogs: A double hot dog served in pizza bread with onions, peppers, and potatoes.
- Hoagies: Known as subs or sandwiches in other parts of the U.S., hoagies are a staple in New Jersey, especially in the southern part of the state.
- Clams Casino: A dish with clams on the half shell that are topped with breadcrumbs and bacon.
- Frozen Custard: Especially popular along the Jersey Shore, it’s creamier and denser than regular ice cream.
- Ripper Hot Dogs: Deep-fried hot dogs that rip apart during the frying process, popularized by places like Rutt’s Hut.
What restaurants do they have in New Jersey?
New Jersey boasts a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of restaurants catering to various cuisines, tastes, and budgets. Here’s a snapshot of some notable restaurants and eateries across the state:
- White House Subs (Atlantic City): Famous for its submarine sandwiches.
- Razza (Jersey City): Known for its artisanal pizzas and has been lauded as one of the best pizzerias in the country.
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (Newark): A popular spot for barbecue lovers.
- The Frog and The Peach (New Brunswick): A fine-dining institution offering New American cuisine.
- Dock’s Oyster House (Atlantic City): A historic seafood restaurant that’s been around since 1897.
- Cafe Matisse (Rutherford): An upscale restaurant known for its picturesque setting and gourmet dishes.
- Zeppoli (Collingswood): Offers traditional Sicilian dishes and an intimate setting.
- Sagami Japanese Restaurant (Collingswood): Renowned for its authentic sushi.
- Montclair Bread Company (Montclair): Famous for its doughnuts and artisanal breads.
- Marcel Bakery and Kitchen (Montclair): A popular spot for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- Carlos Bakery (Hoboken): Made famous by the TV show “Cake Boss,” it’s a go-to for pastries, especially cakes.
- Tony Boloney’s (Atlantic City, Hoboken, and more): Known for its inventive pizzas and subs.
- Peter Luger Steak House (Hackensack): An offshoot of the famous Brooklyn steakhouse.
- De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies (Robbinsville): A favorite for traditional tomato pies.
- Veggie Heaven (Multiple locations): A popular vegetarian and vegan restaurant chain.
What food is Jersey City famous for?
Jersey City, located in the shadow of Manhattan, has a rich culinary scene influenced by its diverse population. While it doesn’t have one specific dish it’s singularly famous for, it’s known for a variety of foods and culinary experiences. Here are some highlights:
- Ethnic Cuisines: Due to its diverse population, Jersey City is home to a wide range of ethnic restaurants. From Filipino to Indian, from Italian to Middle Eastern, the city offers a culinary journey around the world.
- Pizza: Like much of the tri-state area, Jersey City has its share of pizzerias serving up both traditional and innovative pies. Some local favorites are among the best in the state.
- Diners: New Jersey has its share of classic diners, and Jersey City is no exception. These establishments offer a wide range of American comfort foods.
- Bakeries: The city has several renowned bakeries offering everything from fresh bread to pastries and cakes. Some have ethnic specialties, reflecting the city’s diverse population.
- Seafood: Given its location along the Hudson River and near the Atlantic Ocean, Jersey City has some excellent seafood restaurants.
- Food Markets: Places like the Downtown Jersey City Farmers’ Market offer a range of local produce, gourmet foods, and artisanal products.
- Food Festivals: Jersey City hosts various food festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from specific cuisines to local produce.
- Craft Breweries and Distilleries: The craft beverage scene has been growing in Jersey City, with local breweries and distilleries offering unique drinks.
Discovering Unique Restaurants in New Jersey: Recap
New Jersey truly is a culinary playground. From the celestial-themed Solar Saloon in Montclair to the time-traveling charm of Timeless Teahouse in Asbury Park, there are unique places to eat in NJ that are as diverse as they are delightful. Each restaurant we’ve explored brings its own unique flavor and ambiance, ensuring that every visit is memorable.
The Garden State boasts eateries that cater to every palate and pocket. Craving a taste of the Sahara in the heart of the city? Desert Dreams Café in Hoboken has you covered. Looking for a touch of Venetian romance without the transatlantic flight? The Golden Gondola in Trenton offers just that. And let’s not forget Alpine Atrium in Newark, where nature and gourmet dining merge seamlessly.
New Jersey’s dining scene showcases its rich cultural tapestry. There’s something for everyone, from those on a budget to those looking to splurge on a special occasion. With such a vast array of unique dining options, one thing’s for sure: every meal in New Jersey promises to be an adventure.
