Introduction
New Jersey is more than just the Turnpike, Bruce Springsteen, and the Jersey Shore. Hidden beneath the surface of its bustling cities and charming towns lies a culinary landscape as diverse and vibrant as the Garden State itself. Forget the stereotypical images – while diners and pork roll hold a special place in our hearts, New Jersey’s food scene is a sophisticated tapestry woven with global flavors, innovative chefs, and a deep-rooted love for all things delicious. This guide is your passport to exploring the best food places in NJ, a curated selection of restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
We’ve scoured the state, from the bustling streets of Newark to the serene shores of Cape May, to bring you a list of restaurants that stand out for their quality, ambiance, value, and, of course, their unforgettable food. This journey is not exhaustive; New Jersey’s culinary scene is constantly evolving. We encourage you to venture out, explore, and discover your own hidden gems. And be sure to let us know your favorites in the comments below!
Pizza Perfection
Pizza isn’t just food; it’s a religion in New Jersey. From classic Neapolitan pies to crispy, thin-crust masterpieces, we take our pizza seriously. Every town boasts its own legendary pizzeria, and the debate over which one reigns supreme is a passionate one. So, lets get into the pizza places.
Razza
First, there’s Razza in Jersey City. Prepare to experience pizza unlike any other. Razza elevates the art of pizza-making to a new level, using locally sourced ingredients and a meticulous fermentation process. The result? A crust that’s airy, slightly tangy, and perfectly charred, topped with the freshest mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. While their Margherita is a classic for a reason, don’t miss out on their inventive seasonal pies, which often feature unique toppings and creative flavor combinations. The ambiance is rustic-chic, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Expect a wait, but trust us, it’s worth it. You should expect to pay around twenty to thirty dollars for a pie.
Star Tavern
Next, we have Star Tavern in Orange. This old-school tavern is a true institution, serving up thin-crust pizzas that are legendary for their crispy edges and generous toppings. The atmosphere is unpretentious and casual, perfect for a laid-back night out with friends. Their signature pie, the thin crust, features a perfectly crisp crust that snaps with each bite. The tangy sauce, flavorful cheese, and ample toppings create a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Star Tavern is a reminder that sometimes the best food is found in the simplest of places. You can grab a pie for around fifteen to twenty-five dollars.
DeLorenzo’s Tomato Pies
Finally, let’s talk about DeLorenzo’s Tomato Pies in Robbinsville. Don’t let the name fool you; this isn’t just about tomatoes. While their tomato pie, with its sweet and tangy tomato sauce, is a must-try, DeLorenzo’s offers a variety of pies that are equally delicious. The crust is thin and crispy, the cheese is perfectly melted, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. This place is a true local favorite. Pizza can be a steal, typically averaging from twelve to twenty dollars a pizza.
Diner Dreams and Garden State Greats
No exploration of New Jersey’s food scene would be complete without paying homage to the iconic Jersey diner. These gleaming temples of comfort food are open around the clock, serving up everything from towering stacks of pancakes to juicy burgers and creamy milkshakes. They’re a cultural institution, a place where you can always find a friendly face and a hearty meal, no matter the time of day. And, you cant forget pork roll!
Speaking of Garden State Greats, we must discuss the pork roll, egg, and cheese. This savory combination has become a staple, and can be found nearly anywhere throughout the state. While a gas station version may work in a pinch, we suggest tracking down a local deli, or one of our great diner options we will discuss.
Tops Diner
First up we have Tops Diner in East Newark. This isn’t just any diner; it’s a culinary destination. Tops Diner elevates the diner experience to a new level, with a sleek and modern interior, an extensive menu that features everything from classic diner fare to innovative dishes, and a commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Their pancakes are fluffy and light, their burgers are juicy and flavorful, and their milkshakes are thick and creamy. Prepare for a wait, especially on weekends, but the experience is more than worth it. Diner options can range from about ten dollars to thirty dollars.
White Manna
Next, there is White Manna in Hackensack. This tiny burger joint is a local legend, serving up sliders that are legendary for their juicy patties, soft buns, and melted cheese. The atmosphere is no-frills and the prices are incredibly reasonable. This is the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying bite. It’s also a great opportunity to step back in time to a quintessential American burger experience. The sliders go for around three dollars each, making this a great cheap option.
Frankie Fed’s Italian Deli
Finally, we have Frankie Fed’s Italian Deli in Jamesburg. Stepping into this deli is like stepping back in time to old-school Italy. Serving some of the best Italian subs and classic sides New Jersey has to offer, this place is a must visit for those who enjoy a good sandwich. While everything on the menu is great, Frankie’s offers authentic subs at an affordable price. The average sandwhich here costs between ten and fifteen dollars.
Elevated Eating
Beyond the diners and pizza parlors, New Jersey boasts a thriving fine dining scene, with restaurants that are pushing culinary boundaries and earning national recognition. These establishments offer an experience that’s as much about the ambiance and service as it is about the food itself.
Elements
There is Elements in Princeton. This restaurant offers a refined dining experience, with an innovative menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The ambiance is elegant and sophisticated, and the service is impeccable. Elements is the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Their tasting menus are a culinary journey, with each course carefully crafted to showcase the chef’s talent and vision. Reservations are required, and expect a price tag to match the experience. Tasting menus start at around one hundred and fifty dollars per person.
Restaurant Latour
Then, there’s Restaurant Latour in Hamburg. Located within the luxurious Crystal Springs Resort, Restaurant Latour offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable dining experience. The menu features contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The wine list is extensive, and the service is attentive and knowledgeable. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a truly memorable evening. The restaurant also offers tasting menus that are a culinary journey, and the ambiance is elegant and refined. Dinner typically costs around one hundred dollars to two hundred dollars per person, without wine.
A World of Flavors
New Jersey is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects that diversity. From authentic Mexican tacos to spicy Thai curries, you can find just about any cuisine you can imagine in the Garden State.
Sangam Indian Cuisine
One of the great choices is Sangam Indian Cuisine in Edison. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Indian dishes bursting with flavor. From creamy butter chicken to spicy vindaloo, there’s something for everyone on the menu. The ambiance is casual and inviting, and the prices are reasonable. Their lunch buffet is a great way to sample a variety of dishes. The restaurant showcases authentic Indian spices and flavors. Meals typically cost around fifteen to thirty dollars per person.
Tacoria
Finally, we have Tacoria in New Brunswick. This is a vibrant taqueria serving up authentic Mexican street food with a modern twist. From flavorful tacos to savory quesadillas and hearty tortas, Tacoria boasts something for everyone on their menu. Everything is flavorful, and Tacoria is a must visit for anyone looking for a quick bite to eat. Tacos will typically cost about four dollars each.
Sweet Sensations
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and New Jersey is home to a plethora of bakeries, ice cream parlors, and dessert shops that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Thomas Sweet Chocolate
You should visit Thomas Sweet Chocolate in Princeton. This iconic ice cream parlor and chocolate shop has been serving up delicious treats for generations. Their homemade ice cream is creamy and flavorful, and their chocolates are rich and decadent. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, and it’s the perfect place to grab a sweet treat on a hot day. A single scoop is around five dollars.
Carlo’s Bakery
Also check out Carlo’s Bakery in Hoboken. This world-famous bakery, made famous by the TV show “Cake Boss,” is a must-visit for any dessert lover. Their cakes are elaborate and delicious, and their pastries are fresh and flavorful. The ambiance is bustling and energetic, and it’s a fun place to visit, even if you’re just window shopping. Cakes may run up to hundreds of dollars, but pastries may be only a few dollars.
Hidden NJ Gems
Sometimes the best food is found in the most unexpected places. These hidden gems, often tucked away in unassuming neighborhoods, offer unique and unforgettable culinary experiences.
Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn
There is Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn in Lambertville. Housed in a historic train station, this restaurant offers a unique and charming dining experience. The menu features classic American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, and the ambiance is warm and inviting. It’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The restaurant is known for its beautiful setting and delicious food. Dinner typically costs around thirty to fifty dollars per person.
Mudhen Brewing Company
Then, let’s discuss Mudhen Brewing Company in Wildwood. Overlooking the wetlands, Mudhen provides a picturesque setting and some quality bar eats and home brewed beers. This place is a must visit for tourists and locals alike, and is a perfect place to cap off a night out. The average beer may cost around seven dollars.
Conclusion
As you can see, New Jersey’s food scene is a far cry from the tired stereotypes. It’s a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape, bursting with flavors from around the world. From the iconic diners to the innovative fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Garden State. This guide is just a starting point, a mere glimpse into the vast array of culinary delights that await you. So, venture out, explore, and discover your own favorite food places in NJ. The adventure awaits!
Now, tell us – what are your go-to restaurants in New Jersey? Share your recommendations in the comments below, and let’s continue this culinary exploration together!
