22 Of The Most Delicious Restaurants In New Jersey, According To A Long-Time Resident

A longstanding dining institution in Rutherford, New Jersey, Steve & Andrea's is renowned among locals for having some of the best breakfast options in New Jersey. From their flavorful pancakes, their delicious egg sandwiches, and the French toast you'll dream about for days thereafter, Steve & Andrea's makes up for their lack of space with delicious reasons you should wait for a table.

Recommended Dish: Pair an egg and cheese breakfast sandwich with a cup of their signature chili for an addictive New Jerseyan spin on huevos rancheros.

For our vegetarian and vegan readers out there, you won't be left out on this list, as the utterly incredible Pet Shop in Jersey City offers jaw-dropping American bar food in a perfect vegetarian and vegan fashion. Offering a punk-rock aesthetic in sync with the emerging Jersey City vibe that lends to various fun activities such as vintage vinyl markets and performances highlighting local musicians, even the most stubborn meat-eater is guaranteed to be blown away by Pet Shop's delectable veggie substitutes.

Recommended Dish: "BBQ Chicken Sandwich," which utilizes both faux chicken and faux bacon in a finger-lickin' presentation that'll make a fool out of your tastebuds.

Trying to find the best Italian food in New Jersey is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, as the state simply has so many incredible options that you'll never be able to choose just one. But if you're looking for an absolutely unforgettable Italian dinner, look no further than Amelia's By The Sea, an upscale fine dining establishment making waves in the beachside town of Spring Lake.

Recommended Dish: Amelia's By The Sea has something for everyone, but this writer's runaway favorite is their chicken Bareli's, a plump breaded chicken breast topped with warm prosciutto, melted mozzarella, and a sherry cream sauce that'll have you savoring every single bite.

There have been a wealth of top-tier Thai restaurants emerging throughout New Jersey, from glitzy fusion joints to hole-in-the-wall wonders that are worth the search. But for this writer's money, foodies have definitely been sleeping on Cravin Thai in Hamburg, New Jersey, as the Thai restaurant has an intangible "it factor" that makes its blend of spice and savory food perfect (as well as perfectly affordable). If you're willing to make the trek to northern New Jersey, you'll want to get yourself some Cravin Thai before the rest of the world catches on to its truly great grub.

Recommended Dish: The drunken noodles are absolutely phenomenal, but their golden curry puffs are more than likely to become your new obsession.

The food scene in the Edgewater/Fort Lee/Cliffside Park area has become incredibly competitive in recent years, as the Hudson River-adjacent region has been a boon for city-goers and commuters who expect the same high NYC quality from their New Jersey counterparts. However, one benchmark of the region that has weathered the storm and welcomes all challengers is The River Palm Terrace, a fine dining restaurant that has become beloved by locals for its undoubtedly delicious steaks. But as a true testament to The River Palm Terrace's quality, eaters are just as likely to salivate over their popular lunch options as they are over their dinner entrees.

Recommended Dish: Their steak sandwich will call to you like a siren song, though if you're lucky enough to find their French onion burger as a daily special, prioritize that bad boy and your taste buds will thank you later.

We can all admit that it's hard to mess up hibachi, as the dinner-and-a-show element is usually worth the price alone. But Sogo Hibachi delivers in every which way possible, from mind-blowing sushi, exceptional Asian fusion appetizers, and hibachi plates that will fill your stomach to the brim, all in a comfortable, fun, and welcoming atmosphere.

Recommended Dish: This writer is partial to the chicken hibachi, but the filet mignon/chicken combination will give ambitious eaters the best of every world.

Much like most states, many fantastic New Jersey restaurants sadly did not survive the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it's a testament to the staying power and novelty of Brownstone Pancake Factory that this burgeoning, NJ-based chain rebounded from the pandemic stronger than ever. From their over-the-top desserts and milkshakes to their borderline experimental breakfast offerings, Brownstone Pancake Factory became a local sensation thanks to its appearance on Diner's, Drive-In's & Dives, but it has really risen to new heights thanks to its presence on TikTok and Instagram.

Recommended Dish: Their pancakes are as delicious as advertised, but if you're more of a go-for-broke, ambitious diner who cares not about your cholesterol levels, you might want to dive headfirst into the famous Mac Daddy Buffalo Chicken Mac 'N' Cheese Pancake Wrap.

When you walk into Baguette Bistro, you might not be blown away by the fairly typical Vietnamese quick-service decor, but don't take that as a reason to skip out on some of the best Vietnamese food that New Jersey has to offer. Baguette Bistro notably lures visitors from hours away with their awesome Pho or their succulent BBQ Pork Vermicelli, but almost everything on the menu will make the ride worth it. Furthermore, Baguette Bistro is less than 30 minutes from NJ's most notable theme park, Six Flags Great Adventure, making for a simply awesome detour for dinner after a long day of thrill-seeking.

Recommended Dish: Baguette Bistro's Banh Mi is this writer's personal favorite, though it's hard to choose a real favorite between their grilled BBQ shredded pork and their five-spiced sweet char-siu pork.

Whether you're in the mood for a terrific breakfast straight off the griddle or a hot, homestyle sandwich that'll hit the spot, you can't do much better in the Egg Harbor area than The Local's Spot, a small but spectacular diner that's easy to miss but once you've found it, you definitely won't forget it. While some may appreciate its location relative to the viral Ollie's Bargain Outlet, the RPG paradise that is Nerdvana Tabletop Games, and the flagship Spirit Halloween outlet, real ones will relish their delicious and diverse menu (and likely come back for more the morning after their next Atlantic City rager).

Recommended Dish: Those who love spicy food might gravitate to their legendary Diablo Burger, but their Jersey Burger is in a class of its own for those with more temperamental tummies.

Located right across the bridge from New Hope, Pennsylvania, The Full Moon Cafe has established itself as a local favorite in Lambertville's booming food scene. Often praised for their outstanding all-day breakfast options, including the buttery Benecroiss, The Full Moon Cafe also has a quaint and lunar aesthetic that fits right in with the artsy main street vibe of the town. However, the late risers out there can absolutely enjoy their solid lunch options as well as a monthly dinner menu available only on the night of a full moon

Recommended Dish: You can't beat the benecroiss, especially if you're carving out time for a Sunday brunch.

There are a lot of excellent burger joints throughout New Jersey, and the majority of them are often roadside bars and diners far off of the beaten path. But if you want an absolutely irresistible burger in a friendly atmosphere that won't take a vintage road map to find, then you cannot go wrong at Left Bank Burger Bar, one of Jersey City's most dependable eating establishments. While their traditional burger fare and build-your-own options will scratch the itch for anyone looking for a simple but sensational dish, their extensive burger menu caters to the more experimental eaters out there, from the spicy yet maple-y taste of their Hangover Cure Burger to the taste-bud-rearranging blend of flavors in their famous "Ghostface Killer." Add in their awesome appetizers and diverse salad options and Left Bank Burger Bar should have been on your to-go list, like, yesterday.

Recommended Dish: The Meltdown, which offers their juicy beef burger paired with grilled onions and their savory "Bank Sauce" presented on grilled cheese challah bread.

Listen, I'll be upfront with you all: I'm not much of a seafood person, but every single person I know who fancies themselves a seafood enthusiast recommends only one place when I make my way down to Atlantic City: Dock's Oyster House. A legitimate piece of Atlantic City history that has operated in the region since 1897, Dock's can be pricier than your normal seafood restaurant, but you get a ton of bang for your buck as their dishes are known as the gold standard for lobster, shrimp and, of course, oysters in the area. And if you're like me,  Dock's steak selection will satisfy even the most skeptical land-lubbers out there.

Recommended Dishes: While this writer has been dazzled by their rack of lamb, those who are showing up for Dock's namesake definitely need to try their esteemed chilled shellfish samplers.

The Cape May area may be more known for vacation spots and its legendary boardwalk, but if you've heard rumblings about one of the best authentic Mexican restaurants on the East Coast, chances are you're hearing about El Pueblo Taqueria in North Cape May. Gaining much press as of late for their oh-so-tasty tacos, believe the hype: El Pueblo Taqueria has consistently knocked both locals and vacationers off of their feet with their array of scrumptious dishes, such as the Pueblo Nachos and the La Diabla Torta. With a second location having opened in Cape May proper, it's only a matter of time before El Pueblo Taqueria becomes synonymous with the best dining options on the Jersey Shore.

Recommended Dish: All hail the wet burrito, the creamy, cheesy, spicy crown jewel of El Pueblo Taqueria.

The French are known for their amazing cuisine, and having been to Paris last year, I can personally attest that some of their restaurants are on a whole different level. Of course, an authentic French restaurant on this side of the Atlantic is one you should keep high on your list of go-to’s, and if you’re looking for the real deal, then Pascal & Sabine in Asbury Park must be tasted to be believed. Despite being a little pricier than many of its contemporaries in the foodie haven of Asbury Park, this French brasserie quickly became one of the hottest restaurants in town and once you’ve tried any of their impeccably prepared dishes, you’ll understand why.

Recommended Dish: For smaller appetites, their Hudson Valley Foie Gras is simply in a league of its own, though those hankering for a more substantial meal shouldn’t dare miss out on their 14-ounce pork chop.

There may be plenty of excellent soul food establishments throughout the Garden State, but few can match the consistency and amazing taste of Delta's, a Southern Cuisine restaurant that has been the talk of New Brunswick food scene for quite some time. Almost every offering on the menu is guaranteed to make your mouth water, but Delta's really rises above the rest with its infectiously fun atmosphere, which is often bolstered by live music and other interactive events on the weekends.

Recommended Dish: The BBQ beef short ribs at Delta's are New Jersey's gold standard for this undeniable dish.

On a cultural level, people may best know Holsten's for their part in the series finale of The Sopranos as the restaurant where Tony may or may not have bit the bullet. But anyone in the Bloomfield area knows that Holsten's is a legitimately amazing food spot, renowned for their addictive sweets and flat-out fantastic ice cream. Yet if you need to give your sweet tooth a break, this institution of Northern New Jersey makes a mean burger, scrumptious club sandwiches, and fried egg sandwiches that capture the essence of a homestyle breakfast.

Recommended Dish: Pair their phenomenal grilled cheese sandwich with a side of the Tony Soprano-approved onion rings and an ice cream soda for a heavenly classic.

In the shadow of the Meadowlands lies New Jersey's most iconic hot dog joint: Rutt's Hut, a restaurant renowned for food that might bust your belly but make your taste buds jump with joy. The home of "The Ripper," a hot dog that's deep-fried until the skin rips, Rutt's Hut offers anything your heart desire's on their massive menu, but don't be surprised if you find yourself gravitating toward their quick service counter for a fast cheeseburger, gravy fries or, of course, their world-famous hot dogs.

Recommended Dish: The Ripper with chili and cheese is guaranteed to please!

(Photo Credit: Jeremy Schneider)

New Jersey and New York have been neck-and-neck with their pizza prowess over the years, with the latter almost always seeming to get the edge up even if Jersey's pies are nothing to laugh at. But one pizza place that is giving even the best New York pizza a run for its money is Brick + Dough, an artisanal pizza restaurant that has made a mark among the high food standards of Montclair, New Jersey. Even if they may not be as traditional as the competition, Brick + Dough crafts their wood-fired pizza like fine art, which is great news for pizza connoisseurs (and anyone else that's hungry, for that matter).

Recommended Dish: If you're not sensitive to sesame seeds, the sesame + stracciatella pie is wonderful, but just in case you are, you can't go wrong with their chicken vodka parm pizza.

With a quirky spirit, old-fashioned dining sensibilities and a location in the heart of Union Township, New Jersey, Van Gogh's Ear Café is one of this writer's favorite dining options for a rich and filling spin on comfort food. Offering unique spins on such familiar dishes as brisket sandwiches and wraps, Van Gogh's Ear Café blends tremendous food with a chill-out coffee shop vibe that eaters are sure to embrace.

Recommended Dish: The potato chip-crusted mac 'n' cheese, pictured above, is a creamy yet crunchy one-of-a-kind that might just be the perfect side dish.

G&A's may not have much in the way of the traditional sit-down dining experience, but there's a reason why this 24-hour deli often has a line extending out of the door: it's that damn good. Home of the best bagel sandwiches in New Jersey, G&A has plenty of other lip-smacking options from its impossibly large menu, from the "Sylvester Stallone," a turkey sub soaked in garlic olive oil, to the "Howard Stern," the irresistible combination of crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and chicken salad on an onion bagel. No matter where your tastes lean, G&A's will give you a delicious reason to come back again and again.

Recommended Dish: Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a bagel with salt, pepper, and ketchup. It's a Garden State mainstay for a reason, and this writer is not lying when he says that nobody does it better than G&A's.

Red Bank is often known among New Jerseyans as a foodie’s paradise, with Birravino, Buona Sera, and Danny’s Steakhouse & Sushi Bar all being mainstays of the area’s stunning dining scene. But there is a rising star in Red Bank that cannot be denied, and its name is Teak, a chic contemporary restaurant whose distinguished dishes have raised the bar for Asian fusion in the Garden State. While it’s easy to have your mind blown by their stellar starters, such as their crispy-yet-juicy lotus buns and their succulent short rib empanadas, Teak impresses on every front imaginable, from their fantastic cocktails to their exceptional entrees to their delectable desserts.

Recommended Dish: There is no such thing as a “bad dish” at Teak, but their inspired French onion soup dumplings will take your breath away (but not long enough to prevent you from ordering more).