New Jersey is home to many exquisite dining establishments that serve up delectable cuisine sure to please any palate.
With such a diverse culinary scene, narrowing down a list of the best restaurants in NJ is no easy feat.
However, after much exploration and taste-testing, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best restaurants in NJ that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of foodies.
Whether you’re a lifelong New Jerseyan or just passing through, be sure to check out these culinary gems and indulge in some of the best food the state has to offer.
Table of Contents
1. Saddle River Inn
Address: 2 Barnstable Ct, Saddle River, NJ 07458, United States
Hours: Tue – Sat 17:00 – 21:30
Cuisine: French, Seafood
Ambiance: Elegant
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $30 – $50
Phone Number: +12018254016
Website: www.saddleriverinn.com
Specials: Enjoy “Date Night” every Wednesday with a four-course dinner for two people for only $90! On Fridays, Saddle River Inn offers a prix fixe menu for only $35 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Saddle River Inn’s signature dishes such as the Bouillabaisse, the Grilled Black Angus Filet Mignon, and the Roasted Wild Salmon.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available as well as a bar/lounge area to relax in before or after dinner.
2. Restaurant Lorena’s
Address: 160 Maplewood Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 17:00 – 21:30
Cuisine: French, Mediterranean
Ambiance: Relaxed Glamour
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $35
Phone Number: +19737634460
Website: www.restaurantlorenas.com
Specials: Enjoy “Tasting Tuesday” every Tuesday for a three-course dinner and complimentary glass of wine for only $45 per person! Every Thursday, Restaurant Lorena’s offers two entrees for the price of one!
Signature Dishes: Try one of Restaurant Lorena’s signature dishes such as the Pan Seared Sea Bass, the Grilled Angus Filet Mignon, and the Beef Wellington.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available with a variety of menu selections to choose from. Live music is featured on weekends.
3. Common Lot
Address: 30 Main St, Millburn, NJ 07041, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 12:00 – 15:00 and 17:30 – 21:30
Cuisine: Modern American
Ambiance: Cozy and Friendly
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $15 – $40
Phone Number: +19734670494
Website: www.commonlot.com
Specials: Enjoy their “Monday Date Night” special for two people featuring a four-course menu and a complimentary bottle of wine for only $65! On Sundays, Common Lot offers a three-course brunch menu for only $35 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Common Lot’s signature dishes such as the Wood Grilled Angus Burger, the Pan Seared Atlantic Salmon, and the Grass Fed Filet Mignon.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available with a variety of menu selections to choose from. Live music is featured on weekends.
4. Viaggio
Address: 1055 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne, NJ 07470, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 17:30 – 21:30
Cuisine: Italian
Ambiance: Sophisticated yet welcoming
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $35
Phone Number: +19737067277
Website: www.viaggionj.com
Specials: Enjoy two entrees for the price of one every Wednesday! On Sundays, Viaggio offers a three-course meal for only $30 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Viaggio’s signature dishes such as the Agnolotti, the Ravioli Caprese, and the Veal Saltimbocca.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available.
5. Faubourg Restaurant and Bar
Address: 544 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 17:00 – 21:30
Cuisine: French
Ambiance: Rustic yet Refined
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $35
Phone Number: +19735427700
Website: www.faubourgnj.com
Specials: Enjoy “Couples Night” every Thursday with a three-course meal and bottle of wine for two people for only $95! On Saturdays, Faubourg Restaurant and Bar offers a prix fixe menu for only $50 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Faubourg’s signature dishes such as the Crispy Confit Duck Leg, the Filet Mignon au Poivre, and the Moroccan Lamb Tagine.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available with a variety of menu selections to choose from. Live music is featured on weekends in the lounge area.
6. Elements
Address: 66 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States
Hours: Tue – Sat 17:30 – 22:00
Cuisine: Contemporary American
Ambiance: Elegant and Sophisticated
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $30
Phone Number: +16099240078
Website: www.elementsrestaurantprinceton.com
Specials: Tuesday is “Date Night” with a three-course meal for two people for only $50! On Sundays, enjoy a prix fixe brunch menu for only $25 per person.
Signature Dishes: Pan Seared Scallops, Grilled Filet Mignon, Barbeque Glazed Pork Tenderloin, and Stuffed Chicken Breast are some of Elements’ signature dishes.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Valet parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions.
7. White Birch
Address: 380 US-206, Flanders, NJ 07836, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 12:00 – 15:00 and 17:30 – 22:00
Cuisine: Modern American with Italian Influences
Ambiance: Eclectic yet Refined
Reservations: Recommended, call
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $30
Phone Number: +19089550443
Website: www.whitebirchrestaurant.com
Specials: Enjoy Sunday Brunch and Monday Pizza Night with a special menu featuring wood-fired pizzas!
Signature Dishes: Some of White Birch’s signature dishes include the Lobster & Artichoke Ravioli, the Chicken Marsala, and the Shrimp Scampi.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Valet parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Outdoor seating and private dining rooms for special occasions are available.
8. Bareli’s Restaurant and Bar
Address: 219 NJ-3, Secaucus, NJ 07094, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 17:00 – 22:00
Cuisine: Contemporary Italian-American Fusion
Ambiance: Relaxed Sophistication
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $15 – $25
Phone Number: +12018652766
Website: www.barelisrestaurantnj.com
Specials: Enjoy Happy Hour at the bar with half-price drinks and appetizers! Every Wednesday, Bareli’s offers an “All You Can Eat Pasta Night” for only $12 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Bareli’s signature dishes such as the Pollo Parmigiana, the Rigatoni Bolognese, and the Shrimp Scampi.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions.
9. Chez Catherine
Address: 431 N Ave W, Westfield, NJ 07090, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 17:00 – 22:00
Cuisine: French Bistro
Ambiance: Intimate and Relaxed
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $30
Phone Number: +19086544011
Website: www.chezcatherinerestaurant.com
Specials: Enjoy Happy Hour at the bar with half-price drinks and appetizers! Every Tuesday, Chez Catherine offers a three-course prix fixe dinner for only $25 per person.
Signature Dishes: Some of Chez Catherine’s signature dishes include the Croque Madame, the Coq Au Vin, and the Boeuf Bourguignon.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Valet parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions.
10. Cellar 335
Address: 335 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302, United States
Hours: Wed-Sun 16:00 – 22:00
Cuisine: Modern American Tapas
Ambiance: Eclectic yet Refined
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Tapas range from $7 – $15
Phone Number: +12012221422
Website: www.cellar335.com
Specials: Enjoy the “Small Plate Sunday” prix fixe menu with tapas for only $25 per person. On Mondays, Cellar 335 offers a three-course dinner for two people for just $45!
Signature Dishes: Some of Cellar 335’s signature dishes include the Grilled Chorizo Skewers, the Chicken & Waffles, and the Saffron Risotto Cakes.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions.
11. Cafe Matisse
Address: 167 Park Ave, Rutherford, NJ 07070, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 16:00 – 22:00
Cuisine: American-French Fusion
Ambiance: Artistic and Refined
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $15 – $25
Phone Number: +12019352995
Website: www.cafematisse.com
Specials: Enjoy “Date Night” every Monday and Tuesday with a three-course dinner for two people for only $50! On Wednesdays, Cafe Matisse offers a prix fixe menu for only $30 per person.
Signature Dishes: Some of Cafe Matisse’s signature dishes include the Duck Confit, the Trout Amandine, and the Beef Tenderloin Au Poivre.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Valet parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions.
12. Hearthside
Address: 801 Haddon Ave, Collingswood, NJ 08108, United States
Hours: Tue – Sat 17:00 – 22:00
Cuisine: Modern American Comfort Food
Ambiance: Cozy and Inviting
Reservations: Recommended, call
Price Range: Entrees range from $15 – $25
Phone Number: +18562401164
Website: www.hearthsiderestaurantnj.com
Specials: Enjoy “Brew & Burger” night every Wednesday and “Taco Tuesday” for only $2 per taco! Signature Dishes: Some of Hearthside’s signature dishes include Grilled BBQ Ribs, Chicken Pot Pie, and Baked Mac & Cheese.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered.
13. The Circle
Address: 310 NJ-94, Newton, NJ 07860, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 12:00 – 15:00 and 17:30 – 22:00
Cuisine: Modern American Cuisine
Ambiance: Refined Elegance
Reservations: Recommended, call
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $35
Phone Number: +19738626410
Website: www.thecirclemotown.com
Specials: Enjoy “Dine & Dash” every Tuesday for three courses and a complimentary glass of wine for only $25 per person! Every Thursday, The Circle offers two entrees for the price of one!
Signature Dishes: Try one of The Circle’s signature dishes such as the Seared Scallops, the Classic Bolognese, and the Pan Roasted Chicken Breast.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request.
14. Cafe Panache
Address: 140 East Ridgewood Ave, Paramus, NJ 07652, United States
Hours: Tue – Sun 17:30 – 22:00
Cuisine: Modern French Bistro Cuisine
Ambiance: Sophisticated yet Relaxed
Reservations: Recommended
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $35
Phone Number: +12019340030
Website: www.cafepanachenj.com
Specials: Enjoy “Date Night” every Wednesday and Thursday with a three-course dinner for two people for only $45! On Mondays, Cafe Panache offers a prix fixe menu for only $30 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Cafe Panache’s signature dishes such as the Duck Confit, the Coq Au Vin, and the Cassoulet.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available.
15. Zeppoli
Address: 618 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ 08107, United States
Hours: Tue – Thu 17:00 – 22:00; Fri – Sat 17:00 – 22:30; Sun 16:00 – 21:00
Cuisine: Italian Upscale Dining
Ambiance: Refined and Elegant
Reservations: Recommended, call
Price Range: Entrees range from $20 – $35
Phone Number: +18568542670
Website: www.zeppolinj.com
Specials: Enjoy “Three Course Tuesday” with a three-course dinner for only $25 per person! On Thursdays, Zeppoli offers a prix fixe menu for only $30 per person.
Signature Dishes: Try one of Zeppoli’s signature dishes such as the Eggplant Parmigiana, the Risotto Primavera, and the Veal Osso Bucco.
Bar Service: Yes, offering craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Parking: Free parking is available.
Payment Options: All major credit cards are accepted.
Features & Amenities: Gluten-free options and vegetarian options are available, as well as private dining rooms for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also offered. Private events can be accommodated upon request. In-house catering is also available.
Read Also
- 10 Best Restaurants in Myrtle Beach (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in Austin (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in New Orleans (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in Turks and Caicos (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in Bradenton (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in Panama City, Panama (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants on Mackinac Island (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in Curacao (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in Anguilla (2023)
- 10 Best Restaurants in the Woodlands (2023)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cafe Matisse offer private events?
Yes, Cafe Matisse offers private dining rooms for special occasions and can accommodate private events upon request.
What are the hours of Hearthside restaurant?
Hearthside Restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Are there any gluten-free options at The Circle?
Yes, The Circle offers gluten-free options.
Is there an outdoor seating area at Cafe Panache?
Yes, Cafe Panache offers outdoor seating.
How much is the prix fixe menu on Wednesdays at Cafe Matisse?
The prix fixe menu at Cafe Matisse on Wednesdays is $30 per person.
Is valet parking available for Cafe Matisse customers?
No, Cafe Matisse does not offer valet parking.
What type of cuisine does Zeppoli specialize in?
Zeppoli specializes in Italian Upscale Dining.
Is there a dress code for The Circle or Hearthside restaurants?
Yes, both The Circle and Hearthside restaurants have a dress code of smart casual.
What are some signature dishes served by Zeppoli and Café Panache?
Zeppoli’s signature dishes include the Eggplant Parmigiana, the Risotto Primavera, and the Veal Osso Bucco. Café Panache’s signature dishes include Seared Scallops, Classic Bolognese, and Pan Roasted Chicken Breast.
Is it possible to make reservations in advance at one of these restaurants online or over the phone?
Yes, it is possible to make reservations in advance at one of these restaurants online or over the phone. All of the featured restaurants offer a reservation feature on their websites or provide customers with a phone number for making reservations over the phone.