The Montclair Girl Team 
We may be a little biased, but New Jersey is home to some of the best food around. While we’re best known for our Italian food, pizza, and bagels, we’re proud to say that you can find every kind of cuisine imaginable in New Jersey — Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Portuguese, Caribbean, you name it. To showcase just how many amazing restaurants there are in our beloved state, our team has compiled a list of the 50 best restaurants to try in North New Jersey. The lineup includes sit-down restaurants in Essex, Morris, Hudson, Bergen, Passaic, Sussex, Union, Somerset, and Warren counties that are tried and true favorites for locals. Read on for The Montclair Girl’s list of the 50 best restaurants to try in North New Jersey.
The 130 Club | 130 County Road, Tenafly
The 130 Club is an upscale restaurant in Tenafly serving meat, seafood, an impressive wine list, and curated cocktails, all in a dark, moody space that’s reminiscent of The Great Gatsby. The menu features everything from a roasted bone marrow and caviar to prime glazed beef ribs and pork chops, but The 130 Cheeseburger is also a staple. It comes with dijionaise, red onion, and pickles, but you must add the optional thick-cut bacon and farm-fresh egg. Trust us on this.
15 Fox Place | 15 Fox Place, Jersey City
This gem in Jersey City is more than a meal: it’s an experience. 15 Fox Place is a family-owned and- operated Italian restaurant located inside a house. There are usually five-six courses made by the chef, menu-less. Reservations must be made in advance, and usually, they’re booked out for several months. The spot is BYO, but it’s priced per person and ideal for an intimate celebration — anniversary, holiday party, dinner date, and more. 15 Fox Place was also a James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Hospitality in 2020, and has won numerous reader-chosen ‘Best of Jersey City’ awards by The Hoboken Girl over the last few years.
Read More: 15 Montclair Area Coffee Shops for Every Type of Coffee Run
Al-Basha Restaurant | 387 Crooks Avenue, Paterson
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Al-Basha is a highly-rated restaurant showcasing Middle Eastern fare in Passaic County, run by Yaser Baker and his sons Ammar and Mohammad. The Crooks Avenue locale is dine-in only, and the spot also has a take-out and delivery outpost at 1076 Main Street. Al-Basha designates itself as having the best hummus in the Garden State, with other delicious Middle Eastern eats like beef shawarma, kebabs, a whole selection of savory spreads, falafel platters, and more. The restaurant is especially known for its char-grilled meats, with options including filet mignon, chicken kebab, kofta kebab, or shawarma. The inside of the cozy restaurant is adorned with hanging greenery and warm hues that create an intimate atmosphere. Al-Basha was named one of USA Today’s Best Restaurants of the Year in 2023.
Antique Bar + Bakery | 122 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
This Hoboken restaurant creates its meals in a 100-year-old coal-fired oven, with nods to Frank Sinatra and vintage, old-world movie sets throughout its interior. Antique Bar + Bakery is well-known for its pasta, seafood, and steak. Great drinks, vibes, and a unique menu are what diners will find at this eatery. The Montclair Girl team recommends the bread pudding. Antique has also won Best Restaurant, Best Spot for Visitors, + Best Cocktails by Hoboken Girl readers in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Arthur’s Tavern | 700 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains
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Arthur’s Tavern is a cozy restaurant in downtown Morris Plains that is a favorite amongst Morris County locals for its incredible steaks and old-school diner feel, originally owned by Arthur McGreevey. The decor adds to the vibe: bottle lamps, checkerboard tablecloths, and wall-to-wall photos of customers and celebrity visitors over the years. For dessert, don’t miss the homemade cheesecake, a classic.
Artie’s | 15 Newark Way, Maplewood
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Neighborhood favorite Arturo’s Restaurant merged with its sister brand, The Bread Stand bakery, to transform into Artie’s a few years ago, and the rest is history. The menu includes items like gourmet wood-fired pizzas, fresh-baked bread, daily fresh pasta specials, wine, beer, cocktails, and more, and is owned by Fred Shandler. The space itself is reminiscent of a classic New Jersey-style Italian spot, blending in old-school vibes with modern decor.
Augustino’s | 1104 Washington Street, Hoboken
Augustino’s is one of Hoboken’s most coveted venues. This family-owned eatery serves authentic Italian food like pasta, chicken dishes, and more, and it’s great for small, intimate dining. Its walls are also lined with photos of celebrities who have dined there, old-school shots of Hoboken, and pieces of family history. The spot is named after the owner’s father, August John Yandoli, who went by Augie Delano. He was a member of The Hoboken Four — an Italian-American musical quartet in the ‘30s — and once he left the group, Frank Sinatra took his place (NBD). You will see the many photos of Augie with Sinatra and The Hoboken Four when dining at the restaurant.
Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard, Jersey City
With its location at the end of the Newport Marina, Battello has one of the best skyline views in Jersey City, and combines industrialized, rustic decor with a bit of a nautical theme. The menu focuses on fish, meats, and southern Italian-inspired food — a few standouts are the seafood tower, prime ribeye, and Littleneck clam risotto. Battello is also one of the premier wedding venues in New Jersey, with an impressive space and impeccable vibes, combined with an exceptional wine list. The venue has won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence every year since 2019, and Ryan Depersio is the chef behind it all.
Belmont Tavern | 12 Bloomfield Avenue, Belleville
Belmont Tavern opened in 1967 and, from the decor to the menu, has remained unchanged. The talk-of-the-town Chicken Savoy, Pork Francaise, and Shrimp Beeps are what make this place feel like home, even if you’re not a regular. It’s open for dinner only and is first-come, first-served with no reservations, but if there’s a wait, it’s worth it. Many celebrities — most recently the Jonas Brothers, who visited while filming for their newest album — can attest to Belmont’s overall intimate, Grandma’s-house-and-pasta feel. The Belmont Tavern is run by Annette Wrobleski, the daughter of original owner Charles “Stretch” Veridicchio.
Black Bull Steakhouse + Seafood | 632 Meyersville Road, Gillette + 88 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale
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Black Bull is “where steak meets sophistication,” per the website. Both locations feature indoor and outdoor dining as well as a full bar, serving up consistently delicious steakhouse fare like tomahawk steaks, short ribs, seafood towers, stuffed mushrooms, and French onion soup. The elegant restaurants draw inspiration from New York-style steakhouses and are also popular for their event spaces, cocktails, and wine list.
Black Sheep Bar + Provisions | 514 North Avenue, Garwood
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Black Sheep Bar + Provisions is located right near the Garwood train station, so it’s a great stop for both commuters and locals alike. The space channels a train-inspired atmosphere, blending industrial features with rustic accents. In addition to the lunch and dinner menu, there’s also the option to order large-format meals that require advance notice. Favorite dishes include the whole-roasted suckling pig or the USDA prime dry-aged tomahawk. From pasta and chicken fried mushrooms to scallops and duck pastrami, nothing on the Insta-worthy menu disappoints here. The drink menu is also worth noting, with choices like a white Negroni, a mai tai, sparkling wine, and several fun mocktails. Black Sheep was listed in New Jersey Monthly’s Top 40 Restaurants in New Jersey in 2024 + 2025.
Boschetto | 111 Grove Street, Montclair
Boschetto pairs a laid-back atmosphere with elevated Italian dishes. All the menu items, which include pasta, pizza, meatballs, and other Italian classics, are made fresh to order. It has a relaxed, inviting setting, boasting modern decor with a vintage feel – almost echoing a coastal European vibe. Chef Joey Sergentakis has worked in restaurants around the world, including several Michelin-starred venues.
Burke’s Tavern | 150 Lafayette Street, Newark
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At Burke’s Tavern, diners will find great martinis and eclectic Mediterranean and American cuisine. The Mediterranean influence is felt through the decor as much as its menu. P.S.: This hidden gem in Newark is the perfect dinner companion to a night at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) – trust us.
Cibo e Vino Ristorante | 216 Cahill Cross Road, West Milford
Authentic Italian dining is what visitors will find at Cibo e Vino in West Milford, owned by locals Mentor and Tony. For the team behind this restaurant, it’s all about “[getting] back to basics” of Italian cuisine. On the menu, dishes like penne vodka, pollo Milanese, farfalle sausage + broccoli rabe, and fan favorite — the rigatoni bolognese. This spot also has an impressive wine list, which pairs well with any of its pasta staples. While the menu focuses on traditional Italian dining, the decor of the space evokes a speakeasy-style vibe with its dark accents and moody lighting.
Corto | 507 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
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Corto is an Italian BYOB spot in the Jersey City Heights neighborhood, founded by Drew Buzzio, Marc Magliozzi, and Executive Chef Matthew Moschella. The restaurant features a rotating seasonal menu of handcrafted pasta, pizza, and more. Its courtyard, open for year-round dining, makes this restaurant a great spot for large groups. Inside the restaurant, the atmosphere is just as cozy as its outdoor space, featuring rustic furniture, walls adorned with Victorian-style raised tiles, and vintage family photos. This spot is a local favorite for Jersey City residents, and has won Best BYOB Spot in Jersey City, Best Restaurant in Jersey City, Best Pasta in Jersey City, + Best Outdoor Dining Set-Up in Jersey City in Hoboken Girl’s Best of 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Da Benito | 200 Walton Avenue, Union
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Da Benito is an old-school Italian restaurant in Union serving authentic eats in an upscale space. The white tablecloths and warm colors throughout the restaurant give it a cozy feel, and the food is top-notch. On the menu, diners will find all of the classics, including pasta, chicken, veal, various seafood, and more.
D’Boathaus | 322 Lakeside Road, Hewitt
D’Boathaus, known for its modern American cuisine and lakeside views, features an expansive menu including everything from baby back BBQ ribs to lobster rolls to pan-seared scallops. The Montclair Girl recommends ordering the Cuban sandwich, which includes all the elements of the traditional Latin classic, but with an American-style twist. Guests can enjoy their meals al fresco, as this spot features outdoor dining with views of Greenwood Lake.
Don Pepe | 844 McCarter Highway, Newark
Don Pepe has been sharing its Spanish cuisine with the Newark area for over 40 years. It first opened in 1981 and is headed by Jose “Pepe” and Luisa Lopez, who are originally from Galicia, Spain. The authentic menu is full of classic choices, including the specialty garlic shrimp, Spanish sausage, top-tier paella, filet mignon with Don Pepe’s special sauce, and aged porterhouse, among other dishes. The inside is reminiscent of a classic Spanish restaurant, including white tablecloths, wood accents, and cozy vibes. Jose was recently recognized by the Association of Galician Entrepreneurs in Madrid (AEGAMA) for his impact and contributions as a leading Galician entrepreneur in America.
El Artesano | 4101 Bergenline Avenue, Union City
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El Artesano is an old-school family-owned restaurant. The space, featuring walls decorated with vintage photographs of 1950s Cuba, as well as a collage of Cuban magazine clippings, hasn’t changed much since its opening in the 1970s. On the menu, there’s a wide variety of traditional Cuban dishes, including Ropa Vieja, red snapper, empanadas, and corn tamales, among other items.
Faubourg | 544 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair + 1100 Avenue at Port Imperial, Weehawken
Faubourg, owned by Dominique Paulin and Chef Olivier Muller, is a French-inspired eatery with two locations in Northern New Jersey. The Montclair site is equipped with large windows in the bright, industrial dining room. There are two levels, including an upstairs cocktail lounge and an outdoor patio with a retractable roof. Along with a selection of wines and cocktails, Faubourg has both plant-based and regular options on the menu. Some dinner choices include grilled salmon as well as ravioli and vegetables, and it’s known to have a delicious dessert menu. Faubourg is a favorite amongst The Montclair Girl readers, and won Best Cocktails, Best Date Night Spot, Best Margarita, Best Outdoor Dining Set-Up, Best Spot for Visitors, + Best Espresso Martini in The Montclair Girl’s Best of 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Ferraro’s | 14 Elm Street, Westfield
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Ferraro’s is a three-story restaurant that’s been a favorite since 1969 for its timeless take on traditional Italian cuisine and rooftop views. The space features upscale decor, like large chandeliers, white tablecloths, and more. There are also multiple balconies for diners to enjoy. With a motto of “Fresh is Best,” per its website, the menu includes pizza, pasta, fish + chicken dishes, and more. This spot is also recognized for its dessert menu, which features lava cake, ricotta cheesecake, the signature housemade cannoli, and more.
Flour | 500 Jefferson Street, Hoboken
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Flour, an American restaurant with industrial-style decor and moody accents, is the sister concept of The Pizza Shop by Flour. While The Pizza Shop is already popular for its unique selection of pizzas, Flour is an expansion of that menu with an array of new American dishes, from whipped ricotta toast to Mexican street corn and steak tartare. Flour won Best Date Night Spot in The Hoboken Girl’s Best of 2024, and is owned by Ray Falco and Justin Avila.
Garlic Rose Bistro | 28 North Avenue West, Cranford
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Garlic Rose Bistro is an old-school spot in downtown Cranford owned by resident Marc Corello. This restaurant features vintage decor and plenty of seating for large parties and is best known for its garlic-infused dishes. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but some of our favorites include the roasted garlic bulb, garlic shrimp, French onion pork chops, and garlic chowder with celery + onions.
Hunan Taste | 67 Bloomfield Avenue, Denville + 4 Alvin Place, Montclair
With locations in Denville and Montclair, Hunan Taste is not just about the food, but the experience. The inside of the Chinese restaurant’s Denville location is decorated with fish tanks on the wall, along with lots of red, bamboo, and flowers. The menu is classic — dumplings with house-made sauce, Hunan duck, sesame chicken, General Tso’s chicken, Szechuan-style shrimp, and more. The restaurant also has a full traditional Chinese menu. The spot is also featured in the upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic starring Jeremy Allen White called Deliver Me From Nowhere, and other celebs like Jennifer Lopez were also seen filming here in recent months. It is owned by the Hsiung family, who have decades of experience in Chinese cuisine. Hunan Taste was named Best Chinese Restaurant by The Daily Meal in 2020.
Il Capriccio Ristorante | 633 NJ-10 East, Whippany
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Il Capriccio is a farm-to-table Italian restaurant that has been a staple in Morris County since 1984, and is owned by Executive Chef and Founder Antonio Grande. The seasonal ingredients create authentic dishes like Italian mixed seafood salad, Octopus Carpaccio, fettuccine bolognese, slow-cooked grass-fed Piemontese short ribs, Chilean sea bass, and more. Along with an impressive menu, diners will find beautiful ceiling murals, Roman-style accents, and vintage furniture at this spot. The restaurant has won the Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator each year since 1993 up to 2023, and was voted Best Italian Restaurant, Best of the Best, Best Service, + Best Atmosphere by New Jersey Monthly from 1993 to 2013. Owner + chef Antonio Grande was also named the Restaurateur of the Year by the NJ Restaurant Association in 2010.
Jessica’s Restaurant | 250 South Avenue Suite 104, Fanwood
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Jessica’s Restaurant serves Italian food to Union County locals in a modern and sleek space, near the Fanwood train station, from owner and executive chef Armen Saqe. The space has both indoor and covered patio seating. The lunch and dinner menus include a fresh mix of soups, salads, entrees, sandwiches, and pasta, like the prosciutto panini, short rib fettuccine, creamy burrata salad, and pan-seared scallops. Make sure to try the apricot bread pudding, molten chocolate cake, or caramelized banana split for dessert. Jessica’s was also listed in Yelp’s Top 100 U.S. Restaurants in 2023.
Korai Kitchen | 576 Summit Avenue, Jersey City
Photo Credit: Alisha Rana
Featuring modern decor and a sleek, minimalist design, Korai Kitchen is an incredible reservations-only Bangladeshi restaurant in Journal Square. Led by James Beard Award-nominated Chef Nur-E Gulshan Rahman, this eatery highlights homestyle, halal dishes during “Dawat” dinners, family-style. Make reservations well in advance, grab a bottle of wine for this BYOB spot, + prepare to impress anyone you bring with the eight-course meal that has also been given a nod by the NYT.
La Isla | 104 Washington Street, Hoboken
La Isla has been a staple for Cuban food in a cozy ambiance in Hoboken since 1970, from owner Armando Luis. La Isla has a colorful menu including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, and is a favorite amongst Hudson County locals for its authentic Cuban dishes. Breakfast and brunch highlights include strawberry guava cream cheese stuffed French toast (as seen on Food Network’s Throwdown with Bobby Flay and Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, + Dives) and huevos rancheros, while the lunch and dinner menus feature skirt steak with chimichurri, a Cuban reuben, shrimp ceviche, and more. The Montclair Girl recommends dining outdoors on the restaurant’s shaded patio.
Lithos Estiatorio | 405 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston
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Lithos Estiatorio is a vibrant bar and restaurant serving consistently good Greek and Mediterranean cuisine in a contemporary and elevated space. The expansive menu features classic Greek dishes like phyllo-wrapped feta, chicken or seafood souvlaki, gyros, moussaka, and much more. Don’t miss the assorted spreads appetizer, which includes tzatziki, melitzanosalata, hummus, and grilled pita, or the Greek fries + feta. The restaurant is owned by Mike Katsoudas.
Luigino’s Parmigiana | 173 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair
Photo Credit: Cindy Blanco
Luigino’s Parmigiana welcomes diners into its establishment with its warm lighting and rustic atmosphere. It’s family-owned, with Chef Luigi Tripodi behind the scenes and his wife and son making their way around the tables. For lunch, try ordering one of its Roman-style oval pizzas, like the roasted lamb. For dinner, try the stuffed gnocchi or the double-cut pork chop. Finish a meal with a dessert option like the Bombolini (Nutella + vanilla anglaise) or one of the gelato flavors. The spot was voted Best Chicken Parm in The Montclair Girl’s Best of 2023 + 2024.
Maxwell Alley | 12 Coles Street, Jersey City
Maxwell Alley’s menu is constantly rotating and focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and recipes. Its food is made from scratch, including handmade pasta, breads, and pastries. It serves dinner from Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and on Friday + Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM. They also have a weekend brunch menu, which runs from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Maxwell Alley’s team of chefs includes Alex Tronstad, who worked with Esquire’s Rising Star Chef of the Year and James Beard-nominated Chef Efren Hernandez, and Matt Colvin, who has been featured in The Times Union, Punch, and Imbibe.
Obaltan K-BBQ | 799 Abbott Boulevard, Fort Lee
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Obaltan K-BBQ is a favorite amongst Bergen County locals for Korean food. The spot serves fresh seafood and Korean BBQ with a wide array of options to choose from. It’s a great place to go with a group, as Obaltan has several combinations that feed multiple people. The signature combos serve two people, and diners can choose from options like Clam Sauna, Prime Beef, and Premium Pork. There are also two combos that feed 3-4 people, including the surf + turf combo and the total shellfish experience. One of MG’s favorite dishes here is the cheese buldak. The inside of the restaurant is decorated with black and red hues, and is a comfortable space.
Osteria Crescendo | 36 Jefferson Avenue, Westwood
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James Beard-nominated chef Robbie Felice is at the head of Osteria Crescendo, one of his four North Jersey restaurants. The restaurant coins itself as “a bold evolution in what Italian dining can be,” and is inspired by the lively osterias of Italy. On the dinner menu, diners will find bold flavors like Wagyu short rib, orecchiette with spicy pork sausage ragu, tuna crudo, Manila clams, and more. For dessert, try the PB+J cannoli, fior di latte panna cotta, or chocolate olive oil cake. The space features a blend of coastal and industrial themes. The restaurant was listed as one of the Top 30 Restaurants in New Jersey by New Jersey Monthly in 2019.
Perla Oyster Bar | 415 Boyden Avenue, Maplewood
Perla Oyster Bar celebrates oysters in a lively, yet intimate space, reminiscent of the West Village in New York City. The restaurant serves innovative oyster dishes and tapas, and is owned by Matthew Chappina. The Montclair Girl team recommends the Smoked Bluefish Spread, but any dish on the menu is worth a try.
Rails Steakhouse | 10 Whitehall Road, Towaco
Photo Credit: Alicia Gonzalez
Rails take the cake (or maybe the steak) when it comes to the aging process. The beef for steaks is dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days. That’s not all that makes this place special. Rails, which features rustic and romantic decor, also has its own butcher shop. At the shop, locals can find more than just meat, including meal kits and even desserts like whole cakes. The butcher shop is a hidden gem for home cooks looking for meats that will wow guests. Butcher shop orders require a 24-hour notice.
Razza | 275 Grove Street, Jersey City
Razza is best known for its pizza, but the menu here includes salads, seasonal vegetable dishes, and breads baked in the restaurant’s enormous wood-burning oven. There are both classic pies on the menu, like various types of Margherita and pepperoni, as well as more creative options like the Corn Pie with NJ corn, fresh mozz, shaved onions, + chili paste. The decor of this eatery boasts a unique mixture of industrial, rustic, urban, and vintage vibes. It’s also been named the best pizza in New York City (yes, you read that right). Razza and its owner, Dan Richer, have seen a lot of recognition, including being named one of the Best Pizza Places in the U.S. by The New York Times, listed in Top 50 Italian Restaurants in the U.S. by The Daily Meal in 2019, and named the Best Pizza Awards 2025 by The Best Chef Pizza. Dan was also a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, + 2025. With all of those accolades, you may be expecting a buttoned-up experience, but this place is as laid-back as your corner pizza shop. The large shaded patio on Jersey City’s Grove Street is a pleasant spot to carb-load and people-watch.
Ristorante MV | 1 Mill Street, Bernardsville
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Ristorante MV is a go-to spot for classic Italian cuisine, and is family-owned with Michael Vitiello and his father, Pasquino, at the head of it. Celebrity sightings aren’t uncommon, including Real Housewives, Mike Tyson, the NY Jets, and even Governor Murphy. But this spot is more than just a see-and-be-seen kind of place; the food stands on its own. The menu is full of Italian classics like veal parm and shrimp oreganata. The restaurant is a lively spot — think old world charm meets modern and sophisticated.. There’s a real, live tree right in the dining room, and a cute vintage Fiat parked outside the front door.
The River Palm Terrace | 1416 River Road, Edgewater
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The River Palm Terrace is a perpetual favorite for NJ locals and visiting celebs, whose photos adorn the walls. Chef Andy is a welcoming host and a talented chef: he is known for visiting tables to say hello and check in with guests. There is a classic, seafood-focused menu and a dedicated menu for sushi and sake. The star of the sushi menu is naturally the Andy Roll, created by the Chef himself. The space has an old-school charm, and the plush, rounded booths along the entry level are especially comfortable, giving a full view of the space. This restaurant is a sentimental spot for many diners in Bergen County, including The Montclair Girl. Our grandparents went on dates here, then our parents, and now we dine here. It has won the Award of Excellence” by Wine Spectator since 2022, and is owned by John Campbell.
Saddle River Inn | 2 Barnstable Court, Saddle River
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While this is one of the hardest reservations to get in Bergen County, it’s completely worth the effort. The dark, cozy vibes and the staff’s warm welcome elevate the whole experience for guests. The Montclair Girl’s personal favorite is the Wagyu Beef Tataki served on crispy rice and topped with caviar. It’s unlike anything else in the area. The restaurant has a quaint, barnlike exterior with high ceilings and soft, calm lighting inside. Saddle River Inn was listed in the Top 100 Restaurants in America for 2024 by OpenTable and received an Excellent rating by The New York Times. Jamie Knott took over as the owner in 2013.
Samba | 7 Park Street, Montclair
Samba serves homestyle Brazilian fare and is a certified gluten-free restaurant, making it a solid choice for a group with mixed dietary needs. It has an upbeat vibe, but is casual and fresh-feeling with many plants filling the interior. The menu features brunch, lunch, and dinner, including items like Brazilian avocado toast as well as chicken, beef, and pork dishes. There are also a few vegan selections. The restaurant is owned by Ilson Goncalves.
Sangorgio’s Italian Bistro | 86 Boonton Avenue #86, Kinnelon
Italian-style antipasti, soup, salad, pasta, veal, steak, fish, and more are what can be found on the menu of this Kinnelon eatery. Sangorgio’s, which has been family-owned and operated for generations and has authentic Italian vibes, is recognized locally for its authentic eats and has been featured in publications like New Jersey Monthly. Locals will recognize the space from its bright red exterior. The stuffed artichoke will always have a place in our hearts.
SLA Thai | 596 Valley Road, Montclair
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SLA Thai Restaurant has a ton of options on the original Thai menu, along with vegetarian substitutes for anyone who prefers them. The dining room is warm and simple, great for any kind of get-together, from date night to birthday celebrations. SLA has every type of Thai food covered, and the food is always top-tier. Some of the options include fried tofu, duck salad, Pad Thai, and Pad Kemmoa, but anything is worth a try. The restaurant is run by Kamonthip “Meiji” Pattamasingcha, her brother Yanin, and her husband Wanat. The BYO space is light and airy, with cafe lights over the cozy patio. No wonder this is a Montclair neighborhood favorite.
Sushi Kai | 206 Main Street, Fort Lee
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After visiting countless omakase spots, including Michelin-starred spots in NYC and hidden gems in Hudson County, Sushi Kai in Fort Lee, owned by Simon Shargorodsky, takes the crown. The plates are fresh, creative, and beautifully presented. The space is small and private, giving it a secret, hidden gem feel. It has a calm, light interior with counter seating and a few regular tables. The chefs are incredibly knowledgeable, sharing not only their background in omakase but also detailed info about every fish, like where it’s from, how it was sourced, and why it’s prepared a certain way.
Taqueria Downtown | 236 Grove Street, Jersey City
This unassuming spot in downtown Jersey City is a local favorite for authentic Mexican food. Owners Andrea and Phil Barraza have created an environment for laid-back vibes paired with high-quality food, and the back patio is maybe one of the best-kept secrets in Hudson County. The inviting storefront features red and green colors, and the inside is just as vibrant, with hanging lights, greenery, and Latin decor. The menu includes every kind of taco you can think of, flautas, tamales, tortas, enchiladas, tostadas, burritos, quesadillas, and more. While the menu is expensive, MG can confirm that anything you choose will be good.
Tops Diner | 500 Passaic Avenue, East Newark
Tops Diner, owned by the Golemis family, is more than a restaurant; it’s a landmark. Tops has been in business since the 1940s and recently went through a major renovation. The space has been transformed to have a modern vibe while still serving the top-tier diner food we know and love. From diner classics like burgers and breakfast platters to modern additions like smoothies and vegan items, there’s something for everyone here. The food and drink menu is truly endless, but a few of our favorites are the short rib grilled cheese, rigatoni pesto, Shanghai steak bowl, eggs benny, and any of the mac and cheese dishes. Tops won Most Iconic NJ Diner by Reader’s Digest in 2024.
Urban Tandoor | 206 Harrison Avenue, Harrison
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Urban Tandoor is a trendy Indian restaurant right in the heart of Harrison. The inside features barn doors, exposed wood beams, dangling light bulbs, brick walls, and wooden floors, giving it a rustic feel. A section of the menu features dishes made in a 700-degree clay oven, called a tandoor, including things like chicken tikka, Tandoori chicken, lamb chops, and more. There’s also an Indo-Chinese section with plates like chili paneer, lollipop chicken, chili fish, and traditional Hakka noodles. Don’t skip the signature cocktails — there are options like a tamarind marg, Old Monk Mojito, lychee martini, and more.
Varka | 30 North Spruce Street, Ramsey
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Varka is an incredible spot for Mediterranean fare and is a Bergen County must-try. The drinks are just as good as the entrees, with a cocktail menu that never fails. The Montclair Girl recommends the lobster gyros, which come with cucumber, tomato relish, and mint tzatziki. The coastal vibes here transport diners to the Mediterranean, with lots of blues + whites, and the walls lined with fresh produce that make you feel like you’re in Europe.
Ventanas Restaurant + Lounge | 200 Park Avenue, Fort Lee
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Ventanas Restaurant + Lounge serves a global menu including modern-American, Asian, and Latin fusion cuisine. Signature dishes include lobster dumplings, chicken wings, calamari, clothesline bacon, and the Ventanas Sushi Roll. We recommend dining on the outdoor patio, weather permitting. The inside area features big glass windows and chandeliers, and is well-suited for a lively night out. Ventanas is the sister restaurant of popular West New York spot Son Cubano.
Verana | 530 Livingston Street, Norwood
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Verana is a classic Italian spot in Norwood serving modern cuisine from chef and owner Giuseppe Agostino. The owner has experience working in the best kitchens in Italy, and the menu is a reflection of that. Some favorites include the branzino with chickpeas, pesto, + potatoes, Tagliatelle al Tartufo with black truffle butter sauce, Italian spiced fried eggplant, and braised octopus, among other dishes. The inside is an elegant and bright space featuring white and green florals hanging from the ceiling.
The Walpack Inn | 7 National Park Service Road Route 615, Walpack
The Walpack Inn may be toward the end of this alphabetical list, but it’s close to the top in our minds. This rustic restaurant boasts a menu of steaks, seafood, sandwiches, and more. The restaurant’s interior features large windows, flooding the space with natural light, with hanging greens, wood beams, and rustic decor throughout. It’s owned by Jim Heigis Darco, who is the son of original owners Louise and Adam. The Walpack Inn has been a North Jersey destination for diners since its opening in 1949, with its combination of comforting classic menu options and a stunning natural setting.
Zeugma Grill | 44 South Park Street, Montclair
Zeugma Grill has a variety of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, meaning it’s a spot that has choices for everyone. The grill has a clean, coastal vibe, resulting in a comfortable meal experience. Patrons can dine indoors or outdoors, and there is a mezze bar (a spread of Mediterranean dips and small bites) on site. The owners take their Turkish background, combined with other Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern influences, to create hearty dishes like beef shish kebab, salmon and artichoke, and a pistachio steak burger, among other dishes.
See More: 30+ Restaurants to Try in Union City, New Jersey
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