A unique state close to areas such as New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, New Jersey sometimes has an underrated reputation for its food and culture. The beauty of New Jersey, in terms of its food, is that you can enjoy fantastic options in nearly every style of cuisine. Whether you want pizza, classic Italian food, Asian cuisine, or Indian food, you will likely find a terrific restaurant at an affordable price point. Most busy streets in New Jersey will feature at least one charming restaurant that offers affordable and delicious food. However, when you are visiting the area for the first time, you should have an elevated experience. Below is our rundown of the six best restaurants you must try if you visit New Jersey for business or pleasure.
1. 1776 By David Burke
When you visit a place for the first time, trying its most outlandish and bustling restaurants is a good idea. 1776 by David Burke may not be the pinnacle of New Jersey dining, but the ambiance and the best New Jersey food make for a beautiful experience.
A massive restaurant with over 250 seats, 1776 features a lively bar scene and plenty of suites you can book for larger parties. While the food is delicious, the vibe and ambiance set this restaurant apart from other places you could check out in Morristown.
If you are in the mood for such a scene, check out the soft-shell crab tempura or the tomato gazpacho with crab meat.
2. Cafe 2825
Located in Atlantic City, Cafe 2825 is a decades-old family-run restaurant that prides itself on being among the best in its city. Its theatrical tableside service is a sight to behold, while the delicious Italian dishes are ones you will never tire of eating.
Whether you’re seeking a simple place to wind down after a long day of work or a restaurant where you can take the whole family after enjoying hours of Atlantic City fun, Cafe 2825 is a great place to eat. Dishes such as the clams oreganata and the zucchini blossoms are standouts.
3. Elements
Located in Princeton, New Jersey, Elements is a restaurant that prioritizes its ingredients. Everyone at Elements focuses on procuring the best vegetables, herbs, and other components for the various dishes.
If you are eating at Elements, you can choose between one of two tasting menus, which are constantly changing depending on the available ingredients. There is the option of a five-course or 16-course menu, depending on how many dishes you hope to sample.
4. Faubourg
Faubourg, situated in the charming Montclair, is a stunning place to visit and dine. A glass-roofed atrium that was recently renovated, Faubourg is the best way to experience New Jersey spring and summer. The French bistro has a tasty menu of fresh dishes that constantly evolve based on what is available to the chefs.
Boneless lamb loins, strawberry basil sorbets, and delicious corn-and-chanterelle fricassee are among the dishes you can enjoy at this award-winning establishment. While the prices are higher, you are most certainly getting value for money. The dishes are incredible to eat, and the ambiance is first-rate.
5. Il Capriccio
A high-end Italian restaurant in Whippany, Il Capriccio, is the place to be seen. While you must dress in business casual attire, do not mistake this place for a stiff dining experience where you will feel uncomfortable. The staff at Il Capriccio work hard to ensure all their guests feel comfortable and relaxed from the moment they set foot in the restaurant.
Wild European seafood, stunning signature cocktails, and delicious sauces make for an incredible dining experience. And if the food is not enough to excite you, you will be pleased to learn that Il Capriccio also has a pianist who maintains the perfect ambiance every evening.
6. Razza
Those who are in the mood for a more relaxed eating experience may want to try Razza for lunch or dinner. A classic pizza joint in Jersey City, Razza has featured on several “best pizza” lists for New Jersey and the United States as a whole. Featuring simple wood-fired pies, a full cocktail bar, and Italian craft beer, Razza is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
New Jersey Has It All
Every style of food and price point is well-represented in New Jersey. Whether you wish to go all out and spend hundreds of dollars on delicious sushi or just want a tasty pizza for less than $20, you can find it in The Garden State. You may only have the time to visit some restaurants on our list, but you can easily eat at two or three places. Think about the cuisine you enjoy the most, the style of restaurant that appeals to you, and the people who will be eating with you before you pick a restaurant.
