New Jersey doesn’t always get the national food spotlight it deserves — but if you actually spend time eating your way through the state, you quickly realize how diverse and competitive the restaurant scene really is. From chef-driven tasting menus to old-school Italian institutions, NJ offers serious quality within a short drive of NYC and Philadelphia. Below are 20 restaurants that consistently deliver outstanding food, strong reviews, and memorable experiences in 2026. I’ve included what to order, pricing expectations, atmosphere details, and official websites so readers can plan properly.
1. Restaurant Latour – Hamburg, NJ
If you’re looking for one of the most refined dining experiences in New Jersey, Restaurant Latour is hard to beat. Located inside Crystal Springs Resort in Sussex County, it’s known for seasonal tasting menus and one of the most impressive wine cellars in the region.
Farm-driven, seasonal ingredients
Elegant multi-course tasting menus
Wine cellar with thousands of selections
Ideal for anniversaries or special occasions
- The menu changes regularly, but expect dishes like dry-aged duck, perfectly cooked seafood, and artistic plated desserts. Service is polished without being stiff.
2. The Frog and The Peach – New Brunswick, NJ
A longtime favorite in Central Jersey, The Frog and The Peach blends fine dining technique with a warm, approachable atmosphere. It’s a reliable choice whether you’re entertaining clients, celebrating, or simply want a well-executed meal.
Creative seasonal American dishes
Strong cocktail and wine program
Outdoor courtyard dining in warmer months
Excellent service reputation
- Menu highlights often include house-made pastas, prime steaks, and beautifully plated seafood. They also offer tasting menus and private dining options.
3. Chart House – Weehawken, NJ
If you want dinner with a view, Chart House in Weehawken delivers one of the most iconic panoramas in the state. Overlooking the Hudson River, this seafood-focused restaurant is popular for celebrations and romantic dinners.
Fresh seafood platters
Prime rib and steak options
Lobster tail
Signature cocktails
- The real draw here is pairing classic seafood dishes with sunset skyline views. It’s especially busy during summer evenings and holidays.
- Official website: https://www.chart-house.com/location/chart-house-weehawken-nj/
4. Viaggio Ristorante – Wayne, NJ
Viaggio Ristorante has built a strong reputation for elevated Italian cuisine. It’s more refined than your typical neighborhood Italian spot and perfect for date nights or celebratory dinners.
Handmade pasta
Beautifully plated dishes
Strong wine list
Consistent 4+ star reviews
- Signature dishes often include seafood linguine, veal chops, and truffle-infused specialties.
- Official website: https://www.viaggioristorante.com
5. Razza – Jersey City, NJ
No serious NJ food list is complete without mentioning Razza. Frequently praised for serving some of the best pizza in the country, Razza focuses on high-quality local ingredients, house-milled flour, and wood-fired cooking.
Carefully sourced NJ ingredients
Naturally fermented dough
Seasonal vegetable toppings
Simple but perfected flavors
- The Margherita is a must-order, but seasonal pies rotate regularly. Expect wait times on weekends.
6. Steve & Cookie's By the Bay – Margate City, NJ
A Jersey Shore favorite for decades, Steve & Cookie’s is known for warm hospitality and beautifully executed seafood. It’s upscale but welcoming — the kind of place locals return to again and again.
Fresh oysters and seafood towers
Seasonal fish dishes
Excellent cocktails and desserts
Elegant yet relaxed atmosphere
- It’s especially popular in summer, so reservations are highly recommended.
- Official website: https://www.steveandcookies.com
7. The River Palm Terrace – Edgewater, NJ
If you’re searching for one of North Jersey’s top steakhouses, The River Palm Terrace delivers. Known for USDA Prime dry-aged beef and attentive service, it’s a favorite for business dinners and celebrations.
Dry-aged porterhouse
Bone-in ribeye
Jumbo shrimp cocktail
Traditional steakhouse sides
- The atmosphere is polished and professional — perfect for impressing guests.
- Official website: https://www.riverpalm.com
8. Elements – Princeton, NJ
Located in the heart of Princeton, Elements offers a refined tasting-menu experience focused on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The presentation is creative, but the flavors remain balanced and approachable.
Multi-course chef’s tasting menus
Intimate dining room
Strong wine pairings
Thoughtful vegetarian options
- It’s ideal for food enthusiasts who appreciate technique and detail.
- Official website: https://www.elementsprinceton.com
9. Heirloom Kitchen – Old Bridge, NJ
Heirloom Kitchen blends cooking school energy with high-quality dining. Ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible, and the menu rotates frequently.
Fresh, seasonal menus
Rustic yet refined atmosphere
Creative brunch options
BYOB policy
- It’s smaller than many restaurants on this list, so booking ahead is smart.
10. The Capital Grille – Paramus, NJ, US
While it’s a national brand, the Paramus location of The Capital Grille consistently ranks among the top dining options in Bergen County. It’s reliable, elegant, and well-managed.
Dry-aged steaks
Extensive wine list
Professional service
Private dining options
- It’s a dependable choice for business meetings or formal dinners.
11. The Saddle River Inn – Saddle River, NJ
Housed in a restored 18th-century barn, The Saddle River Inn offers one of the most intimate dining atmospheres in North Jersey. The menu leans toward modern French-inspired cuisine with elegant plating and seasonal ingredients.
Thoughtfully crafted tasting menus
Extensive wine selection
Cozy fireplace dining in colder months
Impeccable service
- It’s a top choice for anniversaries or milestone celebrations.
12. Zeppoli – Collingswood, NJ
Zeppoli is small, intimate, and highly respected among serious food lovers. The chef focuses on traditional Sicilian recipes prepared with precision and simplicity.
House-made pasta
Fresh seafood dishes
Traditional Sicilian desserts
Rotating seasonal menu
- Because of its size, reservations are essential.
13. Ninety Acres – Peapack, NJ, US
Located on the grounds of Natirar, Ninety Acres blends scenic countryside views with refined American cuisine. Ingredients are often sourced from the property’s own farm and local suppliers.
Scenic estate setting
Seasonal American menu
Elegant presentation
Wine-focused dining experience
- It’s a destination restaurant worth planning around.
14. Battello – Jersey City, NJ
Battello combines upscale Italian cuisine with dramatic harbor views. It’s one of the most visually impressive dining spots in Jersey City.
Fresh seafood pasta
Handcrafted cocktails
Stylish industrial interior
Outdoor seating in warmer months
- This is a strong choice for both romantic dinners and social gatherings.
- Official website: https://www.battellojc.com
15. Chef Vola's – Atlantic City, NJ, US
Chef Vola’s is legendary in Atlantic City. This intimate Italian restaurant has been serving traditional favorites for decades and remains one of the most talked-about hidden gems in the state.
Cash-only policy
Cozy, residential-style setting
Famous veal parmesan
Rich, hearty pasta dishes
- It’s not flashy — and that’s exactly why people love it.
- Official website: https://www.chefvolas.com
16. Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen – Morristown, NJ
Set inside the historic Vail Mansion, Jockey Hollow offers several dining experiences under one roof — from upscale steakhouse fare to a lively oyster bar.
USDA Prime steaks
Fresh seafood and raw bar
Elegant dining rooms with historic architecture
Great for events and business dinners
- The versatility makes it ideal whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a corporate gathering.
17. Rats Restaurant – Hamilton Township, NJ
Located at Grounds For Sculpture, Rats Restaurant offers a unique dining atmosphere inspired by French countryside charm.
Scenic waterfront patio
French-American menu
Artistic surroundings
Popular brunch service
- Dining here feels like a short European escape without leaving New Jersey.
- Official website: https://www.ratsrestaurant.com
18. Drew's Bayshore Bistro – Keyport, NJ
This small but highly respected restaurant blends New Orleans flavors with Jersey Shore ingredients. It’s consistently praised for bold seasoning and friendly service.
Cajun-style seafood
Creative daily specials
House-made sauces
BYOB option
- It’s cozy and popular, so reservations are strongly recommended.
19. Corto – Jersey City, NJ
Corto is known for simple, well-executed Italian dishes with a rustic touch. It’s not flashy — but it delivers consistent quality.
Fresh pasta dishes
Rotating seasonal specials
Relaxed neighborhood atmosphere
Fair pricing for quality
- This is a strong option for casual yet elevated Italian dining.
- Official website: https://www.cortojc.com
20. Stage Left Steak – New Brunswick, NJ
Stage Left Steak blends traditional steakhouse favorites with international flavors. It’s a polished yet creative alternative to classic chain steakhouses.
Dry-aged steaks
Global-inspired small plates
Award-winning wine list
Consistent service
- Located near Rutgers University, it’s a go-to for upscale dinners in Central Jersey.Official website: https://www.stageleft.com
Final Conclusion
New Jersey’s restaurant scene in 2026 proves one thing clearly — you don’t need to cross into New York City for world-class dining. From waterfront seafood in Weehawken to farm-to-table elegance in Peapack and artisan pizza in Jersey City, the Garden State delivers variety, quality, and creativity across every region.
What makes these restaurants stand out isn’t just presentation — it’s consistency. Strong service, thoughtful sourcing, chef-driven menus, and loyal local followings are what separate great restaurants from average ones. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a business meeting, or a weekend food trip, this guide gives you reliable, experience-based options worth your time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best fine dining restaurant in New Jersey?
Restaurants like Restaurant Latour and Elements are often considered among the top fine-dining destinations due to their tasting menus and wine programs.
2. Where can I find the best waterfront dining in NJ?
Weehawken and Jersey City offer some of the best skyline views paired with upscale dining experiences.
3. Are reservations necessary at top NJ restaurants?
Yes. For most upscale or highly rated restaurants, reservations are strongly recommended — especially on weekends.
4. What is the average price for a top restaurant in NJ?
Expect $30–$60 per person at mid-range restaurants and $100+ per person for fine dining or tasting menus.
5. Is New Jersey good for food tourism?
Absolutely. With diverse cuisines, award-winning chefs, and proximity to major cities, NJ is becoming a serious destination for food lovers.
