The Most Romantic Restaurants in New Jersey: 2024 Edition

The 2024 Edition of The Most Romantic Restaurants in New Jersey is written by Vinny Parisi.

Most folks plan for Valentine’s Day to be their most romantic night of the year. But there’s never a bad time for a romantic night out. The right restaurant can be perfect for either a special evening out, or just dinner with an unforgettable view. That’s why we’re putting together a list of the most romantic restaurants in New Jersey.

Of course, a major component of what makes a restaurant romantic is the backdrop. In particular, the views in New Jersey are incomparable. From the sea to the skyline to the countryside, there are many ways to take in the sights. Which is why the entries on this list also boast some mix of amazing dining, spectacular views, or intimate settings. We hope they make your next romantic night out even more special!

Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find the Most Romantic Restaurant nearby.

North Jersey

Best in Sussex County:
Restaurant Latour

Restaurant Latour Evening Dinner with a view

Where: 1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg
Details: This unique dining experience is adjacent to the AAA 4-diamond Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort. Open weekly from Thursday through Sunday, Restaurant Latour offers guests either a 3-course or 7-course Chef’s Tasting menu. The seasonal menu showcases the freshest ingredients available from NJ farmers and artisan producers. Example dishes from previous menus include two tone kaluga caviar, cuttlefish, whole roasted quail, buttermilk panna cotta, and suckling pig. Of course, their expert sommeliers are on hand to provide the perfect wine pairing or libation suggestion for any meal. The intimate dining room is warmly lit and gives guests an unparalleled view of the surrounding greenery and golf course. Restaurant Latour requires a reservation for dining and welcomes all guests ages 12 and up. The dress code recommends slacks, a collared shirt, and dress shoes for men and stylish dresses or pants for women.
Why I Like it: Restaurant Latour’s innovative cuisine earns its reputation as The Culinary Crown Jewel of Crystal Springs Resort.

Best in Essex County:
The Highlawn

Where: Eagle Rock Reservation, 1 Crest Dr, West Orange
Details: The Highlawn melds beauty and sophistication with fine dining and world-class views. Situated high atop the cliffs of West Orange, guests can almost reach out and touch the New York skyline. This feeling is further accentuated by the recent addition of a multi-level outdoor patio for dining under the stars. Renowned Chef Will Prunty leads an award-winning culinary team that showcases dry-aged steaks, and the freshest seafood available. Of course, their Italian heritage shines through in traditional dishes such as their fried calamari called Fritto Misto. Not to mention the bevy of pasta dishes from various sections of Italy. All told, the unique dining experience here is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The view, atmosphere, food, and outdoor garden also make The Highlawn a sought-after wedding venue. As they say, there’s something about The Highlawn that brings a man to his knees.
Why I like it: The venue is truly the perfect marriage of romance and award-winning cuisine.

Best in Morris County:
Stone Water

Stone Water Exterior and waterfront view

Where: 125 NJ-181, Lake Hopatcong
Details: For folks who want their romantic dinner with a view, Stone Water is Lake Hopatcong’s Premier Lakefront Restaurant. The restaurant, part of 3 Peaks Marina, offers sweeping views of the lake whether dining indoors or out. Dining during the afternoon gives patrons a glimpse of boats on the water; while evening meals showcase the sunset and shimmering stars above the lake. Signature dishes include their Day Boat Scallops with riced cauliflower and quinoa, white chocolate sauce, and crispy amaranth. Their popular Iberico de Bellota pork dishes come from the Black Iberian Pig found only in Spain and Portugal. Stone Water prepares this special pork many different ways. They also prepare steaks and seafood over imported Purvian Charcoal to give it a unique flavor. Stone Water’s special Valentine’s Menu is available the entire week of Valentine’s Day, making it easier to book a reservation.
Why I Like it: Even Sunday Brunch feels romantic when dining right on the water of this lovely location.

Best in Bergen County:
VENTANAS Restaurant & Lounge

VENTANAS at the Modern restaurant dining room

Where: 200 Park Ave, Fort Lee
Details: The vibe at VENTANAS is “glamorous”. So it’s no wonder OpenTable recognized them as one of the “100 Best Date Spots in America” in 2023. The restaurant offers a lounge, a Himalayan Salt Wall backdrop perfect for social media selfies, a Red Room, and more. Patrons can dine in style indoors, or enjoy meals out on the patio (complete with a fire table). At VENTANAS, exquisite dining meets ambitious cuisine. The restaurant offers a number of specialty menus, as well as brunch, lunch, and dinner options. Weekend brunch serves up favorites such as Hong Kong Style French Toast with Egg Battered Brioche, Nutella, Condensed Milk Drizzle, and Fresh Berries. Meanwhile, popular dinner entrees include their “Scallops, Prawns, and Octopus” or the Shrimp and Beef Filet Teriyaki Udon Noodles.
Why I like it: VENTANAS brings the feel and top notch cuisine of upscale NYC dining to New Jersey.

Best in Hudson County:
Son Cubano

Where: 40-4 Riverwalk Place, West New York
Details: As the name implies, patrons visit Son Cubano for a taste of authentic, classic Cuban dishes. Culinary Director David Burke and Executive Chef Brian Morales combine their talents to offer lunch, brunch, dinner, and dessert options. Menu favorites range from their mixed empanadas and lobster and shrimp tacos to their classic paella. Likewise, popular entrees include the Pernil Pork Shank and Churrasco Skirt Steak. Just be sure to save room for fan-favorite desserts such as the Quatro Leches and Dark Chocolate Truffle Cake. The restaurant feels within arm’s reach of the New York City skyline, with romantic waterfront views. Patrons can choose to enjoy the view from the glamorous indoor dining room, which is inspired by 1950s Cuba. Otherwise, they can head outside for an incredible photo op and patio dining right on the water. Check out their Comedy on The Hudson events for date night.
Why I like it: Son Cubano guarantees the perfect date night, complete with dinner, dancing, and an unbeatable view.

James on Main

Where: Hackettstown
Details: This popular New American restaurant partners with local farmers, producers, and businesses to produce their cuisine. This includes spots such as Four Fields Farm (Great Meadows), Fossil Farms (Boonton), and Man Skirt Brewing Company (Hackettstown). Their specialty menus include Prix Fixe Two-Course and Three-Course options, as well as their Five-Course Chef’s Tasting. They also have a dessert menu, and exclusive Curbside Menu only available to-go.

Novelli

Where: Wayne
Details: Novelli provides what most would consider a classic night out at an Italian restaurant. Traditional cuisine, white tablecloths, and Frank Sinatra playing in the background is all part of the experience. The menu isn’t meant to shock, with familiar favorites such as fried calamari, penne vodka, and Veal Novelli. They also serve a robust menu of wines, martinis, and craft cocktails that pair well with any meal; such as the Italian Riviera cocktail.

Sear House Grill

Where: Little Falls
Details: Sear House Grill is part of the G-Mark Hospitality Group that operates a number of other restaurants. As the name implies, Sear House is known for their steaks. Popular picks include the Tomahawk Cowboy Steak, New York Sirloin Prime, and the Filet Mignon Butcher Board Center Cut. But the restaurant also serves a wide variety of seafood options. The cozy atmosphere, chandeliers, and large firewall always make for a romantic night out.

Central Jersey

Best in Mercer County:
Rat’s Restaurant

Interior Seating of Rats Restaurant in Hamilton NJ

Where: 16 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton Township
Details: Rat’s Restaurant offers exquisite cuisine and impeccable service in a whimsical, chateau-like setting at Grounds for Sculpture. Guests can experience an elevated dining experience amid Impressionist-inspired sculptures, complete with a Monet-inspired bridge and lily pond. Daytime and evening menus offer French-inspired cuisine such as warming Coq au Vin and hearty Bouillabaisse. They also offer lighter fare, including their signature Rotisserie Chicken Salad and Seasonal Squash Soup. An extensive wine list offers thoughtful selections that pair with any meal, as do rotating craft cocktails and local beers. For a fun and romantic date night idea, keep an eye out for their exclusive events. In particular, Rat’s Restaurant hosts a monthly wine club dinner, regular comedy nights, and seasonal cooking classes.
Why I Like it: Rat’s offers versatile spaces perfectly suited for anything from intimate group brunches to large wedding receptions.

Best in Middlesex County:
Orchard Park by David Burke

Steak and Wine Display at Orchard Park in East Brunswick

Where: 670 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick
Details: Orchard Park blends the best of David Burke’s other American restaurants in New Jersey into one signature menu. Set on the ground floor of the Chateau Grande Hotel, Orchard Park offers a truly romantic experience. In addition to their modern dining room with open kitchen, they boast the impressive Orchard Terrace outdoor dining option. For Valentine’s Day 2024, they are offering a 3-Course + Amuse dinner menu. This meal starts off with cauliflower panna cotta. The first course offers a choice of favorites such as lobster dumplings, mushroom risotto, or signature Clothesline Bacon. The second course includes options like grilled veal chop, duck breast, and Brick cornish hen. Dessert then concludes the meal with a choice of ice cream sliders, chocolate cake, or Cheesecake Lollipop Tree for two. Of course, they also serve a variety of cocktails and mocktails to suit the occasion.
Why I Like it: That chocolate box includes macarons, red velvet cake, chocolate cake, chocolate truffles, and chocolate dipped strawberries.

Harvest Moon Inn

Where: Ringoes
Details: The Harvest Moon offers indoor dining from Wednesday – Sunday each week, plus No Contact Curbside Pickup. They have a Business Casual dress code to match the elegant and upscale ambiance. Two of the dining rooms inside this stone building have fireplaces, while their Tavern Room has a large oak bar. Ingredients here can’t get any fresher, as they pick much of what they use from the on premises gardens. Check back often for nightly specials.

Huntley Taverne

Where: Summit
Details: The Huntley Taverne has a clear and concise menu. Most patrons start with a handful of appetizers for the table. In particular, their crispy pork belly, edamame dumplings, and angry shrimp spring rolls are all fan favorites. Though there are no skyline or waterfront views, the overall ambiance give off a cozy and romantic vibe. This is thanks in part to the high ceilings, wooden beam accents, and fireplace. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic night out.

Grain House at The Olde Mill Inn

Where: Basking Ridge
Details: Classic American cuisine meets modern flavors at the Grain House. Like many New Jersey restaurants inside inns, this one also feels rustic and cozy. From the fireplace to the wooden beams to the vintage portraits and decor, the Grain House feels homey. They serve lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, and feature popular entrees such as Lamb Osso Bucco and Blackened Florida Grouper. We recommend the Yukon Whipped Potatoes as a side dish.

Water and Wine

Where: Watchung
Details: Water and Wine mixes Italian flavors with an American menu and plenty of drink options. For example, they have an extensive (25+ pages) wine list. Meanwhile, menu highlights include braised lamb shank, Garganelli Con Porcini, and Organic Scottish Salmon. The restaurant borders Watchung Lake, a large lake and small park. It might be even more romantic in the winter though, as the lake can freeze over; creating a unique backdrop.

Jersey Shore

Best in Cape May County: Ebbitt Room

Where: 25 Jackson St, Cape May
Details: This award-winning restaurant is located in the heart of historic Cape May at the Virginia Hotel. The innovative cuisine, attentive service, and refined ambiance make it a wonderful spot for date night or any other occasion. The Ebbitt Room is strongly rooted in a farm-to-table, farm-to-glass dining philosophy. In fact, it features the freshest ingredients available from their very own Beach Plum Farm. When it comes to dessert, they have an indulgent treat for every taste. Options include the Chocolate S’mores Tart, Pumpkin Pecan Pie, Sweet Ricotta Donuts, and their Apple Tarte Tatin. For a fun date night idea, keep an eye out for when Kenneth Richardson is playing live on the piano. The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music alum plays Billy Joel, Elton John, Sinatra, Motown, and more. Don’t miss their exclusive three-course wine pairing dinners on select dates throughout the year.
Why I Like it: Those who love a good wine pairing will find one of New Jersey’s premier selections here.

Best in Monmouth County:
Iron Whale

Where: 1200 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park
Details: The Iron Whale on Asbury Park’s iconic Boardwalk features a rustic, yet still contemporary design. It befits the spirit of seafarers, with prominent reclaimed wood, ropes, and gas lanterns. Executive Chef Charles Collins creates inventive takes on seafood, a wide selection of meat presentations, and vegetarian options. Many of their signature cocktails feature high end Bourbon and Tequila. Likewise, their espresso martini is a popular choice, and frequently receives local recognition. Iron Whale offers ocean view indoor and outdoor seating, an open kitchen, fireplace, and a private meeting or party room. They are open seven days a week for brunch, lunch, and dinner year-round. Frequent patrons can join their loyalty program and receive exclusive member benefits as a McLoone’s Premier Card member. For Valentine’s Day, they offer special pricing on their Tomahawk Ribeye for Two.
Why I like it: It’s the perfect spot for date night, celebrating special occasions, or gathering with family and friends.

Best in Ocean County:
Chef Mike’s ABG

Valentine's Dinner Spread from Chef Mike's ABG

Where: 10 24th Ave, Seaside Park
Details: Executive Chef Mike Jurusz is all about “bringing sexy food back” at his restaurant, Chef Mike’s ABG. So it’s no surprise his commitment to sultry seasonings and seductive seafood specials earns his eatery a place here. Chef Mike captivates newcomers and regulars alike with a raw bar featuring fresh clams, oysters, and shrimp cocktail; all of which are served with an apple chill mignonette and fresh cocktail sauce. They also serve red wines by the glass, including Napa Cellars Cabernet, Spellbound Merlot, and La Crema Pinot Noir. To further enhance date night and turn it into the perfect romantic evening, enjoy their spring and summer outdoor dining. Their tables on the sand allow dinner dates to watch the sun go down and stars come out. Finish the night off with an after dinner drink like the Nutty Irishman or Cappucino to bookend the experience; or one of their signature fresh desserts.
Why I Like it: Both the warm old fashioned vanilla crisp and key lime pie are must-try desserts.

Dock’s Oyster House

Where: Atlantic City
Details: Dock’s has been serving fresh seafood in Atlantic City since 1897. Loyal patrons know their Clams Casino and Oyster Stew are the perfect starting points for any meal. But newcomers should order the Appetizer Medley for a taste of their most popular starters. The menu further features a selection of chowders, entrees, and Dock’s Classics. The latter includes options like Crab Meat Sautée and Fried Jumbo Shrimp. Grab a seat by the piano bar to enhance any date night.

Tuscany Restaurant

Where: Brick
Details: This family-owned spot let’s their food do the talking for them. That’s because they prepare every single dish from scratch. The menu features popular apps like Stuffed Portabella, Crispy Calamari, and the unique Eggplant Tower. As for entrees, patrons love the Steak Gorgonzola, Apple Sauteed Pork Tenderloin, and Honey Fig Chicken. The cozy dining room is dimly lit and features a wood-burning fireplace, making it great for date night.

South Jersey

Best in Burlington County:
Carlucci’s Waterfront

Where: 876 Centerton Rd, Mt Laurel Township
Details: Seasonal patio dining with a view and year-round cozy indoor dining make Carlucci’s a must for date night. Valentine’s Week is a big deal at Carlucci’s Waterfront, and the restaurant always goes all out with dinner specials. For 2024, their Sweetheart Special is the main event. The deal includes an appetizer, salad, entree of choice, dessert, and glass of wine or bottle of Prosecco split. Other specials throughout the week include half price bottles of wine on Friday (2/9), Monday (2/12), and Friday (2/16); as well as half price martinis at the bar all day on Thursday (2/15). Valentine’s Day itself offers a number of exclusive dinner deals, such as the Tomahawk for Two for $110. Other highlights include Double Lobster Tails, Heart Shaped Ravioli, Scallops Risotto, and Seafood Canelloni. They will also be serving unique cocktails like the Hershey Kiss Martini and Up All Night Espresso Martini.
Why I Like it: A window table as the sun sets and the stars come out makes any dinner romantic.

Filomena Lakeview

Where: Deptford
Details: The name doesn’t lie, Filomena Lakeview offers patio dining with a view of Almonesson Lake. But the dining room of this classic Italian eatery is as equally romantic as the lake view. The menu boasts traditional favorites including Broccoli Rabe & Sausage, Tortellini & Scallops, and Chicken (or Veal) Sfiziosa. But we recommend the Filet Sinatra, Filet Mignon, shrimp, & jumbo lump crabmeat with vegetables and red bliss smashed potatoes.

Il Villagio

Where: Cherry Hill
Details: Il Villagio provides both intimate indoor dining, and romantic outdoor dining under string lights on their patio. Their classic Italian dinner menu focuses on Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Mare Monte, Scallops Risotto, Homemade Gnocchi, and more. Looking to go all out and plan the ultimate romantic dinner (and perhaps a proposal) for that special someone? One of their private dining rooms is the Pergola, a gorgeous space that seats up to 20 guests.

Maplewood III

Where: Vineland
Details: The upscale setting matches the impeccable standard Maplewood sets for their seafood and Italian cuisine. Their daily dinner specials feature unique offerings such as Roast Half Duck or Stuffed Shells Bolognese. But the main menu features traditional favorites like stuffed hot peppers, Lobster Fra Diavolo, Baked Lasagna, and Homemade Braciole. Pair any entree with a glass of wine at a cozy corner table for the perfect romantic evening out.

The Shipyard

Where: Pennsville
Details: If absence makes the heart grow fonder, then folks should really love The Shipyard. The restaurant is only open seasonally during the warmer months (May through October). Their outdoor dining experience provides lawn chairs, lawn games like cornhole, and live music. Looking for a fun and romantic evening out that won’t break the bank? Order a bite to eat, sit in a lawn chair by a fire pit, and listen to some live music. The kitchen serves up sandwiches, quesadillas, tacos, bar snacks, and more.

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Romantic Restaurants in New Jersey FAQs

Does New Jersey have any Romantic Restaurants?

Yes! There are over 40 romantic restaurants included in Best of NJ’s list of The Most Romantic Restaurants in New Jersey. There are romantic restaurants in every region of New Jersey, from North Jersey to the Jersey Shore and South Jersey.

What’s the Best New Jersey Restaurant for Valentine’s Day?

There are many romantic restaurants in New Jersey that are perfect for a Valentine’s Day date. For instance, Best of NJ’s list of The Most Romantic Restaurants in New Jersey includes Orchard Park in East Brunswick.

Where is a Fancy Restaurant to go for Dinner in New Jersey?

New Jersey has a number of upscale and fine dining restaurants that are also very romantic. A few options in North Jersey are Son Cubano in West New York and VENTANAS in Fort Lee.

Which Restaurants Have the Most Beautiful Views in New Jersey?

For one of the best NYC skyline views, dinner at The Highlawn in West Orange is a must. When it comes to waterfront views, it doesn’t get much better than Stone Water in Lake Hopatcong. Finally, for a lush garden view head to Rat’s Restaurant inside Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton.

Wat NJ Restaurants Offer Outdoor Seating for a Romantic Evening?

Carlucci’s Waterfront in Mount Laurel offers seasonal patio dining with a waterfront view that is perfect for date night. Other options include the Orchard Terrace at Orchard Park by David Burke.

Top Photo: VENTANAS / Facebook

The Most Romantic Restaurants in New Jersey