The 5 Best Restaurants in Jersey City: Eat Like a Local

Vinny Parisi

1 year ago

It’s no secret Jersey City has firmly established itself as one of New Jersey’s premier culinary destinations. With such an embarrassment of riches, it can be hard to decide where to ever start. That’s why we asked BestofNJ.com Instagram followers to decide The 5 Best Restaurants in Jersey City. Now, the wait is over and the results are in!

Jersey City’s global cuisines, chef-driven concepts, and trendy hotspots attracts foodies from across the region. The vibrant, ever-evolving food scene ranges from high-end waterfront dining to hole-in-the-wall gems. This list of The 5 Best Restaurants in Jersey City accentuates why its widely regarded as a true culinary jewel. Keep reading to find the best spots for inventive brunch, authentic international fare, and elevated comfort food.

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The 5 Best Restaurants in Jersey City

#5 in Jersey City – The Hutton

Where: 225 Hutton St, Jersey City
Why It’s the Best: There are a lot of reasons to love The Hutton. Locals looking to perfectly pair their meals with a cocktail or craft beer know this is the spot. In addition, the restaurant has an all-season outdoor patio that is covered, heated, and has TVs for live sports. (Not to mention its own separate bar and frequent live music.) The menu showcases elevated American options such as Truffled Grilled Cheese, thin crust pizza, and spice-rubbed onion rings. They are open seven days a week, and serve weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday.

#4 in Jersey City – Maddy Rose Restaurant at Liberty House

Maddy Rose at Liberty House selection of signature cocktails in tiki cups

Where: 76 Audrey Zapp Dr Floor 1, Jersey City
Why It’s the Best: Maddy Rose Restaurant stands out for its exceptional steaks, fresh seafood, craft cocktails, & stunning NYC skyline views. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers innovative dishes that are both creative and comforting. The stylish setting provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion, from date night to special occasion. Maddy Rose is also known for its attentive service and carefully curated wine list, adding to the overall dining experience. Whether savoring a delicious steak or enjoying a seasonal special, each dish is thoughtfully prepared and presented. We recommend the Maddy Rose Tower, with east & west coast oysters, clams, jumbo shrimp, tuna crudo, and crab ceviche. As for cocktails, try the Peachy Keen or Espresso Dream. the Returning patrons know they can expect quality food, outstanding service, and a welcoming vibe. The restaurant is open for lunch Wednesday to Friday, dinner Wednesday through Sunday, and weekend Brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

#3 in Jersey City– Cellar 335

Where: 335 Newark Ave, Jersey City
Why It’s the Best: The nightlife scene in Jersey City is alive and well at Cellar 335. Chef Jamie Knott curates a menu of locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients that pair together perfectly. Meanwhile, the interior gives off a sexy, exotic island vibe with music playing throughout the restaurant to accentuate the atmosphere. Popular items on the Asian-inspired modern American menu include Korean style wings, kimchi fried rice, and signature Drunken Noodles. (Flat rice noodles with chicken, tomato, basil, and chili’s that can be modified to accommodate gluten or dairy allergies.) One fan favorite from the “Large Format” menu section is their Short Rib Bao. This comes with either bao buns or lettuce wraps, and is served with spicy mayo and house-made pickled veggies. But no trip to Cellar 335 is complete without one of their signature Tiki Cocktails. We recommend The Fighting Five, a mix of mezcal, lemon, almond, and ancho chile. Locals also love the Lost at Sea, with pineapple, passion fruit, orange, lemon, almond, and 3 different rums.

#2 in Jersey City – Harry’s Daughter

Where: 339 Communipaw Ave
Why It’s the Best: Harry’s Daughter is the go-to destination in Jersey City for home-cooked Caribbean cuisine. Besides their food, the restaurant is known for signature craft cocktails and mocktails. Using only the freshest ingredients, Harry’s Daughter makes all of their juices and syrups in house daily. One popular option is Ria’s Rum Punch, with Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum, white rum, and tropical fruit juice. Stop in Saturday or Sunday from 11:00 am – 3:30 pm for weekend brunch. (Order the Banana Rum Flambe French Toast, trust us!)

#1 in Jersey City – Fire & Oak

Apple Crostada from Fire & Oak restaurant — Apple Crostata

Where: 479 Washington Blvd, Jersey City
Why It’s the Best: Nestled inside The Westin luxury hotel in Newport Centre, Fire & Oak serves American cuisine. They serve USDA Prime steaks, a variety of seafood options, and rotating daily specials. The eclectic menu also takes global inspiration to offer handcrafted sushi, ahi tuna tacos, BBQ ribs, and more. But no matter the dish, the focus is always on fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Popular dishes include the Nova Scotia Salmon & Shrimp Provencal, Prime Hanger Steak Frites, Shrimp & Crabmeat Pasta, and Roasted Eggplant & Burrata pizza. We also recommend adding a side of Truffle Parmesan Fries or their Signature Mac & Cheese to any meal. But don’t leave Fire & Oak without ordering one of their desserts. From the Warm Chocolate Brownie and “True” Key Lime Pie to the Apple Crostata A la Mode, everything’s a winner. Looking for a weekend brunch spot while seeing the sights at Newport Centre? Saturday and Sunday brunch here boasts favorites like New England Lobster Rolls and house specialty Bananas Foster French Toast.

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