The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey

Our 2025 Edition of The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey is written by Vinny Parisi.

Dining out is always a special occasion. But there’s something extra special about going to a restaurant and dining outdoors. Whether it’s a stunning waterfront view, gorgeous skyline backdrop, or garden of lush greenery, outdoor dining accentuates any meal. That’s why Best of NJ curates an annual list of The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey.

This year, we have a number of returning favorites in addition to some brand new entries. Between the signature cocktails, chef’s menu specials, and indulgent homemade desserts, there’s something for everyone on this statewide list. Keep in mind, it’s a good idea to call ahead for outdoor dining. Some spots may have limited hours for their outdoor seating or be weather dependent. We hope you enjoy al fresco dining at NJ’s best restaurants for Outdoor Dining!

North Jersey

Featured from Hudson County:
Son Cubano

Outdoor Waterfront Patio Dining with NYC View at Son Cubano

Where: 40-4 Riverwalk Pl, West New York
Details: Son Cubano strives to provide excellent service in a glamorous atmosphere. It’s a unique way to enjoy the food, sights, and sounds of the Cuban lifestyle. The menu presents fine dining that fuses Cuban, American, and Asian fare all while patrons take in beautiful NYC views. In particular, Son Cubano’s expansive patio offers stunning looks out over the Hudson River and across the New York skyline. Returning customers love their signature “Ropa Vieja” Short Rib, which features roasted sweet peppers, cippolini onions, maduros, and white rice. Other favorites include their Paella and Lobster “Reyes” dishes. Just be sure to note the “Smart Casual” dress code before arriving. (The restaurant strongly encourages collar shirts and pants, elegant attire, and no excessively revealing clothing.) Popular desserts include Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sliders and Chef David Burke’s Cheesecake Lollipop Tree for the whole table. Stop by for their Havana Thursdays, which features a fixed 3-course meal and live music from Cubanitas Musicales.

Featured from Bergen County:
VENTANAS Restaurant & Lounge

Where: 200 Park Ave, Fort Lee
Details: Folks will find VENTANAS inside the luxury high-rise apartments known as “The Modern” in Fort Lee. Their menu comes from the mind of culinary pioneer and celebrity chef David Burke, blending American, Asian, and Cuban cuisine. The restaurant and lounge offers meals for every occasion, including brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks, sushi, and dessert. Menu highlights include fusion cuisine like Beef Filet & Shrimp Teriyaki Udon Noodles and Tokyo Lobster with pineapple fried rice. Of course, the menu is made even more enjoyable when coupled with a wonderful outdoor dining experience. VENTANAS provides patrons with a gorgeous patio which they surround with lush greenery, string lights, and modern decor. Even the desserts are unique and creative, with options like The S’mores Skillet and Cuatro Leches. (Dulce de leche, toasted almonds, and whipped cream with mixed berries.) But we recommend their latest addition to the dessert menu, the Mango & Raspberry Cheesecake Duo with spicy mango sauce.

Featured From Essex County:
La Pergola

Where: 1601, 120 Essex St, Millburn
Details: La Pergola offers an unforgettable Northern Italian dining experience, blending traditional flavors with contemporary elegance. Their ever-evolving menu showcases exquisite meats and seafood, fine Italian cheeses, olive oil, and seasonal truffles; all crafted with the freshest seasonal ingredients and produce. From homemade pastas to scratch-made desserts,every bite is a work of art. Standout entrees include Eggplant Lasagna, Black Linguine, and Broccoli Rabe Ricotta Gnocchi. Just try to save room for desserts like panna cotta, fig tart, and tiramisù. The ambiance at La Pergola is equally captivating. Their indoor dining area exudes sophistication, while the outdoor piazza offers a magical setting for al fresco meals under the stars. (Complete with lush wisteria vines and twinkling stringed lights.) Minutes away from the Paper Mill Playhouse, La Pergola is an ideal destination for a pre- or post-theater meal. The restaurant combines world-class cuisine with a charming atmosphere that transports guests to Italy.

Featured from Morris County:
Black River Barn

Deck dining at right on the water at Black River Barn.

Where: 1178 Route 10, West St, Randolph
Details: The Black River Barn offers classic American dining, plus drinks and more. The menu includes chicken, steak, seafood, pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and even rice bowls. Likewise, they serve signature Moo-tinis like Star’s and Stripes, with Stoli Raspberry and Blueberry Vodkas, Triple Sec, and cranberry juice. Another popular pick is the By The River Martini. This includes Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, Absolut Mandarin Vodka, Peach Schnapps, and a splash of pineapple and cranberry juices. But save room for their top notch dessert options. It’s honestly hard to pick a favorite with choices like Apple Strudel, Homemade Tiramisu, and their homemade Key Lime Pie. But we would recommend The Barn’s Bread Pudding, a rich raisin-spiked bread pudding made with premium vanilla ice cream. Of course, outdoor dining on the patio/deck at this spot includes a view of Black River Pond. The Barn is also a great spot to host a private party. Patons who love their soups, sauces, and dressings can take them home by the pint, quart, or bottle.

Featured From Passaic County:
D’Boathaus

Dining lakeside near Fire Pit at D'Boathaus

Where: 322 Lakeside Rd, Hewitt
Details: D’Boathaus offers a contemporary space with nice lake views and open-air seating facing Greenwood Lake. Their outdoor bar lets patrons relax lake-side, as does the seasonal seating on the deck under a retractable awning. Those that want to arrive in style can dock their boat in one of 30 free restaurant-designated boat slips. (During the summer, they also offer complimentary valet parking on Friday evenings and all day on weekends and holidays.) As for the menu, their Modern American Cuisine features salads, soups, seafood, chicken, steak, and burgers. Current fan favorites include the Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, grilled hangar steak, and braised short rib with gnocchi. Seinfeld fans will also enjoy the selection of Big Salads, including the Buffalo Chicken Cobb. In addition, their daily specials include new and unique seafood specials so there’s always something new to try. Besides a full bar on tap, D’Boathaus serves spirits, wines, craft beers, and cocktails like Closing Thyme and Gin Frost.

Featured From Sussex County:
Andre’s Lakeside Dining

Waterfront Seating at Andre's Lakeside Dining

Where: 112 Tomahawk Trail, Sparta
Details: Andre’s Lakeside Dining takes inspiration from Asian and French cuisine, and sits right on Seneca Lake. This triple threat restaurant offers great food, exceptional service, and a wonderful atmosphere. A true hidden gem, Andre’s specializes in hosting intimate events, from micro-weddings and rehearsal dinners to showers and more. Their seasonal outdoor patio (May-October) boasts a retractable roof, so it’s rain or shine. Meanwhile, the ever-changing menu features local products when possible, plus herbs from their garden to create monthly rotating dishes. Andre’s is BYO, but guests can purchase a bottle of Alba Vineyards wine or try the non-alcoholic drink menu. Chef André deWaal is always inventing new, creative dishes, but entree options usually include fish, duck, chicken, or steak. Recent dessert options include creme brûlée, vanilla braised pineapple with tres leches, and doughnuts with matcha and white chocolate. During the colder months, Andre’s offers cooking classes on select days.

Featured From Essex County:
The Highlawn

Where: 1 Crest Dr, West Orange
Details: When it comes to panoramic views of the New York City skyline, The Highlawn is second-to-none. This venue offers a Grill Room and Bar, plus two dining rooms, perfect for upscale indoor events. As for their outdoor dining options, there are three total places to enjoy New American cuisine and drinks. The first is their spacious main floor patio, followed by their upper patio and upper terrace. All three offer sweeping skyline views, as well as views of Eagle Rock Reservation. The Highlawn serves lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch featuring signature dishes courtesy of Executive Chef Sam Hazen. But the patio and bar have a dedicated menu that includes a raw bar, appetizers, pizza, and more. Highlights from this outdoor dining menu include sushi and sashimi, margarita pizza, and the signature HL Burger. The Highlawn is a gorgeous, versatile venue that is as perfect for weddings as it is for evening dinner dates. Keep an eye out for their live music schedule, especially during the warm weather months.

Featured From Sussex County:
Chef’s Garden

Mother and Daughter enjoying Outdoor Dining at Chef's Garden in Hamburg

Where: 3 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg
Details: The Chef’s Garden is the ultimate al fresco garden-to-table experience. That’s because the garden that surrounds the outdoor dining area contains many of the ingredients the chefs use for meals. This includes a bounty of organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Besides the luscious greenery and the experience of watching chefs pick fresh ingredients, Chef’s Garden boasts an unbeatable view. When guests look out past the gardens, they see panoramic views of the Kittatinny Mountain Range. In particular, dinner at sunset is a unique and unforgettable experience. A seasonal American menu always Their signature Salad From the Garden includes carrots, radishes, celery, nasturtium (a plant with an edible flower), and champagne vinaigrette. Those with an appetite can order the Lamb Loin or Bone In 54 oz. Rib Steak which is cooked over embers. Meanwhile, they use garden ingredients to create fresh signature cocktails like the Jersey Heirloom and Strawberry Sunset.

Featured From Sussex County:
The Windlass

Deck and Dock Dining at The Windlass overlooking Lake Hopatcong

Details: 45 Nolans Point Park Rd, Lake Hopatcong
Where: This year-round restaurant at Nolan’s Point offers seasonal dining, incredible waterfront views, live music events, and more. Besides daily specials, the menu showcases burgers, sandwiches, wood oven pizzas, vegetarian options, and meat and fish entrees. Menu favorites include Shrimp Scampi, lollipop lamb chops, chicken Francese, and the grilled 14oz New York Strip Steak. Pizza fans should try the Pepperoni with Hot Honey or white pizza with broccoli. Of course, their outdoor dining offers exceptional views of Lake Hopatcong from just about any seat. The Windlass has a ton of deck and patio seating, as well as a handful of gliders by their dock. (The gliders are great for groups of four to six who want to sit right on the water.) Plus, they always create unique menus for special events, be it holidays or a solar eclipse. So there’s always a reason to come back often. Their lakeside summer concert series, called Music Under the Stars, takes place every Wednesday from June 11th through September 3rd.

Featured from Bergen County:
Lefkes Estiatorio

Where: 495 Sylvan Ave, Englewood Cliffs
Details: For an elegant outdoor dining experience, Lefkes Estiatorio provides a Mediterranean culinary journey unlike any other. Exclusively sourcing their ingredients from local farms and top-quality purveyors, the restaurant maintains a strict commitment to excellence. Their opulent outdoor patio is a colorful burst of floral arrangements, with tables under umbrellas for added shade. The restaurant serves weekend brunch, daily lunch and dinner, and also offers Happy Hour specials. Their artisanal Greek menu features popular starters like Spanakopita, Phyllo Crusted Feta, calamari, and veal keftedakia. Meanwhile, signature entrees range from Miso Cod and Lobster Ravioli to Seafood Linguine and Astakomakaronada. The latter is cuttlefish ink fettuccine with poached Maine lobster in Metaxa Cognac bisque. But that’s not all, because Lefkes is also a surprise destination for sushi courtesy of Master Chef Jay Park. For something fun, order their chef’s selection Poseidon’s Platter sushi boat.

Featured from Hudson County:
The RoofTop at Exchange Place

Manhattan Skyline View from The RoofTop at Exchange Place

Where: 1st St #1, Jersey City
Details: Perched atop Hyatt House Jersey City, The RoofTop at Exchange Place offers unbeatable views of the Hudson River, Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and more. The space has a retractable roof and glass walls, so patrons can enjoy the view no matter the season. During warmer months, their rooftop patio is the perfect spot to cozy up by the fireplace and watch the sunset. The contemporary American menu features favorite shareables like Bang Bang Cauliflower, Lemon Pepper Wings, and Truffle Tots. But regulars typically flock to their bowls, with options including Lobster Mac & Cheese and the Beet Poke Bowl. But nothing beats watching the stars begin to twinkle over the NYC skyline while enjoying their signature Chocolate Ganache Tart. (Or one of their signature cocktails with optional CBD enhancement, for those so inclined.) Don’t miss their family-friendly “Movie Nights Above it All” on select Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the year! Admission is free, and they show two films per day.

The Ainsworth

Where: Hoboken
Details: The Ainsworth is an elevated American gastropub. The restaurant and bar boasts a magnificent view of the Manhattan skyline along with waterfront dining on their patio. Their menu includes a mix of popular sharable plates like Caviar & Smoked Mozzarella Sticks and Cap N Crunch Nuggets; as well as favorites like pizza disco fries and Truffle Cheese Waffle Fries. Looking for a summertime cocktail? We recommend the Santo Sunrise or Blood Orange Spritz. The Ainsworth also boasts creative desserts like churro donuts and the Cool Girl PB&T.

Central Jersey

Featured from Union County:
Paragon Tap & Table

Paragon Tap & Table Patio dining with puppy

Where: 77 Central Ave, Clark
Details: Paragon Tap & Table offers lunch and dinner six days a week (closed on Mondays). The menu includes their popular wings in sauces like Jalapeno Honey, Nashville Hot Dry Rub, Butter Curry, and Ginger Glaze. Another popular starter is their spicy Duck Quesadilla with pulled duck, ghost pepper cheese, and Masala aioli. The outdoor, dog-friendly patio is a great spot to enjoy signature seasonal craft cocktails during warm weather months. (There’s even a special menu for pups.) Seasonal cocktails include the Paragon Pumpkin and Chai Tea Espresso Martinis. They always have 20 beers on tap, featuring NJ breweries like Twin Elephant and Wet Ticket. Keep an eye out for seasonal drink specials, offering discounts on drafts and cocktails. Don’t miss their standard weekend brunch, biweekly Sunday Jazz Brunch, or live music Fridays (often on the patio, weather permitting). Paragon is popular for parties and catering, as well as an upscale Happy Hour with mac n cheese flights and slider wagyu trios, and can accommodate special dietary needs.

Featured from Middlesex County:
Orchard Park by David Burke

Plated Desserts on Display at Orchard Terrace in front of fireplace

Where: 670 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick
Details: Orchard Park by David Burke is already a popular spot for drinks, dinner, and social events. But their elevated outdoor dining takes place out on Orchard Terrace. The exquisite, covered patio features lounge areas, tables, a full bar, and outdoor fireplaces. The terrace has floor to ceiling glass walls, giving guests a view of the Park Chateau Estate & Gardens. Even better, the roof can open and close depending on the weather. It also makes the restaurant’s full indoor menu available to patrons. Menu highlights include the popular Shrimp & Scallops, Butternut Squash Ravioli, and Chef Burke’s signature Clothesline Bacon appetizer. For couples, every Wednesday is date night and Orchard Park offers a 3-course Prix Fixe menu. Their extensive wine list includes whites, reds, rose, and sparkling wines, so there’s a perfect pairing for every meal. But no meal here is complete without a next-level dessert. For instance, the Pina Colada Pavlova combines coconut whipped cream, pineapple compote, and lime curd with a cherry on top.

Featured From Mercer County:
Rat’s Restaurant

Rat's Restaurant Outdoor Dining in Garden

Where: 16 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton
Details: Rat’s Restaurant is more than just a restaurant serving lunch and dinner. It’s an well-manicured, exotic escape hidden within the 42-acre Grounds for Sculpture serving exceptional, seasonal, farm-fresh cuisine. Think of it as the most luxurious picnic New Jersey has to offer. There is simply nothing like a mid-day lunch surrounded by lush scenery reminiscent of a cozy French countryside cafe; or a summertime dinner of authentic French menu favorites under the stars. Current entree delights include the Acorn Squash Cassoulet — with Thumbelina carrots and pearl onions — and Day Boat Cod. But patrons usually start with appetizers for the table, including the popular Artisanal Cheese sampler with three creamery cheeses. Dessert is a must at Rat’s Restaurant, especially for those who enjoy homemade ice cream or sorbet. Other standout sweets range from deconstructed lemon pie and chocolate tart to honey creme brulee and strawberry profiteroles.

Green Knoll Grill

Where: Bridgewater
Details: The Green Knoll Grill (or as regulars say, GKG) is Somerset’s go-to destination for outdoor dining and entertainment. The restaurant frequently features live music and popular DJs. (During the summer months, they host live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.) But their showstopping attraction is the gigantic patio and covered, year-round tiki bar, which they heat in the winter. Whether watching live sports, partying with friends, or rocking out to live music, GKG is always… well, lively. Order some sampler platters and enjoy the night.

Juniper Hill

Where: Annandale
Details: Juniper Hill is the go-to restaurant and bar for locals and day-trippers visiting scenic Annandale. The menu incorporates ingredients from local makers, bakers, farmers, and fishermen, and features fresh-caught East Coast fish. In fact, the menu changes daily depending on what ingredients are available. They also have an exceptional list of craft beers and bourbons. They serve their full menu to patrons dining outdoors on the patio, which is completely surrounded by greenery.

Jersey Shore

Featured From Ocean County:
Parker’s Garage & Oyster Saloon

Parker's Garage Outdoor Dining near waterfront

Where: 116 Northwest Ave, Beach Haven
Details: Parker’s Garage is a throwback to a time they consider to be Beach Haven’s “Golden Era,” the early 1900s. This is when original owner Ellis Parker first opened a combination houseboat rental/restaurant and eventual boat engine repair shop. Today, Parker’s Garage invites families to dock in the nearby public boat slip and enjoy views of Parker Island. Their menu is brimming with seafood. For instance, the Saloon side of their menu offers oysters or clams on the half shell, shrimp, and lobster. Meanwhile, their signature Garage Classics include Parker’s Crab Cakes, Boathouse Bouillabaisse, and Scallops & “Bacon” (pork belly). The latter option combines smoked beef short rib, a half-lobster, and whipped potatoes. We also recommend ordering a side of Jersey Street Corn, no matter the entree. Parker’s Garage offers outdoor dining on their deck overlooking Barnegat Bay, with reservations recommended. Fun fact: The restaurant invests in an oyster co-op to help improve the nearby water quality.

Featured From Ocean County:
Mud City Crab House

Mud City Crab House Outdoor Dining near firepit

Where: 1185 E Bay Ave, Manahawkin
Details: Mud City Crab House has been in business for over 25 years. The seafood on the menu here is as fresh as it gets. That’s because the business also doubles as a fish market. This means the fresh fish they sell in the market is also the same fish in their dinner dishes. Their signature “Original” crab cake is a must-try, but their other house specialty is the Cioppino. This fish stew includes shrimp, clams, crab, mussels, and fish in a spicy red sauce over linguine. Their Steak & Cake is a fun twist on the classic Surf & Turf entree. The version here combines 8oz filet Mignon with jumbo lump crab cake or 3oz lobster tail. Outdoor dining takes place on their patio under string lights, and is a great spot to enjoy a cocktail. (We suggest the Strawberry Basil Lemonade.) Mud City Crab House gets busy during the spring and summer months and does not take reservations, so plan accordingly. However, they have fire pits and a Barstream (an airstream trailer modified for drink service) to help pass the time.

Featured from Monmouth County:
Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant

Sun Room overlooking patio at Rooney's Oceanfront

Where: 100 Ocean Ave North, Long Branch
Details: Just steps from the beach, Rooney’s offers a picturesque view of the Atlantic Ocean. A large bi-level outdoor deck with custom décor offers a sense of closeness to the sea. Since the lower level is covered by the upper deck, it’s great for lunch or dinner any time of day. (Rooney’s also serves a seasonal Sunday brunch buffet.) Meanwhile, the innovative dishes from Executive Chef Jared Brown focus on coastal cuisine that enhances seafood staples. For instance, the Angry Lobster dinner is pan roasted in the original shell and served over a bed of linguini. They further accent the dish with olive oil, garlic, hot pepper flakes, and basil. (Lobster lovers can order the Lobster Mac-A-Rooney with lobster meat, Parmesan, and Mozzarella.) However, their signature Fish Board steals the show, allowing patrons to build their own entree. Customers pick a fish, a preparation method, a sauce, and two sides to create their ideal dinner. Just don’t forget to try their homemade Key Lime Pie before calling it a night.

Featured From Ocean County:
Chef Mike’s ABG

Where: 10 24th Ave, Seaside Park
Details: Executive Chef Mike Jurusz is the beloved man behind Chef Mike’s ABG (Atlantic Bar & Grill). Giving off that perfect vacation vibe, this beachfront restaurant boasts outdoor dining tables that sit on the sand. But even their indoor dining offers a beautiful beach view of the Atlantic Ocean, thanks to big windows. Seafood lovers can enjoy starters like Whiskey Shrimp and crispy fried calamari before moving on to Raw Bar favorites. (Such as blue point oysters, middle neck clams, and colossal white shrimp cocktail.) The menu further features popular soups, including ABG’s Famous Creamy Crab Bisque, alongside entrees like Lobster and Shrimp Risotto. It’s tough, but save room for dessert ???. However, regulars know the best way to end an evening at Chef Mike’s is with an after dinner drink. Nothing beats a Watermelon Paloma or Spicy Mango Margarita during the sunset or on a starry summer night.

Beach Tavern

Where: Monmouth Beach
Details: Beach Tavern is found inside the Channel Club Marina and offering a view of the Shrewsbury River. Chef/Owner Steven Botta and his partner Angelo Bongiovanni present a scratch-made menu focusing on fresh, top-quality ingredients. Menu highlights include Barbecue Swordfish, Filet Mignon, and Hot Honey Fried Chicken. Weekly events include Sushi Night Wednesdays and Sunday Brunch. Outside dining is first come, first serve and follows a strictly enforced two-hour time limit, so keep that in mind if traveling from out of town.

Gilchrist Restaurant

Where: Atlantic City | Galloway | Margate
Details: This NJ family business spans four generations. First opening their doors in 1946, Gilchrist Restaurant continues to delight patrons today with their signature breakfast and lunch menu. Their locations — in Galloway, Margate, and two in Atlantic City, including one at the Tropicana — all offer outdoor patio dining. The latter even offers poolside tables. The menu is full of early day favorites, but their signature blueberry hotcakes are a must-try. We also recommend the Hungry Man Combo with two eggs, two hot cakes, and choice of meat.

Harpoons on the Bay

Where: North Cape May
Details: This seasonal, dog-friendly spot is a hit with locals for their signature sandwiches and weekend Beach Bar. Handheld favorites include the Fried Grouper Sandwich, Maine Style Lobster Roll and Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich. We also recommend the NOLA BBQ Shrimp & Grits, served with New Orleans-style BBQ sauce, spinach, and bacon jam. Their outdoor dining takes places on the deck and comes with a waterfront view of the Delaware Bay. There’s nothing like a little waterfront Lemonade and Key Lime Pie to go with a summer sunset.

South Jersey

Featured from Burlington County:
Carlucci’s Waterfront

Covered Patio Dining at Carlucci's Waterfont

Where: 876 Centerton Rd, Mount Laurel
Details: Carlucci’s is a cornerstone of the Mount Laurel community, offering great food and service for over 30 years. The restaurant offers outdoor dining on their beautiful patio terrace that comes with a lovely view of Rancocas Creek. Their menu specializes in Italian classics, but they also have a number of dishes perfect for outdoor dining. This includes their popular Seafood tower, which comes with oysters, top neck clams, little neck clams, and jumbo U10 shrimp. Other raw bar highlights include the East Coast oysters and Shrimp & Crab Meat Cocktail Deluxe. In addition to a dinner menu available seven days a week, they also serve lunch from Monday through Friday. As for cocktails, Carlucci’s has plenty of warm weather favorites. Options range from the Aperol or Limoncello Spritz and Hershey Kiss Martini to their famous red, white, and rose sangrias. Of course, summer is the perfect time to indulge in desserts like Carlucci’s Cannoli, Cheesecake, and the Peanut Butter Explosion.

Caffe Aldo Lamberti

Where: Cherry Hill
Details: No one in South Jersey does fine Italian dining quite like Caffe Aldo Lamberti. That’s because their contemporary cuisine emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients to prepare one-of-a-kind-dishes. That includes their house specialties, whole fresh fish and whole Maine lobster. Their impressive wine cellar houses more than 15,000 bottles, guaranteeing a perfect pairing no matter what entree guests select. With both a spacious patio and deck surrounded by lush greenery, there are multiple ways to enjoy al fresco dining.

Creekside Inn

Where: Woodstown
Details: This American restaurant and bar comes with a view of the Town & Country Golf Links public golf course. Creekside Inn serves daily specials, happy hour deals, a dedicated gluten-free menu, and a special bar food Sunday menu. Within their main dining room is the Bull on the 19th Bar, with a selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Due to their Social Club license, they can only serve alcohol to members and guests of members. (However, membership is free.) Outdoor dining takes place on their covered deck, and is perfect for spring/summer.

Luna’s Outdoor Bar & Grille at The Savoy

Where: Vineland
Details: Luna’s is on the outside (specifically, the West side) of Merghi’s Savoy Inn, a landmark venue in Vineland. Named after the Italian word for “moon”, locals describe Luna’s as casual and laid-back, with a Key West vibe. They use local ingredients for both their food and signature drinks as often as possible. The comfortable and relaxing patio dining is a perfect contrast to the formal interior venue. Check out their Neapolitan-style Key West Pizza. It comes with Gulf shrimp, cubanelle peppers, mozzarella, roasted garlic, and Old Bay seasoning.

Il Portico Ristorante

Where: Burlington
Details: Old-world elegance meets casual countryside charm at il Portico, a restaurant that offers both casual and fine dining. Besides the main dining room, suited for families and larger parties, The il Portico Lounge offers a more intimate experience. The Lounge is where guests can enjoy a cocktail while listening to live music, or fine dining by the fireplace. Menu options include their popular housemade pastas, including fettuccine with bolognese or salmon, and their gnocchi (potato pasta). Outdoor dining is available on their patio.

Terra Nova

Where: Sewell
Details: The lunch and dinner menu at Terra Nova features a fusion of cuisine. Options range from creative sushi rolls like the New England, with shrimp tempura and avocado topped with spicy crab; to the Sliced Prime Rib sandwich with melted provolone cheese, horseradish cream sauce, and au jus dipping sauce. Their spacious outdoor seating is not only a great place to dine, but also for lounging near their fountain. Bring a date, find a couple deck chairs, order a cocktail, and enjoy a warm summer evening under the stars.

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New Jersey Outdoor Dining FAQs

Where are the Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey?

When it comes to standout outdoor dining experiences, New Jersey delivers across the board. Spots like Son Cubano in West New York offer jaw-dropping views of the Manhattan skyline from their stylish patio. Meanwhile, The Chef’s Garden in Hamburg lets patrons dine literally surrounded by the garden ingredients featured in their menu.

What Are the Best New Jersey Restaurants for Waterfront Dining?

The Windlass on Lake Hopatcong is known for its large deck and dockside gliders, offering diners an up-close look at the lake. Likewise, Parker’s Garage & Oyster Saloon in Beach Haven sits right on Barnegat Bay, offering fresh seafood and gorgeous sunset views from its outdoor deck.

Which NJ Restaurants Offer Outdoor Dining with Skyline Views?

For meals with a panoramic view of NYC, The Highlawn in West Orange is a must. Their three patios all offer a breathtaking look at the Manhattan skyline paired with elevated New American cuisine. Similarly, The RoofTop at Exchange Place in Jersey City delivers a full-on skyline experience.

What Outdoor Dining Spots in NJ Have Live Music or Entertainment?

Both Paragon Tap & Table in Clark and Green Knoll Grill in Bridgewater keep things lively with regular live music. (Often right on their patios.) Over at The Windlass, their “Music Under the Stars” summer concert series transforms dinner into a weekly event. They feature waterfront tunes every Wednesday night during the warm months.

Are There Restaurants in New Jersey with a Romantic Outdoor Dining Vibe?

When it comes to date night, few spots are as dreamy as Andre’s Lakeside Dining in Sparta. It’s perched right on Seneca Lake, with seasonal patio seating under a retractable roof and creative French-Asian cuisine. La Pergola in Millburn also creates a romantic vibe, with its twinkling lights and wisteria-covered patio transporting patrons to Northern Italy.

Which Outdoor Dining Spots in NJ Are Best for Brunch?

Brunch at Lefkes Estiatoria in Englewood Cliffs includes Greek classics and even sushi, all served on a flower-filled patio. Alternatively, Rat’s Restaurant in Hamilton offers a brunch experience unlike any other inside the Grounds for Sculpture. Imagine French countryside vibes complete with Artisanal Cheese plates and homemade ice cream.

Top Photo: The RoofTop at Exchange Place / Instagram

The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey

North Jersey

Featured from Hudson County:Son Cubano

Featured from Bergen County:VENTANAS Restaurant & Lounge

Featured From Essex County:La Pergola

Featured from Morris County:Black River Barn

Featured From Passaic County:D’Boathaus

Featured From Sussex County:Andre’s Lakeside Dining

Featured From Essex County:The Highlawn

Featured From Sussex County:Chef’s Garden

Featured From Sussex County:The Windlass

Featured from Bergen County:Lefkes Estiatorio

Featured from Hudson County:The RoofTop at Exchange Place