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The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey

Our 2024 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, a gorgeous skyline backdrop, or a garden of greenery, outdoor dining is excellent. That’s why Best of NJ is showcasing our picks for The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey.

Below, you’ll find top-rated restaurants throughout NJ that offer al fresco dining. 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; this is because outdoor seating can have limited hours or be weather dependent.

Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find The Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants near you.
| North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey |


North Jersey


Best in 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 will see panoramic views of the Kittatinny Mountain Range. 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 Whole Animal Experience rotisserie of the day at market price until it’s gone. Meanwhile, they offer fresh cocktails using garden ingredients. Popular options include the Groundkeeper’s Tonic and Summer Smash.
Why I Like it: Dinner at sunset is a unique and unforgettable experience at this one-of-a-kind restaurant.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 844-276-8054 |


Best in 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. As for the menu, their Modern American Cuisine features salads, soups, seafood, chicken, steak, and burgers. Current fan favorites include the Tacos with Blackened Mahi, St. Louis BBQ Ribs, and steamed clams with chorizo. We recommend either the steak sandwich or roasted chicken. Besides a full bar on tap, D’Boathaus serves cocktails, spirits, wines, and craft beers. D’Boathaus offers daily raw bar specials as well as a selection of seasonal salads that showcase locally-grown ingredients. In addition, their daily specials include new and unique seafood specials every single day.
Why I Like it: Seinfeld fans can enjoy the selection of Big Salads at D’Boathaus, including the Buffalo Chicken Cobb.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Buy Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-657-5757 |


La Pergola Outdoor Dining Patio

Where: 1601, 120 Essex St, Millburn
Details: La Pergola delights in providing patrons with authentic, Northern Italian cuisine and exceptional service. Their seasonal fine dining menu rotates to showcase the freshest ingredients, seafood, and meats across lunch, dinner, and dessert. In fact, the team frequently returns to Italy to draw inspiration for new, signature dishes. The restaurant also offers handmade pastas and desserts from scratch. Popular pastas include the Eggplant Lasagna, Black Linguine, and Broccoli Rabe Ricotta Gnocchi. Meanwhile, fan favorite desserts include the fig tart, vanilla bean panna cotta, and classic tiramisù. In addition to their elegant main room, La Pergola offers a piazza-evoking outdoor area. Outdoor seating is accented by beautiful arbors adorned with wisteria vines and string lighting nestled within luscious greenery. The charming space is an ideal choice for starry spring, summer, or fall evenings.
Why I Like it: La Pergola is within walking distance of Paper Mill Playhouse, which presents award-winning theater productions.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Buy Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-376-6838 |


Lakeside Dining at Andre's in Sparta

Where: 112 Tomahawk Trail, Sparta
Details: Andre’s Lakeside Dining takes inspiration from Asian and French cuisine, and sits right on Seneca Lake. 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. Andre’s is BYO, or guests can order a bottle of Alba Vineyards wine. They also have a fantastic non-alcoholic drink menu. Chef André deWaal is always inventing new, creative dishes. For instance, their NY Strip Steak currently comes with ramen noodles, truffle soy, and baby Bok Choy. (A nod to their nearby noodle shop, Cranky Noodles.) But entree options usually include fish, duck, or steak. Recent dessert options include creme brûlée, olive oil cake and brownie bottom chocolate cheesecake.
Why I Like it: Andre’s Lakeside Dining is a triple threat, offering great food, exceptional service, and a wonderful atmosphere.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Purchase Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-726-6000 |


Outdoor Lunch at 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 food 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 New American cuisine courtesy of Executive Chef Sam Hazen. The patio and bar has its own separate menu that includes a raw bar, appetizers, pizza, pasta, desserts and more. Highlights from this outdoor dining menu include Highlawn Beef Sliders, Spaghetti alla Nerano, and their signature Highlawn Seafood Platters. We recommend the Salted Butterscotch Crème Brûlée dessert.
Why I like it: This gorgeous, versatile venue is as perfect for weddings as it is for evening dinner dates.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-731-3463 |


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, red onion pearls, scallions, and rice; as well as 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.
Why I Like it: Son Cubano now offers Sunday Brunch featuring live music from NYC’s #1 Cuban Band, Conjunto Guantanamo.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Purchase Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 201-399-2020 |


Patio Dining at VENTANAS

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 Shrimp & Beef Filet Teriyaki Udon Noodles, Octopus & Chorizo Kebabs, and Lobster Dumplings. 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 and modern decor. Even the desserts are unique and creative, with options like The S’mores Skillet, Coconut Cream Pie, and Cuatro Leches. (Dulce de leche, toasted almonds, and whipped cream with mixed berries.)
Why I Like it: Inventive cuisine, creative cocktails, stellar service, and an upscale vibe make VENTANAS a must-try.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Purchase Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 201-583-4777 |


Boat Bar at Angry Dad Draught House

Where: 268 NJ-31, Washington
Details: As “Washington’s only beach,” the outdoor dining at Angry Dad Draught House is a summertime oasis. The spacious outdoor area has a deck, a sandy man-made beach, patio chairs, and a literal Boat Bar. Besides lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves drink specials and hosts live entertainment outside six days a week during summer. In addition, they run three full bars on weekends, with a drink selection that includes 52 beers on tap. Their menu features pub favorites like wings, Fiesta nachos, and Homemade pretzels to complete the casual, fun vibe. Beyond the Boat Bar, the Draught House offers their signature experience on the road. The Draught House Food Truck is a 30′ trailer with a “fully outfitted, state-of-the-art mobile kitchen” inside. Keep an eye out for the truck as it visits local breweries, churches, farms, and festivals. It’s also perfect for graduations, family BBQs, birthdays, and more.
Why I Like it: The versatile Boat Bar offers both covered seating under a canopy and sandy, sunny seating nearby.

| Visit their Website | Order Online | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 908-223-1226 |


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. Options range from Shrimp Scampi and Carne Asada to Chicken Parmesan and the 14oz New York Strip Steak. Pizza fans should try the Giuseppe, loaded with breaded chicken, fresh mozzarella, and arugula in a balsamic glaze. 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.) Their lakeside summer concert series, called Music Under the Stars, takes place every Wednesday from June 12th through September 4th.
Why I Like it: They always create unique menus for special events, be it holidays or a solar eclipse.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-663-3190 |


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, Grey Goose Orange Vodka, Peach Schnapps, pineapple and cranberry juices. But save room for their top notch dessert options. It’s hard to pick a favorite with options like Apple Strudel, Homemade Tiramisu, and Mr. Crabby’s Key Lime Pie. But we would recommend the Peanut Butter Bombe, a sharable chocolate cake made with a peanut butter mousse and glaze. 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.
Why I Like it: They offer soups, sauces, and dressings to take home by the pint, quart, or bottle.

| Visit their Website | Order Online | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-598-9988 |


Central Jersey


Erini Restaurant Outdoor Dining Patio

Where: 1140 River Rd, Ewing
Details: Erini Owner and Executive Chef Nick Fifis wants dining at his restaurant to be an experience. To that end, he sets the scene with just the right amount of Sound, Ambience, Light, and Temperature, or S.A.L.T. When it comes to outdoor dining, Erini offers 4 unique patio settings as well as a Tiki Bar. But wherever patrons sit, they are always close to tropical flowers or palm trees, evoking the feeling of an oasis. Like any good tropical getaway, the restaurant offers a number of signature warm weather cocktails. One popular option is the Tiki Fashion, made with Bulleit bourbon, muddled Luxardo cherries and oranges, a splash of simple syrup, and orange bitters over ice. New for 2024, the Erini Mojito has Cruzan passion fruit rum, muddled mint and lime, and topped with club soda. Another new cocktail is The Cleanse featuring Tito’s Vodka, muddled cucumber, lemon, and mint, topped with club soda.
Why I Like it: We highly recommend the lobster and shrimp spring rolls, lollipop lamb chops, and pretzel crusted grouper.

| Visit their Website | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 609-882-0303 |


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 Scallops & Octopus “Veracruz”, Wild Mushroom Cavatelli, 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.
Why I Like it: The Mocha Chocolate Mousse Cake is a chocolatey delight, with coffee caramel and espresso whipped cream.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Purchase Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 732-554-5714 |


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.


Paragon Tap & Table

Where: Clark
Details: Gastropub cuisine meets artisan craft beers at Paragon Tap & Table. This popular spot for lunch, dinner, dessert, and Sunday brunch is known for a wide variety of menu favorites. Fan favorite sandwiches include the Lamb Cheesesteak and Short Rib Grilled Cheese, but the Wagyu Burger is also popular. We recommend the Buffalo Mac n Cheese starter. Their outdoor dining takes place on a seasonal patio that sometimes features live music.


Stage House Tavern

Where: Somerset
Details: The Somerset location of Stage House Tavern has a gigantic, private outdoor patio with greenery all around. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy live music, Sunday brunch, or any of their daily menu specials. Noteworthy days include Endless Ravioli Mondays, Tini Tuesdays (martini specials), and Buck-a-Shuck Wednesdays (deals on oysters and clams). Stage House Tavern is great for the whole family, but nothing tops Kids Eat Free Wednesday nights (indoor dining only).


Jersey Shore


Best in Ocean County:
Chef Mike’s ABG

Chef Mike's ABG Outdoor Dining with beach in background.

Where: 10 24th Ave, Seaside Park
Details: Executive Chef Mike Jurusz is bringing sexy food back at 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. Even their indoor dining offers a beautiful beach view of the Atlantic Ocean, thanks to big windows. Seafood lovers can enjoy starters like lobster mac and cheese, then move on to the peppercorn crusted ahi tuna. Chef Mike’s also offers a raw bar with blue point oysters, middle neck clams, and colossal shrimp cocktail. The menu further features popular soups, such as ABG’s Famous Creamy Crab Bisque. Dessert options include Tres Leches Cake, Key Lime Pie, and even Vanilla Creme Brulee. But the best way to end an evening? Order an after dinner drink and enjoy a sunset or starry night with one of their popular options. We recommend the Cafe Emma, Nutty Irishman, or Chef Mike’s B-52.
Why I Like it: Chef Mike always finds a way to infuse his big, bold personality into flavorful dishes.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 732-854-1588 |


Sun Room overlooking patio at Rooney's Oceanfront

Where: 100 Ocean Ave North, Long Branch
Details: Just steps from the beach, Rooney’s brings you 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. 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.
Why I Like it: Lobster lovers can order the Lobster Mac-A-Rooney with lobster meat, Parmesan, and Mozzarella.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Buy a Gift Card | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 732-870-1200 |


Waterfront Dining at Parker's Garage

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, of course, brimming with seafood. For instance, the Saloon side of their menu offers oysters or clams on the half shell, scallops, shrimp, and lobster. Meanwhile, their signature Garage Classics include Parker’s Crab Cakes, Boathouse Bouillabaisse, and Surf & Turf. The latter option serves dry aged strip steak, thermidor, and whipped potatoes. (We recommend ordering a side of Jersey Street Corn.) Parker’s Garage offers outdoor dining on their deck overlooking Barnegat Bay, with reservations available.
Why I Like it: Parker’s Garage invests in an oyster co-op to help improve the nearby water quality.

| Visit their Website | Reserve a Table | Shop Online | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 609-492-1066 |


Guests Enjoying Food and Drinks by the Fire Pit at Mud City Crab House

Where: 1185 E Bay Ave, Manahawkin
Details: As of 2024, Mud City Crab House is celebrating 25 years in business. 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. 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.) It’s worth keeping in mind that Mud City Crab House does not take reservations. Since they tend to get busy during the late spring and summer months, visitors should plan accordingly. However, they have fire pits and a Barstream (an airstream trailer modified for drink service) to help pass the time.
Why I Like it: Mud City is the perfect weekend spot for friends to hang out and enjoy warm weather.

| Visit their Website | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 609-978-3660 |


Back Bay Ale House

Where: Atlantic City
Details: Locals consider Back Bay a hidden gem, but we think the secret’s out! This bar and grill is part of the Inlet section of Atlantic City, and boasts views of Gardner’s Basin. While they are open year round, the spring and summer months are the best time to visit for outdoor dining. That’s because the restaurant and ale house offers both patio and second story deck seating. Back Bay does not accept reservations, so be sure to plan ahead in order to get an outdoor table.


Gilchrist Restaurant

Where: Atlantic City | Galloway | Margate
Details: This family business now spans four generations and three locations. 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 hotcakes are simply a must-try.


Harpoons on the Bay

Where: North Cape May
Details: This seasonal spot is a hit with locals for their signature sandwiches and weekend Beach Bar. Menu favorites include the Fried Group Sandwich, Maine Style Lobster Roll, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, and Seafood Pasta. The latter combines Cape May Scallops, Gulf Shrimp, Prime Edward Island Mussels, and Blue Crab over linguine. Their outdoor dining takes places on the deck and comes with a waterfront view of the Delaware Bay.


South Jersey


DiPaolo’s Restaurant

Where: Penns Grove
Details: Fine Italian dining is always on the menu at Di Paolo’s. The restaurant offers a large patio for outdoor dining, complete with a cozy fireplace built into a retaining wall. They offer limited time menus during holidays, as well as daily specials Tuesday through Friday and a Sunday Brunch. But their regular dinner menu features all of the typical Italian classics like crispy bruschetta, pizza, and veal Osso Bucco. We also recommend their signature Lobster Bisque


Keg & Kitchen

Where: Haddon Township
Details: This family-owned scratch kitchen is also well known as a top-notch craft bar. The menu introduces new options seasonally, but there are plenty of mainstay favorites. This includes their famous grilled cheese sandwich, with Brie, gruyere, muenster, and Vermont cheddar cheese. (Plus optional add-ons like bacon, chicken, or short rib.) Their spacious, covered outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a sandwich or burger with a local craft spirit.


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.


The Riverwinds Restaurant

Where: West Deptford
Details: The Riverwinds has a unique outdoor dining setting because there are two very distinct views to experience. The first allows diners to look across the Delaware river and watch the sunset over the Philadelphia skyline. But the second offers glimpses of airplanes at the nearby airport. The restaurant offers a large outdoor patio area, and serves lunch and dinner. Popular menu items include their signature Crab Imperial Stuffed Cremini Mushrooms.


Robin’s Nest

Where: Mount Holly
Details: Robin’s Nest offers lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch from their combination bar, catering, and bakery restaurant. Head Chef Robin presents a menu that mixes classic and modern American dishes. For example, they serve Honey Pecan Chicken, Bleu Lime Salad, and Lobster Ravioli. The dessert menu, all made in house, includes an assortment of cakes, cookies, pies, tarts, and bars; all of which can be enjoyed outdoors on their waterside patio.


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New Jersey Outdoor Dining FAQs

Where are the Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in New Jersey?

New Jersey’s best outdoor dining restaurants can be found in every county of the state. Best of NJ curates a statewide list of the top outdoor dining eateries in NJ each year. These restaurants offer everything from waterfront dining to elevated patios that showcase amazing NYC skyline views.

Are there Restaurants with Comfy Outdoor Seating in NJ?

Of course! For instance, Angry Dad Draught House in Washington, NJ offers patio chairs on a man-made sandy beach. Meanwhile, Orchard Park by David Burke has the Orchard Terrace, an outdoor patio with cozy firetables and lounge seating.

What Are the Best Family Outdoor Dining Spots in NJ?

New Jersey has a number of excellent outdoor dining restaurants for families. The Windlass on Lake Hopatcong even has waterfront gliders for up to six guests for a truly unique dining experience!

What are the Different Setups Available for Outdoor Dining in New Jersey?

New Jersey restaurants have all different types of outdoor dining setups. Many offer waterfront dining on decks or patios, some create Tiki Bars and sandy beaches, and others provide covered terraces. For instance, Chef Mike’s ABG in Seaside Park has tables and chairs in the sand for a true beach vibe.


Top Photo: Chef’s Garden / Crystal Springs Resort

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