Explore New Brunswick's Vibrant Restaurant Scene

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a food-lover's dream. The city boasts a diverse culinary scene, with various restaurants, bistros, steakhouses, cafes, pizzerias, and bakeries. Whether you're looking for fine dining, casual spots, or international cuisine, New Brunswick has something for everyone.

The city is known for its fat sandwich, a hearty sub filled with ingredients like cheesesteak, chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and French fries. However, there is much more to discover in New Brunswick's food scene.

For those seeking an upscale experience, Steakhouse 85 offers prime cuts of steak and an elegant ambiance. If you're craving seafood, Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar is a popular choice, known for its fresh dishes and extensive wine selection. Those looking for a unique twist on classic American fare can try Destination Dogs, which serves gourmet hot dogs with innovative toppings.

If you're in the mood for international flavors, New Brunswick has a variety of options. Dashen Ethiopian Cuisine, Efess Mediterranean Grill, and Khyber Coffee & Tea House offer tastes of the Mediterranean. For Asian cuisine, there's Rakkii Ramen Restaurant, Roosterspin, and several sushi spots like Sakana Sushi & Japanese Cuisine. Mexican food lovers can enjoy Chipotle Mexican Grill, Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge, and La Hacienda Restaurant.

New Brunswick also has a range of cafes and coffee shops, including Hidden Grounds Coffee, Gloria Jean's Coffees, and Khyber Coffee & Tea House.

Whether you're a foodie seeking gourmet creations or just looking for a casual bite, New Brunswick, NJ, has a restaurant to satisfy your cravings.

New Brunswick's best restaurants for large groups

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a hub of dining options, from fine dining to casual spots catering to college students. Here is a list of the best restaurants for large groups in New Brunswick:

Happy Lamb Hot Pot, Edison

This Chinese, Asian hot pot restaurant is perfect for cold winter weather. It is a bit pricey, but the lunch special is a great deal.

The Frog and The Peach

This elegant dining destination features a garden room for summer, an array of wines, and notable dishes such as the Tamarind Glazed Pulled Duck Sandwich. It is one of the most popular restaurants in New Brunswick and has received mixed reviews.

Sahara Restaurant

Sahara is a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine restaurant. They offer a variety of vegetarian options and are known for their outstanding food, great service, and atmosphere.

Harvest Moon Brewery

This American pub offers a good beer selection and is a nice spot for lunch. It is one of the most popular restaurants in New Brunswick for large groups.

Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar

Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar is a seafood-focused restaurant with a pleasant ambiance. They offer a variety of fresh options like sea bass, char-grilled octopus, and a notable oyster selection. It is one of the most popular restaurants in New Brunswick and is known for its excellent food and service.

Catherine Lombardi Restaurant

Catherine Lombardi is an American, steakhouse, and international cuisine restaurant. They offer a variety of dishes, including dumplings, which have received excellent reviews. The restaurant has a cozy red interior and a lively bar.

Old Man Rafferty's

Old Man Rafferty's is an American bar and restaurant. They offer a cool space and unique dishes like the Seared Ahi Tuna. The service has received mixed reviews.

Efes Mediterranean Grill

Efes is a Mediterranean grill with a warm and cosy atmosphere. They offer delicious food and are known for their friendly service.

Stage House Tavern

The Stage House Tavern is an American bar and restaurant. They offer a variety of dishes, including a T-bone steak, garlic mashed potatoes, and a selection of pizzas. The restaurant has received excellent reviews for its food and service.

Houlihan's New Brunswick

Houlihan's is an American bar and restaurant with a lively atmosphere. They offer unique dishes like their famous 'Shrooms and Stuffed Chicken Breast. The restaurant has received good reviews for its food and service.

These restaurants offer a variety of dining options for large groups in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Each restaurant has its own unique atmosphere, cuisine, and specialties, so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences.

The top-rated restaurants in New Brunswick

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a restaurant hotspot, with a variety of cuisines and dining experiences to choose from. Here is a list of some of the top-rated restaurants in the area:

The Frog and The Peach

This stylish restaurant offers a modern American menu with a seductive international spin. It boasts a cosy indoor area, an outdoor garden, and a swanky bar. The Frog and The Peach has won the AAA Four-Diamond award for outstanding restaurants and has an extensive award-winning wine list with 400 selections. It is a little pricey, but the food and atmosphere make it worth the money.

Catherine Lombardi

An upscale Italian restaurant with a cozy, homey atmosphere, featuring two fireplaces and a lively bar. The menu is Neapolitan-based and heavily Brooklyn-influenced, inspired by the Italian grandmother of one of the owners, Catherine Lombardi. They have an extensive wine list, featuring mostly estate-bottled wines from small producers, and they make classic cocktails from scratch.

Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar

A hip, modern oyster bar with a large variety of fresh local oysters and seafood towers. They also offer innovative dishes, including a range of local meats and vegetarian options. The restaurant has a spacious rustic bar and a casual dining area, as well as an elegant dining room.

Steakhouse 85

A modern take on the classic American steakhouse, with a focus on fresh and inspiring interpretations of traditional steakhouse classics. Their dry-aged steaks are rubbed with a combination of sea salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs, and seared on a 1200-degree cast-iron grill. They also have a large bar with an award-winning wine list and savvy cocktails.

Harvest Moon Brewery/Cafe

A relaxed brewpub with exposed brick walls, serving an eclectic menu and house-brewed beers. The head brewer and executive chef work together to pair beer and food, creating a memorable tasting experience.

Delta's

A brick-walled Southern eatery with a killer atmosphere and on-point decor, serving up real Southern cuisine like fried chicken, mac n' cheese, collard greens, and gumbo. They also have a well-rounded cocktail menu and feature live music on the weekends.

Other Notable Mentions:

• Stage Left - Famous for its wood-grilled steaks and award-winning wine list.
• Tavern on George - Laid-back atmosphere, elevated pub food, doughnut flights, and live jazz music.
• Nagomi - A cozy ramen restaurant serving assari-style ramen made with the best possible ingredients.
• Cuzin's Seafood & Clam Bar - A rustic yet upscale seafood restaurant with a casual vibe and fresh fish and shellfish.
• Esquina Latina - Latin American dishes, craft cocktails, and a lively nightlife scene with Latino tunes.
• Old Man Rafferty's - Sit-down restaurant with outstanding desserts.
• Stuff Yer Face - Popular spot for boli's, potachos, and pierogies, with a good beer selection.
• Sahara Restaurant - Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, including hummus, baba ghanoush, and burgot.

The best cheap eats in New Brunswick

New Brunswick, New Jersey, also known as "Hub City" and "The Healthcare City", is situated on the banks of the Raritan River. The city is home to Rutgers University, Johnson & Johnson's international HQ, the NJ State Theater, and several world-class hospitals.

When it comes to cheap eats in New Brunswick, here are some top spots to consider:

Mexican Food

For Mexican cuisine, there are several options in the city. One popular choice is the Mexican places off of French Street, where you can get chips and salsa and a burrito for under $10. Gaby's Bakery & Deli on Livingston Street (technically in North Brunswick) is also a fantastic option for burritos, tacos, and fresh chips and guacamole. Another suggestion is El Oaxaqueno, known for its tortas. Costa Chica, Taco House, and Oaxaceño are also recommended for their Mexican offerings.

Chinese Food

For Chinese food, there is a well-regarded spot by the clock on French Street. Shanghai Dumpling House on 27 in Edison is another popular choice, with some considering it pretty authentic. However, it's a polarizing option, as some love it while others don't.

Japanese Food

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, Rai Rai Ramen on 27 in North Brunswick is a fantastic option for ramen and fried rice. It's not the cheapest, with a portion costing around $15, but it comes recommended by a Japanese friend of a local. Mr Pi's Sushi is also mentioned as having some of the best sushi, but it will cost you around $20-25.

Italian Food

Unfortunately, Italian food in New Brunswick is reportedly not great. However, Mancini Pizzeria in East Brunswick is recommended if you're willing to travel a bit.

Local NJ Cuisine

For local NJ cuisine, RU Hungry is a popular choice, offering the famous "fat sandwich" for $6.50.

Other Options

New Brunswick has a diverse range of culinary options, and here are some more recommendations:

• Halal Guys: $9 combo platter
• King of Gyro
• Poke Nagomi: Low-priced, high-quality poke bowls
• Ramen Nagomi: Ramen under $15 in a cute basement venue
• Noodle Gourmet: Recommended for Asian cuisine
• Destination Dogs: Creative hot dogs for around $7, with outdoor seating
• Mamoun's Falafel: Delicious and reasonably priced Middle Eastern food
• Mis Amigos Mexican Grill: Nice portions of Mexican food
• Edison Family Restaurant: Large breakfast selection
• Lubrano's Pizzeria and Restaurant: Italian comfort food
• Pita Grill and Creperie: Mediterranean quick bites
• Colonia Dairy Maid
• Franklin Park Diner
• White Rose Hamburgers: American quick bites
• Kapadokya Mediterranean Grill: Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine
• THOMAS SWEET Ice Cream and Chocolate: Asian specialty food market
• Filippo's Famous Pizza
• Mamoun's Falafel: Mediterranean fast food
• Hidden Grounds Coffee
• KBG Korean BBQ & Grill: Korean barbecue and Asian cuisine
• Hole In The Walls Bagels
• Frutta Bowls New Brunswick Rutgers

With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find something delicious and affordable in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

The best restaurants in New Brunswick for families

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a food-lover's dream, with its bistros, steakhouses, quaint cafes, fine-dining spots, bustling pizzerias, and bakeries. Here are some of the best restaurants in the area for families:

Destination Dogs

A renowned dining establishment serving gourmet hot dogs with a variety of toppings and flavours. It offers a casual and lively atmosphere, generous portions, and options for special diets. Their menu has limited vegetarian/vegan options and can get quite noisy during peak hours.

Steakhouse 85

A highly acclaimed restaurant offering prime cuts of steak and an extensive selection of fine wines. The restaurant provides an upscale and elegant ambiance with stylish decor, dim lighting, and attentive service. However, it is known for its higher prices and limited non-steak options.

Sophie's Bistro

A charming restaurant specialising in classic French delicacies, with a beautifully decorated interior and a wide array of fine wines. The menu has limited options, especially for diners with dietary restrictions, and there may be occasional delays in service during busy periods.

Old Man Rafferty's

A family-friendly bar and grill serving classic American fare at reasonable prices. They offer hearty American favourites, an inviting vibe, a pub-style feel, and accommodating servers.

The Frog and The Peach

A gourmet American eatery located within walking distance of the State Theatre New Jersey. It boasts a stunning garden-themed dining area, creatively plated dishes, and an ever-changing menu of gourmet cuisine, along with an impressive selection of fine wines.

Sahara Restaurant

A well-renowned dining establishment specialising in Mediterranean cuisine. It features stunning chandeliers, a laid-back space, generous portions, well-presented dishes, and accommodating staff. They offer catering services and have options for various diets.

Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar

A highly acclaimed eatery located in Kilmer Square, offering fresh seafood dishes, an aesthetically pleasing interior, exceptional service, and an expansive selection of fine wines and cocktails. They also offer private dining areas and customisable menus, making it ideal for birthday celebrations.

Catherine Lombardi

An upscale Italian restaurant founded in 2006, located near several tourist hotspots. It features a full-service bar, a gorgeous interior with two fireplaces, and hospitable servers. They offer vegetarian options and are known for their Chicken Scarpariello.

Christopher's Restaurant and Bar

Located within the 4-star Heldrich Hotel, this restaurant boasts colossal windows, a well-lit interior with contemporary decorations, exquisite craft cocktails, and an eclectic menu. They offer a range of seafood dishes, including the Coconut Ahi Tuna Poke Tower.

Delta's Restaurant

A Southern eatery in the cultural district of the city, featuring stunning decorations, live music on weekends, signature cocktails, and stylishly plated dishes. Their menu includes Southern classics and creative cocktails, such as the Soul Folks Dumplings and the Fried Whiting Over Jambalaya Grits.

The best romantic restaurants in New Brunswick

New Brunswick, New Jersey, is home to a plethora of romantic restaurants, perfect for a special evening out or a cosy date night. With a range of cuisines and atmospheres to choose from, there is something to suit every couple's tastes.

For a classic Italian dining experience, Luca's Ristorante offers a unique ambiance with art and trinkets from the owner's hometown of Ischia, Italy. The restaurant serves up delicious Italian dishes, including pasta and beef ragu, as well as providing attentive service.

If you're looking for a cosy and intimate setting, Vincenzo's Ristorante Italiano could be the perfect choice. With pleasant waitstaff and good, solid Italian food, it's a great option for a romantic evening. The host, Bruno, is delightful and will ensure you have a memorable experience.

For a touch of French flair, consider Verve Restaurant. Offering a fine dining experience, Verve is known for its outstanding meals and has even been recommended for Valentine's Day celebrations.

If steak and seafood are more your style, Stage Left Steak is the place to be. With a range of cuts to suit all budgets, including the renowned prime Wagyu beef, this restaurant is sure to impress. Their eleven-ounce burger has also been named one of the best in New Jersey, so you're in for a treat.

For a unique dining experience, The Frog and The Peach offers a range of special events and promotions, including cocktail parties, bottomless brunch beverages, and magic shows. They also have a renowned Sunday Brunch and a five-course rosé tasting menu, making it a great choice for a fun and romantic evening.

Whether you're looking for a cosy Italian trattoria or a sophisticated French restaurant, New Brunswick has a romantic dining experience to suit every taste and budget.

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