20 BEST Restaurants in New Brunswick, NJ (Too Much Great Food!)

If you’ve been to New Brunswick, NJ, you’ll agree there’s a lot to love about the city. Also known as ‘The Hub City,” New Brunswick is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the northeastern state.

It boasts many attractions, including the Rutgers Garden, Zimmerli Art Museum, and Boyd Park, to name a few. However, the next time you’re in New Brunswick, you can do more than sightseeing. You can enjoy tasty dishes from the plethora of quality restaurants in the city.

We’ve looked at the available options and handpicked the 20 best restaurants in New Brunswick. Check them out below:

1. Hot Space Grilled Fish

Address: 1757 Nj -27 Edison, NJ 08817 | Phone Number: (732) 317-8539 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The first restaurant here is the Hot Space Grilled Fish, located on Edison street. Hot Space Grilled Fish has a history of serving some of the best traditional Chinese seafood in the city of New Brunswick.

This cozy little spot is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

What to Eat at Hot Space Grilled Fish

While at Hot Space Grilled Fish, you can order Chinese and Szechuan seafood. Most people go for the roasted beef skewers, but lamb skewers and barramundi fish are also available.

Furthermore, you can also order big mouth bass, spicy Tofu, roasted Tofu, preserved eggs, and roasted pork feet. The menu lists mouth-watering dishes.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Hot Space Grilled Fish is the restaurant to go to if you want authentic Asian seafood. The fish and vegetable offerings are almost irresistible. Not to mention the friendly and attentive customer service you’ll receive.

Hot Space Grilled Fish maintains a consistent daily schedule. The restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday, from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Roasted Beef Skewers
• Cuisine: Szechuan, Seafood, Chinese

2. Destination Dogs

Address: 101 Paterson St New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 993-1016 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Destination Dogs is a restaurant owned by two friends and partners –  Jimmy Cronk and Sean Hosty. Both met while working at Clydz restaurant in New Brunswick. This one-of-a-kind restaurant and easygoing bar is known for its gourmet hot dogs and sausages in many global & regional styles, all made with the freshest ingredients and with their own special toppings and flavors.

Whether you're looking for a traditional hot dog or something a little more adventurous, Destination Dogs is sure to have something for everyone. And with a location right in the heart of New Brunswick, it's the perfect place to grab a quick bite before exploring everything this great city has to offer.

What to Eat at Destination Dogs

You can easily guess what to expect from Destination Dogs from its description. The restaurant specializes in hot dogs, with the signature dish being the All Beef Hot Dog.

On the menu, you’ll also find Bun Mi Vietnam burger, Chorizo, duck sausage, lamb sausage, and Cantonese sausage. Furthermore, Destination Dogs serves traditional cocktails.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You should visit Destination Dogs to have the best hot dogs and drinks combo in New Brunswick. With the restaurant’s selection of savory gourmet dogs, you’ll always return the next time you’re in the city.

It’s a restaurant you can visit daily. On weekdays, you can visit Destination Dogs from 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. On weekends, the restaurant is open from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: All Beef Hot Dog
• Cuisine: American, Hot Dogs

Related Read: 50 BEST Things To Do in New Jersey

3. Namli Mediterranean & Turkish Cuisine

Address: 88 Central Ave New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 543-0116 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Namli Mediterranean & Turkish Cuisine is one of the best places to get your Mediterranean and Turkish food in busy Central Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ. The restaurant was opened in 2016 and got its inspiration from one of the oldest restaurants in Istanbul; since has been offering a wide variety of both traditional and modern dishes, all of which are absolutely delicious.

The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make Namli the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family or friends. Trust us; you won't be disappointed!

What to Eat at Namli Mediterranean & Turkish Cuisine

Namli Mediterranean & Turkish Cuisine serves many specialty dishes. When you visit the restaurant, you must try the mixed grill, Doner Kebab, and Iskender Kebab.

Agli Eggplant Salad and Ezme are also available, and you can order Manti, the traditional Turkish Ravioli, Kunefe, and Ayran yogurt. In addition, the restaurant offers dine-in, take-out, and catering services.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Meals at the Namli Mediterranean & Turkish Cuisine restaurant are affordable. In particular, you can save money when you order the specialty Namli Mixed Grill for two people. It’s the perfect Turkish cuisine restaurant to visit when on a budget.

From Mondays to Saturdays, the restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Sundays, you can visit between 12 and 10 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Namli Mixed Grill
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish

4. Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar

Address: 103 Church St New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 745-7258 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar is a New Brunswick native-owned restaurant. With the clean flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s undoubtedly one of the best seafood restaurants in the city.

This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is excellent. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. This is a great place for a casual dinner with friends or family.

What to Eat at Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar

Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar serves small plates, entrées, desserts, and extras. Some of the best dishes at the restaurant include crab cake, lobster bisque, red snapper, cham chowder, and the unique seafood tower.

In addition, you can order raw oysters, black sea bass, potato-crusted halibut, and shrimp Fresca, and all meals are fresh.

Why Should You Eat Here?

At Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar, you’ll meet many New Brunswick locals. Hence, it’s the go-to spot if you want to live in the New Brunswick experience. You’ll also appreciate the inviting atmosphere and attentiveness of the staff.

On Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the restaurant is open from 3 to 8 – 10 p.m. It’s closed on Sundays but open from 11:30 a.m to 9 – 10 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Seafood Tower
• Cuisine: Seafood, Bar

Related Read: 45 BEST Things To Do in Atlantic City, NJ

5. Merey Venezuelan Cuisine

Address: 128 Raritan Ave Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Phone Number: (732) 354-4228 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Here we have a family-owned restaurant on Raritan Avenue at Highland Park that offers a wide variety of traditional Venezuelan dishes, all sure to tantalize your taste. 

The friendly staff will make you feel at home, and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a night out with family or friends. The restaurant opened to share the best aspects of the Venezuelan heritage passed down from generation to generation.

What to Eat at Merey Venezuelan Cuisine

Merey Venezuelan Cuisine boasts authentic Venezuelan food, as the name depicts. In addition, popular South American meals like Reina Pepiada, Asado Arepas, Mini Arepas, Cachapas, and Churros are all available on the menu.

Of course, there are Churros and Empanadas also, especially Chicken empanadas. But, notably, the restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol or happy hours.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You should visit Merey Venezuelan Cuisine if you desire South American dishes. But that’s not all the restaurant has to offer.

It’s also a good spot for vegetarians, with the many options on the menu. In addition, the casual yet trendy atmosphere is welcoming.

You can’t visit Merey Venezuelan Cuisine on Mondays and Tuesdays. However, from Wednesdays to Sundays, the restaurant doors are open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Chicken empanada
• Cuisine: Venezuelan

6. Masala Bay

Address: 1135 Easton Ave Somerset, NJ 08873 | Phone Number: (732) 659-6922 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Masala Bay is one of the best Indian restaurants in New Brunswick, NJ, located at 1135 Easton Ave Somerset – a building where you’ll find many other Asian restaurants. But, despite the competition, the restaurant stands out thanks to its quality.

The restaurant is known for its authentic dishes, which are made with fresh ingredients and spices; the menu offers a wide variety of traditional Indian dishes and some fusion dishes that are sure to please any palate. Chicken Tikka is one of the best dishes on the menu, and it is definitely worth trying.

What to Eat at Masala Bay

Masala Bay is home to Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean dishes. In addition, the restaurant offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

You can order the Naan wrap, Moroccan Tofu, Harissa Hummus, Lemon Chicken, and Cucumber Raita. However, to enjoy the best on Masala Bay’s menu, you should taste the Chicken Tikka.

Why Should You Eat Here?

We’ve talked about the tasty meals you get at Masala Bay. But, far from that, the restaurant offers convenience with a quiet environment, free Wi-Fi, and private dining. These are some reasons why you shouldn't miss Masala Bay when in New Brunswick.

The Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays but closed on Sundays.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Chicken Tikka
• Cuisine: Indian, Middle Eastern

Related Read: 20 BEST Soul Food Restaurants in the USA

7. Ramen Nagomi

Address: 49 Bayard St New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 317-2623 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ramen Nagomi is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Bayard St, New Brunswick, NJ. They offer a wide variety of delicious ramen dishes and other Japanese favorites such as tofu and tempura. The staff is friendly, and the prices are very reasonable.

Ramen Nagomi follows the Japanese philosophy of cooking and an enthusiasm for experimentation. The restaurant gets its name from the Japanese character “Nagomi,” which signifies comfort and harmony.

What to Eat at Ramen Nagomi

At Ramen Nagomi, you can enjoy traditional home-cooked Japanese food. The most popular dish among customers is the Burnt Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen.

Other meals you can order include spicy Miso Ramen, braised pork belly bento, Takoyaki, Tonkotsu Ramen, pork floss bao, and Shio Ramen. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options, and you can order takeouts.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Ramen Nagomi is more than a Japanese restaurant. It stands out as a Japanese restaurant that exclusively offers Ramen.

You should book a ride to this restaurant to enjoy the best Japanese Ramen in New Brunswick. While at the restaurant, you’ll also enjoy the heated outdoor seating and hipster environment.

On weekdays, Ramen Nagomi opens from 12 to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. On weekends, the restaurant is open from 12 to 9 – 10 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Burnt Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen
• Cuisine: Ramen Japanese

8. Sophie's Bistro

Address: 700 Hamilton St Somerset, NJ 08873 | Phone Number: (732) 545-7778 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sophie's Bistro is a charming French restaurant that offers a unique dining experience located on Hamilton Street in Somerset, NJ. The restaurant was opened in 2002 and aims to continue the rich history of classic French bistro dishes; the menu features an extensive traditional French fare and a wide selection of wine and beer.

Whether you're looking for a romantic evening out or a fun night with friends, the friendly and attentive staff will make you feel right at home, and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a meal at your own pace.

What to Eat at Sophie's Bistro

If you love French food, you can get the best ones at Sophie’s Bistro. But, of course, this restaurant's food is the main attraction, with tasty offerings like lamb shank, French onion soup, Steak Frites, and beef bourguignon.

Also, Sophie’s Bistro’s menu has soft shell crab, chocolate lava cake, fried brie, and Coq Au Vin.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Situated in a friendly environment, Sophie’s Bistro is one of the best French cuisine restaurants in New Brunswick. The restaurant’s drive to make customers happy makes it a must-visit spot.

Aside from the delicious food, Sophie’s Bistro has a full bar and outdoor seating, plus its LGBTQ friendliness makes it a perfect spot for transgender people. You can walk in from Wednesdays to Fridays from 12 to 8 - 9 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays, the restaurant is open from 4 to 8 - 9 p.m. 

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: French Onion Soup
• Cuisine: French

Related Read: 45 Best Black Owned Restaurants in Philadelphia, PA

9. Veganized

Address: 1 Elm Row New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 342-7412 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Veganized is arguably the best vegan restaurant you can find in downtown New Brunswick, in the Elm Row area. The restaurant opened to serve original plant-based cuisine to the community. From traditional ethnic dishes to American comfort food classics, there are plenty of delicious vegan options.

Whether you're a lifelong vegan, just looking to try something new, or just curious about plant-based cuisine, be sure to check out these fantastic vegan-friendly restaurants.

What to Eat at Veganized

The restaurant’s name clearly states what you can eat when you visit – vegan meals. In addition, you can order vegan food, beverages, cocktails, wine, and beer.

The deluxe burger is the standout offering on the menu. Nevertheless, you should also try the Timbale, lentil salad, Rawvioli, caesar salad, samurai, and chocolate peanut butter torte.

Why Should You Eat Here?

While Veganized targets vegans, the restaurant also welcomes non-vegans. It’s one of the best restaurants to visit because the food isn’t just delicious but healthy.

Veganized prepares new meals every day from natural and organic ingredients. In addition, the meals are relatively affordable. You can walk into this restaurant every day, from 11 a.m to 9:30 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Deluxe Burgee
• Cuisine: Vegan

10. Fritz's Restaurant

Address: 115 Easton Ave New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 543-0202 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fritz’s, located in the heart of the Easton Avenue neighborhood, is one of the oldest restaurants on this list. Founded in 1882, the restaurant offers a casual space for everyone around New Brunswick.

The restaurant is owned by two long-time New Brunswick residents, Jonathon Guarino and Robin Varga, who are excited to share their innovative and delicious dishes with their community.

Fritz's has everything from juicy burgers and fresh salads to hearty entrées and delectable desserts. And their friendly staff ensures that every customer feels right at home.

What to Eat at Fritz's Restaurant

Fritz’s is a breakfast and brunch spot. As a result, you get relatively fast meals, including sandwiches, bakery treats, and desserts.

The General Tso's Crispy Chicken Sandwich is the most popular offering on the restaurant’s menu. Meatball sandwiches, fiesta quinoa bowl, French onions soup, and tomato soup are others you can try.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Fritz’s restaurant is relatively affordable, which makes it a suitable New Brunswick restaurant if you’re on a budget. In addition, the restaurant serves only fresh roasts, house-made sauces, and vegan options.

You can visit Fritz’s every day. Doors usually open at 9 a.m. and close at 7:45 p.m. However, on Sundays, the restaurant closes earlier, at 3:45 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: General Tso's Crispy Chicken Sandwich
• Cuisine: Desserts, Traditional American

11. Smashville

Address: 377A George St New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 317-2200 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Smashvile is renowned as one of the best burger restaurants in New Brunswick. The restaurant sits on George Street, one of the most desirable areas in the city, and it’s known for its delicious food and great service.

This unassuming eatery is quickly becoming one of the most popular restaurants in town, thanks to its unique take on comfort food. Everything on the menu is sure to please, from their signature smashed burgers to their mouth-watering fries.

But what really sets Smashville apart from other restaurants is its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. So whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you can be confident that you're getting the best of what New Brunswick offers when you dine at Smashville.

What to Eat at Smashville

Smashville has a wide variety of menu items, including burgers, hot chicken, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. In addition, there are various options available, including entrées, fries, and sides. You can also order drinks. The restaurant also offers a full bar with a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.

The restaurant also prepares a special Chicken Sammy dish. However, if you don’t go for that, you can order the single patty, impossible patty, smash fries, hot fries, or single tender.

Why Should You Eat Here?

The friendly and trendy environment at Smashville makes it a go-to spot. Unfortunately, the restaurant offers no waiter service, but you can order takeouts or delivery. However, the workers are friendly despite the little time spent.

Smashville doesn’t open on Tuesdays. However, you can visit the restaurant on Mondays, Wednesdays to Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 9 or 10 p.m. On Sundays, the time is 1 to 9 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Chicken Sammy
• Cuisine: Burgers, American

12. Butcher 360

Address: 360 Georges Rd North Brunswick, NJ 08902 | Phone Number: (732) 354-4316 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Butcher 360 offers an all-you-can-eat style Korean barbecue experience, with a wide variety of meats and sides to choose from, including beef, pork, and chicken. The restaurant is right in the heart of North Brunswick, with over 200 seats, a wide, 8500 sq ft (789.68 m²) dining area, and a private party area.

Butcher 360 is the perfect place to come with a group of friends or family, as there is something for everyone to enjoy. You won’t find many Korean barbecue restaurants in Northern New Brunswick with offerings better than Butcher 360. The restaurant promises an unforgettable experience on each visit.

What to Eat at Butcher 360

Butcher 360 menu features high-quality meat, which includes beef, pork, and chicken. The meats are perfectly cooked, and the sides are delicious, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

You can order Juicy Spicy Chicken, beef brisket, soy chicken, pork steak, and Garlic Short Ribs when you visit. However, you’ll miss out if you don’t try the pork belly, steamed eggs, popcorn chicken, and Beef Bulgogi.  

Why Should You Eat Here?

To be straightforward, you should visit Butcher 360 to enjoy the best Korean barbecue in New Brunswick. But the restaurant also ensures you’re cozy during your stay.

It offers private lot parking, waiter service, free Wi-Fi, TV, and outdoor seating. The restaurant opens every day, from 12 to 10 p.m., but on Fridays and Saturdays, it extends to midnight.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Pork Belly
• Cuisine: Korea

13. Tasty Moment

Address: 1711 Route 27 Edison, NJ 08817 | Phone Number: (732) 354-4316 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

There's nothing quite like a good meal to make you feel at home, and Tasty Moment is the perfect place to get one. This restaurant is located on Edison street. New Brunswick is known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere.

Tasty Moment is another restaurant that offers Asian dishes. So whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Tasty Moment has something for everyone. 

What to Eat at Tasty Moment

The Tasty Moment menu features Shanghainese cuisine, Dim Sum, and noodles. Hence, you get some of the popular meals in China.

The Pan Fried Pork Juicy Buns on the Dim Sum menu are the most popular at the restaurant. Others include Yangzhou Fried Rice, Aged Pork with Veg Rice, and Chicken Gizzards Rice Noodle Soup.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Tasty Moment serves authentic Shanghai food. If you appreciate Chinese cuisine, you should be at this restaurant the next time you’re in New Brunswick. The restaurant is suitable for group meals, thanks to the moderate noise and classy atmosphere.

You can walk in every day of the week, except on Tuesdays. It opens by 11:30 a.m. and closes by 9:30 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Pan Fried Pork Juicy Buns
• Cuisine: Shanghainese, Noodles

14. Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge

Address: 25 Liberty St New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 543-1630 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge is a women-owned restaurant and one of the best places to visit if you're looking for a delicious Latin-American meal. The restaurant is located on Liberty Street in New Brunswick, NJ, and it's known for its fantastic food and great atmosphere.

They offer a variety of Latin American-inspired dishes and a full bar with a wide selection of Latin American beers, wines, and spirits. Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge celebrates Cuban and Latin American culture and was opened in 2015.

Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge is the perfect spot for you.

What to Eat at Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge

Esquina Latina serves traditional tapas and sangrias in a trendy restaurant and lounge setting. The restaurant's menu is a fusion of Cuban and Latin meals.

Churrasco, Ropa Vieja, Rabo Encendido, and Vaca Frita are the top meals in the restaurant. You can also enjoy tasty empanadas, tres leches, patacon sliders, and Cuban guacamole.

Why Should You Eat Here?

If you want to discover the Latin American soul, Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge is the place to be. In particular, the restaurant is perfect if you’re a night person.

The restaurant opens from 12 to 10 – 11 p.m. on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. However, on Thursday, it’s from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m., while it stays open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Ropa Vieja
• Cuisine: Latin American, Cuban

15. Asanka Delight

Address: 2021 NJ-27, Somerset, NJ 08873, United States | Phone Number: (732) 249-2700 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Asanka Delight is one of the best places to get your African food in New Brunswick. The restaurant is known for its authentic African cuisine and friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

They opened in Somerset, New Brunswick, in the summer of 2011. The restaurant aims to introduce the people of New Jersey to rich African cuisine. So, whether you're craving good old-fashioned African comfort food or something new and exciting, Asanka Delight is worth checking out.

What to Eat at Asanka Delight

Asanka Delight offers a variety of popular traditional African dishes, as well as some fusion options. Among the options are soups like egusi, okra, ogbono, and palm nut soup.

Furthermore, you can order the well-known African jollof rice, with specialties like fried turkey, kebab, kelewele, and Moi-Moi. Asanka Delight also serves snacks like chin-chin, fish pie, meat pie, and puff-puff.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Many customers agree that Asanka Delight is the best African cuisine restaurant in the Somerset neighborhood. It’s hard to argue otherwise because the restaurant offers more than tasty food.

You also enjoy friendly customer service, catering, delivery, reservation, and takeout services. It’s the perfect dinner spot, and there’s TV to keep you engaged.

You can visit Asanka Delight from Mondays to Saturdays from 1 to 7:45 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Egusi soup
• Cuisine: African

16. Pithari Taverna

Address: 28 Woodbridge Ave Highland Park Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Phone Number: (732) 572-0616 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pithari Taverna is a traditional Greek restaurant located in the street of Highland Park, Woodbridge Avenue, New Jersey. The taverna-style restaurant was established in 2006 and is owned by Giannis John Leontarakis.

The restaurant has gained popularity and ranks among the best Greek restaurants in New Brunswick and New Jersey. The atmosphere at Pithari Taverna is truly unique. The restaurant is decorated with traditional Greek items but has a modern and contemporary feel.

What to Eat at Pithari Taverna

At Pithari Taverna, you can eat popular Greek and Mediterranean delicacies like Greek salad, Moussaka, Beef, Lamb Gyro Platter, Tzatziki, and Mediterranean Chicken.

The standout on the menu is Saganaki. It’s the customers’ favorite and one meal you don’t want to miss. You’ll also find vegetarian meal options at Pithari Taverna.

Why Should You Eat Here?

As mentioned before, Pithari Taverna is one of the best Greek restaurants in New Jersey. Therefore, if you love Greek meals, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit this restaurant the next time you’re in New Brunswick.

You can visit Pithari Taverna every day. The restaurant’s doors stay open from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Saganaki
• Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

17. The Crab General

Address: 795 Roosevelt Ave Carteret, NJ 07008 | Phone Number: (732) 366-4035 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you're looking for an amazing seafood restaurant in Roosevelt Avenue, New Brunswick, you must check out The Crab General! This cozy little spot is famous in the New Brunswick neighborhood and is known for its fresh and delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine and friendly service. 

What to Eat at The Crab General

The Crab General offers amazingly delicious crab meals. If you visit the restaurant, you should try the snow crab legs – the tastiest and most expensive on the menu.

You should also try the Shrimp No Head, Shrimp Head On, Crawfish, Green Mussels, Black Mussels, and Clams. The Crab General also serves combos, appetizers, and beverages.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Many customers who visit The Crab General attest that the restaurant serves meals in large portions. So you’ll have enough to eat and also take home.

Typically, you won’t overspend when you visit this Creole restaurant. However, it’s an okay spot to visit if you're on a budget.

The restaurant opens by 12 p.m. and closes by 10 p.m. You can walk in every day.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Snow Crab Legs
• Cuisine: Creole, Cajun

18. Pappagallos Pizzeria

Address: 76 Raritan Ave Hlnd Pk, NJ 08904 | Phone Number: (732) 745-9011 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A list of the best restaurants in New Brunswick won’t be complete without an Italian restaurant. Pappagallos Pizzeria is located at 76 Raritan Ave, Highland Park, NJ, and brings the famous European cuisine to New Jersey with style.

Pappagallos Pizzeria is known for its homemade pizzas, pasta, and desserts. Their secret recipe sauce is what makes their dishes so special. When you walk into Pappagallos, you feel like you’re part of the family. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is cozy and comfortable.

What to Eat at Pappagallos Pizzeria

Pappagallos Pizzeria serves appetizers, soups and sides, pizza, pasta dishes, baked dishes, wraps, cold subs, and hot subs. But, of course, you’ll still find more offerings on the menu.

You must have the Grilled Salmon Platter when you visit this Italian cuisine restaurant. Also, you should try the Tres Leches cake and Baklava.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Pappagallos Pizzeria is a comfortable restaurant to visit. It offers outdoor seating in a classy environment, and you can order delivery and takeouts.

Furthermore, you don’t get better Italian cuisine dishes anywhere in New Brunswick. Not to mention the owners are welcoming and friendly.

Pappagallos Pizzeria doesn't open on Mondays but from Tuesdays to Sundays. You can usually visit from 10 to 11 a.m. to 9 – 10 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Grilled Salmon Platter
• Cuisine: Italian

19. Ara's Hot Chicken

Address: 323 Raritan Ave Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Phone Number: (732) 447-2571 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ara’s Hot Chicken is a Halal Bangladeshi family-owned restaurant in Highland Park and has become famous among Muslims in New Brunswick. The restaurant specializes in chicken Sammie, which is a type of spiced chicken that originates from Nashville, Tennessee.

The chicken at Ara's Hot Chicken is marinated in a secret blend of spices and then fried to perfection. The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken with just enough heat. In addition to the traditional hot chicken, the restaurant also offers mild and spicy versions.

What to Eat at Ara's Hot Chicken

Ara’s Hot Chicken offers Tendies, Wingies, Chicken Sammies, Sides, and Sauces. You can have tenders served with pickles and sauce or try the whole wings served with toast.

Furthermore, the Crispy Fried Chicken Breast is a must-have. You can order it with pickle, brioche, slaw, or house sauce.

Why Should You Eat Here?

As a Halal restaurant, Ara’s Hot Chicken is a place you’ll want to visit if you’re a devout Muslim. The restaurant serves delicious meals, and the staff is readily available to assist you if you have any issues with your orders.

The restaurant is open from Tuesdays to Sundays but closed on Mondays. You can visit from 12 to 8 p.m. However, on Fridays, it opens from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Crispy Fried Chicken Breast
• Cuisine: Halal

20. Tacoria

Address: 56A Easton Ave New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | Phone Number: (732) 317-2070 | Michelin rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tacoria pays homage to the rich culture and hospitality of America’s southern neighbor – Mexico. 

The restaurant is located at 56A Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ, and offers a variety of Mexican food. In addition, Tacoria has a wide variety of tacos, including chicken, beef, and vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers burritos, quesadillas, and nachos.

Tacoria is a great place to eat if you want a delicious and affordable meal. The restaurant aims to improve the Easton Avenue community through quality, fresh food.

What to Eat at Tacoria

Most meals on Tacoria’s menu are vegetarian. You can order Golden Avocado, Avocado Burrito Box, Fried Avocado, or Elote.

You can order Pollo Asado Taco, Chicken Tacos, Grilled Chicken, Steak Tacos, and Chorizo if you want meat options. Generally, Tacoria serves popular meals you’ll find in Mexico.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Tacoria provides an ambient space for lunch, dinner, and late-night meals. You’ll be comfortable at this restaurant with the heated outdoor seating, moderate noise, casual atmosphere, free Wi-Fi, and gender-neutral restrooms.

On weekdays, you can visit Tacoria from 11 a.m. to 9 – 10 p.m. On weekends, the restaurant opens by 12 p.m. and closes by 9 – 10 p.m.

• Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Avocado Burrito Box
• Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex