Welcome, fellow food explorers! As your trusty food blogger, I consider it my personal mission to uncover culinary gems tucked away in the heart of cities. Today, we’re shifting our gastronomical compass in the direction of Newark, New Jersey. Buzzing with a diverse food scene, the city is a veritable canvas of tastes, with every street a stroke painted with the color palate of diverse cuisines.
We’ll journey from the fragrant Italian eateries of the Ironbound district to the satisfying soul-food spots of the Central Ward. Newark isn’t just a city; it’s a global cornucopia of flavors waiting to be discovered, savored, and celebrated. So, lace up your most comfortable shoes, bring your appetite, and let’s embark on this culinary adventure together.
Before we dive into the delectable offerings of Newark, it’s worth noting that this city is more than just a pit stop, more than an overshadowed sister to New York. No, my food-loving friends, Newark stands tall and proud in its individuality, its history intrinsically woven into every dish, every restaurant, every food stand. This is not just a food tour; it’s a history buffet that we’re about to devour.
Ready to join me on this tasty trek? Then grab your forks, my friends. We’re about to bite into the gastronomic heart of ‘The Gateway City’!
Most Popular Restaurants in Newark
If you happen to be in Newark, New Jersey, and you are looking for a memorable and satisfying culinary experience, Newark has some popular restaurants that are worth visiting.
Let’s start with Fornos of Spain. Located at 47 Ferry St, Newark, NJ 07105, this renowned restaurant offers an extensive menu of delicious Spanish dishes that have captivated the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Known for its seafood paella, Fornos of Spain is definitely a must-visit for every seafood lover. The service is exceptional, and the ambiance takes you straight to Spain.
Next on the list is Krug’s Tavern. It is found at 118 Wilson Ave, Newark, NJ 07105. Krug’s Tavern is a legendary spot famous for its award-winning burgers. The simplicity of the place, combined with the mouth-watering food, makes it a unique dining destination. The place gives off a classic, old-school vibe that adds to the overall enjoyment of your meal.
For the Italian cuisine lovers, 27 Mix is a top-notch choice. This eatery, located at 27 Halsey St, Newark, NJ 07102 offers an Italian-American fusion that will simply blow your mind. Their menu features classics like shrimp scampi and eggplant parmesan, to more unique options like truffle mac and cheese. The cozy, intimate setting of 27 Mix makes it a perfect place for a romantic dinner or a get-together with friends.
If you are a fan of Brazilian cuisine, Altas Horas Lanches is a must-visit. Located at 266 Ferry St, Newark, NJ 07105, this restaurant offers a wide array of authentic Brazilian dishes, including Pão de Queijo, Coxinha, and their famous hamburgers. The casual ambiance and friendly staff only enhance the overall dining experience.
Concluding our tour, we have Mompou Tapas Bar & Restaurant. Located at 77 Ferry St, Newark, NJ 07105, this stylish, trendy spot offers a menu that combines Spanish and Mediterranean cuisines. The tapas style menu allows you to taste a variety of dishes and the wine list here is extensive, offering a great selection from regions across Spain.
These are just a few of Newark’s most popular restaurants offering a variety of cuisines to cater to everyone’s taste. They all have unique atmospheres, exceptional service, and most importantly, unforgettable food.
Most Unique Restaurants in Newark
First on the list of unique eateries is 27 Mix. Tucked away at 27 Halsey Street, this restaurant offers an eclectic fusion of Asian, Southwestern and Italian cuisine. The neighbourhood bar vibe combined with a fine dining experience makes 27 Mix a unique destination. Their cocktail menu deserves a commendation too, especially their pineapple-infusion margarita, which cannot be missed.
Set in the stunning loft-style space at 50 Edison Place is Edison Ale House. This place offers 20 constantly rotating taps with a variety of craft beers from different breweries around the world. The food menu is equally diverse, with the star attractions being their mouthwatering burgers and loaded nachos. It is truly a haven for food and beer lovers.
Mompou Tapas Bar & Lounge, located at 77 Ferry Street, is another unique spot that brings the Spanish Tapas culture to Newark. The restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Spanish cuisine with intricately crafted dishes like bacon-wrapped dates, piquillo peppers stuffed with goat cheese, and Iberian ham croquettes. With an impressive selection of wines and premium cocktails, Mompou is the perfect place for a delightful evening.
Tucked in Broad Street, Burger Walla is unlike any burger joint. With a unique fusion of American comfort food and Asian street food, this space is something to experience. Their lamb burgers and masala fries are a must-try. Additionally, their commitment to community support and development makes dining here a fulfilling experience beyond just great food.
A short walk down Market Street will bring you to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. This restaurant brings the authentic southern barbecue experience to Newark. Ribs, brisket, pulled pork, you name it, they serve it with an array of house sauces. Live blues music plays on select nights, boosting the southern vibe of the place.
Finally, Art Kitchen Café located at 61 Halsey Street provides a unique blend of art, coffee, and fantastic food. Besides their terrific breakfast and lunch menu, they also host art exhibits featuring local artists. It’s truly a treasure for those who appreciate good food and art.
Best Casual Restaurants in Newark
If you’re looking for a laid-back yet delicious dining experience in Newark, New Jersey, you will be spoilt for choice. The city boasts a lively food scene with an array of casual restaurants that offer a unique blend of flavors and cuisines. Here are some of the best casual restaurants you should definitely add to your restaurant bucket list.
First on the list is Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, located at 224 Market St. This energetic and vibrant eatery is renowned for its authentic, pit-smoked and flavorful barbecue delicacies. It’s an absolute must-visit if you’re a lover of ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Not to mention, they also serve great side dishes like fried green tomatoes and BBQ beans. The atmosphere is casual yet buzzing, making it a great place for social gatherings.
Another notable mention is Mompou Tapas Bar & Restaurant situated at 77 Ferry St. This spot takes casual dining to another level by combining it with fine dining elements. Known for its innovative tapas and paella, Mompou offers an eclectic mix of Spanish and Mediterranean flavors. The beautiful, rustic decor and chilled out vibes make it perfect for a relaxed meal or a casual date night.
If you’re in the mood for some traditional Portuguese cuisine, head over to Tony Da Caneca at 72 Elm Rd. Authentic Portuguese dishes like feijoada and bacalhau are the highlights here. The easygoing, homely ambiance paired with the flavorful food makes it a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.
A visit to Newark would be incomplete without trying out some soul food, and King’s Restaurant at 557 Clinton Ave is the best place for it. From fried chicken to cornbread and mac ‘n’ cheese, this restaurant has everything you need to satisfy your soul food cravings. The casual setting and friendly staff add to the overall homey experience.
Lastly, Burger Walla at 47 Halsey St. is a unique casual eatery that gives a gourmet twist to the humble burger. With options such as lamb burgers and samosa burgers, this joint is perfect for those who love to experiment with food. The urban-chic decor and laid-back atmosphere make it a popular spot for young foodies.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Newark’s casual restaurant scene has something to offer everyone. With such a diverse range of foods and atmospheres, every meal in this city is bound to be a memorable one.
Best Family Restaurants in Newark
Delve into the heart of Newark for some traditional American farm-to-table dining experience at 27 Mix. This casual dining restaurant serves up palate-pleasing meals that are perfect for family gatherings set in a vibrant and cozy atmosphere. You and your family will love their selection of fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and delicious main courses. Don’t forget to try their culinary creatives with the Seared Tuna Tacos, and for the sweet tooth, their warm Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet. 27 Mix is located at 27 Halsey St, Newark, NJ 07102.
Next on your gastronomic adventure is Newark’s Italian gem, Annabella’s Kitchen. This is a family-friendly restaurant famous for its hearty Italian dishes. Every bite takes you to the heart of Italy, with dishes like their House-made Gnocchi, Large Cannoli, and Veal Sorrentino. The warm and welcoming ambiance doubles the dining experience, making you feel like you’re dining in an Italian family’s home. Annabella’s Kitchen resides at 144 Washington St, Newark, NJ 07102.
Looking for a restaurant that serves savory Spanish cuisine? Don Pepe Restaurant is your answer. It’s an authentic Spanish restaurant that prides itself on serving flavorful dishes that are perfect for the whole family. Their Paella Valenciana and Shrimp in Green Sauce are a must-try. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere, paired with their delicious offerings, gives an all-in-one dining experience. Don Pepe is located at 844 McCarter Hwy, Newark, NJ 07102.
If you’re a family of seafood lovers, Seabra’s Marisqueira is the best destination for you. Specializing in Portuguese style seafood, this restaurant brings an ocean-fresh experience straight to your table. Their Paelha a Marinheira is a crowd favorite. You can pair it with their fine selection of wines for a fuller dining experience. Seabra’s Marisqueira can be found at 87 Madison St, Newark, NJ 07105.
An element of surprise and excitement waits for you at Nizi Sushi. It’s a chic and modern family-friendly restaurant that serves the best of Japanese cuisine. From their fresh sushi rolls to their savory Ramen, each dish served is a feast to the eyes and the palate. Make sure to try their Spicy Tuna Roll and Shoyu Ramen. Nizi Sushi is located at 28 Central Ave, Newark, NJ 07102.
Best Takeout Food in Newark
For those seeking a culinary adventure or simply a delightful meal, Newark, New Jersey has an underrated yet impressive variety of takeout options to suit any palate. One of the city’s most beloved spots is the Hobby’s Delicatessen & Restaurant.
Located at 32 Branford Pl, Newark, NJ 07102, Hobby’s Delicatessen & Restaurant has been a family-run institution since 1962, famed for their gigantic sandwiches and traditional Jewish deli fare. Their corned beef and pastrami are cured on the premises, contributing to the sandwich’s freshness and flavor. The ‘Number 6’, a hefty delight filled with hot corned beef and pastrami, is recommended by regulars. A wide selection of salads, soups, and other home-style dishes make Hobby’s a top-choice for a comforting and hearty meal.
Another stand-out choice in the Newark takeout scene is the gastronomic gem Ferry Street Barbecue.
Found at 89 Ferry St, Newark, NJ 07105, Ferry Street Barbecue serves up Portuguese-style barbecue that never fails to satisfy. Their barbecued chicken with piri-piri sauce is a surefire winner. To accompany their succulent meats, they serve traditional Portuguese sides such as rice and fries sprinkled with Portuguese seasoning. The portions are huge and the prices are reasonable, making this a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
If you’re craving Mexican food, look no further than La Casa del Taco.
Located at 798 Broad St, Newark, NJ 07102, La Casa del Taco is renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine. Their tacos are made with homemade tortillas and filled with a choice of freshly grilled meat or vegetables. The ‘Al Pastor Tacos’ are particularly notable for their flavorful marinated pork and tangy pineapple. Treat yourself to some churros for dessert – they’re fried to perfection, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
For plant-based eaters, the highly praised Blueberry Café is a must-visit.
Located at 20 Branford Pl, Newark, NJ 07102, Blueberry Café serves up an impressively diverse menu of vegan fare. The ‘Impossible Burger’ is a plant-based take on the classic burger that doesn’t compromise on flavor, while the ‘Jackfruit BBQ Pulled Pork’ will amaze you with how close it comes to the real thing. The café also offers a wide range of smoothies and juices, all made fresh to order.
Each of these venues exhibits a unique flavor of Newark’s diverse culinary scene, offering fantastic food ready for you to take home and savor. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, rest assured—Newark has got your takeout cravings covered.
What Foods is Newark Known For?
What’s Newark, New Jersey without its famous cuisines? From its Portuguese influences to its hearty American fare, Newark is a city that’s rich in flavor. And what speaks of Newark more than its iconic Portuguese BBQ?
At the heart of it all is McWhorter’s BBQ. Located at 104 Mc Whorter St, Newark, NJ 07105, this gem of an eatery offers some of the best Portuguese BBQ that the city has to offer. From its sumptuous ribs, succulent chicken, and mouthwatering pork, their BBQ dishes are smoky, hearty, and full of flavor. McWhorter’s BBQ has become a crowd favorite with its signature dish, the Costela de Porco – a rack of pork ribs, marinated and barbecued to perfection.
Apart from Portuguese BBQ, Newark is also famous for its Italian Hot Dogs. A regional favorite, the Italian Hot Dog is a deep-fried dog snug in a pizza bread roll and piled with onions, peppers, and potatoes. And there isn’t a better place to taste it than at Dickie Dee’s. Positioned conveniently at 380 Bloomfield Ave, Newark, NJ 07107, this fast food joint has been making these delicious dogs since 1957, ensuring generations of Newark citizens a taste of this local favorite.
If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss the Paella at Spanish Sangria. Located at 157 Magazine St, Newark, NJ 07105, Sangria Tapas Restaurant serves arguably the best Paella in town. Loaded with shellfish, chicken, and chorizo, and steeped in a flavorful saffron-infused rice, this communal dish is a beautifully spiced, filling feast that brilliantly showcases Newark’s Spanish influences.
Last but not least, no food journey in Newark is complete without a stop at Burger Walla for their Indian inspired burgers. Nestled in 47 Halsey St, Newark, NJ 07102, Burger Walla is a blend of American fast food culture and Indian flavors. Whether it’s the staple lamb burger with mango chutney or the vegan Chana Masala burger, this fusion-food spot redefines what a burger can be.
Newark, New Jersey is a hive of culinary diversity. Its iconic dishes are a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and rich history, reflected in every delicious bite.
Eating Your Way Around Newark: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Start at Hobby’s Delicatessen & Restaurant, located at 32 Branford Pl, Newark, NJ 07102. This New Jersey staple has been serving some of the best sandwiches in town since 1962. Try their corned beef or brisket sandwich for a delectable experience.
For a mid-day snack, head over to Calandra’s Bakery at 204 First Avenue, Newark, NJ 07107. Try their renowned Italian bread, pastries or cakes baked fresh every day for a sweet treat.
Dinner must be at Fernandes Steak House at 158 Fleming Avenue, Newark, NJ 07105. This Portuguese restaurant is famous for its Rodizio – various selections of fire-roasted meats carved tableside. Don’t forget to try their seafood and paired wines for a complete dining experience.
Day 2: Start your second day with breakfast at Art Kitchen, located at 61 Halsey Street, Newark, NJ 07102. The ambiance is as delicious as the food. Try their bacon and egg panini or vegan burrito paired with their custom craft coffee.
For lunch, visit Andros Diner at 6 Wilson Avenue, Newark, NJ 07105. It is a classic American diner that serves hearty portions of comfort food. It’s hard to go wrong with any choice here, but their souvlaki platter and gyro wraps are a must-try.
End your day at Mompou Tapas Wine Bar & Lounge located at 77 Ferry Street, Newark, NJ 07105 for dinner. Sample an array of delectable tapas, from patatas bravas to chorizo in red wine, paired with their excellent selection of wines.
Day 3: Head to Catas at 538 Market Street, Newark, NJ 07105 for lunch. This Spanish restaurant is famous for its paella, tapas, and sangrias. Their seafood paella is particularly loved.
For a caffeine recharge, visit TM Ward Coffee at 944 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102. This historic coffee shop has been serving Newark since 1869. They offer a wide range of coffees and teas, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Fulfill your dinner cravings at Sabor Unico, located at 77 Jefferson Street, Newark, NJ 07105. Serving delicious Ecuadorian cuisine, dishes like hornado, fritada, and seco de pollo are worth trying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are some of the best places to eat in Newark, New Jersey?
A: The city of Newark offers a diverse food scene that caters to a variety of cuisines and palates. Some top-notch spots that are widely recognized include Mompou Tapas, which serves the best Spanish tapas, Adega Grill for Portuguese and Spanish cuisine, and Hobby’s Delicatessen & Restaurant for classic Jewish deli. If you’re looking for Italian food, you can’t miss the famous Casa d’Paco or the renowned Italian Bistro Santini’s.
Q2: Are there any good seafood restaurants in Newark?
A: Newark is home to some amazing seafood restaurants. Some of the best ones include Seabra’s Marisqueira and Casa Vasca. Both restaurants offer a variety of seafood dishes, with Seabra’s Marisqueira being known specifically for its Portuguese-style seafood.
Q3: Where can I find the best pizza in Newark?
A: Newark has a number of pizzerias that serve mouth-watering slices. Some of the most popular ones include Mercato Tomato Pie, which is known for its New Jersey-style pizza, and Tony’s Pizzeria & Restaurant, which offers a wide variety of pizzas and toppings.
Q4: Are there any good vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Newark?
A: Yes, Newark offers a few great vegetarian and vegan restaurants. For instance, Blueberry Cafe Juice Bar & Vegan Grille offers a complete vegan menu including salads, smoothies, and main courses. Also, Green Chickpea’s Middle Eastern vegetarian cuisine is quite popular among plant-based diet followers.
Q5: Where can I find good international cuisine in Newark?
A: Newark is known for its diverse food scene with several restaurants serving international cuisine. You can find Brazilian food at Brasilia Grill, Portuguese cuisine at Fornos of Spain, Mexican at Mi Pequeño Mexico, and African cuisine at Marcus B&P.
Q6: Where can I go for a fine dining experience in Newark?
A: If you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience, Newark has several places to offer. Nico Kitchen + Bar offers Italian-inspired cuisine in an upscale setting. Alternatively, you can go to Fornos of Spain for a fine dining experience that includes Spanish and Portuguese cuisines served in a classy environment.
Q7: What are some affordable places to eat in Newark?
A: If you are looking for affordable yet delicious food, you can try places like Hamburgao, a Brazilian fast food joint known for its burgers and sandwiches, or Dario’s Restaurant which serves cost-effective yet delicious Mexican food.
Q8: Are there any unique eateries in Newark that I shouldn’t miss?
A: Yes, indeed. One such place is Tops Diner, often lauded as one of the best diners in the country. Another is Ani Ramen, a renowned ramen spot that offers a different take on traditional ramen bowls.
Are you a globetrotter with a passion for discovering unique culinary delights? Do you yearn to uncover the flavors and foodie hotspots that are hidden in cities around the world? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve crafted an array of travel food guides that dive into the gastronomic treasures of many fascinating cities. From the pizza havens of New York to the tapas trails in Barcelona, we’ve got it all covered. So why not take your taste buds on an adventure and check out our collection of food travel guides? You can explore them right here. Bon Appétit!
