Alright, Jersey City folks, let’s talk food.
We all know this place is buzzing with delicious eats, but sometimes, it’s hard to know where to start. And that’s where we come in.
We’re ditching the fancy food terms and giving you the lowdown on the spots that’ll actually satisfy your cravings.
We’ve got you covered, from hole-in-the-wall gems to those Instagram-worthy places you’ve been dying to try.
So, put down that takeout menu and get ready to explore the best eats our city has to offer.
Let’s get into it!
1. Better Days
First, on our list of must-try Jersey City restaurants, we have the newcomer Better Days.
This laid-back spot on Newark Ave serves up tasty food and inventive cocktails, and they have a perfect two-in-one experience: dinner upstairs, speakeasy vibes downstairs – it’s conveniently located right above its sister restaurant, 143 Social.
On the menu at Better Days, you’ll find tempting dishes like curry mussels, pork belly banh mi, and duck confit poutine.
And don’t forget the cocktails! Gabriel Rieben’s creations will impress, with options like banana-spiked rum old fashioneds, mezcal sours, and even a biscotti-flavored Manhattan.
Plus, they’ve got plenty of vegan options and non-alcoholic drinks, so there’s something for everyone.
2. DomoDomo
When it comes to the best restaurants in Jersey City, DomoDomo definitely deserves a spot on the list.
Originally from Manhattan’s Houston Street, they’ve brought their famous Domokase-style sushi across the river, setting up shop just a block from the Hudson.
We’re talking about handcrafted rolls like lobster, unagi, andyellowtail – the list goes on. And, they’ve got 16 different nigiri sushi options for those who like to keep it classic.
But DomoDomo has much more to offer than sushi. You’ll be pleased to know they’ve got hot dishes designed to complement those rolls perfectly.
Think grilled octopus, tobiko pasta with crab meat, and even a NY Strip for the meat lovers out there.
And to wash it all down? A full sake bar, Japanese whiskeys, wine, and a selection of Asian beers.
3. Frankie
Next on our journey through the best Jersey City restaurants, we stumble upon Frankie, a spot that, interestingly, combines Aussie laid-back vibes with Jersey City’s bustling energy.
Owners Rebecca Johnson and Rowen McDermott have put their heart and soul into this place, and it shows.
McDermott, originally from Sydney, has brought a touch of Australia to every aspect, from the cool Art Deco design to the impressive selection of natural wines.
But let’s get to the good stuff: the food. Frankie’s menu is a delicious mix of Aussie classics and modern dishes.
You’ll find savory meat pies, classic fish and chips, and a standout burger. And we can’t forget about their extensive natural wine list sourced from around the world, alongside their modern and creative cocktail menu.
4. Hamilton Pork
Okay, let’s be honest: finding a good barbecue in Jersey City can be a bit of a challenge. But fear not, meat lovers. If you’re on the hunt for some seriously good Jersey City food with a Texas twist, look no further than Hamilton Pork.
Without a doubt, this place is a barbecue lover’s dream. It serves up all the classics: beef ribs, brisket, pork belly, and chicken—all smoked in-house and cooked low and slow.
But wait, there’s more. Hamilton Pork also serves up some tasty Tex-Mex bites. Their birria tacos are a must-try, slathered in house-made BBQ sauce, crunchy pickled veggies, and spicy broth for dipping.
And don’t even get me started on the pork belly burnt-end tacos and brisket quesadillas. Of course, no barbecue experience is complete without some classic sides, and Hamilton Pork has got you covered.
Wash it all down with a refreshing ranch water (tequila, lime, and soda), a salt-rimmed margarita, or a local beer, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to Texas.
5. Wurstbar
Okay, let’s say you’re craving some of the best food in Jersey City but are also in the mood for something different. Wurstbar might be exactly what you need.
They’ve taken classic comfort food and given it a gourmet twist, with a menu that puts sausages in the spotlight.
But don’t picture those soggy hot dogs you find at the ballpark. Instead, imagine gourmet creations like Polish kielbasa, chorizo, and cheddar brats, all dressed up with unique toppings like queso fresco, chive cream cheese, and fig mustard.
And hey, before you get lost in sausage heaven, don’t miss their poutine. They’ve got creative toppings like mango chutney and buffalo fried chicken—definitely not your typical poutine experience.
Oh, and calling all cider fans! Wurstbar has a seriously impressive cider selection.
6. Corto
Next up, we’re heading to The Heights to check out Corto.
This BYOB Italian spot is a short walk from Bread and Salt and has a refreshingly simple vibe.
The space itself is minimal, with an open kitchen and a few communal tables, but don’t let that fool you. Corto serves up some seriously delicious Italian fare, with dishes bursting with flavors like black truffle, Calabrian chili, and arugula pesto.
But here’s the best part: the food never feels heavy or overly fancy. It’s just good, honest cooking in a stylish yet casual setting.
Now, they do have some hearty main courses, like chicken and pork, but the pasta is the star of the show.
Corto’s pasta dishes are simple yet refined, showcasing fresh, high-quality ingredients and perfectly executed techniques.
Honestly, when it comes to finding the best restaurant in New Jersey for a truly authentic Italian experience, Corto is a strong contender.
And don’t forget, it’s BYOB, so grab your favorite bottle of wine and get ready for a delicious Italian meal.
7. Harry’s Daughter
Our last stop is Bergen-Lafayette, where we’ll check out Harry’s Daughter. This Caribbean gastropub is a local favorite, and it’s not hard to see why.
The atmosphere here is super chill and welcoming, and their tropical cocktails will practically transport you to a beach somewhere.
But let’s talk about the food. Owner Ria Ramkissoon has taken her Trinidadian family recipes and given them a fun twist, creating a unique fusion menu with some seriously tasty dishes.
Think nachos with a kick of scotch bonnet peppers and roti flatbread transformed into gooey quesadillas stuffed with cheddar and pineapple.
But don’t worry, if you’re looking for something more traditional, they’ve got that too. Harry’s Daughter also offers classic Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken, whole red snapper, and stewed peas and rice.
And you can’t go wrong with their house rum punch or a cocktail featuring their house-made ginger beer.
Oh, and if you’re there when they have a live band or DJ set (which happens pretty often during weekend brunch or their backyard barbecues), don’t forget to snap a pic in one of their cool wicker chairs.
Unforgettable Meals Are Hiding All Over Jersey City
So, that’s our take on some of the tastiest spots in Jersey City right now.
But honestly, this is just a starting point. Every corner of this city seems to be hiding another amazing restaurant, whether it’s a cozy BYOB with killer pasta or a lively gastropub serving up Caribbean cocktails and roti quesadillas.
But the best way to find your own favorites is to get out there and explore! Trust us, with so much good food waiting to be discovered, you’re in for a treat.
P.S. If brunch is your thing (and let’s be real, who doesn’t love brunch?), check out our article on the best brunch spots in Jersey City.