There are many great things to do in Jersey City. From fine dining restaurants to excellent casual breakfast and lunch spots, Jersey City treats its visitors with a diverse selection of flavors. Sample dishes inspired by Italian, French, and Spanish cuisines, order American favorites like burgers, sliders and steaks, and order delicious tapas and paellas at one of these outstanding restaurants on our list.
1. Satis
© Satis
Satis is a popular fine dining restaurant that welcomes guests for dinner with a seasonal menu. Dishes consist of artistically combined flavors and draw inspiration from French, Italian and Spanish cuisines. Chef and owner Michael Fiorianti trained under culinary masters such as Thomas Keller.
Chef Michael believes that truly delicious food is the result of simplicity and quality ingredients that result in natural flavors that have not been overworked. The interior design of Satis is very welcoming, featuring high ceilings and distressed tiled walls. The outdoor seating area has a pleasant, laid-back ambience. Drop by and ask for some of the menu’s finest dishes: try a selection of salumi and ricotta gnocchi.
212 Washington Street, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-435-5151
2. Life Pancake Company
© Life Pancake Company
Life Pancake Company serves American and Greek comfort food for breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner. Ever since 1968 when former Greek farmer Harry Paxos opened this establishment, it has been a family business. Today, Harry’s daughter Irene and her husband Peter own and manage Brownstone. The two treat their guests with friendliness and warmth, making the cozy restaurant a great choice for family outings.
With its casual American decor, vintage booths, and Tiffany lamps, the venue exudes the charm of old school diners. The menus are quite expansive, and it’s hard to choose from among the many culinary delights, all of which sound appealing. However, you can never go wrong with the banana walnut pancakes, the corned beef hash, and the curly fries.
426 Jersey Ave, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-433-0471
3. Jersey City Restaurants: Liberty House Restaurant
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Offering stunning views out over the Manhattan Skyline, Liberty House Restaurant promises an unforgettable setting for a romantic night out. The wood and steel interior is softened by floor to ceiling glass windows and intricate chandeliers to set an elegant and sophisticated ambiance, both indoors and out on the patio. The cuisine is elevated farm-to-table fare sourced from local producers. In winter, all the vegetables and herbs are grown in hydroponic tunnels to ensure the freshest salads and veggies all year round. There is a raw bar for delicious fresh oysters, clams and shrimp, a good selection of sushi for fish lovers and superb fish, meat and steak entrees.
76 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305, 201 395 0300
4. Jersey City Restaurants: Battello
© Battello
Located on the Hudson River, where it provides amazing views of the Manhattan Skyline, Battello (‘boat’ in Italian) is a popular choice for a special night out. The restaurant is set in an industrial-style setting enhanced by several salvaged nautical props which lend a rustic elegance to the sophisticated design. There are floor to ceiling windows on three sides of the building to showcase the outstanding views. The cuisine is largely fish and sea food focused and the style is contemporary Italian. Most guests start off with a delicious appetizer from the raw bar before moving on to enjoy a pasta dish or one of the mouth-watering entrees which include scallops, chicken, steaks, pork chop or a vegetarian option.
502 Washington Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 09310, 201 798 1798
5. Jersey City Restaurants: Razza Pizza Artigianale
© Razza Pizza Artigianale
On a mission to produce the perfect Italian pizza in the heart of New Jersey, Razza Pizza Artigianale are constantly seeking the best methods and seasonal produce to dictate their pizza menu, and it shines through in the taste. Couples seeking a fun night out and a great artisanal pizza will love Razza. The menu changes with the seasons in order to showcase locally farmed vegetables and cheeses. Some of the recent choices included a corn pie pizza with spicy paste, a fresh mozzarella, hazelnut and honey pizza and a version featuring fresh mozzarella, NJ summer squash, lemon and ricotta. Some familiar favorites like Margherita are also available.
275/277 Grove Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201 356 9348
6. Jersey City Restaurants: Vu
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Offering some of the best views in town, Vu restaurant at the Hyatt Regency is eminently suitable for a romantic dinner. The hotel is on the banks of the Hudson River and provides stunning views of the New York Skyline in one direction and fascinating views of the chefs at work in the open kitchen in the other direction. The dinner menu starts off with a selection of appetizers including some fresh seasonal soups and salads, appetizers and the option to create a dinner entrée perfectly suited to your appetite – order a salad and add you choice of fish, crab cakes, chicken or steak. Several other tasty main courses vie for your attention.
Vu, Hyatt-Regency, 2 Exchange Place, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201 469 4650
7. Jersey City Restaurants: Orale
© Orale
Located right in the middle of Jersey City’s downtown, Orale is a restaurant that serves flavorful Mexican cuisine with American influences. The venue opens at 4:00 pm Monday through Thursday and at noon Friday to Sunday. The modern, hip restaurant features a design that has been taken to the next level with edgy, tiled wall graffiti, giving the establishment a slightly rebellious feel.
Still, the venue is a fine choice for both private and corporate gatherings as the accommodating staff will cater to your every need and ensure everyone in your party has a great time. The guacamole and the oysters are exceptional treats for your taste buds that you simply can’t afford to miss.
341 Grove St, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-333-0001
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8. Where to Eat Near Me: Porto Leggero
© Porto Leggero
Porto Leggero is an elegant, upscale Italian restaurant located in the Harborside Financial Plaza V at the corner of Hudson Street and Pearl. The venue is open for lunch and dinner during the weekdays and for dinner on Saturday. Co-owner Michael Cetrulo, an experienced chef who has worked and trained in Michelin restaurants, took special care in creating the menu at Porto Leggero. It is no surprise that guests rave about the many fantastic traditional dishes like Chef Cetrulo’s delicious rigatoni Gorgonzola or the excellent mussels.
When you dine at Porto Leggero, be sure to pair your meal with a choice from their incredible wine list, which holds some very rare and velvety vintages. The perfect combination of delectable cuisine and an exquisite wine selection will surely make your culinary experience a memorable one.
5 Harborside Financial Centre Platform, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-434-3200
9. Where to Eat Near Me: Light Horse Tavern
© Light Horse Tavern
Light Horse Tavern is a modern American restaurant located on 199 Washington Street that is named after Henry Lee III, a historical figure from the 18th century American Revolution who was also known as Light Horse Harry. The establishment welcomes guests for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and for brunch on Saturday and Sunday.
The charming venue has quite a few stories from its Prohibition days when it used to be a speakeasy tavern. Still, what makes this restaurant popular today is the great food, which is carefully prepared and created by Chef David Drake. Chef Drake uses local and seasonal products to ensure his dishes are both healthy and flavorful. Be sure to try the fresh oysters, which are brought over daily from Fishers Island.
199 Washington Street, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-946-2028
10. Where to Eat Near Me: Edward's Steakhouse
© Edward's Steakhouse
Located in the historical downtown area, Edward’s Steakhouse is a premium, upscale restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The establishment accommodates guests for lunch and dinner on weekdays and for dinner on Saturday. The venue has tasteful decor and features two elegant dining rooms, and a Prohibition bar enhances the character and appeal of the restaurant.
Live jazz music makes this restaurant even more enchanting on Wednesdays and Thursdays when musician Danny Bacher performs his beautiful solos. The menu is, of course, centered on beef and it offers a wide variety of cuts. However, if you are in the mood for something lighter, take advantage of the raw bar and enjoy some delicious, fresh seafood.
239 Marin Boulevard, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-761-0000
11. Where to Eat Near Me: City Diner
© City Diner
City Diner is an American restaurant that mixes modern and traditional cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Here, guests may enjoy a scrumptious breakfast, which is served all day long, as well as lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch dishes. This casual, charming venue has modern decor with striking features such as gorgeous hard wood floors and cushioned booths.
The restaurant is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing foodies to satisfy their cravings any time of day. So, if you are in the mood for a midnight omelet, a spicy meatloaf dinner, fish and chips, or some nice waffles, this is the place for you.
31 Montgomery Street, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-721-5331
12. Restaurants Near Me: Amelia's Bistro
© Amelia's Bistro
Amelia’s Bistro is a pleasant, cozy restaurant whose delicious, new American cuisine continues to attract eager patrons. The bistro is open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. With its delicately painted walls and Tiffany lamps, the restaurant has a casual, tasteful setting that is particularly warm and inviting, making it a great choice for a business lunch or an evening with friends.
The outdoor seating area is very comfortable and great for relaxing. Amelia’s Bistro takes pride in its homemade pasta and breads, as well as in its fine wine list, so don’t pass up a plate of homemade gnocchi or the short ribs, accompanied by a smooth glass of red wine.
187 Warren Street, Jersey City, New Jersey, Phone: 201-332-2200
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13. Restaurants Near Me: Skinner’s Loft
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The colorful and vibrant interior of Skinner’s Loft is immediately welcoming, featuring lots of exposed brickwork, lots of wood and a great ambiance. The restaurant is family-owned and run and carefully combines a core menu of old family favorites with vibrant modern dishes inspired by whatever is fresh and seasonal. The dinner menu has something for everyone. You can start off by trying a couple of small plates, the salad of the day or one of their popular sharing starters. For lighter appetites there is a selection of sandwiches and burgers and some delicious hand-made pasta dishes. Mains include Seared Salmon, Steak and Chips, BBQ Beef Brisket and Pan-seared Chicken, all served with tasty sides.
146 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201 915 0600
14. Restaurants Near Me: Maritime Parc
© Maritime Parc
Located on the edge of the Hudson River in Liberty State Park, just a 7 minute ferry ride from NYC, Maritime Parc is an exceptional romantic destination. The venue boasts indoor and outdoor seating with sensational views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and offers both a casual menu as well as a fine-dining experience. There is a strong emphasis on local sustainably fish and seafood and the freshest organic produce in town is sourced and transformed into unforgettable dishes. There is a raw bar offering all your favorite local shell fish to start off the evening. These are followed by a selection of hot appetizers and some innovative fish, seafood and beef entrees.
Liberty State Park, 84 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305, 201 413 0050
15. Restaurants in Jersey City, NJ: Liberty Prime Steakhouse
© Liberty Prime Steakhouse
When only the best house-aged steak in town will do for your romantic dinner date, Liberty Prime Steakhouse is an obvious choice in Jersey City. The restaurant strives to offer a true farm to fork dining experience using locally sourced meats which are cut and matured on site. All the desserts are also home-made from fresh local ingredients. Although there is an emphasis on fine meats, Liberty Prime also has a great raw bar for delicious oysters, shrimp and other delicacies. Appetizers include Grilled Octopus, tasty Crab Cakes and Crispy Artichoke Hearts. There is an extensive selection of prime meats to choose from – all cooked just the way you like them.
111 Montgomery Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201 333 3633
16. Restaurants in Jersey City, NJ: Madame Claude Bis
© Madame Claude Bis
Boasting a lively bistro-style interior which is sure to make you feel welcome, Madame Claude is a great choice for a special romantic dinner. The restaurant brings all the flavors, aromas and ambiance of France to Jersey City and will thrill your taste buds with a great selection of authentic French culinary gems. Perhaps you will opt to start with traditional Escargots with Garlic Butter, Stuffed Mushrooms or a Warm Goats Cheese Salad. There are
4 different mussel options, all accompanied by frites or fabulous Confit Duck, Coq au Vin or Steak Frites for mains. There are always a few imaginative vegetarian options and some great French wines to choose from.
390 4th Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201 876 8800
17. Jersey City Restaurants: Luna Restaurant and Bar
© Luna Restaurant and Bar
A beautifully refurbished historic bank building is the setting for Luna Restaurant and Bar in downtown Jersey City. The interior has been transformed into a slick and elegant space, while enough of the old features have been retained to add character and a great ambiance. The setting is perfectly suited to a celebratory dinner or a romantic night out. The cuisine represents mainly modern American and Italian favorites with a few exotics for added interest. Appetizers include Arancini, Cajun Calamari, Coconut Shrimp and Empandas. These are followed by salads and some home-made pasta dishes including a zucchini option for slimmers. Specialties include Espresso Short Rib, Seafood Risotto and New York Steak and Chips.
279 Grove Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302, 201 333 0032
18. Jersey City Restaurants: Bistro La Source
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Owner/Chef Bill Spitz brings more than 25 years of experience in the wildly competitive Manhattan restaurant scene to Bistro La Source, ensuring that you will have a memorable dining experience in this popular eatery. The bistro offers a warm and inviting interior dining area as well as a large patio for alfresco dining. Everything is prepared from the best locally sourced produce, cooked to perfection. Just a few of the appetizer treats in store for you include cheese and charcuterie boards for sharing, mussels done 4 ways and several enticing small plates. Hearty large plates include a few home-made pasta dishes, a traditional NY Steak Frites, Lollipop Lamb Chops and Cassoulet, to name but a few.
85 Morris Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302,201 209 1717
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More Ideas: Liberty Science Center
The Liberty Science Center is an immersive science museum and educational center in the heart of Liberty State Park in Jersey City. Established in 1933 as New Jersey's first major science museum, the science-based learning center features the largest IMAX theater and dome in the country, a variety of science-focused exhibits and educational resources, and the Hoberman Sphere, a famous engineering-based artwork designed by Chuck Hoberman that is driven by computers.
Exhibits
The Liberty Science Center spans nearly 300,000 square feet, which includes the country’s largest IMAX Theater and dome, numerous science-based exhibits, displays and interactive experiences, and the Hoberman Sphere artwork.
The Liberty Science Center's permanent exhibitions include ‘Skyscraper! Achievement and Impact,’ the world’s largest exhibition on some of the world’s tallest buildings with a collection of fascinating objects and items such as artifacts from the 9-11 World Trade Center disaster, and a glass-Schindler Traction elevator.
‘Eat and Be Eaten’ explores the predator and prey relationship between animals and features several live animals, including puffer fish, vipers and more. ‘Communication’ explores human communication in four areas, namely signs, symbols, and writing, the human body and language, and the media – audio, video, print, signals, and networks. Visitors can enjoy Language Karaoke where they are taught to say phrases in different languages like Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Cockney, or Spanish.
‘Infection Connection’ presents a greater understanding of how individual actions have an effect on global health issues through a film about various infectious diseases and a ride on the IC Express.
‘I Explore’ is an exhibit for under six-year-olds and their caregivers that explore the world around them. The fun-filled exhibition features a climbing structure, water feature, a streetscape, microscope, and a rock xylophone made from hanging rocks.
‘Our Hudson Home’ explores the ecology and the wildlife of the Hudson River and features an observation deck with breathtaking views of the river, while ‘Wonder Why’ displays many of the Museums earliest displays.
‘Energy Quest’ explores different types of energy and the modern technologies used to harness these powers, and ‘Wildlife Challenge’ is a seasonal outdoor exhibit that gives guests the the opportunity to partake in a variety of outdoor activities designed to simulate different animals' environments, such as zip lines and balance beams.
The ‘Rubik's Cube’ exhibition celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Cube and features artifacts and items that highlight the history of the Cube and the massive cultural influence it played and continues to play in popular culture today.
Temporary Exhibits
The Liberty Science Center is also home to various temporary exhibits that change throughout the year and with the seasons. Such exhibitions include ‘Islamic Science Re-Discovered,' ‘Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear’, ‘Mammoths and Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age,' and ‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition.’
Education
The Liberty Science Center offers a variety of educational programs for children and students of all ages, as well as exceptional resourced for educators and teachers. Programs at the Center include focused lab-based programs for Grades Pre-K to 12, watching real-time interactive surgeries, science-rich homeschool curricula, middle school and high school programs for students, Center Stage Science programs, and Scout Programs.
Field trips are run by expert Field Trip Specialists and include science-based adventures, educational projects and off-site and online education programs. Field Trip add-ons include Laboratory workshops, ‘Live from Surgery’ presentations and films in the state-of-the-art IMAX Theater.
‘Live from Surgery’ presentations give students the opportunity to experience a live surgery in real time in the High Definition Interactive Theater, followed by a discussion with members of the Operating Room team about the procedure, medical equipment, anatomical models, and more.
Visitor Information
The Liberty Science Center is open to the public from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm from Monday through Friday and 9:00 am to 5:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Located on the second floor of the Center, Café Skylines offers delicious and nutritious meals and snacks including oven-fired pizzas, handcrafted sandwiches, homemade soup, daily entrée specials, and a gourmet salad bar. Diners can enjoy beautiful views of lower Manhattan from a large group dining room or two smaller dining rooms, as well as the Governors Hall. There are also vending machines snacks and cold drinks in the group dining hall.
Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07305, Phone: 201-200-1000