New Jersey’s Top James Beard Restaurants, Award-Winning Chefs, and Must-Try Dishes

New Jersey isn’t just about diners and bagels (though we love those, too).

The Garden State has incredible restaurants galore, and they serve everything from soul-warming comfort food to perfectly wood-fired pizzas.

Not to mention that New Jersey is home to plenty of award-winning spots.

Some have made it to the James Beard Awards, and others have been celebrated by Esquire or The New York Times.

And if you’re looking for your next favorite place to eat, this guide has everything you need.

So, let’s jump in and check out some of the best places to grab a bite in New Jersey.

You’re going to love it!

1. Lita (Aberdeen Township)

Location: 1055 Route 34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747

Phone:732-696-8517

First up is Lita, a place that’s turning heads for all the right reasons.

Opened by Neilly Robinson and Chef David Viana (a James Beard-nominated chef, mind you), Lita was named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America in 2023.

And yes, it absolutely lives up to the hype.

Their menu is a love letter to Iberian cuisine.

Just picture their wood-fired paella, complete with perfectly crispy edges, and some of their Portuguese shrimp turnovers (Rissóis de Camarão).

Don’t miss the Piri Piri chicken, either.

If you love cocktails (who doesn’t?), their sister bar La Otra, right next door, is where you’ll want to kick off the evening.

Order the Spanish Martini with pippara brine—you can thank us later.

2. Razza (Jersey City)

Location: 275-277 Grove St, Jersey City, NJ 07302

Phone: 201-356-9348

If pizza is your love language, Razza might just be your soulmate.

This spot is often called one of the best pizza places in the world, and honestly, they’re not kidding.

Chef Dan Richer, a five-time James Beard semifinalist, knows how to make a pie as close to perfection as possible.

The crust is light, airy, and just the right amount of char from the wood-fired oven—exactly how it should be.

You can try their Buffalo Mozzarella Margherita for something classic or go for one of their seasonal specials—trust me, they’re always amazing.

Oh, and their bread and butter starter is worth a trip on its own.

3. Corinne’s Place (Camden)

Location: 1254 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ 08103

Phone: 856-541-4894

Stepping into Corinne’s Place feels like a warm hug from your favorite auntie.

This legendary soul food spot has been a cornerstone of the Camden community for over 30 years, and it’s easy to see why.

In 2022, it snagged the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award, which means it’s the real deal.

What to order?

Start with their fried chicken, golden-crisp on the outside and juicy perfection on the inside.

Add a side of creamy mac and cheese and sweet, cinnamon-laced candied yams.

And don’t even think about leaving without trying the sweet potato pie—it’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to text everyone you know about it.

4. Sweet Amalia Market & Kitchen (Newfield)

Location: 994 Harding Hwy, Newfield, NJ 08344

Phone: 856-839-2478

Small but mighty, Sweet Amalia is an unassuming gem that made The New York Times Best Restaurants of 2024 list.

And it’s actually the only NJ restaurant to make the cut this year.

Casual, cozy, and delicious, it’s more than ideal for a quick bite or a lazy afternoon meal.

Their oysters have to be the star of the show—Sweet Amalia oysters, to be exact, fresh from the farm and absolutely divine.

But don’t stop there.

Their farmstand Italian sandwich is piled high with meats and cheeses, their soups are indulgent, and their seasonal menu keeps you coming back for something new.

If you love fresh, locally inspired eats, this is your happy place.

5. Zeppoli (Collingswood)

Location: 618 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ 08107

Phone: 856-854-2670

Looking for a romantic, candlelit dinner with food that makes you swoon?

Head to Zeppoli.

This intimate 35-seat BYOB spot specializes in Sicilian cuisine, and Chef Joey Baldino is a master of his craft.

He’s a nine-time James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef-Mid Atlantic, which is a fancy way of saying he’s really, really good at what he does.

And the menu is simple but perfect.

The handmade pasta dishes are silky and rich, the grilled fish is perfectly cooked, and the Sicilian-style meatballs are melt-in-your-mouth good.

Pro tip: Bring a bottle of your favorite wine and enjoy it with their decadent tiramisu for dessert.

6. Elements (Princeton)

Location: 66 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

Phone: 609-924-0078

Elements is where modern dining meets local goodness.

Run by James Beard semifinalist Chef Scott Anderson, this spot takes farm-to-table to the next level.

They call it Interpretive American cuisine, but really, it’s just fancy talk for dishes that are completely unexpected yet absolutely amazing.

The menu changes with the seasons, which means everything is fresh and thoughtfully prepared.

You might find a dish like smoked venison paired with foraged mushrooms one night, and the next, it’s scallops with a surprising miso glaze.

Each plate feels like a work of art (and tastes even better).

The dining experience here is intimate and upscale, so maybe pencil it in for your next special night out.

Pro tip: Splurge on the tasting menu—it’s worth every penny.

7. Steve & Cookie’s By the Bay (Margate)

Location: 9700 Amherst Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402

Phone: 609-823-1163

Steve & Cookie’s is a true Margate classic, and after 25 years, it’s still going strong.

The ambiance alone is worth the visit, with beautiful views of the bay and a welcoming vibe that feels upscale but never stuffy.

Owner Cookie Till is a James Beard nominee whose New American cuisine menu screams seasonal flavors.

Their crab cakes are legendary, with lump crab meat and a crispy edge.

And if you’re feeling indulgent, go for the lobster mac and cheese.

Although, if there’s one thing you can’t skip, it’s the banana cream pie—it’s been winning hearts for decades.

Pro tip: Reservations are a must, especially in the summer when everyone flocks here for the food and sunset views.

8. Drew’s Bayshore Bistro (Keyport)

Location: 44 E Front St, Keyport, NJ 07735

Phone: 732-739-9219

Drew’s Bayshore Bistro is a place where Southern comfort meets NJ charm.

Chef Andrew Araneo, a James Beard semifinalist, serves up dishes inspired by the Gulf Coast and Low Country cuisines, all with his unique flair.

This cozy BYOB spot is famous for its shrimp and grits, a creamy, buttery dish topped with spiced shrimp.

Their Cajun jambalaya is a must if you’re craving bold flavors, and the gumbo is so good that you might be tempted to lick the bowl clean (no judgment here).

Another good idea is to check out their nightly specials—they’re always creative and mouthwatering.

Bring a good bottle of wine and enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug from the South.

9. Canal House Station (Milford)

Location: 2 Bridge St, Milford, NJ 08848

Phone: 908-995-7200

Canal House Station is one of those places you almost don’t want to share—it’s that much of a hidden gem.

Located in a beautifully restored old train station, it’s run by James Beard semifinalists Melissa Hamilton and Christopher Hirsheimer, who bring creativity and heart to every dish.

The menu is small but mighty, focusing on seasonal, local ingredients.

And it only makes sense to get started with their warm, crusty bread and farm-fresh butter, followed by a seared duck breast or one of their comforting pasta dishes.

The setting is as charming as the food, with its cozy, intimate dining room.

This is one of the best places for a romantic date or a memorable meal with close friends.

10. Sagami Japanese Restaurant (Collingswood)

Location: 37 Crescent Blvd, Collingswood, NJ 08108

Phone: 856-854-9773

If you love sushi, Sagami is the kind of place that will spoil you for all others.

This no-frills Japanese restaurant has been around for decades and consistently earns rave reviews (and James Beard semifinalist nods).

The sushi here is about as fresh as it gets—every bite melts in your mouth.

Try the omakase (chef’s choice), or stick to classics like tuna sashimi or a simple yet divine salmon roll.

Their cooked dishes are equally impressive—don’t miss the tempura, light, crispy, and never greasy.

The vibe is relaxed, so you can come here for whatever, from casual dinners to celebrations with friends.

Pro tip: They don’t take reservations, so get there early to snag a spot.

11. Chef Vola’s (Atlantic City)

Location: 111 S Albion Pl, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Phone: 609-345-2022

Chef Vola’s is one of those places that feels like a well-kept secret.

Tucked into a quiet residential area, this family-style Italian spot is a reservation-only gem that’s been around for generations.

You’ll need to call ahead to reserve a table, but trust me—it’s worth the effort.

They’ve been a James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Service, and once you sit down, you’ll see why.

The vibe is warm and old-school, and the food is downright spectacular.

Locals won’t stop talking about the veal parm, with tender meat and a perfectly cheesy crust, but I have to admit, the crab-stuffed lobster is a showstopper.

Oh, and don’t forget to save room for their ricotta cheesecake.

12. Gass & Main (Haddonfield)

Location: 7 Kings Ct, Haddonfield, NJ 08033

Phone: 973-721-3179

Gass & Main, a newcomer to the scene, opened in 2023 and has already made waves with its elevated New American fare.

This BYOB restaurant is all about creativity, and Chef Dane DeMarco—who’s been nominated for a James Beard award—brings fresh energy to the table.

Their dishes feel familiar yet exciting, such as the crispy chicken Milanese topped with seasonal veggies or the shrimp and grits, which combine comfort food with fine dining. And wow, they do not disappoint.

The ambiance is cozy yet modern, and the service always feels personal.

Pro tip: Bring a great bottle of wine and let the flavors of the meal take center stage.

13. Enfin Farms (Cape May)

Location: 609 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ 08204

Phone: 609-374-5422

Known locally as “The Bread Lady,” Elizabeth Degener has made Enfin Farms a must-visit for anyone in the area.

She was a James Beard nominee for Outstanding Baker, and her seasonal operation has loyal customers lining up early in the morning for a taste of her magic.

Whether it’s her crusty sourdough, pillowy focaccia, or buttery brioche, every loaf is baked to perfection.

But be sure to check their schedule, as they’re not open year-round, and get there early before the best items sell out.

14. The Copper Canyon (Atlantic Highlands)

Location: 51 First Ave, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

Phone: 732-291-8444

For a Tex-Mex fix with flair, look no further than The Copper Canyon.

This spot serves up bold, Southwest-inspired flavors in a fun and lively setting.

Start with their signature house-made guac paired with freshly fried tortilla chips, and follow it up with their stuffed poblano peppers or the ever-popular chimichurri steak tacos.

Their margaritas are out of this world—think fresh lime juice, premium tequila, and just the right balance of sweetness.

If you’re a tequila fan, you’ll love their extensive selection of high-end options.

Perfect for a casual night out or a lively dinner with friends, Copper Canyon could well be your next regular hangout.

15. Park Place Café & Restaurant (Merchantville)

Location: 7 E Park Ave, Merchantville, NJ 08109

Phone: 856-662-2200

This place takes dining to a whole new level, and I’m not just saying that.

Known for its tasting menu by reservation, Park Place focuses on ingredients that are foraged, preserved, and expertly transformed into creative dishes.

Chef Philip Manganaro, a James Beard semifinalist, brings an artistic approach to the menu, with dishes like smoked duck with elderberry glaze or wild mushroom risotto that burst with flavor and originality.

The dining experience is intimate and feels like a culinary journey—perfect for foodies who love discovering something new and exciting.

16. Viaggio Ristorante (Wayne)

Location: 1055 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ 07470

Phone: 973-706-7277

Chef Robbie Felice brings a fresh perspective to classic Italian cuisine at Viaggio.

This isn’t your typical red-sauce joint—it’s modern Italian at its best, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a creative twist on traditional recipes.

Their handmade pasta is a highlight, from silky tagliatelle with wild boar ragu to delicate ricotta gnocchi.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between cozy and upscale, making it great for date nights or family dinners.

Pro tip: Their seasonal specials are always worth exploring, so don’t hesitate to ask your server what’s new.

17. Seed to Sprout (Avon)

Location: 410 Main St, Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ 07717

Phone: 732-774-7333

Saving one of the best for last, and if plant-based eating is your thing—or even if it’s not—Seed to Sprout will win you over.

This vegan-friendly spot serves up all-day breakfast, hearty sandwiches, and creative bowls that even meat lovers rave about.

Their California burger, made with a house veggie patty and topped with creamy avocado, is as satisfying as any beef burger you’ve had.

For something lighter, try their green goddess salad, loaded with fresh veggies and drizzled with a tangy house-made dressing.

It’s casual, cozy, and makes you feel good about what you’re eating—perfect for a quick lunch or a laid-back weekend brunch.

That’s it—a full list of some of the best spots to eat in New Jersey.

So, if you’re planning a night out, a weekend food trip, or just want to try something different, these places are a great place to start.

Visit these restaurants and see why they’ve been nominated for such prestigious awards.

Book a table, grab a friend (or go by yourself—why not?), and treat yourself to some of the best food New Jersey has to offer.

You’ll be glad you did. Enjoy!