New Jersey is quite the mecca for foodies. While we've long known our state to be home to some of the best restaurants in the country, Saveur, the nation's premier dining magazine, recently lauded The Garden State as the "unsung hero of American eating." We're blushing! And we couldn't agree more. New Jersey has some serious dining diversity and a solid mix of truly unique restaurants. Here are some of the absolute best restaurants in New Jersey that you need have to check out. While the restaurants listed are in no particular order, they're definitely *all* worth visiting sometime soon!
The Frog and The Peach is at the top of our list of best restaurants in New Jersey. A favorite among restaurant critics and casual reviewers alike, this modern American restaurant serves up spectacular seafood. A bit more upscale, the ambiance is amazing and the wine list is extensive. In business for over 30 years, they're definitely doing something right.
This romantic restaurant is housed in a rustic farmhouse and serves up New American cuisine. The crispy calamari appetizer is a favorite, along with the seafood sampler platter for $25. Learn more about Scarborough Fair by visiting the official website.
This popular steakhouse offers a fantastic salad bar and charming, dimly lit atmosphere. The walls are entirely covered in books and you'll feel as if you're in some secret, magical place. Check it out and discover why Library II was named the "best classic restaurant" in the Philly area by Philadelphia Magazine. Learn more about this award-winning steak and seafood restaurant in New Jersey.
You'll find seasonal fare and fine French/American cuisine at this local favorite. Housed in a historic barn on the waterfront, the Saddle River Inn was rated "excellent" by the New York Times and offers fantastic 4, 5 and 6 course tasting menus. Curious to learn more? Check out the Saddle River Inn website.
This family-friendly restaurant is all about fun. The Pop Shop serves up comfort food favorites with some truly unique twists and offers breakfast all day. The desserts are delectable, and the grilled cheese selection can't be beat. Enjoy specialty grilled cheeses (like the French Onion Grilled Cheese, pictured) all month long for National Grilled Cheese Month. Learn more about why so many folks in New Jersey love the Pop Shop.
The food is art at this chic, modern restaurant, and the tasting menus are truly a culinary experience. The focus is on fresh, flavorful food and the service and attention to detail are phenomenal. Without a doubt, Elements is one of the best restaurants in New Jersey.
This casual Mediterranean spot stands out in a city known for quality dining; the atmosphere is inviting and the menu is inventive. This should come as no surprise as owner/executive chef Meny Vaknin is one of Food Network's "Chopped Champions." Learn more about Mishmish by visiting the official website.
You won't find a better 'boli this side of the Mississippi. Known for their sizable strombolis this relaxed eatery can't be missed. Learn more when you visit the official Stuff Yer Face website.
The decor is modern and sophisticated at this inventive French restaurant. The food and service are superb, but be prepared for the hefty price tag. It's worth it. Check out the menu and learn more when you visit the Restaurant Serenade website.
This fun seafood spot is open seasonally and offers an eccentric menu served either indoors or on the patio. Try unique favorites including shrimp taquitos, tuna watermelon ceviche and grilled octopus skewers. Quahog's Seafood Shack was featured on the "Funky Finds" episode of Diner's, Drive-ins and Dives. To stay up-to-date, you can visit the official Quahog's Seafood Shack website.
Heading here is like getting two restaurants in one. An amazing breakfast and brunch spot, George's Place also serves up spectacular Greek food for lunch and dinner. The tiramisu waffles and spanakopita are fan favorites. This authentic spot can get crowded and has been in business since 1968. Learn more when you visit the George's Place website.
In a land where diners are king, Jefferson Diner reigns supreme. Voted "Best Diner" by New Jersey Herald Readers, this local favorite has brought in many other awards and accolades.
This trendy Middle Eastern spot brings in belly dancers on Friday nights and offers fantastic food all week long. Enjoy friendly service and affordable appetizers. Fore more information, you can visit the Marhaba website.
This boardwalk favorite is famous for its flavorful tomato pies. A Jersey Shore staple for over 65 years, they also serve a selection of seafood, sandwiches, entrees and appetizers. Maruca'sis a must-try New Jersey restaurant.
This charming restaurant is located in a historic building in the heart of beautiful Clinton. Definitely a more upscale spot, the seafood is a hit. Locals love this place and with the welcoming atmosphere and delicious dishes, it's easy to see why. Learn more by visiting the Clinton House website.
This classic spot offers a mix of American, Italian, Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner, this spot is known for its amazing thin crust pizza and epic egThis classic spot offers a mix of American, Italian, Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner, this spot is known for its amazing thin crust pizzas and mouthwatering Italian-style sandwiches. Reviewers rave about the sizable portions and friendly staff. Curious to learn more? Be sure to check out the Black Olive website. parmesan (pictured). Reviewers rave about the sizable portions and friendly staff. Curious to learn more? Be sure to check out the Black Olive website.
Located in a lovely brownstone, this is one of the best spots for brunch. It scored high marks for food, service and decor in Zagat's dining guide and the monthly five-course wine dinners can't be missed. I could go for some of their croissant French toast with berry-infused maple syrup right now. For more information, you can check out Amanda's Restaurant online.
Head to this Red Bank hotspot as soon as possible. Birravino has won awards for its wine list and Italian cuisine and is one of Zagat's top beach area picks. Check out the menu and more information by visiting Birravino online.
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From casual fare to upscale dining this list offers quite the selection, and it's just the start. We're the best state to grab a great meal, after all. Do you agree that this list features some of the best restaurants in New Jersey? For more incredible options, check out this delectable Jersey dining bucket list. What's your favorite New Jersey restaurant?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Cape May is one of my favorite towns along the Jersey Shore - even if you have to go all the way south to reach it! There's just something magical about this little slice of heaven on the tail-end of New Jersey. It doesn't feel like a big, over-the-top boardwalk town, instead celebrating the beautiful nature all around us and the small businesses that make it what it is - and one of those small businesses might just be the most unique Jersey Shore restaurant. Elaine's Cape May is a longtime town institution, formerly known as the quirkiest dinner theater in the Garden State. While the dinner theater is no more, what's sprung up in its place is no less fascinating and unique. Come with us to discover the restaurant and getaway all of Cape May is talking about!
The visage of Elaine's in Cape May is a famous sight, but it's doing something very different these days. The old-school dinner theater is now an acclaimed small hotel, shopping boutique, and on-site restaurant and patio bar. There's a little something for everyone here.
The dining is at the heart of the place now, with an indoor pub and restaurant as well as a sprawling outdoor patio with a bar. When the weather is still nice, as it is in early fall, you can have an absolutely perfect night out here. The patio is also where events like live music and paint-and-sip parties take place.
The most popular meal of the week is brunch, when Elaine's goes all out to elevate diner breakfast classics with a flair worthy of an iconic spot like this one.
For lunch and dinner, the menu becomes much more varied - if one member of the party wants classics like burgers and soft pretzels, and another wants elevated poke towers or fresh seafood, you're all covered!
And of course, it wouldn't be beachside bliss if the drinks weren't just as worthy of attention as the food. Elaine's has one of the best Bloody Marys in the state, and the mixologists here are always coming up with exciting specials.
Yes, there certainly is a lot to do at this unique restaurant turned beach-town resort - maybe too much for one evening. The good news is, you don't have to leave! You can book a stay in the elegant rooms offered here and wake up to have breakfast and begin a day of shopping.
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Have you visited Elaine's in Cape May before? What do you think of the new lease on life for this unique Jersey Shore restaurant? Let us know in the comments section! You can find out more about all the offerings here on the Elaine's Cape May website, and the Elaine's Cape May Facebook page is a great place to keep tabs on all upcoming events. If you're planning a visit to Cape May, go ahead and check out my previous coverage on why Cape May is an amazing destination for solo travelers. And if you're looking for a place to stay...well, you don't have to go far! Go ahead and book a night at Elaine's and check out the other side of the business!
