Once you’ve checked into your hotel, explore the nearby areas for a delicious meal. From trendy hot spots to low-key mom-and-pop-owned eateries, you’re sure to find a restaurant to satisfy your craving.
Hoboken
Gateway Region
With a rich diversity of cultures, take your pick from a variety of international cuisines: Cuban dishes at The Cuban Restaurant and Bar or La Isla, Italian-style sandwiches at Fiore's Deli and flavorful Mediterranean dishes at GreekTown. In the morning, enjoy a leisurely brunch at Anthony David’s, where fan favorites include gourmet items such as chorizo and guacamole Eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, and a crab cake sandwich slathered with lemon aioli.
Trenton
Delaware River Region
Trenton has plenty of options for delicious dining. 1911 Smoke House BBQ always has wings and ribs fresh off the grill with over 20 sauces and seasonings. Trenton Social hosts First Fridays with art exhibits, and any day of the week, stop by to grab a bite and enjoy the ambiance. (And be sure to check the schedule for special events.) For dining with water views, head to Cooper's Riverview—and keep an eye on their calendar for happenings like karaoke nights and Sunday jazz brunch.
Margate
Greater Atlantic City Region
There’s no better place to enjoy fresh seafood than just off the ocean. Dine on freshly shucked oysters, clam chowder, lobster mac & cheese, jumbo lump crab cake and many more fruits of the ocean at Steve & Cookie's By The Bay. At Tomatoe’s, enjoy the best of land and sea, from burgers and fried chicken to sushi and fresh catches of the day. Meanwhile, Margate Dairy Bar & Burger has been serving up juicy burgers, loaded up hot dogs and thick milkshakes since 1952.
Asbury Park
Shore Region
This historic Shore town has found a new groove, with trendy hot spots stealing the scene. Go for farm-to-table diner food served inside a rock-n-roll-inspired bowling alley at the freshly revitalized Asbury Lanes. Try modern Middle Eastern fare at Reyla, including fish dishes, kebabs and hummus. Or start your day with brunch pizza pies (yes, that’s a thing) at Talula’s.
Sussex/Wantage
Skylands Region
After a day of exploring the great outdoors (and marveling at fall foliage all along the way), a hearty dinner of gourmet pizzas, pastas, calzones and pizza rolls at Lorenzo’s Pizzeria & Restaurant is sure to satisfy. Nearby, The Green Olive serves up an array of Greek and Italian cuisine, from gyros to short rib ravioli. For flavorful Asian specialties, stop by Eastern Garden for colorful platters of sushi, fried rice and wok-fried meats and veggies.
West Cape May
Southern Shore Region
Funky, low-key and offbeat is the vibe in West Cape May (the more casual side of neighboring Cape May) and its food scene reflects that. Dine on tasty tacos filled with island flavor—Caribbean spices, fresh seafood and plenty of tropical citrus—at Key West Tacos. Fresh salads, sandwiches and plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are on the menu at Bella Vida Garden Café. An option for an elegant dinner is Sapore Italiano, a BYOB Italian restaurant housed in a Victorian-style home.
Find even more restaurants in New Jersey to visit during your vacation.
Before visiting the eateries of your choosing, please call ahead or visit their official websites or social media pages to get the latest hours of operation and other need-to-know details.
If you missed the other articles of this three-part series, check them out below:
Part 1: Best Fall Getaways in New Jersey: Destinations
Part 2: Best Fall Getaways: Hotels and Places to Stay in New Jersey
