‘Tis the season for holiday parties and get togethers. With so many options, how does one choose where to dine during the most wonderful time of year? When you’re in Hoboken, it’s a tough call. Here are some of the city’s best festive bets.
San Giuseppe
Not only are the authentic, made-to-order dishes out of this world, but San Giuseppe (pictured above) earns major points for being one of the only restaurants in Hoboken with its own parking. Choose from any of the homemade pastas, including the farfalle alla vodka, cheese ravioli or the rigatoni bolognese to name a few. They will not disappoint. A must-order? Hands down, the burrata. It’s by far one of the best in the area. Reservations recommended! 1320 Adams Street, 201-942-9200.
Union Hall Hoboken
Half the fun of dining out is trying new dishes and that’s Union Hall Hoboken‘s specialty. Known for small plates, this new-to-Hoboken establishment is constantly updating its menu to include the best seasonal dishes while redefining pre-existing menu items. Located across from the Hudson waterfront, Union Hall is beyond accommodating for large parties—plus all of your group photos will have the gorgeous NYC skyline in the back! Go-to dishes include French onion mac and cheese bites, Dorito-fried shrimp, tuna tartare, and chimichurri hanger steak. 306 Sinatra Drive, 201-683-8900.
Sorellina
Another spot known for using the freshest seasonal ingredients, Sorellina definitely delivers when it comes to holiday dining. As one of the few wine bars located in Hoboken, the seasonal signature cocktails are festive enough for any holiday party. The fabulous dinner menu, which is comprised of locally sourced ingredients, features some of the best pastas in Hoboken: ricotta gnudi with pumpkin, chestnuts, and white sage, and the braised lamb fettuccine with chanterelle mushrooms and figs are two of Sorellina’s most popular dishes. The interior and exterior of the restaurant are completely transformed for the holidays. 1036 Washington Street, 201-963-3333.
Tenth Street Pasta & Pizza
One of the newest restaurants in Hoboken, Tenth Street Pasta & Pizza brings the square mile some of the best pizzas in the area. The owner/mastermind behind the pizza uses a recipe that has been in the family for decades and you can truly taste the love they put into every bite. Each pizza comes with the restaurant’s own special blend of oil and herbs—something we never knew we needed!—and lots of extra cheese on top. The industrial vibes, intimate setting, and location make Tenth Street Pasta & Pizza perfect for any holiday dinner. 1000 Willow Avenue, 201-683-8134.
1 Republik
If you’re looking for more of an upbeat dinner party, 1 Republik is known for its bumping beats no matter what time of day. While the inside is on the dark side, the entire storefront is decked out with inflatable holiday figures and lights at this time of year. And if you stop in for some of the best bar food in Hoboken, make sure to order the buffalo chicken dip with pita bread followed by one of the many burger options—you will not regret it. 221 Washington Street, 201-850-1281. (Additional locations in Jersey City and North Arlington.)
The Brass Rail
Another spot that’s decked out for the holidays is The Brass Rail. Consider swapping your holiday dinner get together for a holiday brunch if you’re heading this way. With two floors and a full bar, there’s plenty of room to bring the whole family or your closest crew. And make a note to start off with the S’more Nutella crepes filled with “fluff,” strawberries, chocolate sauce, and graham cracker crumbles—you’ll be glad you did! 135 Washington Street, 201-659-7074.
Pilsener Haus & Biergarten
With over 70 handcrafted beers, Pilsener Haus & Biergarten offers a classic twist on biergarten cuisine. The eatery offers everything from schnitzels to sausages to strudels, and more. Come for live music throughout the week or head upstairs to the lounge on Friday and Saturday nights. You can start with a Bavarian soft pretzel with liptauer cheese and Haus-made grainy mustard, then enjoy the Wiener Schnitzel, a pork cutlet with parsley potatoes, cucumber salad and lingonberries. 1422 Grand Street, 201-683-5465.
