Summer is here, and so is a wave of new restaurant openings. New Jersey isn’t just home to incredible shorelines. It also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that’s heating up just in time for the season. Here are a few new spots to add to your must-visit list.
101 Chicken, Lodi
Lodi is coming in hot this summer with the opening of 101 Chicken, a new Korean-style chicken wing spot specializing in spice. The menu features wing options like the Original Hot Pepper, 101 Potato Crisp, Chicken & Croffles, and Garlic Crumble, which just sounds delicious. Not in the mood for chicken wings? You’ve additional menu items, such as the Chi-Shrimp, chicken sandwiches like the Jambon Chicken Sandwich, and the Hot Chicken & Rice Bowl.
101 Chicken
330 Essex St.
Lodi, NJ
201-368-8224
Abramzon & David’s, Old Bridge
The latest concept from the team behind Heirloom Kitchen opened right next door, called Abramzon & David’s. This new spot brings elevated deli classics with a creative twist, featuring bold takes on favorites like Meatball Parm, Chopped Italian, and Italian Beef, alongside inventive options like a Cubano with guava jam and a Thai Tuna Melt. If you like to get creative with your sandwiches, this one’s for you.
Abramzon & David’s
3847 County Rd 516
Old Bridge, NJ
732-313-6142
Dog & Deer Tavern, Stockton
We’ve previously covered the historic Stockton Inn, a 200-year-old country inn that recently reopened alongside its Finch restaurant. But there’s another spot worth noting called Dog & Deer Tavern. It’s a cozy pub offering elevated comfort food. It’s a great hangout for both guests and locals alike with an elegant ambiance. It’s definitely a good place for date night- stay at Stockton Inn and indulge at Dog & Deer Tavern.
Dog & Deer Tavern
1 S Main St, Stockton, NJ
609-460-4209
The Feathered Fox, Jersey City
Opening June 4 at Liberty State Park, The Feathered Fox brings its beloved modern steakhouse and seafood experience back to Jersey City, now inside the stunning waterfront setting of Maritime Parc. Helmed by Executive Chef Christopher Siversen, the restaurant features a vibrant menu of steaks, sushi, and seasonal dishes, plus playful cocktails and a standout wine list—all served with front-row views of the Manhattan skyline. With an elegant yet approachable design and a massive terrace perfect for dock-and-dine afternoons, The Feathered Fox is ready to be your go-to for everything from date nights to weekend brunch.
The Feathered Fox
Liberty State Park
84 Audrey Zapp Dr.
Jersey City, NJ
Hadaka, Asbury Park
The omakase experience has arrived on the Jersey Shore, just in time for the busy summer season. If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, be sure to add Hadaka in Asbury Park to your list. This reservation-only spot offers a curated dining experience and is a BYOB.
Hadaka
527 Bangs Ave.
Asbury Park, NJ
732-361-0238
Los Bandoleros Tacos, East Brunswick (pictured at top)
Did you know there’s a spot in East Brunswick that blends Mexican food with BBQ? Los Bandoleros Tacos, located in the Village Green Shopping Center, offers a creative mix of dishes like Mexican-style wings, empanadas, elote (fire-roasted street corn), carne asada, brisket, and street corn shrimp tacos. The menu also includes handheld options like a crunchwrap supreme, birria ramen, an item you don’t often see, and burgers.
Los Bandoleros Tacos
405 NJ-18 suite 5
East Brunswick, NJ
732-339-5773
Madison Modern, Old Bridge
Looking for a spot where you can dress up a bit—heels, blazer, the works? Madison Modern in Old Bridge brings a more elevated vibe to social dining. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, the menu offers a range of options, from shareable small plates like grilled prawns and fried rice arancini to mains like pasta, steaks, and even Beef Wellington. Plus, the cocktail and wine list rounds it all out.
Madison Modern
3801 US-9
Old Bridge, NJ
732-242-9392
Park Place Prime, Atlantic City
New steakhouse alert! Park Place Prime at Atlantic City, located in Bally’s Park Place, is the latest addition to the hotel and casino. Serving prime cuts, hence the name, a variety of seafood and other meat options, and a stellar cocktail selection, this is a destination to add to your AC to-do list. To learn more, check out our recent review of the place.
Park Place Prime
1900 Pacific Ave
Atlantic City, NJ
609- 340-2350
Playa Bowls, Belmar
Did you know Playa Bowls originated in Belmar? This flagship location helped launch the açaí bowl craze that’s since spread across the country. Now, Playa Bowls returns to its roots with a brand-new store in the town where it all began. Just in time for the summer!
Playa Bowls
803 Ocean Avenue
Belmar, NJ
Poke the Bear, Norwood
Fast-casual Korean spot Poke the Bear is now open in Norwood, New Jersey. Bringing Poke Bowls, Rice Bowls, Ramyun, Soups, and desserts like fan favorites Mochi Ice Cream and Korean Rice Cakes, this new spot is a go-to for elevated lunches. Oh, and did we forget to mention? They also offer a selection of drinks like Coffee Smoothie, Spiced Chai Milk Tea Smoothie, and Humm Kombucha.
Poke the Bear
450 Livingston St.
Norwood, NJ
551-361-2038
Sola Osteria, Ridgewood
Check out Sola Osteria, where Chef Massimo Sola brings the flavors of Italy to life with his visionary creations. Indulge in dishes like Fra Diavolo, Zucchine Flan, Gnocchi, and fresh Branzino. Whether you’re gathering with family and friends or enjoying a cozy lunch or dinner, this is a place where you’ll be able to feel like you’re dining in Italy.
Sola Osteria
17 S Broad St.
Ridgewood, NJ
201-857-5100
Tatte Bakery & Café, Ridgewood
Bringing its first New Jersey location to Ridgewood, Tatte Bakery & Café serves a menu full of scratch-made Mediterranean-inspired dishes, fresh baked goods, and artisanal coffee. Signature standouts include a pistachio latte made with real pistachios and house-made syrup, yum, as well as the fan-favorite cheesecake topped with hand-placed berries and homemade jam. Go satisfy your sweet tooth.
Tatte Bakery & Café
222 E Ridgewood Ave.
Ridgewood, NJ
Toba Restaurant & Bar, Westwood
Downtown Westwood’s dining scene just got a refresh with the arrival of Toba, a modern American restaurant with global flair. The menu features house-made breads, desserts, fresh seafood, pasta, and dry-aged steaks, complemented by a curated selection of wine, beer, and cocktails. Outdoor seating adds a perfect touch for summer nights out.
Toba Restaurant & Bar
250 Center Ave
Westwood, NJ
Wonder, Woodbridge
Wonder’s newest New Jersey location opens June 5th, bringing its one-of-a-kind food hall experience to even more hungry fans. With food from top chefs like Bobby Flay and José Andrés, plus cult-favorite restaurants from across the country, you can mix and match your order however you like—all in one delivery. Whether you’re grabbing takeout, dining in, or getting it delivered in under 30 minutes, Wonder makes every meal feel like a big deal.
Wonder
10 Green Street
Woodbridge Township, NJ
