It’s hot, the weather’s a little unpredictable, but you know what you can count on? New Jersey’s food scene and the diverse lineup of options keep growing. Check out this month’s newest highlights.
Chocolate Lovers, Cliffside Park
If you’re a fan of crepes and chocolate treats, Chocolate Lovers in Cliffside Park is the place to be. This charming new shop offers a sweet menu featuring crepes like the Lotus Biscoff and Fruity Tootie, plus waffles such as the Cannoli Waffle and Dubai Knufa Lovers Waffle.
Chocolate Lovers
672 Anderson Ave.
Cliffside Park
El Asadero, Secaucus
The long-empty storefront off Route 3 in Secaucus has finally found new life with El Asadero. Hard to miss with its outdoor decor, the restaurant lives up to its name, “Asadero” meaning grill or rotisserie, with a menu full of sizzling, flame-cooked dishes. Highlights include churrasco, the Asadero molcajete, surf & turf, fajitas, and a birria chimichanga, along with sangrias, margaritas, and beer to round things out.
El Asadero
875 State Rd 3 E.
Secaucus, NJ
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, North Brunswick
Now with its fifth New Jersey location, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has opened in North Brunswick. This fast-growing national chain is known for its steakburgers, along with frozen custard, chicken tenders, sandwiches (crispy, spicy, or grilled), and classic hot dogs. It’s the spot where there is something for just about every craving.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
2418 U.S. Rte 1
North Brunswick Township, NJ
Koi Matsu, Cherry Hill
There’s a new modern Japanese eatery in Cherry Hill called Koi Matsu, featuring a sleek, minimalist interior and offering elevated sushi and sashimi plates alongside plated omakase. The menu also includes soups, salads, and hot pot noodles, yum!
Koi Matsu
404 Marlton Pike East Suite 7
Cherry Hill Township, NJ
Mexico Tacos, Hoboken
New Jersey’s having a big month for Mexican cuisine, and Hoboken joins the mix with Mexico Tacos. The name says it all. This small, no-frills spot is packed with big taco flavor and quick grab-and-go options.
Mexico Tacos
57 Newark St.
Hoboken, NJ
Monroe Sports Tavern, Monroe
If you’re in Monroe and craving a classic sports-bar vibe with a diverse menu, Monroe Sports Tavern is a place to add to your list. The offerings range from wings and Philly Cheese Sticks to Grilled Chicken Sandwiches, Burgers, and entrees like Pan-Seared Salmon. And of course, there’s a full selection of beer and cocktails to round it out.
Monroe Sports Tavern
390 Forsgate Drive Double Tree by Hilton
Monroe Township Cranbury
Monroe Township, NJ
Poke Crew, Hackensack
Fast-casual with Michelin-star-trained chefs? It’s real, and it’s called Poke Crew, now open in Hackensack. Build your own poke bowls for lunch or dinner with a variety of fresh, creative options. It’s a new way to fast casual.
Poke Crew
1 E Palisade Ave.
Englewood, NJ
Red Agave, Monroe
From sizzling street tacos and fire-roasted elotes to a signature tableside guac, Red Agave brings bold Mexican flavors to Monroe. This restaurant and tequila bar doubles as a haven for taco lovers and tequila aficionados alike. Go check them out if you’re in town.
Red Agave
211 Applegarth Rd #102
Monroe Township, NJ
Smoothie King, Rochelle Park
Acai bowls and smoothies get a functional boost at this new Rochelle Park spot, with add-ins ranging from protein to collagen. It’s a quick, feel-good stop that doesn’t come with the guilt of satisfying a sweet tooth.
Smoothie King
60 Essex St STE 102
Rochelle Park, NJ
Somedays Bakery, Montclair
Initially based in Astoria, Queens, Somedays Bakery now brings its lineup of fluffy, freshly baked goods to Montclair. The menu includes both sweet and savory options, from pistachio lattice, pan suisse, and spinach-ricotta swirls to creative croissant twists like egg and cheese or smoked salmon croissants.
Somedays Bakery
260 Bellevue Ave.
Montclair, NJ
The Wharf, Oceanport
Before summer ends, check out The Wharf in Oceanport for an ultimate beach vibe with open-air dining and water views. The menu features American classics like wings, chicken tenders and fries, flatbreads, and a selection of seafood.
The Wharf
10 Riverside Ave.
Oceanport, NJ
Tommy’s Tavern & Tap, Wayne
Part sports bar, part family-friendly restaurant, Tommy’s Tavern & Tap has expanded again with a new location in Wayne. If you haven’t been, the menu is all over in the best way, ranging from sushi rolls and coal-fired pizza to burgers, salads, and more. Plus it has a bar with plenty of beer taps and cocktails.
Tommy’s Tavern & Tap
71 NJ-23
Wayne, NJ
Looking for more new restaurant openings? Check out last month’s roundup here. Have a tip on something new coming to your area? Let us know about it via our contact form.
