Jersey Bites

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.

Searching for all you can eat crabs in NJ? There’s nothing quite like cracking into a piping hot pile of crabs with friends and family in the summertime. From blue claws to snow crabs, restaurants across New Jersey have you covered. Offering a variety of All You Can Eat (AYCE) crab nights to keep the summer energy high and the prices feast-worthy, these spots serve up not only delicious seafood but also fun atmospheres, weekly entertainment, and specials. Whether you’re a seasoned crab connoisseur or just want to try something new, below you’ll find some of the most popular AYCE crab hotspots, with links to their websites or social media pages for the latest updates.

Note: If we’ve missed a favorite AYCE deal in your area of NJ, please send us the details through our contact form.

Allen’s Clam Bar
5650 US-9, New Gretna

Right on US-9 and offering fresh seafood favorites from 11 am to 9 pm, Allen’s Clam Bar offers AYCE snow crab legs every Tuesday from 4–8 pm. Featured sides also include cheesy crab fries and deviled clams. In addition to its AYCE snow crab legs, Allen’s Clam Bar also offers classic seafood platters, chowder, crab cakes, clam strips, fried seafood combinations, and more on its menu. 

IG @allensclambar

Blue Claw Seafood and Crab Eatery
4494 Burlington Pike, Burlington

A classic spot for crab enthusiasts, Blue Claw Seafood and Crab Eatery in Burlington, NJ, is open daily from 11 am to 8/9 PM and closed Tuesdays. Serving since 1961 from local crab sources like New Jersey, Florida, the Pacific, and Baja California, crab varieties include Atlantic Blue Claws, snow crab, king crab, Dungeness, and seasonal soft-shell crabs. Family-style and casual, with a BYOB option, Blue Claw makes for a fun dining environment for all. 
Website

Crabby’s Mays Landing
1413 NJ-50, Mays Landing

Located in Mays Landing, NJ, Crabby’s offers a variety of crab options including Atlantic Blue Claw Crabs, Snow Crabs, Dungeness Crab, and Alaskan King Crabs. In addition to their Crab offerings, they also frequently include large lobster tails, clams, shrimp, and other seafood in combo dishes. AYCE Snow Crab leg nights are offered on Tuesdays for customers. 
Facebook Page 

H&H Seafood Market
956 Ocean Dr, Cape May

Open seven days a week from May through mid-October, H&H Seafood Market serves fresh-caught seafood, including Blue crab, lobster, clams, oysters, shrimp, and scallops. AYCE Blue Claw Crab specials are available daily from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm. Right on the water in Cape May, NJ, guests can enjoy a casual BYOB dining experience. 
Website

Landmark Americana in Glassboro
1 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro

Landmark Americana in Glassboro, NJ, offers AYCE crab nights every Wednesday and Sunday between 4 and 10 pm starting in late May. AYCE deals include fries and select drink specials. With a casual tavern atmosphere, Landmark Americana also offers weekly events like Musical Bingo, Thirsty Thursday, and holiday-themed nights. 
Website 

Otts in Washington Twp
340 Greentree Rd, Sewell

This sports bar and restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining, along with amenities such as ample TVs, occasional live music, and a community atmosphere. AYCE snow crab legs every Wednesday from 5 pm to closing, and Trivia Nights starting at 7:30 pm are available for guests. 
Website

Steakouts Homeplate Buena
373 NJ-54, Buena

Saturdays at Steakouts feature AYCE snow crab legs served with butter and lemon as a casual sports-bar-tavern. Steakouts is known for its comfort-food menu and laid–back atmosphere. In addition to AYCE Crab Nights on Saturday, Weekly specials and banquet-style catering are also available. 
Website

The Crazy Leprechaun Bar & Grill 
3589 Richmond St, Philadelphia

While not in New Jersey, The Crazy Leprechaun Bar & Grill is just across the bridge in Philadelphia and offers AYCE daily. Served with sides like corn and potatoes, burgers, crab cake sandwiches, garlic shrimp, and crab fries are also available on the menu. Open until 2 am most nights with outdoor seating and a full bar, this vibrant Irish-style sports bar is a great place to grab AYCE crabs on the daily. 
Website

The Village Pub in Sewell
139 Egg Harbor Rd, Sewell

Located in Sewell, NJ, The Village Pub offers two AYCE crab nights on Tuesdays & Saturdays between 4–10 pm. With a lively pub atmosphere featuring an outdoor patio, live entertainment, packed happy hours, and brunch options, the Village Pub is an ideal spot for group celebrations, game day, and all casual hangouts.

The Village Pub in Swedesboro
5 Village Center Dr, Swedesboro

All-you-can-eat crabs are available on Mondays. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Two Mile Crab House in Wildwood Crest
1 Fish Dock Rd, Wildwood Crest

With a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere and offering both indoor dining and picnic-style decks, Two Mile Crab House is located in Wildwood Crest, NJ. AYCE Blue Claw Crab nights are provided daily and steamed fresh onsite with Old Bay seasoning. Open seven days a week, live music is offered almost every night during the summer, and bay sunsets can be enjoyed right on the water. 
Website 

Two Mile Restaurant in Wildwood Crest

Associated with Two Mile Crab House, Two Mile Restaurant is the more upscale dining area at Two Mile Landing Marina in Wildwood Crest, NJ. Two Mile Restaurant also offers AYCE Blue Claw Crabs served daily and steamed onsite. Elevated seafood dishes, including crab dips, crab cakes, crab-stuffed lobster, and varied surf-and-turf entrees, are available to guests. 
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Uries in Wildwood
588 W Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood

Right on the water, Urie’s offers AYCE crabs daily throughout the Spring-Summer and also offers options like snow crab, Dungeness, and Maryland blue crabs. In addition to these options, Urie’s also provides a crab bake featuring two blue crabs, half-pound of snow crabs, half-pound of Dungeness, and garlic-style blue crabs. The family-friendly atmosphere hosts weekly events and is located in Wildwood, NJ. 
Website

Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate as of the date it was written. Please note that prices, menus, and all-you-can-eat (AYCE) programs are subject to change or cancellation at the restaurant’s discretion. We always recommend calling ahead or checking with the restaurant directly to confirm current offerings before heading out for your crab feast.

Last week, I had the chance to finally experience Jane Doe in Jersey City — and it’s safe to say, it lives up to the hype. This is the type of place where locally sourced, scratch-made ingredients are transformed into incredibly inventive dishes, blending comfort and creativity in every bite. The cuisine is a bold and thoughtful interpretation of modern American flavors with Asian influences, resulting in dishes that are vibrant, balanced, and full of surprises.

Cocktails That Set the Bar High

I kicked things off with The Luciana, a cocktail that immediately set the tone for the night. It’s built on blanco tequila infused with toasted coconut — and I mean real toasted coconut, slowly steeped in a sous-vide bag for hours. The result is a drink that’s light, bright, and refreshingly tropical without being overly sweet. The pineapple adds a frothy top layer and just enough acidity, while the hint of Braulio amaro brings in this whisper of earthiness that ties it all together. Honestly, it tasted like summer in a glass.

Of course, I had to try The Lupe too — mezcal, passion fruit, Calabrian chili, pasilla, and sake — this one is for the spicy cocktail lovers. It delivers heat but with balance, and every sip feels alive with flavor. I loved knowing that, whenever possible, ingredients are locally sourced.

Small Plates, Big Flavor

For food, we started with the Octopus Carpaccio. Thinly sliced, dressed in citrus and gochujang, it was bright, zippy, and the perfect shareable starter — light enough to open up the appetite without weighing you down. Visually, it’s a showstopper.

One of my favorite bites of the night was the Scallion Pancake, a dish I’d come back for again and again. A base of zucchini butter, topped with morel mushrooms from Lifecap Farms, zucchini aioli, and pops of Aleppo pepper heat. It had this incredible mix of creamy, crispy, and umami richness that was just chef’s kiss. Lifecap Farms is a local mushroom farm in Jersey City, doing incredible work. Jane Doe, along with other great local restaurants, has a dedicated tent there to ensure a steady supply of fresh, locally grown mushrooms to meet their needs.

The Steak Yakitori was a surprise standout — juicy shaved beef glazed in a house-made kimchi sauce, resting on a bed of velvety curry aioli. The balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors made it completely addictive.

Pasta Done Right — With a Twist

We sampled two pastas, both wildly creative. The first was the Mafaldine.
Made with a Japanese curry vodka sauce, smoked Bell & Evans chicken, basil, scallions, Aleppo pepper, and Grana Padano, it was rich yet had a spicy and smoky undertone. Chef described it as one of the more Italian-leaning dishes on the menu. Then the linguini arrived — tossed in a miso-olive oil pesto made with togarashi sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts, as the chef had a nut allergy. It’s dressed with candied sunflower seeds and crunchy garlic breadcrumbs. The citrus notes and sesame made it pop, with textures that kept each bite interesting. I think I prefer the sesame seed version over traditional pesto.

Fresh, Local Fish That Shines

For the main, I had the market fish — a gorgeous tilefish sourced from Scale Fish Market. Perfectly cooked, served on a bed of green garlic purée and a vegetable sofrito with Romano beans, and accompanied by lemon aioli. The crispy skin, the juicy flakes of fish, the crunchy, zesty vegetables underneath — it was flawless. Every component on the plate served a purpose, and every bite felt thoughtful.

The Scratch-Made Difference

One of the things that really stood out to me at Jane Doe is their commitment to scratch-made everything. From the milk bread buns used for their burgers — soft, fluffy, and baked fresh in-house — to their custom meat blend that’s ground daily, you can taste the difference in every bite. Their pasta is all made fresh every morning. Every condiment, from the rich and silky smoked onion aioli to the bright, punchy pickled Fresno peppers, is crafted in-house each day. It’s clear that nothing is an afterthought here; every element on the plate and in your glass, no matter how small, is made with intention and care.

Don’t Skip Dessert: The Iconic Limoncello Olive Oil Cake

To finish, I couldn’t resist the Limoncello Olive Oil Cake — a signature dessert that’s been on the menu since day one. It’s served tres leches style, soaked just enough to be rich and decadent without feeling heavy. The mascarpone frosting adds a silky, creamy finish, and the bright citrus notes keep it balanced. It’s dangerously good — the kind of dessert you tell yourself you’ll just have a bite of… and then suddenly it’s gone.

A Team That Brings It All Together

The team at Jane Doe is a huge part of what makes the experience so special. Behind the bar, you’ll find Marco Pintle, Jane Doe’s very knowledgeable Beverage Manager, and Billy (Blanks) Renfree, Principal Bartender, two seasoned bartenders whose expertise, creativity, and passion turn every drink into a crafted experience. Overseeing it all is Marc Figueiras, the Beverage Director, whose vision and dedication to quality cocktails set the tone for the entire bar program.

In the kitchen, Head Chef Arturo Ramos leads the charge — young, energized, and overflowing with creativity, Arturo now curates menus across all the restaurants in the group. Fresh pasta lovers take note: Alexandra Loor is the mastermind behind the house-made pasta, bringing precision and care to every silky strand. It’s a team that not only knows their craft but loves sharing it with every guest.

Pulling all the pieces together is General Manager Enrique Chacon, who plays an intricate role in the guest experience.

Atmosphere: Playful, Stylish, and Comfortably Cool

The atmosphere at Jane Doe feels effortlessly cool and thoughtfully curated. The bar is both playful and refined, with quirky details like ceramic butt-shaped straw holders adding a sense of humor and personality. The marble bar top gleams under warm lighting, inviting you to settle in and linger over beautifully crafted cocktails. Behind the bar, the shelves are lined with an eclectic mix of spirits, records, and vintage curiosities, all set against rich, warm wood paneling that gives the space a cozy, retro vibe. Adding to the charm, the team spins vinyl daily before 7 p.m., creating a fun, laid-back vibe — and yes, the bartenders will even take requests. It’s the kind of space that feels equally suited for a relaxed afternoon drink or an intimate evening out.

A Local Favorite — Even for Out-of-Towners

Toward the end of my visit, I met a lovely couple from Ohio at the bar, who told me that Jane Doe is always their first stop whenever they visit Jersey City to see their daughter. It’s the kind of place that leaves an impression — one visit, and you completely understand why.

Jane Doe isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a love letter to high-quality ingredients, local sourcing, and culinary creativity. Every dish was layered, complex, but never overwhelming. I left full, happy, and already planning my next visit.

Jane Doe
333 Newark Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07302
website

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