The best restaurants in Essex County

“Bustling neighborhood spot offering Italian food favorites & pizza in a laid-back environment.”

“No-frills pizzeria with a long list of specialty pies, from a bacon cheeseburger to a taco pizza.”

“Longtime Italian joint for antipasto, pasta & Italian entrees, plus karaoke & piano in the lounge.”

“Traditional Italian food favorites served in a white-tablecloth setting in a cozy, converted home.”

“No-frills counter serve offering simple Japanese bites, including sushi, teriyaki & dumplings.”

“Bustling neighborhood spot offering Italian food favorites & pizza in a laid-back environment.”

“Small, straightforward cafe for homemade bagels in a selection of flavors, along with spreads.”

“Burgers, steaks, craft beer & specialty cocktails served in a brick-&-leather dining room.”

“Intimate, brick-walled setting for familiar Italian dishes complemented by BYO drinks.”

“Traditional Japanese joint serving inventive specialty rolls, including one spiked with lemon.”

“American eatery pairing casual market-fresh cooking & specialty cocktails in hip, modern surrounds.”

“High-end Italian cuisine delivered in a refined dining room nearby the Paper Mill Playhouse.”

“Upscale choice for Northern Italian meals & BYOB in a classic, elegant space with a patio.”

“No-frills corner kitchen turning out jerk chicken, oxtail, seafood & other Jamaican standards.”

“This laid-back cafe has an eclectic menu ranging from breakfast to burgers to broiled seafood.”

“Busy counter-serve deli serving breakfast classics all day, plus bagels & jumbo sandwiches.”

“Adjacent to the town train station, this basic diner serves American fare breakfast through dinner.”

“Sushi bar serving Thai & Japanese cuisine, including curries & noodle soups, in an intimate setting.”

“Restaurant serving up Mexican meals & margaritas in casual, festive quarters with an outdoor patio.”

“Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.”

“Informal Italian restaurant serving build-your-own pasta meals, thin-crust pizzas & more.”

“Family-run Italian standby for classic thin-crust pies, calzones & more in a modest setting.”

“Pastas, salads & wood-fired pizzas are dished up at this small, laid-back restaurant.”

“Traditional Italian cuisine dished out in a casual dining room close to the Paper Mill Playhouse.”

“Long-running neighborhood restaurant featuring homestyle Italian eats & lots of outdoor seating.”

“An array of sushi & cooked Japanese fare pairs with fruit wines & tea in sleek, clubby surroundings.”

“Layered Delights LLC keeps it Jersey with brioche bacon egg and cheese in the morning, crisp-crust arugula pizza and garlic or spicy wings later, plus seafood boils loaded with blue crab or snow crab legs. When you want comfort classics and a few curveballs, this menu delivers.”

From the Newark newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Diners can bring their own beer or wine to this spare, cozy sushi spot that also offers cooked fare.”

“Typical diner fare from omelets & pancakes to burgers & club sandwiches in a casual setting.”

“Local Portuguese-American chain serving BBQ fare, seafood & sandwiches in a casual setting.”

“Livingston Bagel and Catering has been serving freshly baked bagels since 1969 from its on-premise bakery, alongside New York style deli staples like lox, pastrami, chopped liver and plenty of veggie-friendly schmears. They’re also a go-to for catering, from BBQ to shiva menus, private events, and easy meals to go.”

“Family-owned since 1985, Marra's Italian Specialties turns rushed evenings into happy plates with fresh mozzarella made on premise, homemade pastas, and specialty sandwiches. Locals love it for crowd-pleasing catering and a dessert case that makes you consider cannoli a personality trait.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 10, 2026

“New American BYOB eatery serving casual brunch & modern meals in an airy, bistro-style space.”

“If you want sushi that actually feels special, Ilpoom leans into quality-first bites and reimagined Korean flavors, living up to its name which means Highest Quality. From the Kim’s Sushi lineage dating back to 2007, it’s a nearby go-to for reservations or an easy online order.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, September 28, 2026

“When you’re craving super fresh rolls without any fuss, Dozo Sushi Asian Cuisine delivers with crisp sushi, teriyaki and comforting noodles. Regulars praise attentive service, veg-friendly care, and standout bites like the Sweetheart and Out of Control rolls, plus easy online ordering for quick pickup.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Livingston’s Soy & Ginger Wok Grill keeps weeknights interesting with Wok Grilled Garlic Prawn, Shrimp Udon Noodles, and Flank Steak Thai Basil, all built on fresh ingredients and plenty of wok-kissed flavor. Easy pick-up or delivery when the stove is giving you side-eye.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Waterside dining at raw bar & modern American restaurant, plus flagstone patio with reservoir views.”

“Whether you're grabbing a pie or going all-in on apps, Turano’s Pizza Kitchen leans into Jersey comfort with hot honey calamari, rice balls with marinara or vodka sauce, and a full-on fry station featuring drunken or disco fries. Bonus points for fried cheese balls and something called Shrimp Beeps.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Cafeteria-style spot offering a lengthy menu of kosher vegetarian Mediterranean fare, pizza & more.”

“Health-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.”

“Livingston’s Cammarata's Pizza keeps things interesting with classics and curveballs alike, from a killer Grandma and its vodka-sauced Drunken cousin to Al Pastor and Big Mac pies that actually work. Not feeling pizza? Grab steak or al pastor tacos, drunken knots, then finish with zeppoles.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Calabria Pizzeria & Restaurant has been serving Livingston for over 40 years, and their signature crunchy thin pizza is the move. Expect solid Italian classics, plenty of takeout and catering options, and the kind of neighborhood energy that keeps getting them shout-outs from pizza folks who actually know their stuff.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Argyle Marketplace - Creative Catering & Cafe does the comfort-food hits with some polish, from omelets and generous subs to house-ground burgers, homemade soups and charcuterie. Creative prepared foods, custom requests and full-on catering (yes, BBQ too) make it a clutch move when the whole crew's hungry.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, October 10, 2026

“Whether your household splits between purists and adventurers, La Pizza of Roseland nails both camps with a textbook cheese, satisfying calzones, and craveable twists like the Drunken Grandma vodka-sauce pie, Pepperoni with hot honey, and the Margherita Da Vinci crowned with sweet Italian sausage and truffle oil.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 12, 2026

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“From fluffy pancakes and bagels with lox to açaí bowls, specialty coffee and legit lunch sandwiches, Seymour's Cafe keeps North Jersey mornings easy and lunches satisfying in Livingston.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, October 14, 2026

“Hip, counter-serve chain for gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers & frozen custard.”

“Hip counter-serve pizzeria dishing up crispy, thin-crust pies made with creative toppings & sauces.”

“Manhattan Bagel does the real New York thing, boiling and baking bagels fresh each day, then stacking them with fresh-cracked eggs or deli classics like pastrami. Coffee's solid, and their catering trays make weekend team snacks or office breakfasts way easier than wrangling a griddle at home.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Counter-serve chain specializing in NYC-style bagels & coffee, plus salads, soups & sandwiches.”

“Agave Blue, just over in West Orange, is the spot for birria tacos, shrimp or steak quesadillas, chicken flautas, even full ribs and breakfast burritos, all in generous portions with house drinks to match. Easy online ordering when weeknights get real, and yes, they cater.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Tony Boys Sandwich House Livingston is a North Jersey go-to for ribeye cheesesteaks, juicy chicken cutlet sandwiches, and super-fresh Chop’d salads, all made to order and properly stuffed. Hosting a get-together on the Island... they also offer NYC catering, so you can skip the stove.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Pastas, soup & meat & fish dishes round out the menu at this smart Italian restaurant.”

“No-frills joint doling out BBQ ribs & chicken, plus Peruvian fare such as ceviche & lomo saltado.”

“Upscale steakhouse featuring chops, fish & salads, plus Italian favorites & a bustling bar scene.”

“Italian restaurant features working herb garden, wood-burning pizza oven, patio & bocce courts.”

“Bagel Nosh of Livingston nails the fresh bagel basics and then some, from classic and specialty bagels with legit schmears to hot Reubens, paninis, wraps and soups. Planning a spread? Their catering makes office mornings, birthdays and family hangouts easy, with quick online ordering for pickup or local delivery.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, October 11, 2026

“Since 1979, Jim Johnston's Steak House has been the local go-to for certified Angus and choice cuts done right, from NY sirloin to prime rib and hearty sandwiches. Vintage vibes, friendly service, and a separate, fully stocked bar make it an easy yes on any weeknight.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Blu Livingston brings the polished energy of its Weehawken flagship to a room that still feels neighborly, with signature hits alongside new dishes and cocktails you can only get here. If you want an elevated night that still feels relaxed, this spot nails the vibe.”

“Casual sandwich shop serving traditional Cuban eats such as empanadas and steak sandwiches.”

“Cozy eatery dishing up familiar Mexican plates such as burritos, tacos and enchiladas amid clean surroundings.”

“Justin’s BBQ & Cafe is that casual, local go-to for strong espresso, real deal breakfast, and stacked sandwiches, plus the smoky barbecue you start craving by noon. Order online for pickup or delivery when you want flavor fast without overthinking meals around Kearny.”

From the Kearny newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Family-owned butcher shop and deli for meat, cold cuts, and Italian specialties, plus catering.”

“When East Orange mornings need a boost, Tropical Juice Bar mixes fresh smoothies and juices with made-to-order Caribbean-style meals and empanadas that actually hit the spot. They even cater with wrap platters and empanada boxes, so your office huddle or school event can taste like a mini vacation.”

From the East Orange newsletter, October 1, 2026

“Over in Belleville, La Sicilia keeps it classic with crisp, well-seasoned pizza and a grandma slice locals rave about, plus real-deal pastas and Italian comfort staples. It’s the kind of unfussy neighborhood spot you call for takeout, book for catering, or pop into when you just want dinner handled.”

From the Newark newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Neighborhood pie joint, offering delivery, featuring a menu of wings, pastas, pizzas and soups.”

“Solar Do Minho is that family-run spot mixing old-world charm with a modern, seasonal take on Portuguese plates, plus an authentic rodizio that keeps the skewers coming. Pro tip, split some seafood and a pitcher of their famous homemade sangria, then call it a night.”

From the Newark newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Low-key churrasqueria vibes meet reliable delivery at Santa Luzia Barbeque, where barbecue staples like skirt steak and chicken hit the spot without fuss. Easy online ordering and solid catering make it a go-to when your crew wants smoky comfort, whether it's weeknight dinner or a backyard victory lap.”

From the Kearny newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Skip the so-so lunch and hit Blimpie for subs built the old-school way, with fresh-sliced bread, meats sliced to order, and toppings prepped that morning. Hot, cold, or panini-grilled, plus wraps and salads, it’s a clutch nearby pick when Kearny hunger hits.”

From the Kearny newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Quaint & cozy BYOB eatery dishing up traditional red-sauce Italian meals in a relaxed atmosphere.”

“Casual pizza spot (including pan and thin-crust options) offering slices, pies, wings and sandwiches.”

“When you want traditional Italian dishes in a warm, intimate room that even has a fireplace, Me & Tommy's Restaurant & Catering delivers. Expect quality Italian favorites with cocktails and wine, plus takeout, private events and solid catering for those Belleville nights when cooking feels optional.”

From the Belleville newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Pizza parlor serving Italian comfort food, including subs and chicken parm, in a casual setting.”

“Warique brings huarique vibes to nearby Belleville with bold, soulful plates, the aroma of real-deal huacatay, and that welcoming, family energy. Chef Roberto Carnero channels 20+ years in respected NY/NJ kitchens into food that tastes like a secret you actually want to share.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 5, 2026

“The Whiskey Priest keeps it homespun with gastropub comfort food, a proper sports bar vibe, and rotating specials that make weeknights feel like small victories. Go for cocktails that don’t try too hard, stay for the lively crowd that somehow knows when to cheer even if you’re just there for the snacks.”

From the Belleville newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Old-world Mediterranean BYOB showcasing traditional fare in cozy, white-tablecloth surrounds.”

“Relaxed spot for Mexican fare such as quesadillas and enchiladas, plus margaritas.”

“When you need a real deal pick me up, Omar's Cafe PR hits with crispy empanadas, chicharron de pollo, pernil with arroz con gandules, and legit cafe con leche, plus hearty breakfasts and fresh juices. Easy choice for Kearny mornings that run into lunchtime.”

From the Kearny newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Pantry 1 Deli & Grill in nearby Belleville keeps it simple and satisfying with chopped cheese and cheesesteaks, build-your-own subs, Taylor Ham, Egg & Cheese, and Krispy Krunchy Chicken for peak crunch. Round it out with a bubble tea or milkshake and call it a win.”

From the Newark newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.”

“Ribs, BBQ chicken & steaks join grilled seafood in an unadorned dining room with a BYOB policy.”

“24/7 diner in a large space with American comfort food & homemade desserts plus a full bar.”

“Casual, brick-lined restaurant & bar serving classic Italian entrees & creative brick-oven pizzas.”

“Family-owned since 1967, Pizza Village Cafe #2 keeps Belleville fed with legendary pies and the Italian standards you actually crave, from hearty pastas and subs to crisp salads. For a crowd-pleaser, their catering makes weeknights, birthdays, and soccer-team carb loads very, very easy.”

From the Belleville newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Alberto's Restaurant & Pizzeria brings Argentinian favorites to your pizza night with fugazza (mozzarella and onions), palmito pies, crispy faina, and legit empanadas, plus comfort classics like Chicken Parm and an Italian Hot Dog pizza. It’s familiar, a little adventurous, and very satisfying.”

From the Fair Lawn newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Local Italian eatery serving pasta and seafood dishes, plus coffee.”

“Caribbean Station Dominican Cuisine keeps it easygoing with roast chicken, hearty stews, and pernil that tastes like a Sunday at abuela’s. Solid weeknight dinner move, and if you’re feeding a crowd their EZCater-powered catering saves the group chat from chaos.”

From the East Orange newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Casual sandwich shop offering familiar favorites such as cheesesteaks, burgers, and hot dogs.”

“New American cuisine served in a casual, kid-friendly bistro setting with weekly DJs.”

“Buzzy, family-owned bar/eatery with Italian & American dishes, plus gourmet pizza & outdoor seating.”

“Taqueria Dos Perlas is that cozy, family-run Belleville spot locals keep in their back pocket for real-deal flavors, from birria tacos with soul to saucy enchiladas and sizzling fajitas. Traditional recipes and fresh ingredients drive the menu, and the bar turns out solid, Mexican-inspired drinks.”

From the Belleville newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Casual restaurant serving pizza and Italian dishes made with local ingredients in a family-friendly environment.”

“Craving the kind of red-sauce comfort that makes weeknights feel like a win? Lumis Restaurant keeps it classic with hearty Italian favorites, a solid wine and drink list, and trays to-go for when the crew drops by unannounced, plus private event options if you’re plotting a bigger gathering.”

From the Wayne newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Yellowtail Japanese Bistro nails the casual Japanese vibe close to home, from crispy rice topped with spicy tuna and zingy yellowtail jalapeño to a crowd-pleasing tuna “pizza” on scallion pancake. If you like variety, their mini omakase and chirashi bowls keep things interesting without wrecking your Tuesday.”

From the Wayne newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Whether the table is split between thin-crust and deep-dish, Delizia Pizza Kitchen (Fairfield) makes everyone happy with both styles plus comforting Italian favorites, and they deliver. They’re one of three Delizia spots around, but this Fairfield kitchen is the midweek hero your group texts deserve.”

From the Wayne newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Casual eatery offering tacos, tortas, and quesadillas, plus a kids' menu.”

“When you want a no-fuss spot that nails the basics, Pizza Center, established in 1977, comes through with foldable pies, saucy wings, and gyros that hit the spot, the kind of dependable, old-school flavor that makes weeknights and game days taste better.”

From the East Orange newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Fandango Mexican Grill keeps it warm and festive with the hits you actually want on a Tuesday night. From enchiladas and fajitas to tacos, the classics are covered, and easy online ordering makes dinner painless when you need a break from your own kitchen.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Japanese and sushi restaurant offering ramen and drinks, plus chicken wings and sushi rolls.”

“Since 1985, Fortissimo Osteria & Pizzeria has been West Orange's move for authentic Italian dishes and craveable pies, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients in every order. Perfect for a low-key dinner or feeding a crowd, with family-run warmth that makes leftovers mysteriously disappear.”

From the West Orange newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Craving something that hits both savory and sweet in one neighborhood run? La Chicanita Loca turns out juicy al pastor tacos, gringa quesadillas, and those gloriously messy dirty nachos, then cools it down with mangonadas and ice cream that tastes like summer vacation snuck into your afternoon.”

From the East Orange newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Upscale, lively eatery serving dishes featuring influences from African and Mexican cuisines, plus cocktails.”

“When the week calls for a steaming bowl, Ju-Ichi Japanese Restaurant is ladling broth that boils about 24 hours with up to 100 pounds of pork bones and more than 20 ingredients. Slide into Montclair this week for ultimate ramen noodles, plus fresh, handcrafted bites that make chilly nights and meh Mondays a lot cozier.”

From the West Orange newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Craving a low-key spot that flips between Salvadoran comfort and classic pies and pastas, Cocina Grill & Pizzeria nails both, from pupusas and Tipico Salvadoreno breakfast to churrasco and the wild card Al Pastor Taco Pizza. Perfect for those nights you can’t choose between salsa and sauce.”

From the East Orange newsletter, September 29, 2026

“West Orange’s Wasabi Sushi nails the fresh-and-thoughtful thing, with buttery yellowtail, rich salmon roe, and creative Wasabi Special Rolls alongside comforting Kitchen Entrees. It feels neighborly, the craft shows on every plate, and it’s the kind of spot you claim as your go-to before someone else does.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Pizzeria cooking thin-crust pies from a brick oven plus Italian entrees in a casual setting. BYOB.”

“Italian restaurant serving dishes such as veal chop parmigiana, calamari, and stuffed gnocchi.”

“Italian eatery offering comfort food, beer, wine, and cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere.”

“Japanese outfit preparing sushi & cooked entrees amid Asian decor with bamboo-stick booths.”

“Primavera Ristorante is the kind of cozy West Orange spot where the aroma of Italian spices hits first, then the fresh, seasonal plates and age‑old family recipes do the talking. Honest flavors, simple prep, and that homemade comfort make it an easy weeknight go-to when pasta calls.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Cosmopolitan eatery with a polished interior turning out upmarket American cuisine.”

“Montclair’s pastaRAMEN is a BYOB Wafu Italian spot from James Beard-nominated Chef Robbie Felice, where mochi ramen carbonara, cacio e pepe gyoza, and truffle miso pasta cozy up in an intimate, moody room that feels secret but not precious. Reservations go fast, so bring a bottle and a friend.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 11, 2026

“La Rocca Osteria in Montclair nails that cozy, BYOB Italian vibe with house-made pastas, a classic lasagna that disappears fast, and seafood that actually tastes like the sea. If you spot the calamari fritti in its crispy potato basket, just say yes and thank yourself later.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 5, 2026

“The Slice Shop by BXJ keeps it simple and satisfying with hot-by-the-slice pizza that hits the spot without derailing your day. It’s right next to Bagels by Jarrett, which makes it dangerously easy to grab a slice, nod to your neighbor, and keep moving.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Bagels by Jarrett is the most confused bagel shop you’ll end up loving, flipping from chewy bagels and breakfast sandwiches to house-made pastas, in-house ground burgers and proper pizza. Livingston locals, there’s even a slice shop attached, so you can keep the carb party going.”

From the Livingston newsletter, September 9, 2026

“This Japanese noodle house known for its ramen has modern, stylish decor & a BYOB policy.”

“Johnny's Pizzeria keeps it classic with pies, cheesesteaks, and specialty sandwiches plus hearty Italian staples that actually taste like dinner, not just a backup plan. Order in or swing by, then let the leftovers carry you through tomorrow's chaos.”

From the East Orange newsletter, September 25, 2026

“This simple, elegant restaurant offers elevated takes on traditional Italian cuisine.”

“Mexican Rooster Newark is that reliable move when you want legit tacos al pastor, big parrilladas de mariscos, and comforty plates like mole poblano or huevos divorciados con chilaquiles. The menu runs deep from antojitos and tortas to cold seafood and soups, so you can feed every craving fast.”

From the Kearny newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Skip cooking and let Campofiore handle dinner this week with Montclair farm to table Italian built on local harvests. Think house cured salumi, fresh pasta that never needs extra cheese to impress, and small batch gelato for the victory lap, plus aperitivo vibes if you're just snacking.”

From the West Orange newsletter, August 27, 2026