Akai Lounge
Its strengths command attention even as its weaknesses frustrate. But sushi purists who learn how and what to order at this swanky second take of a Japanese standby tend to find themselves regulars.
Meximodo
Full disclosure isn’t what this festive and spirit-centric in every way newcomer to a downtown with a rollicking restaurant scene is about. That’s a shame because everyone in the Garden State’s foodstream deserves better – and its kitchen very well might benefit.
Mohican Farms
An animal farm in Warren County has expanded its scope to include a 7,000-square-foot marketplace and kitchen and now serves a veritable world’s fair of edibles.
Talula’s
An old soul the day it was born in 2014, this anchor of the city’s eclectic restaurant tableau has been a place without pretense or attitude but with warmth and a sincere welcome for all.
Dosa Grill
Where do folks in the industry go for dosas, uthappam and the elusive and engaging adai? To this veteran South Indian specialist on the Garden State’s own Spice Route, where foods that are flat never taste that way.
blue plate
The region’s darling for dining sits smack in the center of the village’s historic district and reflects its constant-motion status. One off-kilter meal won’t negate its years of better efforts but should cue the kitchen to stand at attention at all times.
Soup Dumpling Plus
In spite of the name of this neighborhood favorite, soup dumplings are sparsely represented on the menu, taking a back seat to a wide-ranging assortment of other authentic Chinese classics. By all means, order the exemplary specimens, but also seek out some daring alternatives.
Clemmy’s
Appreciation of place and micro-season happens all the time at this newcomer that defines casual sophistication and has become the wise and informed arbiter of local foodways.
Xina
A pop-in to an old favorite multi-Asian a short hop over a bridge from Shore beaches both notorious and happy to revel in natural states shows a restaurant quite capable of maintaining high-functioning status.
Maeberrie Market
A small Shore town’s popular breakfast-lunch spot is a cheerful free-thinker where departures from menu norms can be the best choices.
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille
Too many flawed concepts and poorly executed dishes make for an uneven experience at this new restaurant in the American Dream Mall. That it’s a Marcus Samuelsson venture brings shame to a name revered and respected for almost 30 years.
Sirens Seafood
Ahoy, mates! Finally, there’s a sea-worthy fish shack at the Shore, courtesy of an old hand in the galley with sources that run deep and a respect for the product guiding the ship.