Ava Rakowski Sometimes, a great meal is about more than what is on the plate. Across New Jersey, there are restaurants serving up unforgettable experiences through themed dining rooms, creative concepts, and fun, immersive details. From cave-like interiors and train car seating to tiki bars, jazz clubs, and even medieval dinner shows, these quirky restaurants in New Jersey bring personality and entertainment to every meal. Keep reading for a list of one-of-a-kind dining spots to add to your bucket list.
The Caves | 266 Old River Road, Edgewater
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If you’re looking for a restaurant with some killer ambience, this is the place for you. Enjoy your meal in a cave, where the carvings on the wall, artwork, and low lighting set the perfect tone for a date night or cozy gathering with friends. You go for the food and stay for the vibes, but getting dessert here is a must.
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Clinton Station Diner | 2 Bank Street, Clinton
This classic, 24-hour Jersey diner has two quirks that pull customers from all over. Clinton Station diner offers seating in a 1927 Blue Comet Train car, which is a fun blast from the past for all patrons. It’s known for a variety of burger-eating challenges for the chance to win their cash prizes. Do you think you can do it?
Elsie’s Sub Shop | 74 Monmouth Street, Red Bank
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If you’re always asking for extra pickles on your sandwich, this is the spot for you. Not only has this spot been serving up quality sub sandwiches since 1959, but you can turn your order into a Pickle Sub. Be sure to check out this creative bread-alternative as well as the rest of their killer menu.
Heirloom Kitchen | 3853 County Road 516, Old Bridge
You may have been to Heirloom Kitchen for the outstanding Prix Fixe or Sunday Tasting experiences, but did you know they also offer cooking classes? Learn how to make a variety of dishes, from pasta to different street foods. This is the perfect activity for a date night or a small group of friends, but be sure to secure your spot quickly each month.
Holsten’s | 1063 Broad Street, Bloomfield
This Jersey staple is home to an old-fashioned candy counter, ice cream, milkshakes, classic burgers, and, famously, the site of Tony Soprano’s last meal. Enter through a time machine as you enjoy some quality food, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Johnny Mac’s House of Spirits | 208 Main Street, Asbury Park
This haunt is a favorite for so many down the shore. Just a few steps away from the Asbury Park Train Station, this Irish bar keeps its guests fed and entertained. Grab a drink to get your ticket for a free personal pie and take a stab at their arcade games. They have weekly specials, so be sure to check the bar’s socials to learn about how to get the most bang for your buck.
The Junto Attic Bar | 68 Mercer Street, Jersey City
This hidden cocktail bar is located above the Franklin Social. The name of this cozy spot takes inspiration from the social club owned by Ben Franklin, but the drinks are anything but dated. Expertly crafted and delicious, this should be in the running for your next night out.
Lee’s Hawaiian Islander | 768 Stuyvesant Avenue, Lyndhurst
This unique dining experience has been gracing Bergen County with its presence since 1972, and people keep coming back for the quirky ambience and nostalgic feel. Aside from serving up drinks and tasty meals, this Tiki dining spot is also known for its karaoke nights. Get a group together and head over for a night of fun and (hopefully on key) singing.
Library II | 306 NJ-73, Voorhees Township
At first glance, this steakhouse is serving up delicious steaks, a salad bar, appetizers, and cocktails, but Library II also functions as a library. Bring a bookworm friend, crack open a new read, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Medieval Times | 149 Polito Avenue, Lyndhurst
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Jousting and eating with your hands? Sold. Take a group of friends or your family out for one of the most unique dinner and show combinations around. Cheer for your team’s knight as he jousts, watch a falcon fly, and horses prance around the arena. You get to enjoy your dinner sans utensils because… duh, it’s the Medieval Times.
Rat’s Restaurant | 16 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton Township
Explore Grounds for Sculpture, a 42-acre sculpture park with indoor and outdoor exhibitions. You can visit the Van Gogh Café before your stroll around the grounds, but the real star of the show is Rat’s Restaurant. The ambience and food of this French-inspired restaurant are absolutely magical.
Shanghai Jazz | 24 Main Street, Madison
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This Madison spot aims to connect people through great food and great music. Enjoy some tasty cocktails, delicious Chinese food, and world-class jazz musicians with a group or as a solo diner. With a different musical act every night, you never have the same experience twice.
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Shut Up and Eat | 804 Main Street, Toms River
This nostalgic eatery serves up some of the best breakfast along the shore. Shut Up and Eat comes packed with great bites, fun decor, and an outstanding team of servers dressed in their pjs. Join them by busting out your cutest matching pair of pajamas to get 13% off your meal.
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