Lily Flood 
Just over 100 years old, Ramsey is a charming town nestled in Northern Bergen County. Since its founding in 1912, the borough has evolved to house more than a dozen restaurants, bars, and shops. Ramsey is nestled in the Northern tip of Bergen County. After about an hour’s train ride, you’ll pull into the Ramsey station. The station is conveniently located in the heart of downtown, across from one of Ramsey’s best-known pubs, Brady’s at the Station. Home of the Rams, this quintessential Jersey town has something for everyone. Keep reading to find out more about our faves in Ramsey, New Jersey.
Food + Drink
Bar Boutique | 110 East Main Street
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Bar Boutique came onto the Ramsey scene in 2021. Owner Andrew Matarese had a clear vision to bring his family’s historic passion for fine wine and spirits to the streets of Ramsey. The bar has both indoor and outdoor seating and has a variety of craft cocktails, wines, spirits, and light bites.
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Bici | 61 East Main Street
If you want to feel like you’re in Italy without leaving Bergen County, Bici will do the trick. The owners are kind and the menu changes daily, providing customers with the freshest ingredients. Some favorites include chianti risotto in the winter and lobster pasta in the summer. Bici is a BYO spot, so you can enjoy your favorite wine without breaking the bank.
Brady’s at the Station | 5 West Main Street
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Brady’s is a Ramsey staple. Owned and operated by John Brady, it’s the only classic Irish pub in town. Brady’s has two floors and an outdoor patio with a plentiful menu and welcoming staff. It’s a go-to spot for whatever the outing requires: a solid burger and beer combo, a festive spot to celebrate a graduation, or a fun night out on the weekend.
Cafe Panache | 130 East Main Street
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Cafe Panache is known for its rotating menu and exquisite service. This restaurant is great for an intimate event or a celebratory meal. The menu is new American classics, and with a BYO option, guests can customize the experience.
Giovanna’s Cafe | 19 East Main Street
Giovanna’s Cafe opened back in 2014, and the breakfast and brunch spot feels like you’re in your grandma’s kitchen. Family photos on the wall, freshly baked crumb cake, and hot coffee make this place home. Giovanna’s is known for its breakfast staples, but you can also grab dinner for the family to go from the team’s takeout concept right next door.
Kinchley’s Tavern | 586 Franklin Turnpike
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This cash-only pizza joint is known for its ultra-thin crust and long waits. With the red and white checkered tablecloths and staff who know you by your first name, Kinchley’s is as classic as it gets. Barstool’s Dave Portnoy even gave the classic bar pie a 7.5. “Drink some beers, eat some pizza,” he said.
L’Arte | 109 East Main Street
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L’Arte is one of Ramsey’s most sought-after coffee and pastry shops. Founded in 2013, its full name, L’Arte della Pasticceria, lives up to its philosophy of exploring the art of different pastry techniques. Head chef Andrea is Italian and takes pride in making sure that every treat is of the highest quality. The shop offers a gorgeous interior for dining, as well as a lunch and catering menu.
Morano’s Italian Market | 1 East Main Street
When it comes to delis, Morano’s is as authentic as it gets. From crispy cutlets, fresh mozzarella, specialty sandwiches, to delicious soups and premade dishes, Morano’s has something for everyone. The market also does catering and events.
Varka | 30 North Spruce Street
Varka is the place to see and be seen. A known favorite of some of the New Jersey Housewives, Varka serves up fine Mediterranean fare and a full bar. Patio dining gives the feel of true Greek island life. BG pro tip: the Varka chips are a must!
Shopping
Eyes on Ramsey | 44 East Main Street
Whether you need new shades or prescribed eyewear, Eyes on Ramsey is the place to go. The shop has impeccable customer service and carries designers like Prada, YSL, Burberry and more.
Fado | 4 East Main Street
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Fado is a fun place to stop in for high-end clothes and gifts. Carrying brands like Pistola, Perfect White Tee, Agolde, and more, it sells elevated basics and fun accessories.
Hazel Boutique | 74 East Main Street
Hazel got its claim to fame in Belmar and eventually opened its second location in Ramsey in 2015. the shop has both staple pieces and special occasion options. Plus, with former employees like influencer turned celebrity and New Jersey native Alix Earle, you never know who you’ll see.
Lily + Kate | 66 East Main Street
Lily and Kate is a local favorite for gifts and fun trinkets. The mother-daughter duo who own the shop cater to all Bergen County residents, even making personalized glassware, dish rags, coasters, and more with personalized zip codes and town names.
Olive 54 | 54 West Main Street
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Another trendy spot for gifts, Olive 54 is intriguing from the outside with its dark green exterior and eclectic decor. The shop is full of trinkets, from pillows to aprons to jewelry and books.
Ramsey Outdoor Store | 835 NJ-17 North
From ski trips, camping, glamping, hiking, and fishing, Ramsey Outdoor is the place to stop in before your next outdoor adventure. The store carries everything from men’s and women’s apparel to supplies and tools.
Activities
Bergen Golf Zone | 50 Spring Street
Located in the same building as pickleball, Bergen Golf Zone is home to Ramsey’s only golf simulator. The facility offers two Foresight Golf Simulators delivering a realistic golf experience that includes championship golf courses from Pebble Beach to St. Andrews, executive courses, and practice ranges.
Bergen Pickleball Zone | 50 Spring Street
A new addition to Ramsey’s repertoire, these public pickleball courts are a fun way to perfect your game, no matter the weather. The newly renovated courts in the heart of town are a great destination.
Board + Brush | 11 East Main Street
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Similar to paint ‘n sips that have been taking lots of cities by storm, Board and Brush lets customers pick a design for a decorative piece to add to their home. Whether it be hanging art, a food and drink tray, or a charcuterie board, the craft house is a fun way to get creative with friends and family.
Ramsey Farmers’ Market | 2 West Main Street
Conveniently located right outside the train station every Sunday, the Farmer’s Market has seasonal produce, fresh breads like sourdough, and even unique arts and crafts. There’s always a new vendor selling fun items like alpaca fur accessories, handmade ceramics, or organic dog treats.
See More: A Guide to the Best Downtowns + Main Streets of Northern New Jersey
Ramsey Free Public Library | 30 Wyckoff Avenue
The library is a lovely reprieve from busy Main Street. Books galore, community computers, DVDs, and study spaces, the library offers patrons a space to study or learn a new skill. The library also hosts events such as mommy and me classes, game nights, and even concerts.
