Carli Clesmere 
Bergen County’s lineup of local spots just keeps growing, with something fresh popping up seemingly every week. Whether it’s a modern Thai kitchen, a must-try falafel spot, or another neighborhood gem in the making, there’s plenty of excitement on the horizon. Read on to explore a roundup of the latest openings and a peek at what’s coming soon to Bergen County.
Disclaimer: This list is ever-growing as new spots continue to open across Bergen County. For additions or updates, please reach out to [email protected].
Alba | 343 Broadway, Hillsdale
Alba is A family-owned and operated restaurant bringing an authentic Italian dining experience to the heart of Hillsdale., Alba serves both lunch and dinner, featuring classic appetizers like eggplant rollatini and caprese salad, along with standout entrées such as veal saltimbocca and branzino filet.
Becca | 700 B, Palisadium Drive, Cliffside Park
An upscale dining destination has opened in Cliffside Park, located on the side of the Palisadium Gym. Becca Mediterranean Grill spans 7,000 square feet and serves a variety of dishes, from shareable mezze platters and yellowtail crudo to perfectly cooked filets.
Read More: New Jersey Towns with Lenape History: Hoboken, Weehawken, + Beyond
Bocadillo | 155 Moonachie Road, Moonachie
Bocadillo is a cozy eatery opening in the small town of Moonachie, serving up flavorful sandwiches, Spanish-inspired small plates, + specialty goods. Highlights from the menu include the Vegetariana sandwich with grilled zucchini, broccoli rabe, tomato, onions, and harissa + the Shrimp Bowl with mini shrimp, super greens, quinoa, pickled onions, dried fruits, and nuts.
Capons Burgers | Bergen Town Center, Paramus
Capon’s Burgers, a burger concept from celebrity chef Josh Capon, is coming to Bergen Town Center, joining the mall’s growing lineup of dining spots. Known as a no-frills burger joint with another location in Las Vegas, the restaurant is anticipated to open in early 2026. After a look at the Las Vegas menu, the Black Jack Burger with black truffle aioli, raclette cheese, and potato stix already stands out as a must-try for team BG.
Circle Hummus | 412 Madison Avenue, Dumont
Circle Hummus has opened in the well-known circular roundabout at the monument where Cresskill and Dumont meet. This Mediterranean spot replaces the beloved Circle Diner that locals once frequented. The menu features kebabs, shish, tabbouleh, and other comforting Mediterranean classics.
D’avant | 935 River Road, Suite 101, Edgewater
D’Avant Bakery has opened its third Bergen County location, welcoming customers in September 2025. The menu features classic pastries, donuts, + a selection of coffees and teas.
Estrella Nostra | 213 Harrison Avenue, Garfield
Estrella Nostra is a new dining spot in Garfield, blending Italian + Hispanic cuisines. The doors opened to the public on November 1, 2025. While the menu has plenty of enticing options, a few dishes stood out to the BG Team: the skirt steak with risotto pomodoro, penne vodka with shrimp, and a classic Dominican dish, mofongo de camarones.
Llama Sam | 6 Bergen Street, Hackensack
Llama Sam teased a “coming soon” post on Instagram back in May 2025, and now the wait is over. They announced a soft opening on December 1, with the grand opening date still to be determined.
Mi Amor | 16 Armory Street, Englewood
Mi Amor is a new spot in downtown Englewood, opened in November 2025, with the slogan TACOS, MARGS, SPORTS. The menu features classic Mexican dishes like burritos and tacos, all served in a lively sports bar atmosphere.
BG pro tip: the happy hour menu is totally worth a look, featuring $8 bar bites + drinks priced between $5 and $7.
Mr. Falafel & Gelato | 654 Anderson Ave, Cliffside Park
Mr. Falafel & Gelato, a Mediterranean spot with a dessert twist, opened its first New Jersey location in September 2025. The fast-casual concept, which originated in Stamford, CT, offers a customizable menu featuring Middle Eastern staples such as falafel, shawarma, kebabs, rice and salad bowls, sandwiches, and house-made dips and sauces.
Rare Bird | 105 Lakeside Drive, Ramsey
Rare Bird is located within a private golf club and residential community, offering an elevated dining experience open to both members and the public. The restaurant features refined cuisine crafted by executive chef Joey Sergentakis.
Rosangelly’s | 1 Westwood Avenue, Westwood
Rosangelly’s plans to open in the fall of 2025. According to their social media announcement, the spot will feature fresh bread, roasted coffee, and a selection of drinks and small bites.
The Local | 235 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell
The Local is a cozy neighborhood burger spot that opened its doors in the past few months. Built on one simple idea, good food shouldn’t be complicated or come with a big ticket. It should just taste good and be accessible to everyone. At The Local, diners can enjoy burgers, chicken, fries, shakes, and all the comforting classics.
The Secret Garden | 735 Garden Street, Carlstadt
Coming in the fall of 2025, The Secret Garden will be an Italian eatery and café. The owner, 29-year-old Gianna, announced on social media in late April 2025, sharing that opening her own business has been a lifelong dream. Social media posts reveal the menu will likely include Italian classics such as pasta and salads, Italian-inspired empanadas, and charcuterie.
Thai Chef Jr. | 11 McKinley Avenue, Dumont
Thai Chef Jr. held its grand opening on October 10th. This cozy Thai takeout spot offers menu highlights, including Thai Shrimp in a Blanket and Khao Moo Dan.
Tori to Sakana | 1232 Anderson Avenue, Fort Lee
Tori to Sakana is a new Japanese takeout spot specializing in Chicken Karaage + fresh sushi. It was announced on Instagram that a soft opening took place on November 6th. The menu features a variety of sushi sets that come with miso soup, crispy fried chicken karaage, and a make-your-own platter option, available with a few days’ notice.
See More: Hope for the Holidays: New Jersey Moms Start Fundraiser for Kids in Foster Care
Follow @thebergencountygirl on Instagram for the latest Bergen County updates, sign up for our email list here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 30+ events weekly to peruse.
