Home for the holidays? Think again! Here’s a look at the latest restaurant openings across the Garden State.
Ayat, Princeton
Step into Ayat for an authentic taste of Palestinian and Middle Eastern cuisine in the heart of Princeton, NJ. This cozy, family-owned restaurant offers an array of dishes, from tender kebabs to flavorful falafel and hummus. The items on the menu are bursting with fresh ingredients and traditional spices.
Ayat
15 Spring Street
Princeton, NJ
609-356-0674
Blue Sunday Bar & Grill, Linden
Whether you’re craving a great meal or a refreshing cocktail, this new Linden, NJ, spot has you covered. From mini crab cakes and fried catfish sticks to cheesesteak egg rolls, beef short ribs, spicy curry rice, and juicy burgers, there’s something to satisfy every craving at Blue Sunday Bar & Grill.
Blue Sunday Bar & Grill
830 W Edgar Rd #830-D
Linden, NJ
908-718-5327
DRIFT, Weehawken
Located along the Hudson River with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Drift, in Weehawken, NJ, offers a chic, modern dining experience. This new contemporary restaurant puts a fresh twist on American classics.The menu is divided into sections, starting with small plates like the pork belly bao buns. For a taste of something fresh, explore the temaki selection, or take your pick from among the wood-fired flatbreads. For a heartier option, dive into the larger plates, like the SRF prime filet of beef.
DRIFT
1200 Harbor Blvd.
Weehawken, NJ
201-430-8488
Eataly, Millburn
The famous international marketplace, Eataly, has finally landed in New Jersey. Specifically, Millburn, NJ, at the Mall at Short Hills. Bringing the best of Italy’s culinary traditions under one roof, Eataly is the place to be for handmade pasta, artisanal cheese, fresh seafood, and more. Make a date to sit down for a meal, or take home premium ingredients to cook your own creations from this food lovers’ paradise.
Eataly
1200 Morris Tpke #112,
Short Hills, NJ
862-424-9100
La Plancha, Lake Hiawatha
The name, which means the grill, says it all. A cozy spot in Lake Hiawatha, NJ, La Plancha’s focus is on Latin flavors. Order seasoned grilled meats, seafood, or tapas-style small plates.And yes, they’re open in the morning too, so you can pop in for a fresh-baked pan con café (bread and coffee) as early as 6:30 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and 7 a.m. on Sundays.
La Plancha
44 N Beverwyck Road
Lake Hiawatha, NJ
973-265-4498
Naxos Estiatorio, Woodland Park
Defined by a striking all-white building, Naxos Estiatorio is a new Greek eatery in Woodland Park, NJ. Located in the spot formerly occupied by On the Border (on Route 46 West), Naxos Estiatorio brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your table. Try fresh seafood, grilled meats, house-made tzatziki, baklava, and more.
Naxos Estiatorio
1738 US-46
Woodland Park, NJ
973-435-6495
Opa Greek Restaurant, Hamilton
Tis the season for Greek restaurant openings! Opa Greek Restaurant, in Hamilton, NJ, is also now open. Stop in for a selection of Greek classics, from savory souvlaki and fresh seafood to mouthwatering moussaka.
Opa Greek Restaurant
3817 Crosswicks Hamilton Square Rd.
Hamilton Township, NJ
609-438-9941
Pru Thai, Clinton
Craving a taste of Thailand? Head over to Pru Thai, in Clinton, NJ, where you’ll find both authentic and modern takes on Thai cuisine. This charming new eatery will quickly become a favorite among Thai food lovers, offering a menu with aromatic curries, savory stir-fries, and zesty noodle dishes.
Pru Thai
6 E Main St #101
Clinton, NJ
908-735-0703
The Nugget Spot, Chatham
Who doesn’t love chicken nuggets? The ultimate comfort food has found a new home at the Nugget Spot in Chatham, NJ. This fun, family-friendly spot offers a variety of hand-breaded nuggets paired with unique sauces and sides. And you can go classic or get adventurous with your choice of sauces, including the signature “Shh Sauce” and creamy nacho queso.
The Nugget Spot
641 Shunpike Road
Chatham Township, NJ
973-995-0007
Toast, Manalapan (shown at top)
Find latest location of Toast in Manalapan, NJ. Doors opened, officially, on November 25. Located in the former Project Brunch spot on Route 9 South, the new Toast will offer easy access from Route 9 and Tennent Road. Guests will find ample parking. The new Manalapan location is designed to capture the cozy, local feel that has made Toast beloved by the communities it serves. (Other locations include Asbury Park, Cranford, Montclair, and Red Bank.) Guests can look forward to Toast’s signature breakfast staples like eggs Benedict, creative omelets, and artisanal dishes such as the Southwest breakfast bowl and huevos rancheros. Other brunch favorites on the menu include avocado toast, freshly crafted salads, and wraps.
Toast
357 US-9
Manalapan Township, NJ
Toastique, Ridgewood
Start your day right at Toastique in Ridgewood, NJ. Gourmet toast meets fresh, vibrant ingredients at this cozy eatery. Stop in for creative avocado toasts, smoothie bowls, and seasonal fruit plates. Other New Jersey locations include Chatham, Hoboken, and Stone Harbor.
Toastique
2-4 Garber Square
Ridgewood, NJ
201-595-0170
Viva Margarita, Hazlet
The fiesta has made its way to Hazlet with the new Viva Margarita. This Mexican-inspired restaurant serves up bold, flavorful dishes, from sizzling fajitas to savory tacos and guacamole made fresh to order. With its festive vibe and killer margaritas, Viva Margarita is the perfect place to unwind with friends or enjoy a casual night out.
Viva Margarita
2870 NJ-35
Hazlet Township, NJ
732-926-5200
