New Jersey is home to a diverse culinary scene, offering mouthwatering dishes to please the most discerning food lover. Among the state’s gastronomic treasures is its array of top-notch steakhouses, serving up succulent cuts of meat that consistently impress both locals and visitors alike. In the Garden State, patrons can expect to find a wide selection of fine-dining establishments that not only bring quality steaks to the table but also provide a memorable ambience for any occasion.
Established favorites, as well as up-and-coming venues, can be found throughout New Jersey, each contributing its own unique spin on the classic steakhouse experience. From the historic Knife and Fork Inn in Atlantic City to the luxurious setting of Chris Michael’s Steakhouse in Woodbridge, these steakhouses are dedicated to offering the perfect balance of attentive service, exceptional flavor, and ambiance that sets them apart in a competitive culinary landscape.
In this article, we will showcase the best steakhouses in New Jersey, detailing what sets each one apart and why they have earned their stand-out reputations. By shedding light on these in-demand venues, readers can make informed decisions when planning their next steak-centric outing and savor the most exquisite cuts of meat New Jersey has to offer.
Best Steakhouses in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to a plethora of top-notch steakhouses that serve up mouthwatering dishes, offering a mixture of classic and contemporary dining experiences. Regardless of whether you’re in Atlantic City, Jersey City, Paramus, or Cherry Hill, you can find an extraordinary steakhouse that caters to your taste buds.
In Bergen County, The Brick House has been a local favorite for more than 50 years. Housed in a building that dates back to the 1850s, this historic establishment is known for its exquisite steaks and romantic atmosphere.
Little Falls is home to The Feathered Fox, an elegant establishment that tops the list of New Jersey’s best steakhouses. With its exceptional cuts of meat, delicious chops, and a soulful ambiance, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience.
Atlantic City boasts several top-quality steakhouses, including Knife and Fork Inn which has been serving fine steaks and seafood since 1912. The classic dining atmosphere and the extensive wine list make it a favorite among visitors and locals alike.
Located in Jersey City, Edward’s Steakhouse is a popular destination for steak lovers. In addition to their delicious steaks, the restaurant features an impressive wine selection and a charming, vintage atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
Heading down to Paramus, STEAK & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT is another must-visit establishment for a rich and flavorful dining experience. With top-quality steaks and fresh seafood offerings, this restaurant has something to satisfy every palate.
In Cherry Hill, Capital Grille is a prime choice for a luxurious meal, featuring hand-cut and custom-aged steaks that have gained considerable acclaim. Paired with a variety of palate-pleasing wines, this upscale venue is sure to impress.
These are just a few examples of the best steakhouses in New Jersey, showcasing unparalleled culinary skills and serving dishes that could rival the finest steakhouses in the country. Discovering these extraordinary establishments is sure to elevate any dining experience and satisfy even the most discerning steak aficionados.
High-End Steakhouses in New Jersey
Here is the list of best high-end steakhouse in New Jersey.
River Palm Terrace
The River Palm Terrace is a renowned steakhouse in New Jersey, known for its prime Angus beef and impeccable service. Attention to detail and excellent quality of ingredients make this establishment a top choice for celebratory dinners and business meetings alike.
Steakhouse 85
Located in New Brunswick, Steakhouse 85 offers a contemporary dining experience with a diverse selection of steaks, lamb chops, and seafood options. With its sophisticated ambiance and focus on quality ingredients, it has become a go-to place for special occasions among the locals.
Edward’s Steakhouse
Edward’s Steakhouse is a hidden gem in the Garden State, boasting exceptional steaks and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant takes pride in sourcing the finest cuts of meat, ensuring a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Capital Grille
The upscale Capital Grille is renowned for its dry-aged steaks, prepared with precision and served in a refined setting. With an extensive wine list and exemplary service, the Capital Grille guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.
Char Steakhouse
At Char Steakhouse, the focus is on quality and simplicity. The steaks are cooked to perfection, accompanied by a selection of tempting sides. With a cozy, rustic setting, Char Steakhouse is a local favorite for a memorable and satisfying steak dinner.
Stage Left Steak
Stage Left Steak in New Brunswick, NJ, provides an innovative twist on the classic steakhouse experience. Known for its prime cuts and artful presentation, Stage Left Steak offers a captivating atmosphere that leaves an indelible mark on diners.
The River Palm Terrace
The River Palm Terrace combines traditional steakhouse fare with modern flair in a welcoming setting. With a strong emphasis on the quality of their steaks, they pay great attention to detail, creating an unforgettable experience for anyone who dines there.
Sweet Waters Steak House
Patrons of Sweet Waters Steak House can expect an intimate and relaxed environment with an extensive menu of hand-cut steaks and other delectable options. Its reputation for quality makes it a popular choice among steak-lovers seeking a memorable dining experience in New Jersey.
Liberty Prime Steakhouse
The elegant Liberty Prime Steakhouse features a diverse array of steaks, chops, and fresh seafood dishes. With exceptional service and a sophisticated ambiance, Liberty Prime provides the ultimate high-end steakhouse experience.
Best Casual Steakhouses in New Jersey
Rails Steakhouse
Rails Steakhouse is a popular choice for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere while still enjoying a delicious meal. Known for their variety of mouthwatering cuts and accompaniments, this establishment is perfect for a casual night out with friends or family.
Their menu offers a wide range of options, such as:
- Filet Mignon
- NY Strip
- Porterhouse for Two
- Tomahawk Chop
Apart from the steaks, Rails Steakhouse also provides other dishes, including pasta, chicken, and seafood, catering to various preferences and dietary needs.
Black Angus Burger
For a slightly different take on the traditional steakhouse, we have the Black Angus Burger. This establishment specializes in crafting high-quality burgers made from the finest cuts of Black Angus beef, ensuring a flavorsome and juicy experience every time.
Their menu features a selection of unique burger offerings such as:
- Classic Black Angus Burger
- BBQ Bacon Cheddar Burger
- Mushroom Swiss Burger
Additionally, Black Angus Burger also serves up a variety of appetizers, salads, and sides to complement any meal. Their laid-back atmosphere, paired with top-notch food, makes this an ideal choice for a casual dining experience.
In summary, Rails Steakhouse and Black Angus Burger both offer excellent casual dining options for those in New Jersey seeking quality steaks and burgers in a more relaxed, yet formal atmosphere.
Fine Dining Experience
The best steakhouses in New Jersey offer a refined dining experience with exquisite dishes that showcase the finest ingredients and culinary techniques.
Hand-Picked Prime Steaks
New Jersey’s top steakhouses pride themselves on their high-quality hand-picked prime steaks. These steaks are often wet-aged for a specific number of days to ensure tenderness and improve flavor. Common cuts of steak include the filet mignon, ribeye, and tenderloin. Wet-aged steaks undergo a unique process where they are vacuum-sealed to let enzymes naturally tenderize the meat. By focusing on this method, steakhouses in New Jersey make sure to serve the best quality, juiciest and most tender steaks to their guests.
Butter-Poached Lobster Tails
A visit to a top steakhouse in New Jersey would not be complete without indulging in their butter-poached lobster tails. This decadent dish involves gently cooking the lobster tail in a rich, buttery sauce, which enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of the lobster meat. Perfectly cooked lobster tail, combined with the delectable butter sauce, creates an unforgettable fine dining experience.
The finest steakhouses in New Jersey take pride in their outstanding service, attention to detail, and dedication to providing an exceptional fine dining experience. Whether you opt for a wet-aged tenderloin or a butter-poached lobster tail, you are sure to have a memorable meal that showcases the best of what New Jersey has to offer in terms of quality ingredients and culinary expertise.
Popular Dishes
Parmesan Truffle Fries
Parmesan Truffle Fries have become a favorite side dish in many steakhouses across the Garden State. These crispy, golden fries are elevated in flavor by the addition of parmesan cheese and truffle oil. The combination of these rich flavors pairs perfectly with the hand-picked prime steaks found at New Jersey’s finest steakhouses, such as the Feathered Fox in Livingston.
Roasted Garlic Chicken
Another popular dish in New Jersey steakhouses is Roasted Garlic Chicken. This entrée features tender chicken cooked to perfection, infused with the aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. As a lighter option, it is an excellent alternative for those looking for something other than red meat, such as skirt steak or veal. The Char Steakhouse in Red Bank is known for its mouth-watering dishes, including both its roasted garlic chicken and its dry-aged beef.
In addition to these must-try dishes, New Jersey steakhouses also offer other notable menu items that cater to various tastes. Diners can indulge in classics like French onion soup or splurge on decadent options like butter-poached lobster tails. Regardless of personal preferences, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the best steakhouses in New Jersey.
Ambience and Amenities
New Jersey is home to an array of top-notch steakhouses that offer elegance and sophistication to cater to a diverse clientele. From live music to extensive wine lists, these establishments provide a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors that set them apart.
Live Music
Many steakhouses in New Jersey understand the importance of setting the mood with the perfect soundtrack, so they offer live music to entertain their guests. For instance, some venues in North Jersey and Central Jersey often have talented local musicians serenade diners during their meals, creating an inviting and energizing atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners.
Extensive Wine List
A great steakhouse experience is incomplete without an impressive selection of wines to pair with the delicious cuts of meat. Steakhouses in cities like Morristown and Jersey City pride themselves on offering an extensive wine list, curated by experienced sommeliers, to provide guests with the perfect pairing for their steak and side dishes. From regional favorites to international selections, you can expect a diverse range of options to please any palate.
Outdoor Dining
During warmer months, New Jersey steakhouses offer outdoor dining, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful scenery. This feature is especially popular in picturesque locales like Morristown, where alfresco dining is a coveted experience for both locals and visitors. Outdoor dining areas are designed to maintain the same level of hospitality and ambiance as their indoor counterparts, ensuring a memorable meal under the stars.
By focusing on these key aspects of ambience and amenities, steakhouses in New Jersey provide unforgettable experiences for their patrons. Sit back and indulge in the flavors while great music plays in the background, or enjoy a perfect glass of wine paired with your steak, and savor the moment within the cozy and elegant settings that these establishments have to offer.
The Best Steakhouses in Specific New Jersey Locations
Edgewater, NJ
In Edgewater, one of the top steakhouses is River Palm Terrace. This elegant steakhouse offers traditional and sultry ambiance, making it perfect for a special occasion. Known for their high-quality steaks and exceptional service, River Palm Terrace is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Westfield, NJ
Westfield is home to a classic steakhouse called Steakhouse 83. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, this steakhouse specializes in delicious, tender steaks and mouthwatering sides. It is an ideal spot for a family gathering or an intimate dinner for two.
Atlantic City, NJ
The historic Knife and Fork Inn in Atlantic City has been family-run for over 90 years. Known for its fantastic wine offerings and steakhouse classics, the Knife and Fork Inn is a must-visit when in Atlantic City. Its elegant setting and top-notch steaks make it a sought-after dining destination along New Jersey’s Atlantic coast.
Towaco, NJ
In Towaco, Rails Steakhouse stands out for its unique combination of upscale dining and rustic charm, taking inspiration from the surroundings. Alongside its exceptional steaks, the restaurant also offers a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options to cater to different preferences.
Cuts of Steak to Expect
New Jersey is home to some amazing steakhouses, offering a wide variety of cuts and styles. Below is a list of some of the most popular cuts you can expect to find at the best steakhouses in the region.
Filet Mignon
Filet Mignon is derived from the tenderloin, making it one of the most tender cuts of beef. It is usually served in smaller portions, as it is lean and has a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Dry-Aged Porterhouse
The Dry-Aged Porterhouse is a large cut that includes both the strip and tenderloin. The dry-aging process adds a rich, nutty flavor to the steak, enhancing its tenderness. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a flavorful, generously sized steak.
Sirloin
The Sirloin cut comes from the rear of the cow and offers a mix of tenderness and robust flavor. This cut is often available in various styles, such as New York Strip and Kansas City Steak, each with their own distinctive taste.
Rib Eye
The Rib Eye cut is known for its marbling and rich flavor. It is derived from the rib section of the cow and offers a juicy, tender eating experience, making it a popular choice among steak-lovers.
Delmonico
The Delmonico is a boneless ribeye steak that is well-marbled and offers a rich, beefy flavor. It is named after the famous New York City restaurant where it was first popularized.
Cowboy Steak
A Cowboy Steak is a large, bone-in ribeye steak that is generously marbled and offers a robust flavor. The bone enhances the taste and creates a visually impressive dish, perfect for a hearty meal.
Bone-In Ribeye
The Bone-In Ribeye is another variation of the ribeye steak, featuring the rib bone for added flavor and presentation. This cut is prized for its juicy, tender meat and rich flavor.
Wagyu Beef
Wagyu Beef originates from Japan and is renowned for its intense marbling, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful steak. A specialty found in some steakhouses in NJ, Wagyu beef can be quite expensive but offers a unique and luxurious dining experience.
Bone-In Rib Eye
The Bone-In Rib Eye is a version of the ribeye steak that still has the rib bone attached. The bone adds to the flavor and makes for an impressive presentation on the dinner plate.
Prime Porterhouse
The Prime Porterhouse is a larger, more marbled version of the porterhouse steak, sourced from high-quality USDA Prime beef. Known for its rich flavor and impressive size, the Prime Porterhouse is a favorite for special occasions.
Sustainable Seafood Options in Nj
New Jersey is home to an array of top-notch steakhouses, but many of them also offer an impressive selection of sustainable seafood options. Visitors seeking a delightful surf and turf experience can discover a variety of dishes featuring responsibly sourced seafood.
At PH Steakhouse, for example, diners can indulge themselves in a delicious meal featuring the finest cuts of steak accompanied by fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. The menu includes appetizing brunch options that seamlessly blend the flavors of land and sea for an unforgettable taste experience. Grilled shrimp is one of the popular choices available, prepared to perfection and paired with a mouthwatering sauce.
Another excellent option for sustainable seafood is Crab Island, offering a vast variety of seafood dishes. This establishment pays homage to its marine namesake by demonstrating a commitment to promoting sustainability. The menu encompasses both à la carte and combo offerings, ensuring a variety of seafood selections to satisfy any craving.
Lastly, consider exploring Ocean Casino Resort’s steakhouse, as mentioned by New Jersey Monthly. Here, you can enjoy scrumptious surf and turf combinations that boast sustainability and exceptional flavor. The restaurant also presents a unique opportunity to try the renowned Wagyu beef, elevating your dining experience even further.
Regardless of your preferences, it is essential to make informed choices when dining out. As a consumer, opting for establishments that prioritize sustainable seafood options helps protect the environment and ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy these delicacies without negatively impacting marine biodiversity.
Side Dishes to Complement your Steaks in NJ Restaurants
A well-rounded steakhouse experience goes beyond the main course. It’s the accompanying side dishes that elevate the meal and add variety to the flavors and textures. In the best steakhouses in New Jersey, you can expect a range of delicious side options, chosen to enhance the taste of your chosen cut of steak. Here are some standout side dishes often found in top-tier steakhouses in New Jersey, including favorites such as mushrooms, creamed spinach, and parmesan truffle fries.
Mushrooms: A classic side dish, mushrooms provide an earthy complement to the rich flavor of a perfectly cooked steak. They can be sautéed with garlic and butter pairing perfectly with a juicy New York strip or a tender filet mignon.
Creamed Spinach: A popular choice in many steakhouses, creamed spinach offers a wonderful balance of creamy and leafy textures. This rich and savory side dish adds a delightful contrast to the meat, and its smooth, velvety consistency is a perfect match for any cut.
Parmesan Truffle Fries: For those who desire a side with more indulgence, parmesan truffle fries are a favored option. These crispy fries are tossed in truffle oil and grated parmesan, adding a touch of luxury to your meal. The combination of flavors works harmoniously with a succulent ribeye or a well-aged porterhouse.
Baby Arugula Salad: For something a bit lighter, a baby arugula salad is an ideal option. The slightly peppery taste of the arugula pairs well with the rich flavors of steak, while the crisp freshness provides a welcome balance to the heartiness of the meat. Additions like shaved parmesan and a tangy vinaigrette round out the dish.
Crispy Onions: A fun and flavorful addition, crispy onions can add both taste and texture to your steak dinner. With their satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness, they work well as an accompaniment to a variety of steaks, particularly those with big, bold flavors like a bone-in ribeye or a Kansas City strip.
When dining at a top New Jersey steakhouse, you’ll find these delicious side dishes and more to enhance your meal and take your steak experience to the next culinary level. Remember to consider each side’s flavors and textures when making your selection to ensure a harmonious and satisfying dining experience.
Meal Enhancements with Steaks in NJ
New Jersey steakhouses are known for offering a range of meal enhancements that complement their high-quality steaks. For a delightful dining experience, guests can choose from a variety of sauces, sushi, and cocktails to enhance their meals.
Steakhouses often pride themselves on their house-made sauces to elevate the flavor of their steaks. Popular sauces include classic béarnaise, peppercorn, and blue cheese butter. These flavorful sauces are crafted with skill, ensuring each offers the perfect complement to your steak.
In addition to sauces, guests can also explore delectable seafood options such as sushi or sashimi to complement their meal. Venues like Ocean Casino Resort‘s steakhouse serve a range of fresh sushi options for customers, allowing them to experience a unique culinary combination of succulent steak and expertly prepared sushi.
Embarking on a culinary adventure at New Jersey’s steakhouses is further enhanced by the wide range of handcrafted cocktails available. Patrons can choose from an array of classic and innovative recipes crafted by experienced mixologists. The ample availability of signature cocktails provides refreshing accompaniments to your steak, ensuring you get the most out of your dining experience.
In summary, New Jersey steakhouses are not only known for their high-quality steaks but also for their extensive selection of meal enhancements such as sauces, sushi, and cocktails. From diverse culinary flavors to exquisite beverages, these enhancements provide patrons with a truly memorable and enjoyable dining experience.
Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Along With Steaks
While enjoying a delicious steak dinner at one of New Jersey’s best steakhouses, it’s important to save room for dessert. Many steakhouses in the area offer a wide variety of mouthwatering desserts that cater to the sweet cravings of their customers. Let’s take a look at some popular dessert options you might find at such establishments.
Signature chocolate cakes are often a staple item on the dessert menu at many steakhouses. Prepared to perfection, these cakes typically feature multiple layers of moist chocolate cake, smooth chocolate ganache or frosting, and tasteful garnishes. This decadent option is perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a satisfying end to their meal.
Cheesecake is another popular dessert choice found at many steakhouses in New Jersey. With a rich, creamy texture, cheesecake often comes in various flavors, from classic vanilla to more adventurous offerings like salted caramel or seasonal fruit offerings. Cheesecake provides a delightful balance of sweet and tangy, allowing guests to indulge in this timeless dessert.
Fruit-based desserts, like warm apple crisp or blueberry pie, also make an appearance on steakhouse dessert menus. New Jersey is well-known for its blueberries, with Hammonton being considered the blueberry capital of the world. Thus, it’s not uncommon to find delectable blueberry pies or other blueberry-infused treats at local steakhouses.
For a more sophisticated option, consider trying a crème brûlée, a classic French dessert often found at upscale steakhouses. This rich, creamy custard is topped with a thin, brittle layer of caramelized sugar, providing a satisfying crunch to complement the velvety custard beneath.
In conclusion, when dining at a New Jersey steakhouse, don’t forget to explore the dessert menu. The variety of options, from classic chocolate cakes to fruity delights, ensures every sweet tooth will find satisfaction. A lovely dessert is the perfect way to complete an exquisite steak dinner experience in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated steakhouses in New Jersey?
Several steakhouses in New Jersey have earned rave reviews. The Best of NJ features a 2023 edition list of the best spots to enjoy a delicious steak, including favorites like filet mignon, skirt steak, and New York strip steak.
Which steakhouses in Central NJ are highly recommended?
Yelp has a list of The Best 10 Steakhouses near me in Central Jersey, New Jersey with high ratings. Featured establishments include Jasper Stone Italian Steakhouse, Steakhouse 85, and Toca vez, among others.
What are the best steakhouses in North and South Jersey?
For a top-notch steakhouse in North Jersey, consider checking out The Feathered Fox in Livingston, NJ. In South Jersey, Franklinville Inn and LB One Steakhouse are popular choices.
Where can I find a great steakhouse near my location in New Jersey?
You can use websites such as Yelp to search for highly-rated steakhouses near your location in New Jersey. Simply input your zip code and preferred distance to find nearby options.
What types of steaks are most popular at New Jersey steakhouses?
New Jersey steakhouses offer a wide range of steak cuts to satisfy diverse palates. Popular options include filet mignon, skirt steak, flank steak, T-Bone, rib eye, and New York strip steak, as mentioned in the Best of NJ list.
What is the history of renowned steakhouses in New Jersey?
The history of renowned steakhouses in New Jersey is rich with stories of culinary excellence and the evolution of dining experiences. Many longstanding establishments have adapted to changing tastes and dining trends, providing exceptional food and service to generations of customers. You can find detailed histories of individual steakhouses on their respective websites or by talking to their knowledgeable staff.