27 Best Restaurants in Bayonne, NJ
This article was written by local contributor Rhys Adams & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Welcome to Bayonne, my hometown!
This charming New Jersey city is not only rich in history and culture but also offers an amazing array of mouthwatering dining options.
I've spent years exploring and indulging in the culinary delights this city has to offer, and I'm excited to share some of my favorites with you!
From classic comfort food to exotic global cuisine, there's something to satisfy every taste bud.
So, join me as I take you on a tantalizing tour of the best restaurants in Bayonne, New Jersey.
Let's dive into the flavors of this hidden gem!
Cafe Talya
One of my absolute favorite places to grab breakfast in town is Cafe Talya.
From the moment you walk in, you feel the warmth of a family-like atmosphere.
I can't get enough of their coffee - it's simply divine!
They use coffee ice cubes in their iced coffee, which is such a clever idea, as it ensures the drink never gets watered down.
As for the food, I tried their Turkish omelet with Turkish sausage, and it was delicious.
My partner, on the other hand, swears by their burger.
KP Sarelli's
I can't help but gush about my recent experience at KP Sarelli's, a Northern Italian restaurant in our lovely town.
From the moment my partner and I walked in, we were greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home.
To start, we shared a delectable eggplant rollatini appetizer, which left us craving more.
For our main courses, I indulged in a pasta dish that tasted incredibly fresh and flavorful, while my partner opted for the veal parmigiana.
Both dishes exceeded our expectations and left us perfectly satisfied.
It's also worth mentioning that the house wine served at KP Sarelli's is fantastic, complementing our meals perfectly.
To finish off our evening, we treated ourselves to a Tartufo dessert, which was hands down one of the best we've ever had!
Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
I recently decided to try out Hook & Reel for a lunch outing, and I must say, it was truly a delightful experience.
Walking in, I immediately noticed the lovely atmosphere and decor, which really adds to the overall dining experience.
Their lunch specials caught my eye, and I opted for one of their signature seafood boils.
Now, I'm a bit of a sauce enthusiast, so next time I visit, I'll definitely be trying more of their sauce options.
On this particular visit, I chose one of their delicious, flavorful sauces to accompany my seafood boil.
The food was mouth-watering, and the service was top-notch.
But the real standout for me was the heavenly Sunset cocktail - seriously, I can't wait to try and recreate it at home.
Aside from the fantastic food and drinks, I also enjoyed the fun little puzzles on the table paper covers - a small detail that added to the overall experience.
Yi Sushi Go!
I absolutely love Yi Sushi Go! in Bayonne.
It's a no-fuss sushi joint with a large selection of rolls to choose from.
They really excel with their specialty rolls, although their nigiri could use some small improvements.
This place is mostly meant for takeout, but they do have a few small tables if you want to eat in, just don't expect full service.
I'm really glad this spot exists, as there aren't many sushi options in the neighborhood.
Some of my personal recommendations include the Party Tray Special P1, edamame, fried dumplings, shrimp tempura, seaweed salad, miso soup, shrimp tempura roll, spicy salmon roll, spicy crab roll, salmon nigiri, and the tuna salmon avocado roll.
The eel rice bowl, sushi (especially the spicy salmon and dragon roll), miso soup, and drinks were fantastic!
If you're in the mood for a unique beverage, give the melon or original ramune a try.
Flame Indian Grill
I recently discovered the Flame Indian Grill in my neighborhood, and I must say it has quickly become one of my favorite Indian restaurants in the area.
The first time I went there, I decided to take my daughter for lunch, and we were both blown away by the authentic and flavorful dishes they offered.
We decided to order an appetizer to split but ended up taking the rest of the order to go because it was so much food!
The service at Flame Indian Grill is also top-notch.
Even though the restaurant was bustling with food deliveries and take-out orders, they still managed to provide a relaxing and calming ambiance.
There's something about the delicious food and lovely décor that makes you want to keep coming back for more.
On my second visit, I went with my partner, and we were both impressed with the menu selection.
Everything was freshly made, even though we came at the end of the night.
One dish that I highly recommend trying at Flame Indian Grill is the shrimp butter masala, served over fragrant rice.
And don't forget to order some cheese naan to go with it!
Steak & Bake
One of my go-to spots for a quick and delicious meal is Steak & Bake, an American restaurant in my neighborhood.
Just the other day, I ordered their turkey wrap and bacon breakfast burrito, and as always, they were super filling and delicious.
The fillings went all the way to the bottom of the wrap, so there was no extra wrap to deal with.
And let me tell you about their chocolate chip cookies – they're absolutely delightful!
The folks working at Steak & Bake, who I assume are the owners, are always friendly and welcoming.
It's nice to have such a lovely local place to grab a tasty bite whenever I crave it.
What I particularly appreciate about their establishment is that the cooking is done right in front of you, so you can see everything being prepared just the way you want it.
Plus, the restaurant is always clean, and the menu offers a great variety of options.
As a newcomer, the workers were more than happy to help me navigate their menu and figure out how I wanted each meal.
Now, I can't wait to head back for more.
Starfish & Chips
I recently had the pleasure of trying out Starfish & Chips, a quaint seafood restaurant in my neighborhood.
I've been hearing about it from my friends, and I can now confirm that it is indeed better than Hook & Reel!
I ordered the grilled red snapper, and it was absolutely delightful.
The fish was fresh and perfectly seasoned, and I'm pretty sure it weighed over 2 lbs!
The brown rice served alongside was definitely not your average rice - I believe it was marinated with a Mediterranean touch.
As an avid seafood lover, I couldn't resist trying out their mussels, and I was not disappointed.
The dish had an abundance of meat mixed with a scrumptious red sauce.
I also got to taste their fried calamari with fries, which were super crispy, and the size of the calamari rings was almost comparable to onion rings.
What really stood out to me was not only the quality of the food but also the reasonable prices and excellent customer service.
The next time I'm craving some delicious seafood, I know where I'll be heading - Starfish & Chips!
Hot & Toasty Bagels
Whenever I'm craving a delicious and satisfying breakfast, I always head to Hot & Toasty Bagels.
I know I can count on them for the best-tasting bagels in the area, and their bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel never disappoints.
I also love treating myself to a corn muffin toasted with butter - it's absolutely indulgent.
Their coffee is also top-notch, the perfect complement to my breakfast.
One of the things I appreciate the most about Hot & Toasty Bagels is how family-friendly it is.
I often bring my kids along, and they always accommodate our custom bacon on-the-side order for my little one.
I've tried the Lox on a recommendation, and it was truly amazing. If you're a fan of salmon, you'll definitely want to give it a try.
I can't resist taking home some of their huge bagels, which are absolutely worth the $1.50 each.
They make them fresh every morning, and I'd even go as far as saying they're the best bagels in Bayonne.
The Well & Grill
The other night, I decided to check out The Well & Grill, a local bar that I had heard great things about.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and accommodating bartenders.
The atmosphere was fantastic, with an older gentleman strumming away on his guitar, providing live music for everyone to enjoy.
I ordered the Highway Burger, cooked perfectly medium rare, and it was a delicious combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and BBQ sauce, topped with onion rings.
Although the BBQ sauce was good, the burger was flavorful enough on its own without it.
Piccolino Ristorante NJ
One of my favorite spots for Italian cuisine in the area is Piccolino Ristorante NJ.
I recently had a girls' night out there, and as always, it did not disappoint. We had a reservation for 7 pm, and I easily found street parking nearby.
Upon entering, I was warmly greeted and promptly seated at our table.
We were thrilled to discover that they offer a prefixed menu on weekdays, which includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert for just $24.
For my entrée, I chose the jumbo shrimp Fiorentina, and it was absolutely delicious.
All of my friends loved their meals as well, and the portions were generous.
The ambiance at Piccolino Ristorante is cozy and inviting, with a beautiful outdoor seating area that adds to the boutique-like feel of the place.
Cafe Bello
Just the other night, I decided to treat myself to a delicious Italian dinner at Cafe Bello, a cozy eatery in my town.
As I walked in, I immediately appreciated the warm and comfortable atmosphere.
I started my meal with an appetizing plate of mussels in marinara, followed by a scrumptious main course of Broccoli Rabe and sausage.
To top it all off, I indulged in their meatballs and pasta, which was cooked to perfection.
The portions were generous, but everything tasted so fresh and flavorful that I couldn't resist devouring it all.
I noticed a nearby table celebrating a birthday, and it was evident that everyone was having a fantastic time.
Even families with small children seemed to have a delightful experience.
I am already looking forward to my next visit to Cafe Bello, where I can once again revel in the unbeatable combination of mouthwatering Italian cuisine, a comforting ambiance, and top-notch service.
Starting Point Bar & Grill
I've been coming to Starting Point Bar & Grill for quite some time now, and it has never failed to impress me.
The pub-style pizzas are amazing, and they've got some of the best French fries and cheesesteaks that remind me of the boardwalk in Seaside.
The chicken tacos are a must-try, and their variety of sandwiches never disappoints.
Oh, and let's not forget their mouthwatering mac n' cheese!
Not only is the food top-notch, but the service is always great too.
It's always a pleasure to dine in such a laid-back and welcoming environment.
Plus, the prices are super reasonable, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite or a meet-up with friends.
El Aguila Dorada
I've been a regular at El Aguila Dorada for years now, and I can't get enough of their delicious Mexican dishes.
The brightly-painted interior and casual vibe make it a perfect spot for a laid-back meal with friends or family.
One of my favorite things to start with is their chorizo queso dip.
It's seriously a 10 out of 10, and I can't help but order it every time I visit.
As for drinks, their coconut mojito is absolutely delightful, perfectly sweet, and refreshing.
The BullDog is another solid choice if you're looking for something different.
When it comes to the main course, I usually go for the chicken fajitas or the fish tacos, but their churrasco is also super yummy.
The avocado salad and fries are great side options to complete the meal.
Plus, they have a little bit of music playing in the background, which only adds to the overall atmosphere.
A Hidden Gem: Tortilla Bite and Grill
I can't believe more people don't know about this amazing Guatemalan restaurant in our neighborhood!
I've been eating at Tortilla Bite and Grill several times a week, and it's become my little secret spot.
The decor and ambiance are so welcoming, with bright and beautiful colors creating that taqueria-like feel.
It's a family-owned and operated place, so the service is always warm and makes you feel right at home.
Now, let's talk about the food. I must admit that while it's not bad, it could use some improvement.
I've tried their steak tacos, chicken tacos, and a steak burrito.
The presentation and plating are lovely, but the taste is a bit basic.
The steak could use more flavor, and the salsa verde can be a little too overwhelming.
The burrito could also use some work, as the steak was chewy and fatty.
If you're a fan of simple, authentic Guatemalan food, this might be your new favorite spot.
A Cozy Dining Experience at Hendrickson's Corner
Let me tell you about my recent visit to Hendrickson's Corner, a traditional American restaurant that serves delicious steaks, burgers, and other classic dishes.
The moment I walked in, I was transported to a different time and place, as if I was in a quaint German chalet.
I ended up trying their chocolate Yeungling Porter, which was absolutely amazing.
I also had the pleasure of tasting their French Dip and grilled Pork Chop, both of which exceeded my expectations in flavor and presentation.
What really caught my attention, though, was the mesmerizing décor that truly made this restaurant feel like a hidden gem in the neighborhood.
With its old-fashioned aesthetic and warm atmosphere, dining at Hendrickson's Corner felt like a comforting embrace on a rainy day.
Besides the excellent food, I also tried a couple of their signature cocktails – the Milky Way and the White Wolf.
Both drinks were delicious, with distinct flavors that had me feeling delightfully tipsy.
I must say, their onion soup was hands down the best I've ever had - perfectly balanced in flavor while being generously topped with gooey cheese.
Satisfying Cravings at Wasabi Thai
I absolutely love going to Wasabi Thai for satisfying my sushi and Thai food cravings.
The food is always fresh and delicious, and I've never been disappointed with my orders.
Just the other day, I ordered delivery and opted for the salad, wonton soup, and Pad Thai.
I was so impressed by the big portions and how great it all tasted, even when reheated the next day.
The Pad Thai was exceptional, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked shrimp.
I was even pleasantly surprised at how well the shrimp reheated.
The Thai iced tea was a generous size and very sweet but still enjoyable.
I couldn't help myself and ordered again for pick-up a few days later, going for the maki combo, which included a tuna roll, California roll, and shrimp tempura roll, along with soup and salad.
The rolls were great, and the miso soup was a standout with its generous portion size and delicious seaweed.
Although they don't have Wi-Fi, I still find myself dining in occasionally.
The food is consistently served fast and fresh, making it one of my go-to spots for a casual date night with my partner.
We usually stick to our favorites: sushi, garlic wings, fried dumplings, scallion pancakes, and spicy pad Thai.
And as a bonus, it's also BYOB, so we're able to enjoy our favorite drinks alongside our meal.
Parking can be a bit tricky, but it's a small price to pay for the great food and service at Wasabi Thai.
A Cozy Meal at Teddy's Place
Every time I crave authentic Greek food, I find myself visiting Teddy's Place.
I've been a regular customer for over a decade now, and their food never disappoints.
The menu is quite diverse, offering everything from traditional gyros on a pita to Greek fries, platters, soups, salads, and even baklava!
I remember one day when I was feeling under the weather, I decided to order their avgolemono soup and Halloumi salad – it was exactly what I needed.
Another time, I fed my family of four for just $24, with a large platter that included a Greek salad, yellow rice, half a charbroiled chicken, a warm pita, grape leaves, and feta.
The food was absolutely delicious, and it has become one of our go-to spots for takeout.
Although it's not the fanciest place for ambiance, you can dine in if you choose, and there's metered street parking available.
My partner and I have tried various dishes from the menu, such as the chicken souvlaki, cheeseburgers, onion rings, and their incredible carrot cake.
The chicken kabob dinner with yellow rice is one of my partner's favorites, and it comes with a generous portion of salad, olives, feta cheese, and pita bread.
The white sauce that accompanies the dish is always fresh and full of flavor.
A Memorable Dinner at Angelina's Italian Restaurant
I recently decided to check out Angelina's Italian restaurant, as I had heard some fantastic things about their food.
So one evening, I went there with a friend to experience it for myself.
When we arrived around 5:30 pm on a weekday, we noticed that the restaurant was quite dark, and there were only a handful of people present.
We stood there for a couple of minutes before asking if we could be seated.
When we were finally seated, we got to order immediately.
The food is remarkable, especially their red sauce and chicken parmesan. Next time, I'll give their takeout service a try.
A Night to Remember at Rincon De España
I absolutely love going to Rincon De España for dinner with my family or for a romantic date night with my significant other.
The food is always amazing, and I have fond memories of my dad taking me there as a kid to enjoy their delicious stuffed lobster tails.
Over the years, the quality of the food has remained consistently phenomenal, and I can't recommend this Spanish restaurant enough.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a simple yet elegant dining space.
I usually order my favorite Long Island Iced Tea, and they always nail it.
On my recent visit with a group of friends, we shared a variety of dishes, including the crab salad, chorizo, garlic chicken, escargot, and soup.
Everything was absolutely delicious, and their sangria is dangerously good.
It's been quite some time since my last visit to Rincon De España, and it was fantastic to see that it's still as awesome as ever.
My family enjoyed a wonderful dinner there, with standout dishes like shrimp in garlic sauce, spare ribs, and lamb chops.
Despite there being only one other table occupied at the time, the food came out quickly, and we left raving about how great everything was.
I truly hope that more people discover this gem of a restaurant, as they truly deserve a steady stream of customers coming in to enjoy their incredible Spanish fare.
A Favorite Spot for Poke Bowls and Sushi Burritos
I absolutely love stopping by Poke Bowl for a quick and healthy meal.
The poke bowls are always so fresh and flavorful, and I never feel like they're skimping on the portions.
Their sushi burrito wraps are another favorite of mine, and I'm always amazed by how quickly they prepare my order.
The girls at the counter are always so sweet, and I've even had them bring my order out to my car while my baby sleeps.
It's definitely become a go-to spot for me, and I highly recommend it to anyone craving delicious, fresh poke or sushi burritos in the area.
Dine at Tarboosh Middle Eastern Restaurant
Just a few weeks ago, I decided to give Tarboosh a try, and I must say it was a satisfying experience.
My friends and I got the Lamb Shish Kabob Platter and the Chicken Shawarma Platter, which were both subtly and beautifully spiced.
They even provided extra pita bread in a basket for us to share.
On top of that, I had the most refreshing Licorice Iced Tea - a unique red-colored drink that I regret not taking a picture of.
The service was good, and the food swiftly arrived.
Pita, garlic sauce, and other items came towards the end of our meal, so we couldn't exactly enjoy everything together due to these minor delays.
A Visit to Buon Appetito
I've always been a fan of Italian cuisine, so when I heard about Buon Appetito, an Italian restaurant in Bayonne, I knew I had to give it a try.
From the moment I stepped into the dark-hued dining room, I could feel the warm and cozy atmosphere typical of a traditional Italian eatery.
I especially appreciated the adjacent deli, which added an extra touch to the overall experience.
On my first visit, I decided to go for their homemade ravioli, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made!
The pasta was incredibly fresh, and the filling was packed with so much flavor that
I couldn't help but savor every bite. I also tried their baked ziti, pasta broccoli, and garlic bread, which were all equally delicious.
For dessert, I indulged in a cannoli, and it was the perfect ending to an amazing meal.
One thing to note, though, is that you should definitely allow some extra time before picking up your order, especially if you're getting it through takeout. B
ut trust me, it's worth the wait!
Dining at Dominican Power Restaurant
Whenever I'm in the mood for authentic Dominican cuisine, I like to visit the Dominican Power Restaurant.
The food is truly delightful!
The restaurant tends to be busy during peak hours, so I usually try to visit during off-peak times to avoid crowds.
Despite the hectic atmosphere, the food is always worth the wait.
I've noticed that some people find the dishes to be a bit dry, but in my opinion, the flavors are spot on. I'm a local, and I find the food quality to be consistent and satisfying.
It's true that the service might not be perfect, but the delicious food keeps me coming back time and time again.
A Cozy Breakfast at Lighthouse Family Restaurant and Diner
As a regular at the Lighthouse Family Restaurant and Diner in Bayonne, I can confidently say that it has become my go-to spot for breakfast and comfort food.
I remember the first time I tried their waffle, it was light and fluffy, served with butter and syrup, accompanied by bacon and eggs.
All of that for just $11! My friend, who joined me that day, ordered an omelet, which she loved.
She told me it was packed with feta cheese and it came with toast, jam, and potatoes.
It was indeed a lot of food, perfect for starting off our day.
The hot chocolate is another favorite of mine. It's rich, chocolatey, and comes with whipped cream on top.
On my next visit, I plan to try their muffins, black and white cookies, and cake, which I've heard are divine.
Brunch at The Little Food Cafe
I recently visited The Little Food Cafe in Bayonne, and I must say it's a laid-back spot that offers a great selection of brunch classics, sandwiches, meat dishes, and salads.
Although it's a cash-only establishment, it's definitely worth it.
I had a chance to try their "best" breakfast sandwich, and while it was quite flavorful, it had a bit too much mayo for my liking.
During my visit, I also noticed that they have some fantastic daily specials and a selection of delicious desserts.
Discovering La Branche Bistro & Café
Since I moved to this neighborhood, I had been on the lookout for the perfect brunch spot, and I finally found it at La Branche Bistro & Café. This place has all of my brunch favorites and some unique treasures, like their delightful crepes and cachapas.
I've tried a few of their dishes, and I can't wait to go back for more.
One of the things that struck me was the wonderfully diverse crowd that frequented La Branche.
It is also pet-friendly, which is a bonus for those of us with fur babies.
The appetizers are amazing, and the overall atmosphere of the bistro is very clean and relaxing.
The coffee is great, too - not bitter at all, just the way I like it.
Even the paper napkins feel high-class enough that I had to take one as a souvenir!
Enjoying a Seafood Feast at Bayonne Batter
I've had the pleasure of trying out Bayonne Batter a few times now. I must say, their fish and shrimp combo is an absolute delight!
For just $16.00, you get two hearty pieces of fish, five tender and crispy shrimp, and a generous serving of fries.
They even include some delicious sauces to dip your seafood in.
While the restaurant is primarily focused on takeout and delivery, I always prefer the dine-in experience whenever possible.
Bayonne Batter only has two or three small tables available, but I do hope they'll consider adding more seating in the future. I've pre-ordered through Grubhub to ensure my meal is ready as soon as I arrive, which is always a nice convenience.
In addition to the fish and shrimp combo, I've also tried their Mac and cheese, which definitely deserves a notable mention.
I've had friends and family members visit from out of town, and they've all been impressed with the quality and taste of Bayonne Batter's seafood dishes.
The fried fish, Mac and cheese, and even the wings have all been a hit!
Final Thoughts
It's clear that Bayonne has an incredible variety of restaurants to offer.
From mouthwatering seafood at Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar to the authentic taste of Spain at Rincon De España, there's always a place to satisfy my cravings.
The diverse food scene in Bayonne truly reflects the vibrant community that calls this charming city home, and I feel fortunate to have such a wide range of culinary delights right on my doorstep.
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