20 Best Restaurants in Fort Lee, NJ

Fort Lee is a diverse little town nestled right across the George Washington Bridge from Manhattan.

I've lived here for a couple of years now, and I must say, the food scene is absolutely incredible.

From the vast array of Korean cuisine to Italian classics and even some hidden gems serving up mouth-watering dishes from around the globe, there's something for everyone in this quaint New Jersey town.

I've spent countless hours exploring the culinary landscape of Fort Lee, and I'm excited to share the 20 best restaurants in Fort Lee, New Jersey.

Trust me, you don't want to miss out on these unforgettable dining experiences.

So, without further ado, here are my personal favorites that you absolutely must try the next time you find yourself in Fort Lee.

Sushi Aoki

I recently visited Sushi Aoki in Fort Lee, and it was absolutely superb.

This sleek sushi bar offers multi-course, chef's choice menus in an intimate, upmarket setting.

The omakase spot is chef and wife-owned, and the atmosphere is quiet but friendly.

With only 8 bar seats, it's essential to make a reservation at least a month in advance.

The fish served at Sushi Aoki is extremely fresh, with most of it imported from Japan along with other ingredients.

My favorite dish of the night was the otoro handroll, which was incredibly melt-in-your-mouth good.

The sushi rice was perfectly cooked and seasoned, enhancing the overall experience.

Another memorable dish we had during our visit was the uni nigiri, which was so delicious that I had to order an extra piece.

The sweet umami flavor was so good that I couldn't help but tear up.

Other standout dishes included the soy-marinated stripe bass, saltwater eel (anago) that was slightly torched, Botan ebi, and O-toro, which just melted away in my mouth.

We ended our meal with a delightful vanilla ice cream with fruit & seaweed jelly in cream soda dessert, which was a surprisingly delicious treat that everyone at the bar enjoyed.

Our entire experience lasted around 90 minutes, and we left feeling satisfied and grateful for such high-quality food.

Oh Mammy Curry Factory

Being a local, I'm always on the lookout for hidden gems in Fort Lee, and I recently stumbled upon the Oh Mammy Curry Factory.

As soon as I walked in, I could tell it was a small place, with only one table for seating, but mainly focused on takeout.

I decided to try their signature dish, the fermented curry.

It had a unique taste, unlike any other curry I've tasted before, and it was absolutely delicious!

The karaage chicken was another favorite of mine.

While I found the signature curry to be quite spicy, my wife and our kid enjoyed the butter chicken curry, which was not spicy at all.

While waiting for my order, I checked out the interesting drinks they had in the fridge.

I decided to try the Makomo tea, which turned out to be a fantastic choice.

It was a chilled, smooth, and calming tea that helped soothe my tummy after indulging in the spicy curry.

I loved it so much that I came back a few days later to buy some more for my family and friends.

Apart from the drinks and curries, Oh Mammy Curry Factory also offers various healthy items to take home, including frozen curries.

PJ Sushi

One of my favorite spots to grab sushi in town is PJ Sushi in Fort Lee.

This small, casual sushi bar offers a great selection of fresh sushi at an affordable price.

I've been coming here for years with my family, and we always leave satisfied!

When you first walk in, the place might not seem very exciting, but trust me, the food will blow you away.

Their miso soup is delicious, and their sushi rolls, like the David special, shrimp tempura, salmon avocado, and dragon roll, are always a hit.

I also love their sashimi, which comes in quite generous portions.

The place itself is a cozy mom-and-pop shop with a few indoor seating options.

It's not exactly a date night spot, but it's perfect for a casual meal or, even better, ordering takeout to enjoy at home.

Aside from their sushi and sashimi, PJ Sushi also offers great lunch specials, which I recently tried and found to be a fantastic value.

In terms of drinks, I haven't tried anything off their menu yet, but I usually pair their sushi with some sake or beer at home.

The prices here are very reasonable, especially considering the quality and quantity of sushi you get.

The Halal Guys

Last week, I decided to visit The Halal Guys in Fort Lee after hearing about their flavorful American Halal Food.

I was excited to rediscover the taste of their famous White Sauce, which I've heard can't be replicated in any other cuisine.

As I entered the restaurant, I was pleased to see that they had successfully transitioned from a food cart to a brick-and-mortar establishment while maintaining the same quality and taste that people love.

I ordered a chicken and rice plate, and I must say, it tasted exactly like I remembered from my late-night visits to their 53rd Street cart in the city years ago.

The meat was seasoned to perfection, and the fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors delighted my taste buds with every bite.

The portion size was generous, and I could hardly finish my meal.

Thankfully, they provided their pre-packaged sauces, which I took home to enjoy with my leftovers.

The White Sauce was, of course, the star of the show, and I appreciate that they've managed to keep it consistent throughout their expansion.

Menya Sandaime

Whenever I have a craving for ramen, Menya Sandaime is my go-to spot in the neighborhood.

This Japanese eatery specializes in ramen dishes and offers a cozy, wood-lined space with traditional decor that makes every visit feel authentic.

The first time I visited Menya Sandaime, I brought along some vegetarian friends, and they were delighted to find vegetarian miso ramen on the menu.

Since then, it has become their favorite dish, and they can't get enough of it.

My all-time favorite, however, is their chashu (pork) don.

It's not ramen, but it's a simple, non-fussy rice bowl that hits the spot every time, and it's only about $12.

Although Menya Sandaime can get pretty busy sometimes, especially during peak hours, the service has always been top-notch.

One night, I brought my family along, and we ordered a variety of dishes, including tonkotsu ramen, miso ramen, and black ramen.

My kids were thrilled to find out that there's a hidden kids menu for families with children.

We also tried their popular gyoza, which was perfectly crispy and delicious.

The portions at Menya Sandaime are quite generous, and we always leave feeling satisfied.

The cozy ambiance at this ramen spot never disappoints, and I can't wait for my next visit.

Katsune Donkatsu Cafe

One day, I was craving something delicious and out of the ordinary, so I decided to check out the Katsune Donkatsu Cafe.

As soon as I walked in, I was pleasantly surprised by the relaxed atmosphere of this Asian restaurant.

What really caught my eye was the diverse menu filled with classic dishes, including donkatsu, shrimp, and Japanese curry options.

I ultimately decided on the donkatsu, and let me tell you, it was divine.

The crispy coating and tender meat were seasoned to perfection, making it one of the best donkatsu dishes I've ever had.

The portion size was generous, too, leaving me satisfied and full.

Not only was my main course delicious, but the side dishes and appetizers were equally impressive.

I loved the miso soup and the flavorful Japanese curry.

The shrimp was cooked just right, and the presentation of each dish was visually appealing, making the entire dining experience even more enjoyable.

Cap't Loui

If you're a seafood lover, you need to visit Cap't Loui at least once in your life.

I recently went there with some friends to try their seafood boil, and it was a delightful culinary experience.

The restaurant offers made-to-order, Louisiana-style seafood boils, raw bars, and fried fare in a laid-back atmosphere.

We decided to go for the Boiler Combo, which allowed us to pick four pounds of seafood.

We chose crawfish, calamari, and clams with three free sides.

The seafood is all market price, and each order also comes with corn and potatoes.

The crawfish was my favorite, and it was my first time trying it.

The Cap't Loui sauce was absolutely delicious, with the right balance of flavors, and we opted for the hot spicy level.

I didn't find it too spicy, but if you're not good with spice, I'd recommend going for mild or medium.

The ambiance was great, too – the place was clean, and they played some really good music.

I can't recommend Cap't Loui enough for seafood lovers.

It's a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable seafood boil experience with friends and family.

Prime & Beyond

I recently visited Prime & Beyond for dinner with friends, and I must say, it was a memorable experience.

The cozy and intimate atmosphere of the restaurant was perfect for catching up with friends over a delicious meal.

We started off with their popular dry-aged crust appetizer, which was perfectly cooked to medium rare.

The flavorful meat was served with grain mustard, pickled onions, and cornichons, which added a unique twist to the dish.

For the main course, we decided to try out their dry-aged tomahawk and porterhouse steaks.

The steaks were cooked to perfection, tender, and flavorful, and although the slices were a bit thicker than my preference, they didn't take away from the overall experience.

One of my friends ordered the P&B burger, which was cooked medium and had a picture-worthy presentation.

What truly set Prime & Beyond apart for me were the Korean sides they offered alongside traditional steakhouse sides.

The kimchi fried rice was a delightful surprise, and we could also get regular white rice for those who preferred it.

Throughout our meal, the service was attentive and courteous, making sure we had everything we needed.

The best part? The restaurant is BYOB, so we were able to bring our favorite bottle of wine to enjoy with our meal.

Q Tea Tapas

I visited Q Tea Tapas in Fort Lee after hearing a lot of positive things about this place.

The relaxed counter-serve setting with a patio was perfect for unwinding after a long day, and the build-your-own poke bowls, bubble teas, and smoothies were just what I needed.

I started with a Taro Milk Tea with tapioca pearls, which was absolutely delicious.

The flavors were well-balanced, and it really hit the spot.

My friend ordered a Green Tea Matcha with lychee jelly, and they loved it too!

We also tried their poke rice bowl, which was just perfect in every way.

It tasted great, and it left us feeling totally satisfied.

I also appreciated the wide variety of beverages and unique meal options they offer.

The creation of their Dalgona Bubble Tea is a work of art, complete with a sprinkle of cane sugar and charring with a torch for that caramel topping.

Q Tea Tapas also offers onigiri, hand rolls, and sushi-rritos, which I noticed many other customers ordering.

I'm planning to try those on my next visit, along with their other unique bubbles tea flavors like Honeydew and Chocolate.

Cho Dang House

I've been living in this area for quite some time now, and one of my favorite places to eat is Cho Dang House.

I'm always impressed by their warm and welcoming atmosphere.

I also have to mention their extensive menu; there are so many options to choose from it's almost overwhelming.

On my last visit, I decided to go for the Soon Dubu Jjigae, a spicy soft tofu stew.

The spiciness was just right, not too overpowering but enough to give it a kick.

As usual, the meal was accompanied by an assortment of banchan, which are small side dishes served with Korean meals.

The variety and freshness of the banchan always impress me, and it makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.

My favorite is the kimchi, which has a perfect balance of spice and tanginess.

I also have to mention their Haemul Pajeon, a seafood scallion pancake that is simply divine.

It's crispy on the outside and filled with delicious seafood on the inside, making it the perfect appetizer or side dish.

Wooga

Wooga is a family-friendly Korean BBQ restaurant offering authentic Korean food.

Their menu is packed with grill-your-own meat and veggie options that you can cook right at your tableside grills, making the whole dining experience interactive and fun.

During one of my recent visits, we ordered the Wooga Small for Three, which was 10% off during lunch.

I was initially worried that it would be too much food, but everything was so tasty that we ended up eating most of it.

The star cuts of meat were the short rib and pork jowl, and we also added a side of cold noodles which helped cleanse our meaty palate.

The mushroom hot plate is also a must-try!

Wooga's side dishes, or banchan, are always a delight, with my favorite being the thinly sliced daikon.

They also serve a rich beef soup with juicy beef, which is a perfect complement to the main dishes.

The restaurant may look small from the outside, but it has a cozy atmosphere and a parking lot attached to it.

And who can resist the good-looking young men flipping the meat, giving us some K-drama vibes during our meal?

Soup Dumpling Plus

I recently visited Soup Dumpling Plus, a popular Chinese restaurant in my neighborhood.

The atmosphere was low-key and inviting, perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family.

The menu featured a wide variety of dumplings, noodles, and other familiar Chinese dishes.

As soon as I entered, I noticed the restaurant was packed with patrons, and yet, my party and I were seated promptly.

We started with a refreshing cucumber salad, which wasn't spicy but was loaded with garlicky goodness.

For the main dishes, we tried the soup dumplings, which were delicious and filled with flavorful broth, although I personally found the skin to be a tad too thick.

The noodle dish with scallion sauce was another hit, with a pleasant chewy texture and a savory sauce that elevated the dish.

We also enjoyed the eggplant with garlic sauce, which was served in a generous portions and tasted incredible with rice.

The highlight of our meal, however, was the stir-fried baby shrimp.

Not only was the dish an excellent value at $15, but it was also packed with fresh, lightly seasoned shrimp that made it our favorite dish of the evening.

Boiling Pot

One of my favorite places to satisfy my seafood cravings is Boiling Pot.

The Louisiana Cajun Style Seafood is just amazing - spicy, hot, and served with no plates.

You get hammers, gloves, and bibs, making the dining experience unique and fun.

The fresh raw oysters and raw clams are also a must-try, and the cheap beer is a great accompaniment.

The brown paper table tops give the place a casual and relaxed vibe.

The menu offers a wide selection of seafood, and I particularly enjoy the garlic-flavored boil.

It's not too spicy and is perfect for my taste.

In addition to the seafood, I have also tried their cajun fries, which were very good.

Sa Rit Gol

Whenever I'm in the mood for some authentic Korean comfort food, I head straight to Sa Rit Gol, a no-frills Korean eatery offering traditional soups, stews, and other delicious dishes.

One evening, I decided to try out a few of their popular entrees to warm up my soul, and I was not disappointed.

Starting off with the Dakdoritang, a spicy chicken dish with potatoes and vegetables, I was blown away by the rich flavors in every bite.

I made sure to tuck in with a makeshift napkin bib to avoid any potential spills on my shirt – trust me; it's a must.

Next up was the Seollungtang, a simple yet satisfying beef bone soup that never disappoints.

While it was served bland, I had the freedom to add salt and sliced scallions to my liking, which only enhanced the rich flavors of the dish.

Sa Rit Gol truly knows the art of slow-cooking, as the ox bone soup they serve has an incredibly rich flavor and texture.

My adventurous side led me to try the Soondae, a unique dish with a fried and gelatinous texture packed with rice and glass noodles.

I must say, this dish surpassed my expectations and left me wanting more.

Raku Izakaya

I recently decided to spend my evening at Raku Izakaya, a lounge bar, and eatery known for its Japanese tapas, Zen-like decor, and amazing sake selection.

As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the Manhattan/L.A. vibe created by the high ceilings and zen decor.

During my visit, I was able to take advantage of their fantastic happy hour menu, which is available from 5 - 8 pm daily.

I couldn't resist the deals on Coors Light Draft pitchers, large-size house sake, and their delicious assortment of tapas.

Franco's Metro Restaurant, Bar & Pizza

Oh, what a gem Franco's Metro truly is!

Nestled in a strip mall, this longtime Italian restaurant has quickly become my go-to spot for delicious classic dishes and mouthwatering brick-oven pizza.

From the moment you walk in, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes you feel like you're stepping into a small Italian village.

One of my favorites is their Chicken Francese, cooked perfectly with a lemon, butter, and white wine sauce – it's simply divine!

I also can't resist their brick-oven pizza; the crust is crispy and chewy, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful.

Not only is the food scrumptious, but the bar area is also a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy a drink with friends.

They offer an extensive wine list as well as a variety of beers and cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

And last but not least, the portions at Franco's Metro are generous, and the prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality of the food they serve.

BCD Tofu House

I recently visited BCD Tofu House with my mom, who happens to be a fellow food lover.

The moment we entered, I could tell we were in a popular Korean restaurant, as it was packed with people on a weekday.

To my delight, there were many older-generation Koreans in the crowd, which to me is a sure sign of a legit dining spot.

One thing that caught my attention was the ambiance.

The lights were turned down low, making it feel cozy and intimate.

My mom struggled a bit to read the menu in the dimly lit room, but it was all worth it once we received our food.

We decided to go for the combo, which was a perfect portion size for us.

I got the preserved spicy crabs with my soondooboo, and it was such a steal!

My mom loved the complementary fish that came with her soondooboo as well.

The service was super fast and efficient, which we appreciated.

Another highlight of our meal was the fried dumplings.

They were incredibly crispy and paired well with the sauces provided.

Cinco De Mayo Mexican Grill

Cinco De Mayo Mexican Grill had an intimate and lively atmosphere with colorful art on the walls, which made me feel like I was dining in Mexico.

It's a BYOB place, so I took a bottle of my favorite tequila to enjoy with my meal.

As I entered the place, I noticed the menu offering a wide variety of authentic Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex dishes.

The food is prepared in pure vegetable oil to bring out the true flavors of authentic Mexican cooking.

I started my meal with the popular and delicious carne asada tacos.

They were so flavorful, and the steak was perfectly cooked.

I also tried their chicken taco, which was a bit mild but tasted great when topped with their delightful guacamole.

Their pernil (pork) taco was excellent too.

For the main course, I had the pollo al Diablo, which was simply amazing.

The spicy chicken was tender and packed with flavor.

I enjoyed the dish alongside a decent portion of rice and beans, making the meal quite filling.

While I didn't take advantage of it this time, Cinco De Mayo also offers take-out, delivery, and full-service catering, which I'll definitely consider for future events.

Although meter parking is available in front of the restaurant, I was lucky enough to find a spot nearby.

I'm excited to visit Cinco De Mayo Mexican Grill again and try more of their dishes.

It's become my new go-to spot for local Mexican food!

Saigon Kitchen

Whenever I'm in the mood for some comforting and delicious Vietnamese food, I head straight to Saigon Kitchen.

As soon as I walk in, I'm greeted with a warm, familiar atmosphere and the smell of mouthwatering dishes being prepared.

The place is spacious and airy, with plenty of natural light and seating options, making it perfect for both small gatherings and larger parties.

One of the things I appreciate most about Saigon Kitchen is its extensive menu, offering a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes and even some vegan options.

I usually start with their refreshing papaya salad and can't resist ordering their Vietnamese wings - they're slightly sweet, super crunchy, and downright addictive.

For my main course, I often go for their pho, especially when I'm feeling a bit under the weather.

Their vegetarian pho is a particular favorite of mine; the broth is rich and flavorful, and they're always generous with the vegetables.

If I'm in the mood for something different, I usually opt for their caramelized basa or the combo rice platter, where I can choose three proteins from their selection of chicken, pork, beef, or shrimp.

I always make sure to save room for dessert, as their coconut jelly is an absolute must-try.

It's a light, refreshing treat that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the meal.

The flan is another delicious option if you're craving something a bit more indulgent.

Ventanas

One of my favorite places to spend an evening is Ventanas Restaurant and Lounge.

Located in the heart of the city, this expansive destination has it all - a patio, a glamorous vibe, and a fantastic selection of international cuisine and cocktails.

As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

It's the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or a night out with friends.

The menu at Ventanas offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to all taste preferences, from seafood to steak and even vegetarian options.

I particularly enjoyed the chef's selection of sushi platter, which was fresh and beautifully presented.

My friend, on the other hand, couldn't stop raving about the tender and flavorful filet mignon.

Don't forget to try their amazing guacamole as well - it's definitely a crowd-pleaser!

As for the cocktails, you won't be disappointed.

The mixologists at Ventanas are true professionals, crafting unique and delicious drinks that you won't find anywhere else.

I highly recommend the passion fruit mojito - it was the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing and a fantastic accompaniment to our meal.

Final Thoughts

The diverse and vibrant culinary scene in Fort Lee never ceases to amaze me.

From satisfying my sushi cravings at Sushi Aoki and PJ Sushi to enjoying hearty comfort foods at Menya Sandaime and Soup Dumpling Plus, there's always something to suit my taste buds.

I highly recommend exploring these amazing eateries for anyone visiting or living in the area – they will not disappoint!