21 Best Restaurants in Old Bridge, NJ
This article was written by local contributor Alex Cook & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Living in Old Bridge, New Jersey, has given me the opportunity to explore and enjoy the many fantastic dining options this town has to offer.
From mouthwatering Italian dishes to authentic Asian cuisine, the choices are truly endless.
Old Bridge's restaurant scene is a hidden gem, providing perfect spots for family dinners, date nights, and everything in between.
I'm excited to share my favorite local spots with you so that you, too, can indulge in the delicious flavors that make Old Bridge a culinary destination.
So, grab your appetite, and let's dive into the best restaurants in Old Bridge, New Jersey!
Heirloom Kitchen
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Heirloom Kitchen, a New American restaurant in our area.
Despite its strip mall location, the ambiance inside the restaurant was upscale and welcoming.
The open kitchen concept provided a unique, sensory-driven culinary experience that I absolutely enjoyed.
Heirloom Kitchen's menu is innovative, with beautifully plated and delicious dishes that truly stand out.
My dinner companions and I were able to try almost every dish on their 4-course prix fixe menu, and each dish was nothing short of perfection.
I especially loved the cavatelli and halibut!
Cozy Cafe
I've been a regular at Cozy Cafe ever since it changed from Comfi back in 2014.
This place has always been my go-to breakfast spot, and I'm glad to say that the quality has remained consistently excellent over the years.
I usually go for their pancakes, which are cooked to perfection, but I've also tried their perogie omelet when dining with my niece once.
It was absolutely delicious!
I recently had the chance to try their Polish sampler, which I ordered for takeout.
The potato pancakes were huge, and it came with kielbasa and perogies with onions.
It was so scrumptious and satisfying that I had enough leftovers for a second meal.
The yogurt parfait I got was also a pleasant surprise - a large foil pan filled with vanilla yogurt, bananas, strawberries, and blueberries, topped with granola and sliced almonds.
Cozy Cafe has become an essential part of my local dining experience, and I can't wait to continue trying more of the yummy items on their menu.
Dolce Vita Cucina Italiana
I recently had the pleasure of hosting a surprise birthday dinner for my best friend at Dolce Vita Cucina Italiana, and I couldn't be happier with how everything turned out.
Our group of 20 had a fantastic time.
The food, as always, was absolutely delicious – from the mouthwatering Italian dishes to their scrumptious pizza.
All of my friends couldn't stop raving about their meals, and many of them are already planning to come back to try more of Dolce Vita's amazing offerings.
Via Sposito
I decided to try out Via Sposito for dinner with my family last week.
We had heard amazing things about their food and service.
Turns out, it was a fantastic choice!
The moment we entered the restaurant, we were welcomed by a warm and cozy ambiance that made us feel right at home.
As a BYOB restaurant, I brought my favorite bottle of wine along, but I was pleasantly surprised to find out they also offer a line of wine, including a delicious red sangria, that I couldn't resist trying.
We ordered a variety of dishes to share among us, and I must say, the portions were generous, and the food was incredibly fresh.
The pizza was exceptional, with a delightfully thin crust, and the white clam sauce was just the right balance of flavors - not too greasy but full of taste.
My family and I enjoyed every bite, and we couldn't help but continue to praise the food throughout the evening.
Round Pie Pizza Company
Being a pizza lover, I'm always on the hunt for new places to try, and that's when I came across Round Pie Pizza Company.
Trust me when I say it's one of the best pizza places in New Jersey!
Their pizza is always crispy, and the ingredients taste incredibly fresh.
I'm a big fan of their Margherita and the classic cheese, but pretty much any pie they serve is delicious.
I have to admit, I usually prefer eating it at the restaurant because it gets cold by the time I get home.
But honestly, this pizza is just as delicious hot or cold.
On my first visit, I tried their signature slice that had cheese, red sauce, olive oil, and fresh basil – and I was instantly hooked!
I also had a plain slice that was just as amazing.
Thai Shangri-La
I recently decided to check out Thai Shangri-La, a restaurant I've heard great things about from friends and online reviews.
As I waited for my food, I could already tell it was going to be delicious from the enticing aroma wafting from the kitchen.
When my order finally arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous portions and the amazing flavors.
I had asked for very spicy drunken noodles, and they did not disappoint!
The restaurant even surprised me with a free meal, which definitely made my day.
Now, Thai Shangri-La has become my go-to spot for Thai food in Old Bridge.
Aside from the dine-in experience, I've also tried their "on-the-go" service.
The food was delivered right to my doorstep in a sturdy box with everything on ice, ensuring it stayed fresh.
I particularly enjoyed their loaded omelet and potato masaman chicken, both of which provided enough food for two meals each.
Plus, their matcha and taro milk tea with bubbles was a delightful treat!
Krispy Pizza
Just last week, I decided to give Krispy Pizza a try after hearing from so many friends about how amazing their pizza is.
I must say, they were right!
I ordered the vodka pizza, and it was hands down one of the best pizzas I've ever had.
I've lived in this area for quite some time, and I can confidently say that Krispy Pizza is probably the best pizza place in Old Bridge.
I can't wait to try their other pizzas, especially the bruschetta Sicilian and the artichoke pizza, which I've heard great things about as well.
Vinnie's Pizza Old Bridge
I've always been on the lookout for that perfect New York/New Jersey-style pizza slice.
To my delight, I found Vinnie's Pizza Old Bridge!
This pizza restaurant recently got an upgrade, and I couldn't resist giving it a try after learning that my favorite pizza guy started working there.
Let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
Their plain slices were on point, and you can check out their menu on their website.
One thing that really stands out about Vinnie's is the crisp, light, and well-topped pizza that reminds me of the definitive New York/NJ slice.
I've tried several different pizza varieties at Vinnie's, and they all tasted amazing.
In addition to their fantastic pizzas, they also offer tasty side dishes like crispy French fries and cheese sticks.
The inside of Vinnie's Pizza is spacious and clean and has a pleasant ambiance with music playing at just the right volume.
The place is much more than just a pizza joint, it's a hidden gem of a restaurant in our area.
Old Bridge Diner Family Restaurant
When I stumbled upon Old Bridge Diner Family Restaurant, I knew I had found a hidden gem in our town!
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted warmly and made to feel right at home.
The menu is extensive, catering to all age groups and offering a wide variety of traditional American dishes.
One thing that caught my eye was the fair pricing, especially considering the current economic situation.
I decided to order one of their signature dishes, and though it was a bit on the plain side for my taste buds, I appreciated that they had salt and pepper on the table for me to adjust the flavor to my liking.
The portion sizes are quite generous, and I was definitely satisfied with my meal.
The service at Old Bridge Diner Family Restaurant is also commendable.
I've since frequented the diner for breakfast and brunch, and their Hungry Man platter, corned beef hash, and apple and walnut crepes have become some of my favorites.
Ponte Vecchio
One of my favorite Italian restaurants in the area has to be Ponte Vecchio.
The atmosphere is incredible - it feels like you're dining in a beautiful, sprawling, multi-room Italian seafood spot right on the famous Florence Bridge.
I've been there for family gatherings and special occasions, and the experience is always top-notch.
The hot appetizers for two are perfect for sharing, and the variety of dishes offered allows you to try a little bit of everything.
I especially loved the special halibut with lobster risotto, although I wouldn't mind having more generous lobster chunks in it.
My partner can't stop talking about their crab-stuffed branzino, and we've both enjoyed their desserts - particularly the toffee cake and in-house-made desserts, which are always fresh.
Don't forget to order a cappuccino to end your meal on a high note!
Ponte Vecchio is a must-visit restaurant in New Jersey, maybe even rivaling some of the Italian spots in NYC.
The service is friendly and helpful, even when the place is packed.
Just a heads up – it's a BYOB establishment, so be sure to bring along your favorite bottle of wine to complement your meal.
Tropical Hut Catering
As someone who's always on the lookout for a taste of home, I've found my go-to Filipino food haven at Tropical Hut Catering.
Their authentic Filipino dishes never disappoint, and I've had a pleasant experience every time I visit.
The Callos (tripe in sauce with chickpeas) is one of my favorites, and their Pancit Palabok is simply delicious.
I also appreciate the wide variety of Magnolia ice cream flavors they offer, which are hard to come by in the area.
The Ube & Queso and Avocado & Mango flavors are some of my top picks.
Although the prices for certain items may be a bit steep, it's worth it for the unique taste of Filipino-made ice cream that's hard to find elsewhere.
Tropical Hut Catering is not just a place to grab prepared dishes; it's also a great source of Filipino groceries.
Whenever I need a specific ingredient for my home-cooked Filipino meals, I know I can rely on their store.
One thing I love about Tropical Hut Catering is their occasional special treats like the Lumpiang Sariwa, which I wish was available every week.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Ultimate Grill
I had the pleasure of dining at Ultimate Grill recently, and I must say, it was an incredible experience.
I decided to try their signature egg sandwich with egg, cheese, and turkey bacon, and I was not disappointed.
It was the best egg sandwich I've ever had!
The loaded sweet potato that came with it was also out of this world.
I couldn't leave without trying one of their smoothies, which was just as delicious as the rest of my meal.
One evening, my partner and I decided to give their dinner options a try as well.
We were once again treated to Dmitry's exceptional hospitality and quality of service.
We ordered the beef chili and teriyaki chicken bowls, which were both mouth-watering and perfectly portioned.
To top it all off, we were offered complimentary iced tea to enjoy with our meal.
I've also heard they offer Thanksgiving packages, so I've gone ahead and ordered pies from them for the upcoming holiday.
Bon Appetit Grill and Crepes
As a frequent visitor to Bon Appetit Grill and Crepes, I have to say that this Mediterranean restaurant has become one of my favorite places to dine in the area.
The moment I walk through the door, I am greeted with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere that makes me feel at home.
The food here is out of this world, with generous portions and amazing flavors in every dish.
I have tried a variety of items on their menu, such as the hawashi, Nutella banana crepe, pesto chicken crepe, and a side order of hummus with warm pita bread.
All of it was delicious and filling, and the dessert options, like the mango jelly, are absolutely delightful.
What sets this restaurant apart is the husband-and-wife duo that runs the business.
Their dynamic teamwork and dedication to providing excellent service make every visit a memorable one.
Plus, the prices are incredibly reasonable, making it easy to treat my whole family to a fantastic meal without breaking the bank.
There is ample parking space in their own parking lot, making it convenient to visit Bon Appetit Grill and Crepes whenever I crave Mediterranean cuisine.
I can't wait to return and try more of their grilled food options!
Otilia's Cafe
I absolutely love visiting Otilia's Cafe whenever I crave authentic Portuguese food.
The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a nice meal with family.
The menu offers a fantastic variety of traditional Portuguese dishes.
I personally enjoy the flavorful chickpea salad, and the collard greens soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
The bacalau fritters, served with a spicy-sweet sauce, are a must-try as well.
And to top it all off, they even have my favorite Lipton Peach Iced Tea imported from Portugal, which is a delightful treat.
It's great to know that their food delivery is just as impressive, with fresh and delicious dishes arriving right on time.
Riffy's Kitchen
I recently dined at Riffy's Kitchen, a Halal restaurant in Parlin, and I have to say it was a fantastic experience.
The atmosphere of the place was comfortable and clean, which made the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The menu at Riffy's Kitchen offers an impressive variety of dishes, and I must say, their chaat masala, which was on top of the special chaat and pakora, was simply divine.
The Chargha was also delicious, and I couldn't get enough of their zalim pakoray and special chaat.
While their chicken kebab and beef seekh kebab could use a little more spice, they were still enjoyable, and I would order them again.
I also tried their beef and chicken seekh kabab, which was incredibly tasty.
The prices were very reasonable, making it a great place for eating out with family and friends without breaking the bank.
And let me tell you, you can't leave Riffy's Kitchen without trying their special chaat and karak chaye – it's to die for!
Evan's Restaurant
One of my favorite spots in town is Evan's Restaurant, a charming Greek diner that serves delicious breakfast plates, Greek eats, and other classic diner dishes.
It's become a go-to place for my friends and me, especially since they serve breakfast all day.
From the moment you step inside, you'll notice how well-maintained and clean the establishment is.
My go-to order is the veggie omelet with added mushrooms.
It's always cooked to perfection - not too dry or watery and full of flavor.
I also enjoy their Greek salad, hummus, and grilled chicken on occasion.
Their baklava and rice pudding are perfect dessert options as well.
Empire Szechuan
As someone who loves Chinese food, I've visited Empire Szechuan in Englishtown multiple times, and I have to say, their food is fantastic!
They offer a variety of dishes, including sushi and Szechuan cuisine, but I have yet to try those.
The sesame chicken, vegetable fried rice, and vegetable egg rolls are my go-to dishes, and they never disappoint.
The sweet and sour chicken is delicious as well.
Inside, Empire Szechuan has a nice ambiance, perfect for dining with friends or family.
The portions are generous, and the prices are quite reasonable.
One unique feature of this Chinese restaurant is that they serve a complimentary fried dough appetizer with sauce and hot tea instead of water, which I enjoy.
Attilio's Pizzeria
One evening, after spending a long day at Six Flags, my friends and I decided to grab a bite at Attilio's Pizzeria.
We were pleasantly surprised to find a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The family who owns the place struck up a conversation with us, sharing the history of their shop and their Italian heritage.
The interior was beautiful, and the service was top-notch.
As we chatted and enjoyed our meal, it was clear that Attilio's takes pride in their pizzas.
Ginkaku Japanese Bistro
I recently visited Ginkaku Japanese Bistro again, and I just have to share my experience.
I've been a regular customer at Ginkaku for both dine-in and takeout, and every visit has been nothing short of amazing.
Last Friday night, my friends and I decided to dine in to try some new sushi rolls.
The sushi rolls themselves was absolutely delicious.
The fish was extremely fresh, the rice was cooked perfectly, and the balance of flavors in the rolls was simply divine.
In addition to sushi, I ordered the steak hibachi, and I must say the fried rice was particularly tasty.
The service was great, and we didn't have to wait too long despite it being a busy Friday night.
The Oriental Pan Asian Restaurant
I have to admit, I've been a huge fan of Asian cuisine for as long as I can remember, but when I discovered The Oriental Pan Asian Restaurant, I felt like I hit the jackpot.
Located in Marlboro, this hidden gem is hands down the best Asian fusion restaurant I've ever been to. You can check their website here.
My taste buds were taken on a culinary adventure when I tried their Salt n Pepper Calamari, Pork Bao, and Dim Sum sampler.
Each dish was bursting with flavor and left me craving for more.
Takeout from The Oriental has become a regular treat for me, and I simply can't get enough of their hot and sour soup and Szechuan paradise dish.
When I had a special occasion to celebrate, their team went above and beyond to prepare stunning lobster, steak, and salmon dishes that left my guests in awe.
As someone with gluten sensitivity, I was thrilled to find out that they can make almost everything on the menu gluten-free.
The Pickled Herring
Whenever I get cravings for some authentic deli food, I make my way to The Pickled Herring for a satisfying meal.
The matzo ball soup they serve is absolutely heavenly, with a light and fluffy matzo ball that reminds me of home-cooked comfort food.
The pastrami sandwich is another favorite of mine - it is always lean and full of flavor without any of the unwanted gristle.
The rye bread is consistently fresh, and their coleslaw is more of a healthy slaw, which I appreciate.
What makes the experience even better is the complimentary bowl of half-sour and full-sour pickles they serve.
My son, who is quite the chicken cutlet connoisseur, tried their southwest chicken sandwich and ranked it as one of his top 10 chicken sandwiches, which is high praise coming from him.
Be prepared for a crowd, especially on Sundays, but the wait is absolutely worth it for the delicious food and warm atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Old Bridge offers a delightful and diverse culinary scene, featuring flavors from around the globe and cozy atmospheres perfect for any dining experience.
From my countless visits to these restaurants, I can confidently say that each one has something unique to offer, be it delectable dishes, impeccable service, or a warm and inviting ambiance.
No matter what your taste buds crave, you'll surely find a spot in Old Bridge that will leave you utterly satisfied and craving more.
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