19 Best Restaurants in Plainfield, NJ
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Plainfield that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Popik's Place
One sunny afternoon, I had the good fortune of coming across Popik's Place, a local food truck reminiscent of the hot dog stands I often frequented during my trips to New York.
That particular day, I made a 35-minute drive just to taste the finest hot dogs in the city, and trust me, it was worth every minute.
What makes Popik's Place stand out among the crowd is their Sabrette dog.
Not only is it the best hot dog, but it also transports me back to the bustling streets of NYC with each bite.
But that's not all!
The hot dogs here are cooked to perfection, and the toppings are just as delectable.
The chili and cheese are a delight, but if you're in the mood for an extra kick, I recommend the red pepper relish.
If you're planning to grab a meal at Popik's, let me assure you that the prices are quite a steal.
An irresistible combo of two hot dogs with toppings, a drink, and a bag of chips will only set you back 8 bucks!
Jessica's Cafe & Restaurant
It's not every day you find a local gem that makes the Yelp 2023 Top 100 Best Places to Eat.
And when that gem is right in your neighborhood, it's nothing short of serendipity.
That's how I felt when I heard about Jessica's Cafe & Restaurant making the list.
Having passed by it countless times, my curiosity was finally piqued.
My partner and I decided to take the plunge one weekend, only to find that we weren't the only ones drawn to this culinary beacon.
Without reservations, we had to contend with a packed house.
But good things come to those who wait, and wait we did, eventually securing a dinner reservation in their heated outdoor tent.
The food—ah, the food—was nothing short of magnificent.
I relished the delicious salmon, while the pasta ordered by the table in front of us sent wafts of mouth-watering aromas our way.
I knew then what my next order at Jessica's would be.
But it wasn't just the meal that made the experience.
Jessica's Cafe & Restaurant is a BYOB establishment - Bring Your Own Bottle.
The perfect touch to a relaxed, sumptuous meal.
And with their parking lot available, we didn't have to worry about finding a spot in the bustling neighborhood.
Ranking #40 on Yelp's Top 100 shouldn't come as a surprise.
Everything from the service to the food was impeccable.
It's safe to say that Jessica's Cafe & Restaurant has won more than just my appetite.
It's become a regular spot for us, making every dining experience an anniversary of that first unforgettable meal.
And trust me, their wild mushroom soup will change your life.
For those of you who want to give it a shot, make sure to try their variety of appetizers – White mussels, Arancini (risotto), Jumbo Lump Crab Meat, and meatballs.
If you’re a seafood lover, their Branzino is a delight.
And for the meat eaters, you cannot miss their perfectly cooked, juicy Ribeye.
And the apricot bread pudding, it’s the perfect sweet ending to a perfect meal.
Mi Casita Restaurant
When you're longing for a taste of Guatemala right here in North Plainfield, New Jersey, there's really only one place to go – Mi Casita Restaurant.
Just a short trip to this cozy eatery takes me right back to the vibrant streets of Guatemala, flavors, and all.
I remember my first time stepping into Mi Casita – the tantalizing aroma of traditional Guatemalan dishes filled the air.
It was like I'd been transported to a bustling mercados in Guatemala City.
I've been a regular patron ever since, and each visit is just as delightful as the first.
The food?
Oh, it's a gastronomic delight!
Their chicken pepian, garnachas, and tamales are just like the ones I enjoyed on my trip to Guatemala last year.
You could taste the authenticity and love poured into every single dish.
And it's not just about the food.
What makes Mi Casita truly special is the warmth and friendly service.
Everyone is incredibly welcoming, making you feel right at home.
Down D Islands Rotishop
If you are yearning for a taste of the Caribbean without having to travel there, look no further!
Down D Islands Rotishop, just around the corner, has been my go-to spot for a mouth-watering rendezvous with the islands.
I stumbled upon this eatery on Google Maps and I was not disappointed.
The moment I walked in, I was welcomed by a clean and inviting ambiance that made me feel right at home.
The customer service was top-notch, making my visit all the more enjoyable.
My taste buds were transported to Trinidad as I bit into my chicken buss-up and my partner's chicken dhal purri.
The soft skin of the buss up and the tastefulness of the dhal puri were unlike any I've ever had.
The chickpeas, nicely seasoned, and the well-cooked chicken left me wanting more.
On another visit, I tried their goat dish.
The meat was tender, juicy and cooked to perfection.
The flavorful mix of spices and herbs were a delight, and to my surprise, I found myself falling in love with the pumpkin dish.
And then there's the doubles.
Living so close to Down D Islands Rotishop has saved me the trip all the way to Brooklyn or Queens to satisfy my cravings for this favorite hand food of mine.
Although I'm accustomed to the ones in Queens and Brooklyn, I must say, this rotishop gives them a run for their money.
The doubles are always fresh, spicy, and the best in Plainfield by far.
El Poblado Restaurant
There's a magic in the air that you can taste in every bite at El Poblado Restaurant.
It's a place where the enticing flavors of Colombia come alive in an explosion of mouthwatering cuisine.
As someone who frequents this restaurant often, I can vouch for the fact that the food here is nothing short of amazing.
From the moment you walk in, the warm atmosphere and friendly service make you feel right at home.
The food here, oh the food!
It's simply to die for.
Every plate is a journey through Colombian flavors that leaves you craving for more.
I remember vividly the first time I took a bite of their delicious entrees.
It was a delightful explosion of flavors that I had never experienced before.
And the best part?
The quality and quantity never disappoint.
But the food is just one part of what makes El Poblado Restaurant a local gem.
The service is truly exceptional.
You are treated like family, and this warmth is a comforting presence throughout your meal.
Big C’s Italian Grill
I've always been a sucker for good food trucks, and Big C's Italian Grill is no exception.
I came across this hidden gem when my nose followed a mouth-watering aroma on a casual Tuesday afternoon.
My first taste of Big C's was their sausage peppers and onions sandwich, and oh boy, was it a delight!
The flavors were rich and tantalizing, easily the best I've had in at least a decade.
It's rare to find a place that can nail the sausage just right, but Big C’s certainly knows its stuff.
Their ingredients are fresh, and you can taste the love and care that goes into every dish.
But wait, there's more!
If you're a cheesesteak fan, like me, this food truck is your paradise.
My personal favorite is the buffalo chicken cheese steak with cajun shrimp added.
The fusion of flavors is a party in your mouth that you wouldn't want to miss.
To complete the feast, don't forget to try their fries, plain or with toppings, they're simply irresistible.
Recently, I had the chance to try their California burger.
It was topped with fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese.
Simply put, it was delicious.
22 Bites Halal
One of the highlights of living in this city is having the privilege to indulge in the mouthwatering dishes of 22 Bites Halal.
From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm welcoming smiles that instantly make you feel like you're not just a customer, but a part of their family.
Their unparalleled service is just the appetizer for a feast that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
I've had the chance to tickle my taste buds with every item on the menu, and believe me when I say, deciding what to order becomes a delicious dilemma.
The gyro chicken platter is my go-to favorite, but the fat burger and cheese fries always give it a run for its money.
And if you're into a spicy kick, they'll gladly turn up the heat for you.
The place is not just about the heavenly food, every nook and cranny, even the restrooms, are spotless, adding up to the overall fantastic dining experience.
It's not an exaggeration to say that the gleam of the clean surfaces is as delightful as the taste of the dishes served.
Govinda's Buffet
I'll never forget my first visit to Govinda's Buffet.
Nestled in the heart of our city, this place is quite a gem.
The place itself emanates a certain kind of warmth that makes you feel like you belong.
The buffet is a lavish spread with an array of vegetarian dishes.
Each dish possesses a distinct flavor that's a magical blend of spices.
The Puri, a type of Indian bread, is particularly noteworthy.
It's flaky, golden-brown, and complements every dish perfectly.
The food here is akin to the east coast food of India, offering an entrancingly unique taste.
While the food is delicious, what sets Govinda's Buffet apart is the experience.
The food is also sanctified, providing a spiritual dimension to your dining experience.
Visiting Govinda's Buffet isn't just about having a meal, it's about immersing yourself in an entirely different culture and tradition.
It's a place where you can feed both your body and soul in one go.
I strongly recommend not to miss out on this experience.
Just keep in mind their timing on Saturdays is from 12 to 3 pm.
Angel's Palace Restaurant
There's something heavenly about stepping into Angel's Palace Restaurant, and it's not just because of the name.
I've lost count of the number of meals I've had here.
It's more than just a restaurant to me now.
It's almost like a second home, promising comfort, warmth, and a tantalizing culinary adventure each time I visit.
The first thing that will strike you is the cleanliness.
It's by far one of the most immaculate dining spaces in Plainfield, a testament to the care that goes into every aspect of the customer experience.
The decor is charming, a neat and pretty setting that immediately sets the mood for a delightful meal.
Their friendly demeanor makes you feel welcome and valued.
If you need anything during your meal, or you have any special requests, they are always ready to accommodate.
My weekdays often see me visiting for their excellent lunch specials.
But the allure doesn't end there.
The weekends too find me drawn to this wonderful establishment, unable to resist the pull of their delicious offerings.
And speaking of the food, it's the star of the show.
Every dish has a unique, rich flavor that is hard to find elsewhere.
Marie's Jamaican Restaurant
There's a little piece of Jamaica nestled in our city, and it goes by the name of Marie's Jamaican Restaurant.
It's a place where the essence of Caribbean island flavors comes alive.
My first visit to Marie's was quite memorable, not just for the food but for the vibrant ambiance and the warm service.
My culinary adventure began with their Jerked Chicken.
The chicken was stewed to perfection and doused generously with a tangy jerk sauce.
The next dish I decided to try was their oxtail with peas and rice.
This dish was a game-changer!
The meat was tender, the rice full-bodied and the vegetables seasoned to perfection.
The flavors were so amazing, not a single grain of rice was left on the plate.
In conclusion, Marie's is a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to their menu.
DiMola's Pizza
There's nothing more comforting than a slice of pizza from DiMola's Pizza.
It's like a slice of home, but better.
Whether you're dining in or taking out, you're sure to get the same warm treatment.
If you're craving for something specific, don't hesitate to let them know.
I, for one, always ask for the pie to be well done and they do it just right.
The ingredients they use are nothing short of top-notch.
There's a distinct difference in the taste that makes the pizza stand out among its counterparts in the area.
You can tell they've put in thought and care into each component of the pie, be it the sauce, the cheese, or the toppings.
When it comes to pizza, DiMola's is hands down the best in the area.
And if you're a fan of thin, crispy crusts like me, you're in for a real treat.
The way they get the crust just right is something to behold.
Every bite is a blissful crunch that leaves you wanting more.
And the best part?
It's just around the corner.
La Nonna Pizzeria
I'm often spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out in North Plainfield, New Jersey .
But when it comes to getting the perfect pizza, there's only one place I find myself gravitating towards - La Nonna Pizzeria.
Being just seven minutes away from this pizza haven, I decided to give them a try for the first time.
The crust was perfect, the sauce was delightful and best of all, it wasn't greasy.
The pizza was nothing short of delicious and this order definitely redeemed my faith in La Nonna Pizzeria.
Gabriella's Restaurant
There's a little piece of heaven tucked away on Staten Island.
They call it Gabriella's Restaurant, and it's become my go-to spot when I'm craving something deliciously authentic.
The first thing you'll notice as you step through the doors of Gabriella's Restaurant is the welcoming atmosphere.
Recently, I found myself in the mood for a hearty meal and decided to give their carne asada a try.
Let me tell you, it was so absolutely mouthwatering that I ended up ordering some to take home!
The meat was tender, juicy, and packed full of flavor.
I couldn't help but give them a five-star rating on the spot.
But the culinary delights don't stop at the food.
Gabriella's offers a unique dining experience that caters to everyone.
Doña Maria Restaurant
Stepping into Doña Maria Restaurant is like embarking on an epicurean journey through Latin America.
As I sink into the warm, familial atmosphere of this local gem, I'm instantly transported to the vibrant streets of Ecuador, the lush landscapes of Colombia, and the sun-kissed shores of El Salvador.
Brace yourself for weekday meals that don't disappoint, with homestyle flavors that feel like a comforting hug.
I still recall my anticipation to try their weekend delights, as different from their weekday offerings as night and day.
The locals often describe Doña Maria Restaurant as "una hueca," a term of endearment reflecting the joint's authentic Ecuadorian roots.
Yet, it's not just Ecuadorian cuisine that engrosses your tastebuds.
You'll be treated to a medley of Colombian and Salvadorian dishes too.
An absolute must-try is the "Doña Maria bandeja", a symphony of flavors with every bite.
The tortillas de verde, crispy on the outside and soft within, have won over my palate, while the steak is simply 'wow'.
Just remember, it's a cash-only place, so come prepared.
But it's not just the main courses that impress.
Fanesca season is a personal favorite of mine.
This cozy corner in our city transforms into a sanctuary for those seeking a delicious, meaningful dinner with their families.
Every dish is a testament to freshness and delectability, a promise of gastronomic delight that's consistently delivered.
Texas Wiener I
Every city has its legendary hot dog spot and for us, it's the long-standing Texas Wiener I.
This place is more than just a restaurant, it's a piece of our city's history, a culinary landmark that has nourished generations with its delicious hot dogs.
On my countless visits here, I've found that the charm of Texas Wiener I is not merely in its culinary offerings, but also in its nostalgic ambiance.
It emanates an air of familiarity, a comforting sense of home that has been fostered through decades of community service.
Now, let's talk about their signature dish, the chili dog.
It's absolutely delightful.
The dogs have this distinctive snap that instantly ignites a taste sensation.
The chili is thick, generously ladled over the hot dog.
It is, without a doubt, a symphony of flavors.
But a word of advice for the newcomers - Texas Wiener I operates on a cash-only basis.
Don't fret though, an ATM is conveniently located on the premises for those who forget.
Josefina El Bonito Restaurant
When it comes to finding that special place for a hearty meal, one name that lingers on my taste buds is Josefina El Bonito Restaurant.
As a feast for the senses, this quaint little place has a knack for serving dishes rich in flavor and freshness.
Just a heads up though, if you have a particular dish in mind, I'd suggest giving them a call to check its availability.
They have a daily rotating menu, which means not all dishes are served every day.
I learned this the hard way when I once went in craving their Mondongo, only to find out it wasn't part of the day's menu.
But let me tell you, their variety is so delightful, you'll always find something to tickle your palate.
Their Chivo dish, for instance, was a pleasant surprise and quickly became one of my favorites.
The prices at Josefina El Bonito are as appetizing as their meals.
With generous portions and reasonable prices, it's a delight for both your stomach and your pocket.
La Ksita Restaurant
Picture this: a small, cozy restaurant nestled in the heart of the city.
When you walk into the La Ksita Restaurant, the first thing that captures your attention is the warm and welcoming service.
It's as if you're in a friendly neighborhood gathering rather than a restaurant in the middle of the city.
And let's not forget about the food.
The highlight, without a doubt, is their pupusas.
Trust me when I say, they serve the best pupusas I've ever had.
The texture, the taste, the presentation, everything is spot-on.
And the best part?
They don't burn a hole in your pocket.
You get to experience this scrumptious Salvadoran delicacy at a very reasonable price.
Pepe's Italian Restaurant
Let me tell you about a little gem tucked away in our neighborhood - Pepe's Italian Restaurant.
It's been a family-run business for over 30 years, a testament to their quality and consistency.
Every visit to Pepe's feels like coming home to a Sunday family dinner.
I've been frequenting this traditional Italian place for years and it never disappoints.
The food? Divine.
The classics such as chicken parm - which I recently discovered they offer as a lunch special - are served with a tomato sauce that is second to none.
Everything they serve is hearty, flavorful and comes in generous portions.
Believe me, you will never leave hungry from here.
But it’s not just about the delicious food.
The ambience is cozy and comfortable, making you forget about the outside world for a while.
It's an experience that’s hard to find these days.
Oh, and did I mention it's BYOB?
Yes, that's right, you can bring your own wine and make your dining experience even more enjoyable.
The prices, considering the quality and portion of the food, are more than reasonable.
Plainfield Best In Town
Ever had a sudden craving for authentic Caribbean food?
Well, let me tell you about Plainfield Best In Town.
Nestled in the heart of our city, this hidden gem has been my go-to spot for the most delicious oxtail dinner I've ever tasted in the central NJ area.
When you walk in through the door, you're instantly greeted by the tantalizing aroma of well-seasoned rice and jerk chicken - it is impossible to resist.
They have the best jerk chicken in city, hands down.
The meat is always succulent and well cooked, and the rice that accompanies it is seasoned to perfection.
And let's not forget about the beef patties - they're a must-try!
They sell out so quickly, though, so you might want to call ahead.
But what truly sets Plainfield Best In Town apart is their oxtail dinner.
My partner often orders it and I'm always amazed by how succulent the meat is.
The salad that comes with it is just as impressive, offering a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, flavorful oxtail and rice.
Final Thoughts
The culinary scene in Plainfield, New Jersey, is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.
From the hearty portions at Popiks Place to the delectable dishes from Mi Casita Restaurant, every establishment offers a unique taste and experience worth trying out.
So, get out there and start tasting what our beloved city has to offer.
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