21 Best Restaurants in Wayne, NJ

Travel Lens

Aug 5, 2023 • 22 min read

Nestled among the rolling hills and beautiful landscapes, this charming locale serves up a delightful array of dining establishments that will make your taste buds dance.

From enchanting fine dining to cozy mom-and-pop eateries, every corner in Wayne seems to reveal a new gastronomical delight.

So, pull up a chair and join me on this journey of flavors - it's time to explore the best restaurants in Wayne, New Jersey.

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How this article was written: Our team first analyzed the scores and feedback across major platforms like Google Maps, Yelp, and Trip Advisor, considering not only the ratings but also the consistency of positive feedback. Following this, we conducted interviews with over 30 local residents who have been to these restaurants to gather authentic, first-hand experiences. You can read more about our research process here.

While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Wayne 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.

Brian's Kitchen

You know those days when you're just not in the mood to cook, but your stomach is growling for some hearty, home-cooked food?

That's when I head straight for Brian's Kitchen.

It's this little gem I stumbled upon when I was randomly driving by one day.

The place is as cute and clean as a pin, almost like walking into your favorite uncle's kitchen.

And oh, the food!

My first time there, I started with their Tai Chili Crispy Chicken Strips - tender & juicy on the inside, crispy, sweet, & tangy on the outside with the perfect touch of spice.

I still can't get over how good they were.

Then came the big players, the Pastrami Rueben served with coleslaw and fries and a well-cooked Cheeseburger sided with potato salad and fries.

Every bite was an explosion of fresh, delicious flavors.

Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, dessert arrived.

The chocolate chip and red velvet cookies were out of this world, the rice pudding was the best I've ever had, and the vanilla milkshake was the perfect way to cap off my meal.

Now, I have yet another reason to love Brian's Kitchen.

They catered a small event for me recently.

Instead of a set catering menu, Brian himself put together a spread for the event.

The food, as always, was fresh and divine, and Brian was dedicated, helpful, and fair in his pricing.

Soups 'n' Such

The moment you step into Soups 'n' Such, you are greeted by the charming sight of this quaint shop just off the highway.

It brings a homely feel to this hidden gem in Wayne, which serves up an amazing variety of soups and sandwiches.

On my first visit, I picked the soup trio flight – and boy, did it impress!

The mushroom barley and hamburger soup was packed with flavor while the chicken noodle displayed an impressive quality of chicken, with no bones in sight, hinting at the care and personal touch that went into its preparation.

The size of the place is small, adding to its charm.

There's something pleasing about enjoying a meal outdoors at such a cozy spot.

It's not hard to imagine this place expanding into a bigger space in the future, considering its top-notch offerings.

Their Cuban Panini, a staple sandwich, is a must-try - a personal favorite of mine.

There's something new on the menu every week.

I remember being particularly blown away by a potato tortellini soup – it was thick, more like a stew, and every mouthful was a burst of intense flavors.

The lemon chicken orzo soup was another delightful surprise.

Blaze Pizza

You know that moment when you bite into a pizza, and you realize that it's not just any regular pizza?

It's a slice of heaven, a symphony of flavors that makes you feel like you're tasting something truly remarkable for the first time.

That's Blaze Pizza for you, tucked away in Wayne; it's a gem that serves up the most divine thin-crust pizzas you could ever imagine.

What's even better is the concept of building your own pizza.

The freedom to choose as many toppings as you want, ensuring that every bite is just the way you like it.

And it's not just about quantity – the quality of ingredients is top-notch, fresh and flavorful.

I remember dropping by on Pi day and seeing the place packed with pizza lovers.

The lines were long, but it was clear that it was worth the wait.

And when I finally bit into my pizza, I knew it was worth every second of the wait.

It's not just me; even my colleagues love this place.

Her customer service skills are on point, making us look forward to our lunch breaks.

Among their pizza options, the Simple Pie and "build your own" are my favorites.

The red sauce – oh, the sauce!

It's delightful, adding a tangy twist that makes their pizzas stand out from the usual fare.

Pete's Meats & Grill

Ever since my partner stumbled upon a post about Pete's Meats & Grill on social media, our meal times have never been the same!

The very first time we visited Pete's Meats & Grill, curiosity got the better of us, and we tried their highly recommended pastrami sandwich.

Never in my life have I met a sandwich quite like it - the meat was tender, the pickles crunchy, and the dressing was packed with flavor.

It even managed to change my opinion about Cuban sandwiches, and that's saying something!

We ended up taking home a bunch of other appetizing treats for our family to try.

I'm pretty sure the fact that everything is cooked on-premise is the secret to their irresistible taste.

And if you think that’s all Pete's has to offer, you are in for a surprise!

One night, when my usual spot was closed, I decided to give Pete's shot and ordered a pastrami egg roll.

The egg roll, coupled with a little bit of macaroni and cheese, was simply out of this world!

And if you have a sweet tooth like me, don't forget to try their unique pistachio ice cream dessert.

What truly sets Pete's apart is not just their mouth-watering food but also their exceptional customer service.

I love how they pay attention to small details, like separating the lettuce and tomatoes in a small container so that the burger isn’t soaked.

What’s more, they have a great selection of desserts and ice cream and a whole range of pre-made stuff.

Gary & Meg's Chicken & Ribs

When it comes to satisfying those meaty cravings, trust me, there's no better place in the area than Gary & Meg's Chicken & Ribs.

It was just another casual weekend when I stumbled upon this culinary haven and boy, it sure did surprise me!

The moment you spot the big red truck, you know you're in for a treat.

Gary & Meg's Chicken & Ribs is not just another BBQ joint; it's a foodie's paradise.

Now let me tell you about the food!

You can genuinely taste the passion and dedication in each bite, which is probably why their ribs and pulled pork are insanely good.

And the sampling?

Oh, what a delight!

They let you try the ribs and pulled pork beforehand, and it was so succulent and flavorsome that I knew I'd be coming back for more.

It's the kind of place where you wish summer would never end so you can continuously enjoy their outdoor patio seating.

Their grilled shrimp, cooked to sheer perfection, is another must-try, especially with the habanero dipping sauce.

And don't even get me started on the comfort food!

The collared greens and cornbread are the stuff of dreams, ideal for those days when you want to indulge in some homemade goodness.

And speaking of homemade, their BBQ sauce is the real game-changer.

It's so finger-licking good; you'll probably end up buying a bottle (or three) to take home.

But the biggest surprise for me was their "not your mother's coleslaw."

I don't know what they put in it, but it's simply out of this world!

Gyro Grill

Getting a taste of the Mediterranean right here in the area has always been a treat for me.

I stumbled upon Gyro Grill one day while searching for a local Mediterranean restaurant.

The welcoming atmosphere and the pleasant aroma of spices wafting through the air instantly drew me in.

This family-owned establishment dishes out the warmest hospitality, leaving me feeling like I'm dining with family every time I visit.

There's a certain charm about the place, where the food is not just prepared but crafted with love and served with genuine warmth.

Their dishes are hot, hearty, and full of flavor.

The falafel is so delicious, and their fries are something you can't resist.

The portions are just right, leaving you satisfyingly full.

What makes the experience even more worthwhile is the casual and enjoyable dining environment.

It's the kind of place where you'll find yourself dining one day and planning your next visit the very next.

It's the homemade vibe, the excellent food, and the amicable service that keep me coming back for more.

Jackie Smalls

It feels like I've found a little slice of paradise right here in the heart of the township at Jackie Smalls.

There's an undeniable charm to this place, from the warm and inviting atmosphere to the mouthwatering menu options.

Jackie Smalls is a haven for food lovers like me, and I can't seem to get enough of it.

In my multiple visits, I've found that everything Jackie Smalls serves is delicious.

Their avocado toast is a must-try - so creamy and packed with flavor!

And let's not forget about their scones; they're the perfect balance of light and crumbly.

But the menu doesn't stop there; it's vast and can cater to just about everyone's taste buds.

The breakfast, brunch, and lunch are all equally tantalizing.

And the prices?

Perfectly on point for the quality of food and service you receive.

Speaking of service, it's impeccable!

Grandma's Pizza

Let me tell you; there's no place like Grandma's Pizza to satisfy your craving for that perfect slice.

Not just my go-to spot; it holds a special place in the hearts of many of us in the neighborhood.

Picture this.

It's Friday night, the end of a long week, and there's a unanimous vote at home for a pizza night.

Grandma's Pizza is the unanimous choice.

The friendly voices that greet you on the phone are like the cherry on top of an already perfect pizza experience.

Their service is as fresh and warm as their pizzas.

Each visit to Grandma's Pizza is like a mini family reunion.

It's like they've adopted the entire neighborhood!

Now let's talk about the star of the show, the pizza.

My friends and I have a tough time deciding between the Chipotle slice and the Drunken Grandma slice.

They're both divine, but don't just take my word for it - you need to try them for yourself!

And it's not just about pizza here.

Their pasta dishes, paninis, and lip-smacking wings add another layer to their culinary prowess.

The BBQ Chicken slice and Penne Vodka they're the stuff dreams are made of.

Seriously, they taste better than anywhere else I've tried.

The ambiance is worth mentioning, too - clean tables, pleasant music, and the aroma of fresh pizza in the air.

Bamboo Takei Sushi

One may not think to look for a slice of Japan in our humble township, but there it is, nestled away in a small plaza, the brilliant beacon of Bamboo Takei Sushi, a hidden gem that has been a part of our community for over 15 years.

The first time I stepped into this establishment, I was struck by the sweet, cozy ambiance that put me immediately at ease.

It's a clean, low-key spot that never fails to offer ample parking, an essential feature for any local haunt.

Every time I visit, I am consistently taken aback by their first-class service.

It reminds me of the impeccable customer service you would expect to receive in Japan.

It's a rare treat to find a restaurant that treats its patrons like celebrities, with a surprising amount of complimentary dishes on offer.

I may have eaten sushi in numerous places, but nothing compares to the quality of sushi served at Bamboo Takei Sushi.

The fish is always fresh and sweet, not fishy in the slightest.

The sushi rolls are tight and well-rolled.

The salmon, tender, and buttery, has quickly become a favorite of mine.

Their attention to detail extends beyond the food.

The ceramic tea cups, for example, add a delightful touch of authenticity that only intensifies my appreciation for this place.

Bamboo Takei Sushi isn't just a restaurant; it's a healing oasis.

I recall one particularly tough week when a simple meal here nourished not only my body but also my soul.

Mr Tofu House

Once upon a casual Saturday evening, my taste buds were yearning for a culinary journey.

With Korean food on my mind, I ventured out to Mr Tofu House, a hidden gem tucked away in the area.

The instant you step into this modern restaurant, you'll know you're in for a treat.

The interior design is chic and inviting, with barriers between the tables, adding an intimate touch to the setting.

It's spacious enough to accommodate large parties, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings or friendly reunions.

Now, onto the food, the real star of the show.

The hot stone beef bibimbap was a feast for the senses.

As for the ramen, it was divine.

I've had my share of ramen, but the ones at Mr Tofu House were genuinely memorable.

And if your palate is more plant-based, have no fear.

The kimchi pajeon, or kimchi pancakes, were a revelation.

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with the punchy flavor of kimchi.

Speaking of kimchi, theirs wasn't too spicy as some can be, striking a perfect balance of flavor.

The tofu soup was rich and full of depth, and the edamame beans were well-seasoned without being overly salty.

But what truly made my experience at Mr Tofu House special was the service.

O Blaxos Greek Grill

There's a gem nestled in our neighborhood that offers more than just food - it's a delightful cultural experience.

At O Blaxos Greek Grill, I've had the pleasure of celebrating my son's birthday.

It was a memorable night enveloped in a warm, relaxing atmosphere, where the Mediterranean ambiance was as enticing as the food itself.

Every dish served at O Blaxos Greek Grill is a culinary masterpiece, meticulously prepared and seasoned to perfection, offering a pleasing explosion of flavors with every bite.

As someone with discerning taste buds, a recommendation doesn't come easy from me, but this Greek grill has won me over completely.

The beautiful aesthetic of the place only adds to the appeal, making you feel at home yet transported to the heart of Greece at the same time.

When it comes to customer service, they're top-notch.

They'll make you feel special, like a valued guest at a Greek house rather than a customer at a restaurant.

There's a lot on their plates, both literally and figuratively - from hearty portions that offer great value for money to a wide array of dishes that cater to various palates.

Novelli

Let me take you back to a memorable Saturday evening at Novelli, where we celebrated my grandmother's milestone 80th birthday.

The Northern Italian fine-dining spot, nestled in the heart of our township, is a true gem that offers more than just a meal; it offers an experience.

As soon as we stepped through Novelli's doors, we were greeted by the warmth of the intimate decor, highlighted by brick arches that exuded an old-world charm.

The room allocated for the party was breathtakingly gorgeous, setting the perfect stage for a night of celebration.

What set Novelli apart was the attention to detail and the impeccable service.

The star of the evening, of course, was the food.

Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, from the appetizers to the main courses and the dessert.

The highlight was the food's incredible taste, which was beyond anything I've tasted in the area.

It was a symphony of flavors that danced on our palates, leaving us yearning for more.

While the dining room can get a bit noisy during peak hours, the lively atmosphere adds to the charm of the place.

Yes, the tables are closely packed, but this only amplifies the feeling of being part of a bustling, vibrant community, just like in the trattorias of Northern Italy.

Vila Verde

Oh, the charm of discovering hidden gems right in your own neighborhood!

Vila Verde, a treasure tucked away in plain sight, proved to be one such delightful discovery for me.

It offers a blend of Spanish and Portuguese cuisine in an ambiance that whispers tales of the Old World.

You'd be forgiven for underestimating Vila Verde based on its modest exterior.

I've driven past it for years, never giving it a second glance.

From a simple dinner to a grand event, the restaurant handles it all with grace.

On one occasion, I was part of a large group with a few toddlers in tow.

The restaurant was getting busier as the evening wore on, but our reservation, service, and billing were handled seamlessly without any delays.

The food, of course, is the crowning glory of Vila Verde.

Their paella is a dream on a plate, the soup warms your spirit, and the desserts are a sweet serenade.

The portions are generous, bordered with family-style sides of fresh chip-style potatoes, Spanish rice, and vegetables.

Let's not forget their crusty, warm bread and ripe olives – they're simply divine.

I must also mention their Fig Martini, which has quickly become a personal favorite of mine.

Thai Corner Bistro

You haven't truly savored Thai cuisine until you've dined at Thai Corner Bistro.

Nestled in our neighborhood, the place has a way of drawing you in with its charming ambiance and maintaining that magnetism with its top-notch service.

Whenever I bring friends over, they never fail to rave about the delightful Drunken Noodles and the succulent Duck that simply melts in your mouth.

The Creme Brulee is an exquisite finishing touch to the feast, and it's unlike any other you'll find in the area.

My partner and I have a tradition of dining here as often as we can, and let me tell you, the freshness of the ingredients is palpable in each dish that we try.

On one hand, the Appetizer Sampler is a meal by itself, and on the other, the Pineapple Rice and Crispy Chicken with Curry Rice are tantalizingly fragrant!

There was a period when I was away from the area and only returned recently, and I was elated to find that the Thai Corner Bistro was still open, serving the same authentic Thai flavors I'd missed.

The Papaya Salad, Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice were just as I remembered - absolutely divine.

The bonus?

I always get enough to take home for a late-night snack.

Every two weeks or so, I make sure to drop by, and each visit reaffirms that they really know their Thai food.

Guacamole Wayne

One evening, as the hunger pangs kicked in, I found myself craving something flavorful, robust, and a little offbeat from my usual choices.

Then it hit me - Mexican food!

The best place I knew to satisfy this craving was none other than the local Mexican eatery, Guacamole Wayne.

As soon as I stepped in, the charming decor, reminiscent of a quaint little town in Mexico, instantly pulled me in.

Within minutes, I found myself comfortably seated, scanning through their extensive and authentic menu.

My craving for something spicy had me ordering their custom-made spicy enchiladas.

One bite into it, and I was transported straight to Mexico.

The bold flavors, the just-right spice, and the generous portion size made it a delightful meal.

But the real star of my meal was their signature dish - the guacamole.

It was simply the best I've ever tasted, with fresh ingredients melding together for a perfect, creamy finish.

On another occasion, I decided to try their steak fajita, and boy, was I delighted!

The sizeable portion was loaded with a flavorful steak, rich sauces, and a side, absolutely satiating my hunger.

Mountainview Deli & Hotdog

There's nothing like the thrill of discovering a hidden gem in your own backyard, and that's exactly what Mountainview Deli & Hotdog is - an unexpected delight tucked away in our local neighborhood.

Every time I find myself craving a quick and tasty lunch, this spot never disappoints.

A bite into their chili dogs, and you'll know why I can't get enough.

The explosive flavors with a daring kick are enough to make any palate dance with joy.

And it's not just about the food; the prices are kind on my wallet too.

It makes you realize you don't have to break the bank to enjoy a good meal.

But what makes Mountainview Deli & Hotdog truly special is the exceptional service.

Primo Pizza

Imagine a place where the aroma of freshly baked pizza teases your senses, where burgers are juicy, empanadas are flavorful, and the service is simply the best.

Yes, I'm talking about Primo Pizza in Wayne.

My friends and I stumbled upon this hidden gem about three years ago when one of them was on a quest for an obscure type of pasta.

We were pleasantly surprised to find it at Primo Pizza, and the food was so good that it has become our go-to place ever since.

Every visit brings a sense of anticipation for the mouth-watering meal that lies ahead.

Their pizza is perfectly baked, the marsala and francaise-style meals are delectable, and the service is consistently excellent.

Not only have I brought my family here, but I've also introduced my friends to Primo Pizza.

From my sister to my partner, everyone has fallen in love with this place.

Word of mouth about Primo Pizza has traveled fast in our circle.

It's not just a pizzeria; it's a place where food lovers meet, and friendships are strengthened over shared meals.

Pizza One

Let me just make a bold statement right off the bat - I haven't tasted anything quite like the jerk chicken pizza from Pizza One!

Trust me; it's not just your regular pizza; it's a burst of flavors, something that can turn a mundane day into a gastronomic delight.

It's arguably one of the best things you can find on their menu.

And if you're feeling brave, you might want to try their Daytona slice, a peculiar but interesting combo of buffalo and BBQ flavors.

It could be a hit or miss, but hey, that's part of the fun!

One of the best things about Pizza One is their speedy delivery.

With a variety of yummy options, they never keep me waiting for too long.

And here's a little insider info for you - don't overlook their kid's menu.

Their chicken fingers are simply out of this world, and they don't skimp on the fries, either.

But Pizza One isn't just about pizzas and chicken fingers - they also shine when it comes to catering events.

I had them cater my daughter's birthday bash recently, and I could not have asked for better service.

From the prompt delivery to the beautifully packed food, everything was spot on.

The chicken Marsala, sausage and peppers, and grilled veggies were the clear crowd favorites.

In short, if you're looking for a place that delivers in terms of both food and service, Pizza One is where you should be heading.

My Salad

When it comes to choosing a healthy meal in this busy lifestyle, the first place that comes to my mind is My Salad.

One day, during my lunch break, I decided to grab something nutritious and light.

After browsing through their online menu, I couldn't resist the temptation of their Chipotle Ranch Burrito.

As soon as I reached there, they handed over my order.

The feeling of holding a warm, freshly made burrito was incredible.

The moment I took the first bite, I was absolutely stunned.

The burrito was mouth-wateringly delicious.

The special chipotle sauce that was drizzled over the burrito added that extra zest to it.

It was so filling that it kept me satiated for a long time.

One of the best things I've tried so far is their salmon salad.

It tastes extremely fresh, and the way it's cooked is simply commendable.

The fresh greens and the generous portion size definitely exceeded my expectations.

Nama Noodle Bar

I couldn't help but be charmed by Nama Noodle Bar right from the entrance.

It was a quirky yet fun touch to the otherwise traditional setup.

My order was placed either at the convenient kiosk or using the QR code at my table - an excellent blend of tradition and technology.

The menu, although still in its final stages, showed promise.

I decided to go for the shrimp siu mai as an appetizer - it was decent enough, a good start to the meal.

But the real stars of the evening were the garlic ramen and the spicy miso.

The broth was flavorful, the noodles perfectly cooked, and the cha shu pork - generously included - was a delight.

I particularly appreciated that each ramen order came with a well-prepared egg.

My only minor gripe was that the ramen was served in disposable bowls, but I'm optimistic they'll switch to actual dishes soon.

And the surprises didn't end there - Nama Noodle Bar shares its space with Meow and Sip, so you can enjoy a refreshing milk tea along with your meal.

I also heard that they plan to introduce homemade gelatos soon, adding another layer of excitement to the already promising establishment.

Viaggio Ristorante

If you ever find yourself longing for an authentic Italian meal, I highly recommend the cozy, rustic charm of Viaggio Ristorante.

Serving up classical Tuscan cuisine with an innovative touch, the locally sourced menu never fails to impress.

The appetizers at Viaggio are truly something to write home about.

The calamari, in particular, is a thing of beauty.

It's probably the best I've had in a long time.

I can't forget to mention the pasta, which is always a stand-out hit of the night.

Every dish is beautifully presented, and the flavors are a fine balance of authentic Italian with a hint of modern creativity.

One unique feature about Viaggio is that it's a BYOB restaurant.

It's a refreshing change of pace and allows for a more personalized dining experience.

The main dishes are good as well.

The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect place for a special night out or even a casual weekday dinner.

Final Thoughts

After living in Wayne for many years, I've had the pleasure of trying most of the restaurants in the area.

Whether I'm craving comfort food at Brian's Kitchen, a quick bite from Pete's Meats & Grill, or a fine dining experience at Novelli, Wayne's diverse food scene has never failed to satisfy my taste buds.

With so many tasty options at your disposal, you really can’t go wrong when deciding where to eat in Wayne, New Jersey.

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