FunNewJersey The Best Seafood Restaurants in New Jersey: A Culinary Coast-to-Coast Journey
New Jersey’s diverse coastline offers an incredible array of seafood dining experiences, with each region boasting its own unique flavors and maritime culinary traditions. From the bustling shores of North Jersey to the quaint seaside towns of South Jersey, seafood lovers are in for a treat.
North Jersey Seafood Destinations
Moby’s Seafood Restaurant (Cliffside Park)
Nestled in Bergen County, Moby’s is a local institution that has been serving exceptional seafood for decades. Known for its classic New England-style atmosphere, the restaurant offers an impressive selection of fresh catch, including:
- Butter-poached lobster
- Extensive raw bar featuring local oysters
- Signature New England clam chowder
- Perfectly prepared pan-seared scallops
Dock’s Oyster House (Newark)
A historic seafood establishment that has been delighting diners since 1925, Dock’s combines traditional recipes with modern culinary techniques. Highlights include:
- Award-winning oyster selection
- Fresh fish prepared in multiple styles
- Classic seafood platters
- Extensive wine list to complement your meal
Battello (Jersey City)
Perched along the Hudson River with stunning Manhattan skyline views, Battello offers a modern take on seafood dining. This upscale restaurant combines innovative cuisine with breathtaking waterfront ambiance:
- Seasonally changing seafood menu
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Sophisticated small plates and entrees
- Extensive craft cocktail program
- Panoramic views of New York City and the Hudson River
- Specialties include wood-fired seafood and creative coastal-inspired dishes
Varka Restaurant (Ramsey)
A North Jersey gem that celebrates the rich Mediterranean seafood tradition, Varka offers an extraordinary dining experience:
- Extensive fresh fish selection, with many options flown in daily
- Greek and Mediterranean-inspired seafood preparations
- Live fish tanks featuring exotic seafood varieties
- Open kitchen concept
- Signature whole fish preparations
- Extensive wine list focusing on Mediterranean regions
Central Jersey Seafood Gems
Campanazno (South River)
A hidden gem in Central Jersey, Campanazno offers a unique blend of traditional Italian seafood preparations and fresh local catches:
- Extensive seafood pasta dishes
- Whole fish preparations
- Fresh daily seafood specials
- Intimate family-owned atmosphere
- Authentic Italian seafood recipes
- Locally sourced ingredients with a Mediterranean flair
Salt (New Brunswick)
A contemporary restaurant that elevates seafood dining with innovative techniques and locally sourced ingredients:
- Farm-to-table approach to seafood
- Seasonally rotating menu
- Artfully presented seafood dishes
- Craft cocktails and extensive wine selection
- Open kitchen concept
- Emphasis on local and sustainable seafood
The Diving Horse (Avalon)
Located in the heart of Central Jersey’s shore region, The Diving Horse offers an innovative approach to seafood cuisine. Chef-driven and locally sourced, the restaurant provides:
- Seasonal seafood specials
- Locally caught fish prepared with creative techniques
- Intimate dining atmosphere
- Rotating menu that celebrates New Jersey’s maritime bounty
Mike’s Fish Market & Restaurant (Toms River)
A quintessential Jersey shore seafood spot that combines market-fresh fish with casual dining. Standout offerings include:
- Live lobster tanks
- Daily fish market with take-home options
- Classic seafood sandwiches
- Family-friendly atmosphere
South Jersey Seafood Havens
Gloucester County Oyster Festival Restaurant (Mullica Hill)
Celebrating the rich oyster-harvesting tradition of South Jersey, this restaurant offers an authentic maritime dining experience:
- Fresh-shucked local oysters
- Comprehensive seafood menu
- Educational displays about local marine ecology
- Seasonal specialties highlighting South Jersey’s fishing heritage
The Ocean Harbor (Cape May)
Situated in one of New Jersey’s most iconic beach towns, The Ocean Harbor provides a quintessential Jersey shore seafood experience:
- Panoramic ocean views
- Fresh catch brought in daily from local fishermen
- Traditional seafood preparations
- Extensive raw bar and shellfish selections
Tips for Seafood Dining in New Jersey
- Seasonality Matters: Many of these restaurants adjust their menus based on local catch and seasonal availability.
- Reservations Recommended: Especially during peak summer months, booking ahead is crucial.
- Local Is Best: These restaurants pride themselves on locally sourced, fresh seafood.
- Explore Beyond the Classics: Don’t be afraid to try unique preparations and regional specialties.
New Jersey’s seafood scene is a testament to the state’s rich maritime heritage, offering something for every palate – from casual beachside fare to haute cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey along the Garden State’s beautiful coastline.
