These spots are so beloved that they’re opening additional locations. (See which one made our Best New Restaurants list!)
Brick Lane
Montclair
When this iconic Montclair Indian restaurant closed in 2024 after 15 years in business (formerly Brick Lane Curry House), its regulars were crushed. But its customers were elated when it was announced that the spot would reopen as Brick Lane—with an updated menu and a renovated dining room. It has an elegant atmosphere, and the new menu has more regional Indian dishes on offer, including aromatic curries, tandoori, biryani and more. —Jacqueline Mroz
Char Steakhouse
Scotch Plains
This upscale steak house also has locations in Red Bank and Raritan. The steak selection includes everything from tomahawk to cowboy to New York strip. Not a meat fan? There’s also a selection of fish dishes, such as yellowfin tuna, Chilean sea bass, and stuffed lobster. Classic desserts, such as New York cheesecake, await those who still have room for more. —J. Mroz
Harpoon Willy’s
Robbinsville
Photo: Courtesy of Harpoon Willy’s
Soaring Palladian windows give this elegant and airy location a different vibe than its Manasquan sister. Billed as an upscale American tavern, it makes the most of that title with a large bar and inventive beverage program. The menu takes liberties with pub favorites, elevating apps like crispy calamari (one of the best things I ate this past year), cider bourbon wings, burgers, and entrées like roasted pumpkin ravioli. —Deborah P. Carter
King of Pies
Asbury Park
The forthcoming pizza spot by Coniglio’s Old Fashioned pizzeria in Morristown will build on the success of the popular spot. Brooklyn-born Nino Coniglio is a pizza maker and restaurateur who made a name for himself in the world of pizza-making. He’s known for his grandma pie, his upside down Sicilian, and his Brooklyn round pie, a winning entry in the 2023 NJ Pizza Bowl. —J. Mroz
Meximodo
Jersey City
Rendering: Courtesy of Celano Design Studio
A festive atmosphere is only the beginning at this outpost for reenvisioned traditional Mexican cuisine. The roster of tacos gets fresh twists with fillings like maitake mushrooms and birria (stewy, slow-cooked goat). Standout options include tart scallop ceviche and a showy charbroiled porterhouse, served flaming. Beverages are equally inventive; be sure to try the Meximodo tequila blanco, an organic, unique-tasting, spirit from a women-led brand. —DPC
MM by Morimoto
Morristown
In October, it was announced that Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and Montclair Hospitality will open a second MM by Morimoto. The new Morristown restaurant will replace the former Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen. The Montclair location opened last summer. MM by Morimoto serves Prime and Wagyu steak, as well as fish and a selection of sushi and sashimi. Cocktails, beer and wine are also on offer. —J. Mroz
Her latest achievement? The Saint Clair, a dining hotspot in the foodie town of Montclair.
These were some of our most memorable meals and restaurant visits this year.
