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Essex Restaurants

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Check out diners' favourite restaurants in Essex

Updated on

Diners’ Choice Awards are based on where your fellow diners book, dine, and review. Only verified diners get to review restaurants on OpenTable, so our data doesn’t lie.

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Bivio Pizza Napoletana
Diners’ top pick
•
Price: Expensive
•
Pizzeria
•
4.9
(143)
At Bivio our passion is authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Napoli... our love of the city, its cuisine, and in particular, its pizza is where our story began. We heard time and time again “It’s all about the dough.” True to Neapolitan tradition, and the passion of the pizzaioli, we construct our pizza using “00” flour from Naples, San Marzano DOP tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil, fior di latte or bufala mozzarella, and sea salt. Our dough is gently mixed using a 28 year old “lieveto madre” (natural yeast culture) then with intense heat is baked in our wood burning il forno. At Bivio all of our dishes are made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
A photo of LuNello Restaurant restaurant
LuNello Restaurant
Price: Expensive
•
Italian
•
4.9
(1,144)
Since 1990, Chef Seger's use of unique ingredients, homemade pastas, and innovative specials has created a loyal following. His modern flair mixed with traditional culinary skills has created a whirlwind of praise. You will not see seafood options on the regular menu for one reason; All our Seafood is wild not farm raised and we carry ONLY what is available and offer them as our daily specials.
General Manager Stephanie Voulgaris
Floor Manager Henry Calderon
Sommelier Stephanie Voulgaris
LuNello has gone right to the source when purchasing ingredients and each dish reflects the attention placed into its preparation. All our meats in our menu have grown and purchased from meat purveyors that there is no use of antibiotics or hormones. Enticing presentation and courteous and professional staff are integral to LuNello's success. We are also excited to offer Wine Dinners and special events hosted in our private event spaces. We look forward to making your experience with us a special one!
A photo of Giorgio's Ristorante - South Orange restaurant
Giorgio's Ristorante - South Orange
Price: Expensive
•
Italian
•
4.9
(483)
Giorgio's of South Orange has always been one of the landmarks in the area. Specializing in fine Italian cuisine and catering, we have a wide range of signature soups, salads and of course, our special, main-course, all-time favorite items.
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Nami Nori - Montclair
Top-rated food
•
Price: Expensive
•
Japanese
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4.8
(22)
Nami Nori is a casual, Japanese restaurant specializing in open-style temaki hand rolls, located in Montclair. The menu features signature hand rolls, including crunchy varieties, as well as classic versions, and a special vegan section. Japanese-inspired dishes from the kitchen and desserts are also on offer.
We accept reservations up to 30 days in advance. Please note that the grace period is 10 minutes for guests who are running late. We kindly ask that guests respect our dinner seating times of 1 hr 30 minutes for parties up to 3 and 2 hours for parties of 4-5, and 2 hr 30 minutes for parties of 6 or more.
Featured Menu items:
Spicy Crab Dynamite Temaki
Tuna Poke with Crispy Shallots Temaki
Avocado "Toast" Temaki
Spicy Tuna Dip with Crispy Rice Chips
A photo of Adega Grill restaurant
Adega Grill
Price: Expensive
•
Portuguese
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4.9
(1,173)
From the moment you enter, tones of old world yellows, stone fireplaces, wrought iron cellar gates and sconces, soft candlelight, coves with upholstered sofa seating and friendly staff, it's an undeniable inviting space, nothing short of extraordinary. Two special occasion tables with antique throne chairs and live piano music add to the intimacy. Two romantic dining rooms cater to an elegant crowd, while the long narrow bar gathers a friendly and fun bunch nightly.
The cuisine truly upholds the name of Fine Portuguese/Spanish Dining, seafood and fish, organic meats, the freshest ingredients and to maintain the tradition, huge portions are to be expected. The menu is seasonal and in addition to a varied selection of delectable dishes to satisfy any palette, daily specials are always featured. The wine list with over 180 selections is an ambitious one that keeps growing, but sure not to disappoint the discriminating connoisseur.
A photo of Zeugma restaurant
Zeugma
Price: Moderate
•
Mediterranean
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4.9
(1,441)
**Only Fridays and Saturdays ( Only Adults ) We do not accommodate kids after 5pm
**We don't guarantee the location of the table, but we try our best to accommodate. We gladly hold the table for 15 minutes grace period.
** Outdoor sitting first come first serve.
Zeugma Grill offers a distinct menu for its customers that is sure to please the palate. The Mediterranean fusion and modern menu includes mezzes, special entrees, salads, desserts and much more. Try our fresh made and our creations BEET FALAFEL, MANTI(Handmade Mushroom dumpling). Domenico winery also sells their California wines out our restaurant so no need to stop on your way for a bottle.
We look forward to serving you. Mediterranean inspired cuisine mixed with all Mediterranean Cities Flavorful herbs and spices combine textures to appease broad-based palates.Our r attentive staff ensures that your entire dining experience at ZEUGMA is stellar from beginning to end.
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Lithos Estiatorio
Top-rated hospitality
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Price: Expensive
•
Greek
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4.8
(1,258)
As you enter this newly remodeled restaurant, your eyes will immediately be brought to our open fish display with fresh whole fish from the Mediterranean and sustainably farmed as well. In addition our selection of quality meats and poultry will entice the palette of all culinary preferences. Our newly-remodeled covered patio can accommodate up to 40 people. We have an outdoor bar. You will delight in the simplicity, our respect for the food and allowing the quality of the ingredients to speak for themselves. Our mission is simply to bring friends and family together to enjoy old world flavors presented with a passion for excellence in dining and hospitality.
A photo of Mompou Tapas Bar - Newark restaurant
Mompou Tapas Bar - Newark
Price: Moderate
•
Tapas / Small Plates
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4.9
(187)
Inspired by the ​creative and ​energetic essence of the tapas culture of Spain, ​​Mompou​ endeavors to introduce​ our guests to the beauty of our ​vibrant ​homeland through​ a combination of​ modern interpretations of traditional Spanish cuisine, innovative​ cocktails, and ​small vintner wine selections​. Our thoughtful​ and heartfelt​ approach to menu development, flavor combinations, and plating​,​ take center stage​.​ ​This is complemented ​by our ​focus ​on extraordinary service and ​our guest​’s​ overall experience.
Mompou​:​ redefining the Ironbound​​ experience since 2005.
A photo of Samba - Montclair restaurant
Samba - Montclair
Price: Moderate
•
Brazilian
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4.8
(887)
Homestyle Brazilian fare served in a stylish, rustic space with antique pots & vintage tableware.
Samba is now the only restaurant certified as a gluten-free restaurant in New Jersey from the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG). @glutendotorg . We are not conforming to a trend. Due to personal experience, gluten
sensitivity is a very serious matter. For the safety of others who are gluten-free, no outside food or cakes will be allowed in the restaurant.
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Sapori Ristorante - Montclair
Great vibe
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Price: Moderate
•
Italian
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4.8
(141)
Welcome to Sapori Ristorante, where we’ve been delighting taste buds for 20 years! Recently restored, our charming eatery now features a vibrant, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements our exciting new menu. With our personal experience from around the world, we are bringing you the best taste of authentic Italian flavors, crafted from the finest ingredients and traditional recipes.
Whether you’re enjoying a classic pasta dish or one of our innovative new creations, every bite promises to transport you straight to Italy. Join us for a memorable dining experience that celebrates two decades of culinary excellence!
A photo of Fanny's restaurant
Fanny's
Price: Expensive
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Italian
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4.7
(112)
Old School, New School Italian. Craft Cocktails & Curated Italian Wine List. Family Owned and Operated.
A photo of Tops Diner restaurant
Tops Diner
Price: Moderate
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American
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4.8
(1,657)
Ever since Tops Diner was established in 1942, our focus has always been to serve what our customers want, exactly when and how they want it. As the American dining culture shifts, we recognize we must strive to recreate the 1920’s renaissance that birthed the diner as we know it today, all the while preserving the historical and cultural identity that made Tops Diner the model all others hope to emulate.
By constantly evolving, we ensure our ability to provide a diverse menu of high quality options with the speed of service we’ve all become accustomed to, providing the uniquely satisfying experience synonymous with the Tops Diner name. Our hope is that we can grow as our clients do, and continue to serve both our Newark family, and our community at large.
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Assado Steakhouse
Great budget-friendly spot
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Price: Moderate
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Steakhouse
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4.8
(492)
Assado Steakhouse is a BYOB welcoming our patrons to pair their desired wine with our traditional dishes. Our rustic yet modern decor provides the perfect setting for a Portuguese steakhouse experience. But ultimately what’s on the plate is what sets us apart. We look forward to seeing you.
A photo of Laboratorio Kitchen restaurant
Laboratorio Kitchen
Price: Moderate
•
Italian
•
4.7
(2,342)
Laboratorio Kitchen offers guests a modern atmosphere paired with seasonal food and tender service. We are a BYOB restaurant. Chef/Owner James DeSisto has a seasonal a la carte menu featuring fresh seafood, pasta, steaks, and appetizers. In addition there is a chef’s special menu featuring local and seasonal food from all over NJ, PA, and NY please keep in mind this menu changes weekly. Chef DeSisto also has gluten free and vegan options for guests as well. Our outdoor patio is weather permitting, if we cannot accommodate outside due to weather we will move you inside depending on availability. Some must try’s are the giant meatball, house made pastas, steak au poivre or our delicious day boat scallops!! Do not skip dessert everything from start to finish will be memorable, so come in and enjoy culinary excellence with us!
A photo of La Cucina Piccola restaurant
La Cucina Piccola
Price: Moderate
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Italian
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4.8
(584)
La Cucina Piccola is an Italian restaurant in Roseland, NJ. We offer classic cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients daily. Join us for dinner and you'll feel welcomed and well taken care of.

Outdoor dining in New Jersey

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See what locals rave about in Essex

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Keri
    New York City •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food was excellent. Every dish we had was better than the last. The appetizers we tried were the tuna crudo, shisitos, mushroom dip, tuna dip, salmon and furikake fries. They were all delicious. The fries were a unique idea and a favorite. The Temaki were unique, delicious, and beautiful. We tried so many of them and I would Order them all again. Faves though were the Tuna, the yellowtail with scallion, the lobster, the fried oyster and the Triple which is a huge splurge. We will Definitely be back!
    More info
    Nami Nori - MontclairPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Montclair
    •
    4.8
  • TimVIP
    New York City •40 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Just a fabulous evening, photos of friends and family in an exquisitely decorated fairytale setting, excellent food, picturesque views of NYC and Northern New Jersey, really a treat and a top restaurant hitting all high marks!
    More info
    The HighlawnPrice: Expensive• American• West Orange
    •
    4.4
  • Trae
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I have eaten here many times and the food and service are excellent. I could eat their Halloumi salad every day!
    More info
    ZeugmaPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Montclair
    •
    4.9
  • Manny
    New York City •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This restaurant is. Very special. The menu items are very different and innovative from the more traditional Indian restaurants. The decor is also very special. One of the best meals that i have enjoyed. Will be returning in the future.
    More info
    Dhamaal - MontclairPrice: Moderate• Indian• Montclair
    •
    4.6
  • LISA
    Greater Boston •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    They are very accommodating! Specials offered are so different and unique. Portions were perfect and service was exceptional. Highly recommend this Cool joint
    More info
    Laboratorio KitchenPrice: Moderate• Italian• Montclair
    •
    4.7

Trending dishes in Essex

Explore dishes that diners are raving about
Chocolate Souffle
Chocolate Souffle
Basilico
•
4.7
Rigatoni Bolognese
Rigatoni Bolognese
Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas
•
4.7
Porterhouse
Porterhouse
Hawksmoor NYC
•
4.5
Lamb Chops
Lamb Chops
Taverna Mykonos
•
4.7
1 paella
1 paella
Socarrat Paella Bar - Chelsea
•
4.6
Lamb Shish & Chicken Kebab
Lamb Shish & Chicken Kebab
Fasil Mediterranean Restaurant
•
4.6

Restaurant experiences trending in New Jersey

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Private Dining

Find the perfect place for your next party or group dining event.

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Dining around Essex Hot Spots

Frequently asked questions

The best reviewed restaurant in Essex is Pandang - South Orange

The best vegan restaurants in Essex are McLoone's Boathouse, Tops Diner and Samba - Montclair

The best vegetarian restaurants in Essex are Eataly Ristorante - Short Hills, Carriage House Restaurant and Tops Diner

The restaurants with the best service in Essex are Pandang - South Orange, Sweet T's Southern Eatery and The Taste of Brazil

The restaurants with the best ambiance in Essex are Pandang - South Orange, The Taste of Brazil and Turtle + the Wolf

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