Top 10 Kosher-Friendly Cities To Visit In New Jersey

1. Hoboken

The first city on our list is Hoboken, NJ. Hoboken may best be known as one of the cities just across Hudson River from Manhattan. Anyone would consider it a major city, with its own impressive skyline and waterfront high rises with views to die for. Living here gives you all the attractions of Manhattan, but with more ~personal space~ and definitely smaller crowds. You can easily explore Jersey by venturing West or South, or just take the ferry or PATH across the Hudson to enjoy all that Manhattan as to offer. Plus, Hoboken has a really cool history, being home to the first recorded baseball game ever, Shakespeare Monday’s at Frank Sinatra Park, Hoboken Comedy Festival, and even the Macy’s Parade Studio, which houses the floats for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

But these aren’t the only reasons why Hoboken is a great city to visit (or move to), it also has convenient access to a plethora of restaurants, including Mexikosher NYC. Mexikosher NYC is a fast, casual kosher restaurant in New Jersey that serves authentic Mexican cuisines. The restaurant was started by Chef Katsuji Tanabe in 2010 in Los Angeles, and while a small Mexican Taqueria isn’t the first kosher people may look to for a great kosher meal, it quickly gained popularity and opened up its East Coast location in 2016 (with plans to expand in the future). The restaurant features a “make your own” style menu: (1) Pick you style (burrito, tacos, rice bowl, salad, bowl, nachos); (2) Pick your “meat” (Birria, Carne Asada, Carnitas, Chicken Breast, Vegetarian); and (3) Pick your garnish and salsa (endless salsas and topping options). Plus they have a variety of appetizers like Hot Wings, Chicken Taquitos, Chimichanga, sides like Salsa and Chips, Yellow Rice, Guac and Chips, Fries, and Refried Beans. I’m low key drooling at all these options, and I’m positive you are too.

Mexikosher NYC

Address: 100 West 83rd Street New York, NY 10024

Website: Mexikosher Menu

2. Jersey City

Next up we have Jersey City. Jersey City is another major metropolitan city in New Jersey, and is actually the second largest city in Jersey after Newark. It also offers one of the top romantic getaways in New Jersey for couples. Like Hoboken, it is right by Manhattan across the Hudson River. Jersey also has convenient access to both the rest of New Jersey and also Manhattan via PATH and the ferry; it is known as Wall Street West and serves as HQ for various banks and other large firms (i.e. Verisk Analytics, Lord Abbett). If you’re looking to shop, then you’re in luck because there are several districts to do so - you can check out Central, Danforth, and West Side Avenues (traditional main street shopping); Journal Square (a major commercial district), and even Newport Mall (a regional shopping area). Jersey City also has plenty of entertainment for you like ferries to the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Liberty Island, Loew’s Jersey Theater, located in Journal square and shows classic films, live performances, and other events, and so much more!

3. Little Falls

Moving away from the Hudson, we now enter Little Falls in Passaic County. Little Falls was first named for a waterfall on Passaic River near Beattie Mill. Little Falls is a beautiful city and is also where you can see various sports teams play like the New Jersey Jackals. Little Falls was also once home to several people you may know like Frank DeCaro (TV Personality), Louis Utz (children’s author), and Vikki Ziegler (lawyer, author, and inspiration for TV show Untying the Knot). The town has also been featured in The Sopranos!

So, you may be wondering what kosher restaurant will you find in a quaint little town like Little Falls. While there are many kosher restaurants in the area, the most popular is actually a specialty kosher ice cream shop: Sip N Swirl. The creamery has a huge selection of dessert: ice cream, soft serve, milkshakes, floats, banana splits, and more! You can also bring home a pint (or five) so you can enjoy this tasty treat at home. In case you’re having trouble choosing, favorite options are their signature Dole Whip Smoothies (made with coconut milk), Homemade Italian Ices, or Hard Ice Cream Cups and Cones (choose from 32 flavors)!

Sip n Swirl

Address: 510 Main Street Little Falls, NJ 07424

Website: Sip n Swirl Menu

4. Deal

Next stop on our grand tour of New Jersey is Deal, NJ. No Deal doesn’t not get its name from the show Deal or No Deal (but that would make a really cool story); instead it gets its name from Deal, Kent a city in England (and isn’t that where all of our city-spiration comes from?). Deal is a part of Monmouth County and is located on the East Coat of central Jersey (at least I think that area is central Jersey). For some ~fun facts~ about Deal: in 1829 there was a meteorite that fell to the city and was named Deal after the city, it was once home to Jeff Sutton (real estate developer, casual billionaire, and founder of Wharton Properties), Patti Scialfa (E Street Band member, and maybe more widely known as Bruce Springsteen’s wife), and Rudolf Bauer (incredible painter whose work is featured in the Guggenheim Museum).

But, what the city is also known for is its wide variety of kosher cuisine. You can find Chinese cuisines, barbecue, and even an old-fashioned soda shop. But one of the newest kosher restaurants is Tapas, Inc. Like the name implies, Tapas, Inc. serves a variety of Spanish-inspired tapas. It’s the perfect place to go with a large group because since their dishes are meant for sharing you can all try a variety of the yummy dishes they serve. Some tapas options include Mango Habanero Chicken Poppers, Spanish Empanadas, Tapas Flatbread, and BBQ Brisket Tacos. You can also pair these with one of their fresh salads like the Taco Salad or a soup like the Spicy Beef and Vegetables Soup. There are just so many options that you’ll have to keep going back to try them all.

Tapas, Inc

Address: 116 Norwood Ave Deal NJ

Website: Tapas, Inc Menu

5. Lakewood

Lakewood is in Ocean County, NJ and is the 7th largest (by population) city in the state. Lakewood was originally named Bergen Iron Works then Bricksburg and then finally Lakewood– it’s meant to capture the natural lakes and pine forests in the area. Aside from natural beauty, Lakewood is also known for FirstEnergy Park home of the Lakewood BlueClaws, Sister Mary Grace Burns Arboretum, and While strolling around Lakewood you might even bump into Mookie Wilson (NY Mets player), JR Smith (Cleveland Cavaliers player), or maybe even Steve Tisch (film producer and chairman of the NY Giants).

And what’s a visit to Lakewood without a taste of the Kosher foods in the area? Some may think burgers are off the table when eating Kosher, but that doesn’t have to be the case. At Bun Burger Kitchen you can build your own burgers and salads, in addition to a selection of appetizers, sides, and drinks (plus a kids menu). With so many options to choose from, you may not know where to start. Well, if you’re really hungry you can begin with some sweet potato fries or disco fries, then build a salad with mix-ins like Cucumbers, Roasted Sweet Potato, Sautéed Onion, Chickpeas, Avocado, Roasted Peppers, and Croutons, top it off with a tasty dressing; my choice is always a Thai Peanut, and then you can even add a protein like Fried Schnitzel, House Made Vegetarian Burger, or Grilled Chicken. If building a salad is too hard for you indecisiveness (trust me, I get this), then you can just grab one of their signature salads like the Chicken Chop Salad or Asian Steak Salad. AND if you aren’t feeling a salad you can grab a signature burger like the Breakfast Burger (crispy hash browns, bacon, fried egg, two crispy waffles for the bun, and a jalapeño maple glaze) or the The Brooklyn (Slow cooked topped with homemade beef brisket, bbq bourbon glaze, and fried onions). And, of course, you can build your own, just select your burger, toppings (like coleslaw, guacamole, crispy onions, onions, tomatoes, etc.), and your sauce (like Russian dressing, teriyaki garlic sauce, and more). And if you thought the food choices end here, you were wrong. There are also signature sandwiches and a kids menu. It might be hard to choose what you want the first time around, so you might be making an extra visit or five!

Bun Burger Kitchen

Address: 1091 River Ave Lakewood, NJ 08701

Website: Bun Burger Kitchen Menu

6. Teaneck

Now, moving back up north to Bergen County, Teaneck is considered a suburb of New York City. Being a major suburb of the New York, Teaneck definitely does not disappoint when it comes to a lively arts, culture, and entertainment scene. The Puffin Foundation is a major entity in the area and supports and sponsors a plethora of plays, arts exhibitions, outdoor concerts, and even orchestra performances. Teaneck has also been the backdrop for movies like The Family Man, Sweet and Lowdown, and You’ve Got Mail. Also for another ~fun fact~ The Brooklyn Nets was founded in Teaneck!

And while Teaneck already has such an allure, you’ll be thrilled to hear it has a great Kosher restaurant scene as well. One of the best restaurants you’ll visit is the ETC. Steakhouse. If you’re looking for a place to go that’s both classic yet modern (and of course has a Kosher menu) this is the place to go. Chef Warsaw has carefully curated a delicious menu, which changes with seasonal produce offerings and new pairing ideas. Entrees do fall on the pricier end (approx $50+) but with choices like honey mustard 8 oz hanger steak with farro risotto and deconstructed lamb chop with butternut squash, potato, and onion it’ll likely be one of the best meals you’ve had (just make sure you get the truffle french fries on the side.

ETC Steakhouse

Address: 1409 Palisade Ave, Teaneck, New Jersey, 07666

Website: ETC Steakhouse Menu

7. Jersey Shore

You have arrived at the Jersey Shore, home to oceanfront views, boardwalks made from strolling, arcades, and some of the top theme parks and amusement parks in New Jersey. The Jersey Shore is quite expansive, encompassing a large area so you know you’ll never get bored. With the endless boardwalk activities that are sure to keep you and your family occupied for much of the day, beachside restaurants to enjoy in the evening, and beautiful sunsets to admire you’re always in for a treat. Also, in case you don’t know, the MTV hit show Jersey Shore also took place here; plus it was where Bruce Springsteen developed his sound.

There are also a variety of kosher eateries in the area, but a classic favorite is The Chocolate Soda. The Chocolate Soda is a popular beachside diner with great food. Like all diners, The Chocolate Soda serves breakfast all day with options like Belgium Waffles, Omelettes, and French Toast, plus a Crab Corner, that includes dishes like Baked Potatoes with Steamed Vegetables, Potato Pizza, and Pita Pizza Vegetable. You can also grab a Sandwich of your choosing, Salad, Wraps, and of course Sweet Items. So before you leave for the boardwalk, be sure to grab some waffles and ice cream.

The Chocolate Soda

Address: 290 Norwood Ave Deal, NJ 07723

Website: The Chocolate Soda Menu

8. Metuchen

Let’s move on over to Central Jersey. Here we have the town of Metuchen a borough of Middlesex County, a bit northeast of New Brunswick (home to Rutgers University), a little bit southwest of Jersey City, and just an hour outside of Manhattan. Metuchen has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1870 and along the lines even acquired the name ‘the Brainy Boro’ after a major inflow of artists, literary figures, and notable intellectuals.

Metuchen also has a lively food scene with a variety of kosher restaurants with one of the most popular being the Orchid Kosher. The Orchid (run by Dalia Barness) has a wonderful indoor and outdoor environment with contemporary decor and delicious Middle Eastern cuisines. There is an endless array of lunch and dinner options. You can choose from apps like Couscous Salad or Hummus Spread (hummus is never the wrong choice), or Falafel Platter (served over hummus, Israeli salad, and Tehina sauce). Then if you’re feeling like a ~light and healthy salad~ you can choose a New Orchid Salad, Chef’s Salad, or one of their other options. But if you’re feeling a hot meal then check out one of their other amazing dishes, which include (but are certainly not limited to) Moroccan Lamb Tangine, Tilapia Piccata, The Orchid Sloppy Joes, and so much more. If you hear your stomach growling, then you better head on over because you’ll need that extra room to eat everything your heart desires.

Orchid Kosher

Address: 455 Main St. Metuchen, NJ

Website: Orchid Kosher Menu

9. Englewood

Here’s another city in Bergen County, NJ. Englewood was originally called the ‘English neighborhood’ as it was the first primarily English speaking neighborhood in New Jersey, but was soon renamed 'Englewood’ in 1859 for the Engle family. When in Englewood you can spend some time at MacKay Park, which has an ice hockey rink, pool, walking paths/hiking trails, and athletic fields. Or you can stroll on over to Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, which also has several trails and gardens, a butterfly garden, and guided tours through the park and exhibits to learn more about the ecosystems.

And if all this walking and learning makes your stomach growl, then you can just head over to Hummus Elite–and once you taste their food you may not want to leave (it’s even been featured in the NY Times). Like the name insinuates, Hummus Elite holds strong ties to Mediterranean cuisine, serving a variety of dishes wita h Mediterranean influence. The cafe has a pretty extensive menu of soups, salads, appetizers, meat appetizers, hummus platters, sandwiches, burgers, mains, vegetarian mains, fish, sides, and even a special kid’s menu. You can literally get anything from an Elite Mediterranean Salad to Kibbeh with Tahini Dip, Hummus Shawarma to Schnitzel to a Veggie Burger, and even a Falafel Platter and Fresh Flounder. And don’t worry, it’s all Kosher here so you know you’ll be back for seconds and thirds and so much more.

Hummus Elite

Address: 39 East Palisade Ave, Englewood, NJ 07631

Website: Hummus Elite Menu

10. Long Branch

Last, but most definitely not least is Long Branch, NJ. Long Branch is a beach town in Monmouth County (which is sort of like the coastline of Central Jersey). Long Branch actually got its name from being a beach resort town in the late 18th century. It was actually quite a popular sanctuary, especially for presidents as presidents Chester Arthur, James Garfield, Ulysses Grant, Benjamin Harrison, Rutherford Hayes, William McKinley, and Woodrow Wilson. In fact, Seven Presidents Park near the beach was created in honor of their visits.

And since you obviously want to be a part of this small relaxing oasis of a town that was graced by not one but seven presidents, you should also take a visit to 656 Ocean, one of the first Kosher fine dining restaurants in Central NJ. 656 Ocean first opened its doors in 2005, and since then they have been serving delectable dishes to new guests just in for a visit and local residents who the 656 Ocean know as their regulars. The restaurant serves a variety of foods and kosher wines. You can start your meal with a salad an appetizer like the Asian Avocado Salad and the Fra Diablo Bread Bowl. Then you can either pick a pasta dish like Chicken Scampi, a poultry option like Charred Half Duck, a veal or lamb dish such as Veal Marsala or a fish dish (sorry not sorry for the rhyme), like Honey Mustard Salmon. Or if you really want to make this a special treat, then you can go for a steak - take your pick with options like the Prince of Prime or Kosher Filet Mignon Au Poivre. And be sure to supplement these tasty meals with sides like Shoe String Onions, Roasted Potatoes, Garlic Chopped Spinach, or Sautéed Broccoli. You’re probably already planning your move to Long Branch, but don’t worry, 656 Ocean will still be there after you pack all your things.

656 Ocean

Address: 656 Ocean Ave Long Branch, NJ 07740

Website: 656 Ocean Menu

I'm hungry. Are you hungry?

Just going through this list has my stomach growling–and who said if you’re kosher you can’t enjoy all types of cuisines? Because based on these restaurants and cafes you CAN have it all, and why shouldn’t you. So get moving because these restaurants and cities are waiting for you!