Elegant dining room with beautiful decor and large scenic windows creates a comfortable, homey vibe. Live music and a fantastic DJ keep energy lively, blending sophistication with a festive atmosphere. Guests enjoy a mix of top-tier food and drinks in a setting that feels both classy and welcoming.
Oxtails with grits, steak and eggs with home fries, and empanadas come well seasoned and flavorful. Crab cakes feature pure lump crab with no filler, while crunchy cinnamon French toast pairs with jerk chicken sausage and shrimp and grits for a mix of textures and tastes.
Savory oxtails come with fall-off-the-bone meat and pair well with grits that have amazing flavor. The dish is well seasoned and cooked perfectly.
Good to know
Happy hour features a special menu with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Live R&B performances occur every Thursday evening during happy hour.
Mixology classes are scheduled for upcoming weekends; check the website for details.
Food truck offers generous portions with flavorful empanadas and homestyle sides like mac and cheese and arroz con gandules. Atmosphere reflects family-owned care and pride, creating a welcoming vibe. Popular spot for hearty, satisfying meals with a taste of NYC influence.
Sweet chili wings come with Puerto Rican rice, mac and cheese, and plantains. Garlic fried chicken bowls include rice, maduros, and mac and cheese. The mac and cheese stands out as excellent.
Oxtail shines in empanadas and a bowl with meat that comes right off the bone. The dishes pair well with flavorful sauces and jerk chicken.
Good to know
It's advisable to check the truck's opening hours before visiting, as they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Parking in the train station lot is less available and requires stepping over a short stone barrier.
I recommend parking in the Dunellen Public Library lot.
Soul food restaurant with cool urban decor and a custom mural creates a fresh, laid-back vibe. Atmosphere feels energetic yet chill, enhanced by old school music videos on wall-mounted TVs. Regulars enjoy a welcoming environment with a mix of Caribbean and soul food influences.
Cornbread, wings, and mac and cheese stand out with rich flavors and creamy textures. Collard greens and salmon bites add hearty, savory touches to the American food selection.
Oxtails come tender and fall off the bone, packed with rich, flavorful seasoning and a slight kick of spice. Portions are generous and filling, enough for two people.
Good to know
Exotic Eats is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.
Expect short wait times during peak hours.
Portions are generous and prices are reasonable.
Chicken restaurant offers seasoned, flavorful fried chicken with a blend of Jamaican and fried chicken styles. Atmosphere feels friendly and lively despite a retro, modest interior. Popular spot known for generous portions and a variety of menu options including BBQ ribs and oxtails.
Fried chicken stands out with its unique breading and crispy, flavorful seasoning. Hot wings and Italian hot with home fries also offer generous portions and consistent quality.
Oxtails come with rich flavors and appear in several dishes like loaded fries and rice plates. They pair well with jerk chicken and BBQ ribs, offering a hearty, satisfying option.
Good to know
The bathroom is very clean and well-maintained.
Prices are cheaper compared to NYC.
There is often no seating available.
Butcher shop offers fresh Halal meat with a wide variety of unique cuts like baby turkey wings and smoked Halal beef bacon. Atmosphere stays polite and family friendly, with a clean, well-organized layout. Free same-day delivery and acceptance of EBT online add convenience to the experience.
Steaks stand out here with T-Bone and Halal ribeye options that deliver exceptional flavor. Both cuts show a clear focus on quality and taste.
Oxtail here is fresh and cut to preferred thickness. The Australian oxtail is very flavorful and tender, cooking in just over an hour without needing a pressure cooker.
Good to know
They accept all payment methods, including EBT online.
They deliver for free to Bergen County.
The website is easy to use for online orders.
Small Mom & Pop deli offers huge portions and reasonable prices in a clean, organized space. Family atmosphere creates a welcoming vibe where sandwiches like cheesesteaks and oxtail stand out. Contactless payment adds a convenient, modern touch to the traditional setup.
Bacon cheeseburger stands out with provolone cheese, grilled onions, and turkey bacon. The Philly cheesesteak offers a solid alternative. Other options include an Italian cheeseburger and an egg white and bacon sandwich.
The oxtail cheesesteak offers a tasty twist on a classic sandwich. The oxtail sandwich impresses even first-timers with its rich flavor, though the cheesesteak version can feel like it's missing something.
Good to know
The deli offers a special of fish and shrimp on Fridays and Saturdays.
Parking is available on the street as there is no dedicated lot.
Contactless payment methods are secure and convenient.
Small restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and lively vibe filled with hip hop and R&B music. Space often feels packed and energetic, with an outdoor patio available. Empanadas stand out as a signature offering with rich, home-cooked flavors.
Fried chicken comes out crispy, hot, and well seasoned, like a southern grandmother made it. Cornbread is a must-have with a nice fire to it. Grits and catfish deliver an impressive cheese pull.
The oxtail empanada features heavenly, tender meat wrapped in a crisp crust. It stands out as a rich, flavorful dinner option that pairs well with seafood dishes.
Good to know
Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.
The menu is not always up-to-date, so check before ordering.
Expect a 20-minute wait for fresh empanadas after ordering.
Soul food restaurant offers authentic Southern comfort food with a relaxing, friendly atmosphere created by warm staff. The space feels comfy and inviting despite lacking distinctive decor. Regulars enjoy crispy fried chicken and flavorful sides that capture traditional Southern flavors.
Mac and cheese stands out with a rich, creamy texture and deep flavor. The fried chicken offers a crispy, flavorful bite that complements the menu well.
Tender oxtails come served over rice alongside chopped jerked turkey wings. Oxtail soup offers a rich, hearty option, and oxtails paired with yams provide a comforting dish.
Good to know
The food is cooked fresh, so expect a wait time for your order.
Dootsie's Kitchen is family-owned and serves authentic southern soul food.
Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.
Small dining area fills with 90s throwback music and a warm, welcoming vibe that encourages conversation and dancing. Decor blends modern tropical elements with a cozy, intimate setting. Staff energy and live singing create a heartfelt, lively atmosphere.
Shrimp and grits come out perfect with rich flavor. Honey garlic wings, mac and cheese, and collard greens show strong Southern influence. Mac and cheese stands out for its great flavor and cheesiness.
Oxtails come freshly cooked and pair well with sides like collard greens and yams. They appear in dishes like lo mein and platters with turkey wings, offering rich, savory flavors.
Good to know
Madre & Son Soulfood Cafe only accepts cash, Zelle, and Cash App.
Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
The restaurant often runs out of popular menu items early in the day.
Takeout-only Jamaican spot with authentic oxtail and jerk chicken that delivers well-seasoned, tender meat. Atmosphere is minimal with no dine-in option, focusing on call-in and delivery orders. Portions are generous and prices reasonable for the quality offered.
Jerked chicken stands out with bold flavors, paired often with baked mac and cheese that complements it well. Brown stew chicken and plantains also appear alongside the classic mac and cheese for a hearty meal.
Oxtails come well-balanced and seasoned with a good amount of meat for the price. They often serve it with rice and peas and cabbage, making for a spectacular meal.
Good to know
The restaurant is takeout only with no dine-in option available.
Orders can be placed via phone, DoorDash, or Grubhub.
The portion sizes are generous for the price.
Small, beautifully decorated space blends Asian and Caribbean styles with bright, tropical colors. Loud, energetic atmosphere features live music and DJs creating a vibrant vibe. Food and drinks stand out with spicy jerk chicken and amazing rum punch among highlights.
Shrimp and grits come in classic and curry versions, both flavorful. The menu features crab cakes and a well-cooked Prime Rib served with mixed vegetables, mashed potatoes, and plantains.
Oxtail dishes come with succulent flavor and a sweet and salty combo. Options include braised oxtail dumplings and bao buns cooked to perfection.
Good to know
Happy hour runs all day on Wednesdays with $10 drinks and appetizers.
Taco and tequila deals are available every Tuesday.
A Pre-Show Menu is offered for events at the Bergen PAC next door.
Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a nature-themed garden-scape that creates a peaceful vibe. DJ music plays throughout, enhancing the lively yet intimate energy. Beautiful decor and thoughtful lighting make it ideal for intimate gatherings and date nights.
Jerk chicken wings with waffles offer a spicy and sweet combo. The fried chicken stands out for its crispy texture. Salmon sliders add a lighter, flavorful option.
Braised oxtail comes tender and juicy, paired with rice and peas, sweet plantains, and cabbage. The flavors blend well, making it a standout dish alongside fried chicken.
Good to know
Reservations are a must to get a table.
Brunch at House 157 Restaurant ends at 3 PM.
Expect a 30-minute wait to be seated during peak hours.
Cozy restaurant seating about 20 to 30 people offers a family-friendly vibe with welcoming atmosphere and good energy. Soul food dishes like oxtails, cornbread, and catfish stand out for their authentic taste. Freshly made meals create a genuine soul food experience enjoyed by many.
Mac and cheese stands out with its creamy, cheesy, and golden baked texture. The fried chicken arrives crispy, and sides like cornbread and yams bring a home-cooked feel to the meal.
Oxtails here are mostly fall off the bone tender with reasonable pricing. Some batches taste boiled and lack proper seasoning or browning.
Good to know
Eileenโs specializes in catering for holidays and parties.
The menu includes seasoned rice, fried chicken, mac and cheese, potato salad, collard greens, cinnamon yams, and banana pudding.
The portions are generous.
Small space with modern Caribbean decor blends Jamaican, Haitian, and other island influences. Warm, cozy atmosphere features worship and gospel music that enhances the welcoming vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Jamaican flavors with well-balanced spices and tender dishes.
Mac and cheese stands out with a touch of spice and a homemade feel like grandma's cooking. Jerk chicken dishes come with sides like Haitian mac and cheese and Irie fries, creating a flavorful combo.
Oxtail dishes come with sides like mushroom rice or black rice and mac & cheese. The oxtail takes time to prepare but is consistently described as delicious and worth the wait.
Good to know
The lunch special at Jerkies is a popular choice among customers.
Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak lunch hours.
Online delivery service is available, but it may take over an hour.
Small space offers a modernized mom-and-pop vibe with authentic Caribbean hospitality. Atmosphere feels comfortable and lively, creating a memorable dining experience. Generous portions of well-seasoned Jamaican dishes draw a steady crowd seeking genuine flavors.
Mac and cheese stands out with its rich, cheesy flavor and is consistently praised. Fried chicken is available and considered good, though not a highlight for everyone.
Generous portions of tender oxtails come in rich gravy. The meat is well-seasoned and melts in your mouth.
Good to know
The restaurant offers generous portions that are worth the price.
Expect a clean and inviting atmosphere when you visit.
There is a special deal for oxtail: buy one and get soup free.
Contemporary lounge with spacious layout and velvet sofas offers a stylish setting. Music features a live DJ playing classic House, hip hop, and R&B, creating a lively vibe. Multiple TVs and Asian-inspired dishes add unique touches to the sports bar atmosphere.
Oxtail and grits stand out with rich flavors. Steak and eggs appear as a brunch special that tastes delicious.
Fried rice with oxtail stands out with rich flavor and tender meat. Oxtail also appears in lo mein and pairs well with grits for hearty dishes.
Good to know
Parking can be difficult due to the downtown location; street parking is recommended.
There is a $20 cover charge for entry on busy nights.
Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.
Restaurant offers an airy, rustic elegant interior with mellow Caribbean beats creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The vibe stays peaceful and family-oriented, suitable for relaxed gatherings. Music plays softly, enhancing conversation without overpowering the space.
Cornbread stands out as a signature item. Dishes like curried shrimp, fried whiting, and shrimp with grits offer solid American flavors. Fried chicken and mac and cheese also feature prominently.
Soft, tender, and flavorful describes the oxtail here. It consistently delivers a rich taste that stands out.
Good to know
Cafe Mobay is a BYOB spot that also offers mocktails.
Expect smaller portions compared to other Caribbean restaurants.
Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch events.
African restaurant combines vibrant atmosphere with 90s-2000s Afrobeats and a live DJ playing AfroBeat and House music. Space feels like a dance club with lively energy, suitable for celebrations and nights out. Food and drinks feature standout items like shrimp quesadillas and passion fruit margaritas.
Salmon tacos, beef quesadillas, and oxtail empanadas stand out with rich flavors. The Mac and cheese is amazing and the jerk bowl and chicken wings add solid variety.
Oxtail dishes offer savory flavor with some toughness in texture. Options include oxtail empanadas, oxtail tacos, and a hearty oxtail stew served with fufu.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights like karaoke.
Expect a maximum wait time of 10 minutes for seating.
Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early.
Soul food takeout spot with busy atmosphere and frequent hour-long waits. Offers flavorful fried chicken and fish, alongside moist collard greens and mac and cheese. Small location in a parking lot, known for beautiful presentation and specific warming instructions.
Fried chicken, fish, and crab cakes stand out with rich, moist flavors. Sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread complement the hearty dishes. Grits appear on the menu and offer a unique taste experience.
Oxtail appears in several dishes like oxtail fries and a rich oxtail stew. It also features in a burger that stands out among other hearty options.
Good to know
The restaurant only offers takeout; no dine-in service available.
Expect long wait times, especially on busy days like Father's Day.
Catering services are available for events, including setup and cleanup.
Small restaurant offers soul food with Caribbean twist in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Music features 90โs R&B and soulful throwbacks, creating a chill, welcoming vibe. Dine-in experience includes cast iron skillet presentations and a BYOB policy.
Cornbread stands out with its crispy edges and warm, soft center, served in a skillet. The Honey butter glaze adds a sweet touch that makes it easy to finish in one sitting.
Tender oxtails come with rich gravy and seasoned rice. The meat is well-seasoned and flavorful.
Good to know
The restaurant is BYOB, which is a plus for guests.
When ordering delivery, butters should be placed on the side.
The food is affordable with reasonable prices.
Small Southern restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with live DJs and music that energize Friday nights. Interior is clean and inviting, featuring a full bar with standout cocktails like rum punch and margaritas. Space suits small, private gatherings with a warm, welcoming vibe.
Catfish comes with classic sides like Mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. Mac and cheese and potato salad stand out for their rich, creamy texture and flavor.
Oxtail dishes come with rich flavor and pair well with sides like yams and rice. Options include Rasta pasta with oxtail and traditional preparations that many find delicious and satisfying.
Good to know
Happy hour on Fridays features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm.
Live DJ entertainment is available during Friday night happy hours.
Reservations are not accepted, so expect potential wait times during peak hours.
Small soul food restaurant with chalkboard menu and limited seating offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with friendly energy. The space feels clean and cozy, attracting those seeking hearty Caribbean and soul food flavors.
Jerk chicken, Hennessy wings, and Cajun shrimp come fresh and well seasoned. Sides like Sweet Potato Cornbread and mac and cheese are flavorful and cooked perfectly.
Oxtails fall off the bone and carry a herb-infused flavor. They come with classic sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
Good to know
They have parking in the back, accessible via Parker from Springdale.
The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so bring cash to avoid fees.
Portion sizes are generous, often enough for multiple meals.
Small space with traditional Caribbean decor creates a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. Limited seating encourages takeout or catering, with authentic flavors in dishes like curry chicken and jerk empanadas. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to similar spots.
Curry goat, oxtails, and jerk chicken come with classic sides like cabbage, rice and beans. The mac and cheese stands out as soft and flavorful, scoring an 8.5 out of 10.
Meat falls off the bone in the oxtail plate, served with perfectly cooked rice and peas, delicious cabbage, and sweet plantains. The oxtail empanadas are a favorite, with rich, savory filling that stands out.
Good to know
Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes for food during peak hours.
Lunch specials do not apply on Fridays, so plan accordingly.
The restaurant does not have indoor seating; takeout is the primary option.
Small soul food spot inside a supermarket offers pickup-focused service with wholesome, flavorful dishes like Rasta pasta and oxtails. Atmosphere is minimal and utilitarian, with a calm, inviting vibe despite a nontraditional setup. Busy and popular, it draws those seeking authentic soul food rather than a sit-down experience.
Moist cornbread stands out alongside excellent Mac and cheese. Wings, yams, lamb chops, and cabbage also feature as solid choices.
Oxtails come juicy and flavorful with a good portion size. They pair well with Rasta pasta and yellow rice for a solid meal.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.
The restaurant is primarily a pickup to-go place rather than a sit-down restaurant.
Expect limited on-street parking in the residential neighborhood.
Small, tight space with an outdoor patio and lounge area creates a fun and lively atmosphere. Music features classic R&B and hip hop spun by a DJ, adding to the unmatched vibe. Seating is plentiful, blending a high-scale sports bar feel with a welcoming, chill environment.
Lamb chops come out top tier with perfectly cooked Creole grits and tender oxtails. Cornbread hits the mark, and sides like spinach and mac and cheese stand out with rich flavors.
Oxtails come incredibly tender and packed with flavor. They melt in your mouth, showing careful preparation and rich taste.
Good to know
Parking at Cherry's Lounge can be challenging but manageable.
The kitchen closes a little before midnight.
Last call is a little before 2am.
BBQ pit outside fills the air with smoky aroma, setting a rustic outdoor vibe. Spacious interior feels homey and cozy, with friendly staff adding warmth. Complimentary popcorn and prayer mats offer thoughtful touches.
Smoked brisket sells out fast and stands out as a most popular and best item. Cajun tenders offer a spicy twist on classic American flavors.
Oxtail comes fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with rich flavor. The saltiness is well balanced, and the smoked version delivers a smoooookin taste.
Good to know
Reservations must be made in person due to phone and online issues.
An 18% gratuity is added to bills without prior notice.
Brisket sells out quickly, so arrive early to ensure availability.
Dominican restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with lively music from a live DJ playing Spanish tunes. Spacious dining rooms and a nice patio create an aesthetically pleasing setting. The energy is vibrant, blending good vibes with top-tier decorations and sound.
Fried chicken comes crispy fried and well seasoned. The hamburger is solid, and the mac and cheese is notably salty.
Oxtail mofongo stands out with its perfect cooking and delicious flavor. Stewed oxtail dishes also come highly recommended alongside churrasco.
Good to know
They charge a $14 card fee without informing customers beforehand.
Parking is available at La Casa Del Mofongo.
Expect large portion sizes with every meal.
Small dining area with four tables focuses mainly on take-out service. Atmosphere is casual with affordable prices and excellent portion sizes. Known for best fried chicken and chicken and waffles with a Caribbean soul food style.
Fried chicken wings stand out as a highlight, often described as excellent and the best in town. The menu also features mac and cheese and a max salad, both noted for their quality alongside other American classics like whiting fish and grits.
Large oxtail dishes come with candied yams and mac n cheese. The oxtail is flavorful but could be cooked longer for more tenderness. Fried wings often accompany the oxtail and add to the meal.
Good to know
Natural Start is take-out only, so plan accordingly.
Call in advance as it gets busy, especially on weekends.
Expect longer wait times during peak hours.
Cozy space with authentic Jamaican vibes and a home-cooked meal atmosphere. Background plays classic reggae music, and a lounge offers live weekend performances. Friendly energy fills the place, making it feel like a small Jamaican eatery.
Oxtails come with loaded cheddar macaroni and cheese or as a slider with mac and cheese. Fried chicken stands out as a very good option. Dishes like jerk chicken, rice and peas, and carrot cake also appear regularly.
Oxtail dishes come tender and flavorful, often served as sliders with special sauce and peppers on a buttery bun. Meals include oxtail with rice and peas, mac and cheese, and jerk chicken, delivering a rich, hearty taste.
Good to know
Event space is available for private gatherings and can accommodate large groups.
The location features a Jamaican market selling freshly made juices and unique ice cream flavors.
Oxtail patties are priced at $8 each, while beef patties cost $4 each.