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Local picks

Date spots with fish in Newark

Sharing a plate of fresh fish makes for a quiet, focused evening with someone special.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sihana Bistro image 1
Sihana Bistro image 2
Sihana Bistro image 3
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Restaurant

Restaurant offers a romantic vibe with live music enhancing the atmosphere. Space features modern, intimate design with private dining rooms and an outdoor patio. Noise level can be high, balancing relaxed and luxurious ambiance.

Dates here feature lamb chops, red snapper, and steak frites cooked just right. Meals with wine, coffee, and dessert come in under $100, making for a relaxed, satisfying evening.

Whole fish dishes like red snapper come with bones and take time to eat. Salmon Teriyaki features delicate fish that melts in the mouth and is beautifully presented.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are strong and perfectly balanced."

"The service here is impeccable, especially from Isaac."

"The fish here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs all day with special appetizers available.

3

Street parking is plentiful and safe at night.

02
Modupe African & American Restaurant image 1

Small space offers a cozy, clean setting with a welcoming and chill vibe. Atmosphere tends to be loud with minimal ventilation, creating a lively energy. Patrons come for authentic West African flavors and generous portions in a well-maintained environment.

Plates of jollof with mixed meat offer a flavorful shared meal. Ordering multiple dishes to take home shows the food suits a relaxed, cozy date setting.

Fish appears in several dishes with balanced spices that complement the flavors well. It pairs with staples like Jollof rice, fufu, and plantains, enhancing traditional meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The fish here is so good and fresh."

"The food here is excellent; you'll eat it too quickly."

Good to know

1

Parking is free on the street.

2

The plates cost $20 each, and the portions could have been larger.

3

The restaurant is clean and welcoming.

03
The Office Tavern Grill image 1
American restaurant

Spacious seating includes roomy booths and a lively bar with natural lighting and an open layout. Atmosphere feels relaxed and cozy, offering an oasis from airport chaos with a vibrant yet comfortable vibe. Craft beer taps and expertly made cocktails add to the inviting experience.

Comfortable atmosphere helps couples relax and enjoy their time together. The menu offers large portions with dishes like chicken parmesan and perfectly cooked tuna burger, making it easy to share a satisfying meal.

Fish and chips come with a crispy, well-cooked batter. The dish consistently tastes delicious and satisfies cravings.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the service is attentive."

"The servers here are so attentive and professional, making it a great spot for a date."

"The fish and chips were delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

3

Validated parking is available for $5 with a restaurant receipt.

04
Bamako Maliba Adams Kitchen image 1
West African restaurant

West African restaurant offers a joyful atmosphere with fast service and a chill vibe. The space feels comfortable and homey, attracting those seeking authentic Malian and Central African dishes. Generous portions and reasonable prices stand out alongside a spotless environment.

Dining offers shared dishes like chicken and toh, creating a casual vibe. Drinks such as hibiscus and tamarindo add a refreshing touch to the evening.

Pampano fish comes with a special onion sauce and pairs with jolof rice and sweet plantains. The menu features fish alongside dishes like Fofo, Dibi, and oxtail soup.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The fish here is flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The food here is insanely delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes from Central and West Africa.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

05
Burke's Tavern image 1
New American restaurant

Cozy restaurant with a New York bar vibe and a European feel offers a casual, lowkey atmosphere with warm lighting and no TVs. The space feels like a time capsule, featuring a vegetable and herb garden in the back. Music plays softly, creating a perfect background for quiet conversation and romantic dates.

Perfect for romantic dates or quiet talks, the atmosphere stays casual and inviting. Menu items like Moroccan meatballs and tomato pie pizza come with clear attention to flavor and detail.

Fish comes out cooked perfectly with standout options like Branzino and salmon showing clear quality. The freshness and preparation exceed expectations even for those not usually into fish.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and unique."

"The food here is delicious; it's a great spot for date night."

"The fish here is cooked perfectly, especially the Branzino."

Good to know

1

Burke's Tavern is within walking distance from Newark Penn Station and Prudential Center.

2

Parking at Burke's Tavern can be challenging, so plan accordingly.

3

The chef accepts modifications to any dish for dietary restrictions.

06
Sun Island Plate image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Jamaican restaurant offers a 24-hour service with an outdoor jerk pan filling the air with smoke. The atmosphere stays clean and comfortable with a chill reggae and R&B vibe that blends casual and cozy elements. Music plays a key role, creating an irie environment that feels like a slice of the islands.

Music feels carefully chosen for couples during the Sunday service. Meals suit shared dining with a partner. Late visits with a spouse are common.

Boiled dumplings come with salt fish and ackee, offering a classic flavor combo. Fish dishes pair well with rice and peas, cabbage, and plantain, creating a tasty, well-rounded meal.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is rich, savory, and melts in your mouth."

"The fish and rice and peas were super tasty."

"The food here is so good, I'd come back every day."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24 hours, which is rare for dining options.

2

Expect large portions for a fair price, typically around $11 for a small tray.

3

The restaurant offers a unique Jamaican-based menu that attracts many visitors.

07
Madre & Son Soulfood Cafe image 1
Soul food restaurant

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.

Soul food dishes like catfish and oxtail lo mein create a cozy vibe for couples. The spot draws attention from social media and news, making it a familiar choice for a casual date.

Whiting fish comes fried to perfection, flaky and tender with seasoned flavor. Other dishes like baked mac and collard greens also complement the fish well.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is delicious."

"The food here is seasoned to perfection, especially the mac and cheese."

"The fried fish here is seasoned and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Madre & Son Soulfood Cafe only accepts cash, Zelle, and Cash App.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular menu items early in the day.

08
Sol-Mar Restaurant image 1
Portuguese restaurant

Small space with authentic Portuguese decor creates a homey, outdoor restaurant feel. Atmosphere ranges from pleasant and relaxed to occasionally disorganized and overwhelmed. Sangria and seafood stand out as distinctive highlights.

Oven roasted short rib falls off the bone and tastes amazing. Couples can share a Happy Anniversary cheesecake slice for dessert, making it a spot for a memorable night together.

Cod fish (bacalhau) stands out for its quality and flavor. Grilled seafood dishes showcase the freshness of the fish, including whole fish options that maintain great taste.

People are saying

"The Portuguese seafood and steak dishes here are outstanding."

"The fish here is fresh caught and generously portioned."

"The food here is reliably delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted for the bar area, only for the dining room.

2

Parking is conveniently located right across the street in a large lot.

3

An additional 3% fee applies to credit card payments for tips.

09
Vonda's Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Small, quaint Southern restaurant with modern, warm decor and large windows that bring in sunlight and city views. Atmosphere feels intimate and vibrant, blending soulful music with a welcoming, home-like energy. Space is clean and usually quiet, suited for relaxed meals or casual meetings.

Nice atmosphere suits both dates and business meetings. Food includes a fish sandwich, fried wings, and sides, with portions enough for take-home. Service is attentive and caring.

Broiled and fried fish come out perfectly cooked in various styles. The fish and grits feature Parmesan cheesy, buttery grits alongside crispy fried fish. Fish mac and cheese and collard greens also stand out as tasty sides.

People are saying

"The fried whiting fish was cooked perfectly."

"Vonda makes you feel like family at these Date Spots."

"You have to try the cucumber ginger lemonade; it's so refreshing."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-45 minute wait during peak brunch hours on weekends.

2

Parking is free on the street near the restaurant.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

10
Ted's Bar & Grill image 1

Cozy bar and grill with a spacious, relaxed atmosphere and modern decor. Music stays low, creating a calm, warm vibe despite occasional loud sports fans. Known for expertly crafted cocktails and flavorful, well-prepared food like juicy burgers and crispy fries.

Couples enjoy the Spicy Nashville Chicken Sandwich here. The spot invites return visits for its casual, tasty offerings.

Fish tacos come out quickly and are cooked well. The fish fry offers good value, and the dishes are prepared in under 15 minutes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The bartender Golda was so friendly and helpful."

"Golda makes the best martinis for your date spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant hosts monthly meetings for local carpenters on the first Tuesday.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during hotel check-in times, especially on weekends.

11
Taste of Portugal image 1
Portuguese restaurant

Portuguese restaurant offers an elegant European mom and pop style with a mix of casual bar seating and white linen dining tables. Atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to quiet and friendly, reflecting a local eatery vibe. Sangria stands out as a notably good drink, often praised for its flavor.

Huge servings stand out, with dishes big enough for four people. Servers acknowledge special occasions like birthdays, adding a personal touch.

Fresh fish comes with crispy skin and is grilled perfectly. Fish dishes include a spicy tomato-based sauce with shrimp and have nice presentation.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The fish here is grilled perfectly with crispy skin."

"The food at these date spots is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

The kitchen closes at 5 PM on Christmas Eve, so plan accordingly.

3

Valet parking is available, but it's not full service.

12
Little Tijuana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with beautiful, artistic decor and a large dance floor creates a festive, lively atmosphere. Music ranges from classics to afrobeats, often with a DJ engaging the crowd during nightlife activities. VIP area adds an exclusive touch to the vibrant setting.

Personalized celebrations stand out with staff creating special moments like birthday billboards and attentive service. Music sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, fitting for dates or casual nights out.

Fish tacos come with perfect spice and soft tortillas. Fried fish stands out as a recommended dish alongside the Little Tijuana salad.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The food here is packed with flavor and creatively presented."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

Parking onsite costs $20, and valet parking is $25.

2

The restaurant includes an automatic 18% gratuity on all bills.

3

Happy hour offers affordable food and drinks on Thursday evenings.

13
Hai Sushi Lounge image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with elegant modern dรฉcor and subtle lighting creates a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Seating is limited indoors with a small covered outdoor area. The vibe suits quiet conversations and relaxed dining.

Dimly lit atmosphere creates a cozy and intimate setting ideal for dates. The environment feels peaceful and relaxed, making it suitable for couples or small groups.

Fish comes in very fresh cuts with great care and flavor. Sushi pieces have a good size and the raw fish tastes fresh, especially in the fish skin roll.

People are saying

"The sushi here is amazing, with such friendly and attentive staff."

"It's a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for date spots."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's delicious."

Good to know

1

An automatic 18% service charge is added to all dining bills.

2

There is an additional charge when using credit cards.

3

The all-you-can-eat menu offers a variety of options.

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Newark, New Jersey

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