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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Newark

Lunch dinner spots

A restaurant that maintains its standards from the lunch rush through to the dinner service without losing its focus.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Dayton Steakhouse Bar & Grill image 1
Dayton Steakhouse Bar & Grill image 2
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Small and intimate setting offers Portuguese charm with live music on weekends. Atmosphere shifts from business-like during the week to more lively energy later. Decor is beautiful and welcoming, creating a pleasant dining experience.

Lunch offers a solid mix of steakhouse classics and grill options. Sangria pairs well with the meals, making for a satisfying midday break.

Prime rib stands out as a signature dinner dish here, served with excellent presentation. The ambiance blends casual and classy vibes, fitting for both relaxed meals and special occasions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The prime rib dinner here is perfectly cooked and generously portioned."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and perfectly done."

Good to know

1

Live music starts at 10 p.m. on Saturdays, perfect for dancing.

2

Dancing is available on weekends along with a selection of wines.

3

The menu features Portuguese-inspired dishes like Bitoque a Portuguesa.

02
Ammas kitchen image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers authentic South Indian food with affordable prices and a friendly atmosphere. Seating is comfortable with a small sit-out area. The vibe reflects a home-like Indian ambiance with music enhancing the experience.

Lunch features authentic Tamil Nadu biryani and meals with strong regional flavors. Chai is served fresh after lunch, adding a traditional touch.

Dinner features vegetarian combos like Onion Chilli Uthappam and Andhra Spicy Dosa alongside chicken dinner combos that offer a homestyle feel. The dinner thali and kushka in combos provide solid, tasty options for evening meals.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and authentic."

"The dinner combo's kushka and Gobi 65 were really good."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Ammas Kitchen offers authentic South Indian food at reasonable prices.

2

The prices at Ammas Kitchen are affordable, with dishes like paneer dosa priced at $14.

3

Ammas Kitchen is easy to locate in Newark.

03
Ellie's Bistro image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with a modern rustic vibe and a visible brick oven adds character to the space. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy but can get tight and crowded, creating a lively buzz. Known for excellent pizza and pasta, it offers a variety of well-crafted cocktails and wines.

Fast service makes it a solid choice for lunch. The spot feels tucked away, offering a quiet place to enjoy a meal.

Dinner here suits early plans before events with a varied menu including Linguine Bolognese and other pasta dishes. The spot offers a walkable location ideal for strolling after eating.

People are saying

"The Kristin Salad's raspberry vinaigrette is addictive."

"The dinner portions here are huge and very good."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is amazing and fast."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday from 4-6 pm at the bar.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially before events.

3

Expect a one-hour wait during busy times, particularly before shows.

04
Sihana Bistro image 1
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.

Offers a salmon salad and other lunch options that suit group meals. Serves lunch alongside cocktails and dinner, making it a go-to spot after nearby events.

Private dining spaces offer privacy and ambiance ideal for client dinners. The spot suits both lunch and dinner, especially after nearby shows.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are strong and perfectly balanced."

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

"I loved the food at this Lunch Spot; it was lovingly prepared."

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.

05
Five Corners Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, modern Italian restaurant offers an upscale but casual vibe with warm, inviting atmosphere and excellent decor reminiscent of Manhattan's West Village. Music stays toned down, making it easy to have conversations. Creative cocktails and standout dishes like exceptional carbonara add to the experience.

Lunch offers a quiet and calm atmosphere with food that matches the quality of dinner. Positive reviews and a welcoming exterior draw groups and individuals alike for a satisfying midday meal.

Italian cuisine shines with consistently good dinner options. Hosting special occasions like surprise birthdays fits well here.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is perfectly cooked and seasoned."

"The dinner here is delicious, well-presented, and full of flavor."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and made from scratch."

Good to know

1

Parking around the restaurant is very limited, so plan to arrive early.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

3

Happy hour offers great drinks at reasonable prices on weekdays.

06
Casa Vasca image 1
Basque restaurant

Formal dining room with white tablecloths and attired waitstaff contrasts with a lively soccer bar showing La Liga matches. Atmosphere blends elegance and warmth, creating a festive yet calm vibe. Regulars gather for authentic Basque cuisine and spirited sports viewing.

Shrimp in white wine sauce stands out as a lunch choice. The spot suits a lazy Sunday lunch or casual client meetings.

Dinner features grilled sea bass and suits family nights or client meals. The experience stays solid and consistent across visits.

People are saying

"The seafood here is cooked to perfection and tastes so tender and fresh."

"The seafood at these dinner spots is so good, I was too busy enjoying it."

"This Lunch Spot's shrimp dishes were truly delicious and lusciously prepared."

Good to know

1

Casa Vasca offers free parking for customers.

2

The price of paella is $35, which is reasonable.

3

Parking is available on the side street and in a nearby lot.

07
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.

Juicy burgers stand out as a highlight during lunch. Friendly service guides choices and offers excellent drinks to complement meals.

Dinner features delicious meals and great recommendations. Drinks come highly praised alongside the food.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so attentive and make great dinner recommendations."

"Our server was so pleasant and efficient during lunch."

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.

08
Red Reisa Grill&Catering Please place orders on the Website because the Order-pickup button on Google sometime Doesn't work image 1

Newly built space combines beautiful decor with outdoor seating in front and back. Atmosphere varies from vintage and elegant to less cozy inside, creating a mixed but generally inviting vibe. Ordering relies on a website-based system due to occasional issues with other platforms.

Offers a great spot for lunch with a friendly atmosphere. Serves meals that work well for a casual lunch with friends.

Dinner service starts after 4 pm with tasty food options. It works well for a pre-show dinner or a casual evening meal.

People are saying

"The Newark cheesesteak sandwich was melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

"The food here is excellent and made from scratch."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is made to order and fresh."

Good to know

1

Place orders on the website or use the QR code on the table for prompt service.

2

The restaurant is handicap accessible for all guests.

3

The entire restaurant, including the dining area and bathroom, is clean.

09
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.

Lunch features fresh bread and olives, with olives often requested for seconds. Service stays wonderful during gatherings, and meals end with a strong espresso coffee.

Dinner here lasts over two to three hours, requiring dressing nicely and patience. Parties and dinners come with a complimentary after dinner almond liqueur and consistently great food.

People are saying

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

"I had the best grilled fish Iโ€™ve ever had at this lunch spot."

"The food and service at these dinner spots are amazing."

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.

10
Mulberry Street Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers New York style pizza with thin crust and fresh ingredients. Atmosphere feels welcoming and safe, attracting local workers. Menu includes a full Italian American selection with reasonable prices and generous portions.

Massive chicken penne vodka lunch special costs $11.95. Pizza works well for groups and pairs with a beer during lunch.

Dinner service happens regularly but can cause frustration when trying to eat at unusual times like breakfast. Visits show the place serves dinner twice without issues.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was fantastic and the crust was really crunchy."

"The pizza at this Lunch Spot is great."

"The pizza at this dinner spot didn't disappoint."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

2

Portion sizes are generous, making it a good value.

3

The large pizza typically arrives in about 15 minutes.

11
Dutch's Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers stylish retro decor with inviting, peaceful atmosphere and wide bar countertops. Bartenders prepare notable cocktails like Irish Coffee and Old Fashioned, contributing to a lively vibe. Seating feels comfortable, enhancing the overall pleasant experience.

Lunch features pastrami tacos and short rib options. Meals offer variety and satisfy different tastes across visits.

Dinner service includes multiple courses but can have order mix-ups with some meals arriving late or missing. The atmosphere suits special occasions like birthday dinners.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so polite and make great conversation."

"The short rib tacos at this Lunch Spot are so flavorful."

"The service here for dinner spots was outstanding and attentive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 20% service charge on all bills.

2

Dutch's Restaurant is a 5-minute walk from the Prudential Center.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

12
TOSSED NJ image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers healthy bowls and wraps with generous portions and flavorful sauces. Seating is limited but accommodates small groups comfortably. Prices tend to be high compared to similar options nearby.

Offers an excellent lunch special every weekday. Serves well for small gatherings and quick orders during work hours.

Excellent food stands out at dinner here, paired with attentive staff who put real effort into the meal experience.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's meals are always fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the garlic shrimp hot bowl at these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Tossed NJ offers an excellent lunch special every weekday.

2

Expect to pay around $14 for a meal with tax.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

13
Swahili Village - Newark, NJ image 1

Space combines African and world-inspired decor with a classy, lively club atmosphere after hours. Music features afro-beats and live saxophone, creating an energetic vibe that fills the venue. Dining side offers a more relaxed setting, while the bar side buzzes with activity and dancing.

Fun atmosphere keeps people coming back for lunch. Many enjoy the experience so much they return the next day around noon.

Options suit both peaceful dinners and dancing. It works well for pre-show or post-show dinner drinks.

People are saying

"The DJ here is awesome and keeps you dancing all night."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food full of flavor."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing, truly a chef's kiss."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find near the venue.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to the bill.

14
Beyond Soul Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

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.

Offers a hidden gem feel with a quiet, reliable atmosphere. Serves consistent, satisfying meals that make it a go-to lunch spot.

Dinners feature fresh chicken wings and hearty sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Options include buffalo wings, oxtail, and shrimp, all served with classic southern-style vegetables.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and made with care."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the wings and mac."

"This lunch spot's mac & cheese is so tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant is primarily a pickup to-go place rather than a sit-down restaurant.

3

Expect limited on-street parking in the residential neighborhood.

15
Oh My Goodness Restaurant & Catering image 1

Small, lively space with gangsta rap music and a hype man energizing the crowd. Atmosphere feels like organized chaos with a chicken shack vibe rather than a formal restaurant. Affordable, generous portions attract a busy, diverse group despite limited seating and parking.

Arriving before the lunch rush keeps the wait short. The salmon cheesesteak sandwich can have a long wait during peak lunch hours.

Dinner features prime ribeye steak, BBQ beef short ribs, and bourbon jerk lamb chops, often paired with shrimp stir-fry. Prices range from $25 to $30 for these hearty meals.

People are saying

"The fried catfish here is super crispy and juicy."

"The fish filet at this Lunch Spot is super crispy and juicy."

"The fish filet at these dinner spots is super crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets very busy.

2

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

3

The restaurant is take-out only with no dedicated dining area.

16
Peru Taypa image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small, charming Peruvian restaurant with live music and a beautiful, classy decor. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, especially during weekend performances. Known for excellent grilled chicken and authentic pisco sours that evoke a strong sense of Peru.

Lunch offers a $15 special with soup and roasted chicken served alongside Peruvian rice. The spot feels cozy and cute, suitable for meals with family, partners, or friends.

Dinner features excellent dishes and a fun atmosphere with drinks. Full dinners may involve a wait and some dishes taste average.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, juicy, and flavorful."

"The live music here is excellent and makes you happy."

"The lunch special with roasted chicken and Peruvian rice is amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of approximately 30 minutes upon arrival.

2

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find in the area.

3

Weekends are particularly busy, leading to longer wait times.

17
Fernandes Steak House II image 1

Steak house offers an old castle interior with upstairs and downstairs dining and a beautiful patio for outdoor meals. The atmosphere feels cozy and fun, with lively energy and close table arrangements. Valet parking and singing staff add to the distinctive experience.

Workman's lunch special offers an affordable option with solid value. Lunch prices vary, with some meals reaching close to $200 for two people.

Dinner here features delicious meals that suit special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. It serves as a reliable spot for a nice dinner with family or celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The dinner meats were flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The rodizio here is excellent, truly 13 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure a table.

2

Expect to pay around $70 per person for the rodizio experience.

3

Valet parking is available for convenience.

18
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.

Lunch specials include food and drinks at a fantastic value. The lunch experience offers delicious meals and a nice atmosphere, though sometimes pricing may reflect dinner rates instead of lunch specials.

Dinner here includes attentive service that stands out during special occasions like birthdays. Options suit casual plans, such as grabbing a meal before a concert.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The Lamb Barbacoa for dinner was melting in your mouth."

"The lunch specials for food and drinks were fantastic."

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.

19
Kings Family Restaurant & Catering image 1

Halal restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a chill, cozy vibe suitable for big family gatherings. Many beautiful outdoor areas provide space to rest and eat, and a musalla (prayer space) is available for Muslims. The setting feels relaxed and clean, making it a comfortable spot for dining.

Large groups, including families with children, get seated easily during lunch. The menu offers a variety of delicious meals suitable for lunch and other times.

Dinner features a variety of delicious meals with the turkey wing dinner standing out. Food, service, and staff combine for a perfect dinner date experience.

People are saying

"These dinner spots serve delicious southern dishes like turkey chops."

"The Halal food here is so fresh and tasty."

"This lunch spot's southern dishes, like turkey chops, were wonderful."

Good to know

1

Parking is rough due to construction; plan accordingly.

2

The restaurant offers many halal options suitable for Muslim customers.

3

Prices are fair, with two meals costing around $35.

20
Flaming Grill & Supreme Buffet image 1

Buffet-style restaurant offers extensive variety of dishes with a grill station where ingredients are cooked in front of diners. Interior feels cozy and relaxing with dim lighting and a spacious layout despite tight table arrangements. Atmosphere suits group dinners and casual celebrations.

Lunch offers a reasonably priced buffet with all-you-can-eat options around $12 to $14. The spot serves quick meals and features hibachi as a lunch highlight.

Buffet offers a variety of fresh food for dinner, suitable for groups and families. Pricing can be fixed on holidays, and some food may have been sitting out for a while.

People are saying

"I thought the buffet food was delicious and fresh."

"I paid nearly 70 dollars for my children and myself."

"I loved the delicious food at these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs around $15 per person for all-you-can-eat with free refills.

2

Expect to pay extra for seafood items.

3

Takeaway is not allowed unless an additional fee is paid.

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