This Small New Jersey City Is One Of The Most Diverse Culinary Destinations In The U.S.
By Kim Magaraci|Published January 06, 2022
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Kim Magaraci
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Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
Lots of us think of New Brunswick as a college town filled with pizzerias and bars that serve really cheap wings, but if you’ve ever spent any time in this small city, you know that it might as well be considered the dining hub of the Garden State. No matter what kind of food you’re in the mood for – you’ll find it here! Of course, there are plenty of places to get great pizza, a handful of hoagie shops, and some of the best diners in NJ are just a stone’s throw away… but try something new and you’ll have an unforgettable meal.
Plenty of people just think of Rutgers when they think of New Brunswick, but for those in the know, this little city is a foodie dream come true.
While there are plenty of towns scattered throughout the state with higher populations, there aren't any that have quite the same dining scene. No matter what you're craving you'll find it here.
Mamoun's is a staple of New Brunswick dining. With a simple menu and a prime location on Easton Ave, you'll almost always find a line of students here waiting for a great meal.
Esquina is fairly new to the city, but they're making a splash by serving latin cuisine that's packed with flavor and presented in an absolutely beautiful way. You'll find this spot on Liberty Street near the Train Station.
Dashen is tucked away on Albany Street, but you can smell their mouthwatering Ethiopian food for blocks. Come in and try one of their specials and you'll go home feeling so satisfied.
Namli serves fresh and colorful Turkish and Mediterranean dishes all the way down Central Ave. This is more of a local spot, so if dining with students and city commuters isn't your scene, you'll find some peace and quiet here.
Veganized is located downtown on Elm Row, a block away from George Street. Their menu features, well, veganized takes on comfort food like mac and cheese.
Noodle Gourmet is a legendary hole-in-the-wall on Easton Ave. Cheap and fresh Hong Kong-style noodle dishes are served here and this is a favorite of locals, students, and the workforce alike.
If you truly can't decide what you want to eat, head to Destination Dogs (downtown) and try a little bit of everything. This unique hot dog spot serves up dogs inspired by cuisines from around the world. It's a one-of-a-kind dining experience for sure.
Of course, these seven restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg! New Brunswick is home to several other Asian restaurants like Indochine, a French restaurant called Sophie’s Bistro, and more. Try flavorful Mediterranean dishes at Sahara. Places like Stuff Yer Face put their own twist on typical college junk food and are the perfect place to, well, stuff yer face. For fine dining, Salt Seafood and Steakhouse 85 can’t be beat, and the Frog and the Peach offers a unique dining experience. Clydz Martini Bar is famous for its exotic specials like alligator dishes, so that’s worth a stop, too, and if you’re one to enjoy the sweeter things in life, Thomas Sweet Ice Cream Shop is calling your name.
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