When the weather permits, the Garden State has no shortage of great outdoor dining destinations. A recent nationwide survey from Advance Funds Network, which polled more than 3,000 food critics, ranked the top 150 neighborhoods for outdoor dining across the entire United States.
To no one’s surprise, three New Jersey towns made the cut, with one destination ranking at 12 nationally. From historic seaside porches to lively college-town streets and stylish suburban patios, here’s where the Garden State shines. We’re only surprised that more weren’t on this list.
Montclair
Montclair may have ranked a little lower at #102, but it’s a clear standout in northern New Jersey’s dining scene. With recent additions such as The Saint Clair and Iron Chef Morimoto’s newest restaurant adding to an already bustling food scene, Montclair is quickly making the case for the top foodie destination in the entire state (yes, we said it). The downtown—centered around Bloomfield Avenue and Church Street—comes alive in the evenings, with twinkling lights, outdoor tables, and a steady stream of food lovers. And autumn is peak Montclair. Of course, Montclair is home to dozens of diverse restaurants, so whether you’re craving fine dining or casual bites, there’s a patio waiting.
Princeton
Landing at #68 on the national list, Downtown Princeton offers a different kind of outdoor dining experience. When the leaves start turning in the fall, Nassau Street becomes an even more inviting destination, with cafes, shops, and restaurants spilling onto tree-lined sidewalks. Princeton is also home to Mistral, one of the best restaurant experiences the city has to offer. Whether you’re ordering tapas, pasta, or wine, the lively backdrop of one of New Jersey’s most famous college towns makes every meal memorable.
Cape May
Coming in at #12 nationwide, the Cape May Historic District was New Jersey’s top-rated destination for al fresco dining. It’s easy to see why: the district’s Victorian-era architecture, cobblestone charm, and seaside breezes create a dining atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Highlighted in the survey was The Ebbitt Room, located inside the Virginia Hotel, where guests can sip cocktails and enjoy refined coastal cuisine on a wraparound porch. But the district offers much more, from classic seafood houses to global flavors. Cape May’s official website even maintains a full list of restaurants that provide outdoor seating for visitors eager to plan a foodie weekend.
Outdoor Dining in the Garden State
While these three towns stood out nationally, they also reflect what makes dining in New Jersey special: variety, atmosphere, and a touch of character. Whether it’s Victorian porches in Cape May, college-town patios in Princeton, or urban-style streetscapes in Montclair, the state proves that outdoor dining here is more than just a seasonal perk. It’s part of the culture.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.