Yelp is the go-to for finding new restaurants for many people. You can scroll through endless food pics and read everything from happy five-star reviews to brutally honest rants. Before trying a new spot, I always follow the same routine: Google reviews, Yelp, then TikTok—always in that order. I check the photos, skim the menu and dive into the reviews. I look for hidden gems or, let’s be honest, potential red flags. And if a place really stands out? You bet I’m leaving my own review.
Every year, Yelp drops its Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S., a list built from millions of user reviews and nominations. It’s a mix of everything—hidden gems, fine dining, legendary mom-and-pop shops and food trucks cooking up next-level eats. Since launching in 2014, the list has recognized more than 900 restaurants in over 400 cities, often giving small businesses a serious boost.
This year, three New Jersey restaurants earned a spot—one less than last year’s 2024 Top 100, but hey, we’ll take it. One thing these places have in common? Great service. Because let’s be real, good food is important, but a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff? That’s what keeps people coming back.
So, which NJ spots made the list? Think Cuban comfort food, Southern-style wings and over-the-top desserts. So if you’re in the mood for crispy, cheesy, melty goodness, a sandwich stacked high with fried shrimp or an ice cream creation that looks too pretty to eat (but you eat it anyway), these places should be on your radar.
Cha Cha Cha Cuban Café – Kenilworth, NJ
If you’re craving authentic Cuban flavors, this cozy little spot delivers. Cha Cha Cha Cuban Café is known for its perfectly pressed Cuban sandwiches, slow-cooked Ropa Vieja and crispy empanadas. No need to book a flight to Havana when you’ve got a taste of Cuba right here in Jersey.
The café has even caught the attention of Food Network and Telemundo, solidifying its status in the local food scene.The menu stays true to the classics—mojo-marinated pork, sweet plantains and black beans cooked just right. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, the kind that tastes like it was made with love (because it was).
Fresh Tiki Bar – Somerville, NJ
A multi-award-winning dessert shop in downtown Somerville, Fresh Tiki Bar is basically a sugar lover’s dream. It’s been voted Best Ice Cream in New Jersey three years in a row, and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Their menu is loaded with handcrafted ice cream, magic waffle wands, fresh-baked cookies, pies and milkshakes that are works of art.
And it’s not just about the treats—it’s the whole experience. With pink walls, flamingo decor and a playful tropical vibe, this place is as fun as it is delicious. So if you’re in the mood for a massive sundae, a refreshing smoothie or a waffle covered in every topping imaginable, Fresh Tiki Bar is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
(And yes, the Digest team has been here, and we can confirm—it’s 100% worth the hype.)
Tim’s Po-Boys and Wings – Hawthorne, NJ
Craving Southern comfort food? Tim’s Po-Boys and Wings is bringing New Orleans soul straight to North Jersey. As the name suggests, they specialize in po’ boys and wings, and they do them right.
If you’ve never had a po’ boy, here’s the deal: a soft baguette stuffed with crispy shrimp, juicy roast beef or fried oysters, slathered with just the right amount of sauce. It’s messy and frickin good.
The wings are next level. They have flavors like gochujang, buffalo and Cajun dry rub, there’s something for every spice tolerance. And the menu doesn’t stop there—expect gumbo, jambalaya, crispy catfish and a deep-fried lineup that includes pickles, shrimp, oysters and chicken.
Oh, and if you’ve got room for dessert? They even serve deep-fried Oreos and Twinkies!
New Jersey may be small, but its food scene is strong. These three spots prove that some of the best flavors in the country can be found right here. But I’ve got to ask—where’s the South Jersey love?
So, what do you think? Have you been to any of these places? Should they have made the cut, or did Yelp overlook some gems? Drop your thoughts—because we all know Jersey has way more to offer.
Alondra Cabrera is the Editorial Assistant at New Jersey Digest. She recently graduated from Montclair State University with a degree in Communication and Media Studies. During her time at school, she discovered her passion for journalism and content creation. In her free time, she loves to create and edit videos for her corgis, Rafi and Toffe, and indulge in culinary adventures with her friends. Alondra also enjoys traveling, cooking, and working out. She is excited to embark on her professional journey in media and looks forward to contributing her skill and creativity to her role here at New Jersey Digest.
