Two New Jersey restaurants have earned spots on OpenTable’s prestigious Top 100 Restaurants list for 2024, which ranks eateries based on insights from verified diners rather than food critics. The list, compiled from over 14 million verified diner reviews and dining metrics gathered from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, recognizes exceptional dining experiences across the United States. This year, New Jersey’s own Stella Restaurant in Ventnor and The Saddle River Inn in Saddle River earned their place in the list.

Stella Restaurant | Ventor, NJ

Stella Restaurant in Ventnor (7303 Ventnor Ave.) has made the list for seven consecutive years. This contemporary American establishment offers a “classy supper club” atmosphere, serving seafood dishes like mussels and cioppino with spaghetti squash. Stella is BYOB and operates on Fridays and Saturdays, with dinner starting at 5:30 p.m.

The Saddle River Inn | Saddle River, NJ

The Saddle River Inn, located at 2 Barnstable Court, Saddle River, also secured a spot on the list. Known for its upscale French-American cuisine, this rustic, romantic restaurant resides in a restored barn. Diners praise its top-tier ambiance and service, with dishes like duck and Colorado lamb chops drawing attention. The Saddle River Inn is also BYOB, open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner, with varying hours.

OpenTable’s Top 100 list is based on over 14 million verified diner reviews and dining metrics collected from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024. The list features restaurants from across the U.S., including states like Arizona, California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. Unlike traditional rankings that rely on food critics, OpenTable’s list is determined by the insights of everyday diners. The rankings are shaped by a variety of factors, including food quality, service, ambiance, and overall guest satisfaction.This approach ensures the list reflects the true dining preferences of patrons, making it a trusted guide for those seeking the best restaurants nationwide.