Dine-In Local Tonight: Jersey City BYOB Options
Like my previous post on BYOB options in Hoboken, our intention is to keep both your bellies and your wallets full this year. It seems like everyday another restaurant in Jersey City is getting their liquor license. So get out there with that bottle of Pinot before it’s too late! Here are some great options for BYOB restaurants in Jersey City.
Chinese
Grand Sichuan: If you’re looking for more authentic Chinese food or even just the best soup dumplings in town, you won’t be let down at Grand Sichuan. Make sure to keep your water glass filled, the spicy dry chicken will test your limits. 342 Grove St.
Shanghai Best: This is the new kid on the block, and it doesn’t look like they’re going anywhere. Unlike your average Chinese takeout joint, they make their dishes work without drenching them in sauce. 97 Montgomery St. Visit Shanghai Best here.
Photo from: Shanghai Best
Cuban
Rumba’s Cafe: If you can find a cheaper option with quality food like this, they should pin a medal on you. It’s almost impossible to believe what a bargain this place is. Any restaurant I can get pollo asado at for $5 has my attention… forever. 513 Central Ave. Visit Rumba's Cafe here.
French
Madame Claude Cafe: The seafood and the crepes are top notch here, as is the service. This is also a great option if you’re looking to hit up brunch. 364 4th St. Visit Madame Claude Cafe here.
Italian
Presto’s Restaurant: If you’re not concerned about all the riff-raff, Presto’s offers some pretty darn good classic Italian entrees. Large portions is the name of the game, you definitely won’t need to buy lunch the next day. 199 Warren St.
Abbondanza Trattoria & Brick Oven Pizza: There’s something to be said for great gnocchi and a spacious dining room. Save room for dessert—if you can find it! 257 Grand St. Visit Abbondanza Trattoria here.
15 Fox Place: Fox Place is for those of you looking for a private dining experience that is all about authenticity and quality. Not a night for bargain hunting, as you will likely spend in the triple digits. A great choice for an anniversary or special occasion. 15 Fox Place. Visit 15 Fox Place here.
Roman Nose: Good pizza and a gluten-free option for pasta dishes. Their ice cream is made locally, so you might want to check that out, too. 125 Newark Ave. Visit Roman Nose here.
Photo from Abbondanza Trattoria
Japanese/Thai
Honshu Sushi: If it’s sushi in Jersey City you’re after, Honshu is the place. Their fish is always fresh, and they work wonders with tempura— don’t leave without some spicy tuna tartare. 31 Montgomery Street, 2nd Fl. Visit Honshu here.
Ashiya Japanese Cuisine: Ashiya has great prices for the food they offer. The chicken teriyaki is tasty, and they have a decent sushi menu as well. Like Honshu, their fish is always fresh. 680 State Route 440.
More: This place has a mix of both Japanese and Thai, and they make it work. Spicy pad thai and coconut shrimp are two good choices here. 281 Grove St. Visit More here.
Mexican
The Dopeness: Besides having some really good Mexican food, The Dopeness always has some kind of entertainment going on. Don’t miss out on the ceviche de camaron. 332 2nd St. Visit The Dopeness here.
Los Tres Chilitos: When it comes to corn tortillas and authentic Mexican in Jersey City, Los Tres Chilitos should be your first stop. If you want a clue of how good Mexican food in the southwest tastes, try their gauc. 456 Central Ave.
Puerto Rican
ME Casa: Any good Puerto Rican restaurant has great mofongo, and it’s no different at ME Casa. Chef Eddie is one of the most involved, friendly chefs in the Jersey City restaurant business. 356 Varick St. Visit ME Casa here.
Isla Bonita: If you’ve been brushing up on your Spanish, you’ll want to make your way over to the heights to visit Isla Bonita. Make sure someone at your table orders pernil with rice and beans. 406 Central Ave.
About the Author/s
Michael is the Editor-in-Chief of New Jersey Digest, COO of X Factor Media, and an avid writer. Growing up in Bergen County, he discovered his passion for words while in Friday detention. Michael loves kayaking, a fat glass of Nebbiolo, and over-editing.
