We don’t have a distinctly Fairfield food scene yet (let’s be real, it would definitely involve something with Taylor ham). But we still have some pretty tasty offerings where we’d feel comfortable taking our judgey Hoboken friends or those Manhattanites who hate everything outside of their borough. So next time you’re tempted to settle for a mediocre option from the chain strip or even (insert gasp here) the mall food court, use this guide instead.
Hollywood Pizzeria & Restaurant
$ | (973) 808-0123 | WEBSITE
For over two decades, this family-run Fairfield spot has been serving their freshly made Italian classics with genuine care. The interior of the bustling neighborhood restaurant is warm and inviting, with framed photos of happy customers and local memorabilia, so we really feel like we’re getting that home-cooked experience every time we visit.
Before you get too distracted by the friendly banter from the owner or manager (though we get it, that’s some excellent customer service), make sure to order the creamy tortellini special with bits of crisp bacon, mushrooms, and peas and pair it with their airy rolls that taste like pizza crust. All we need is a BYOB bottle of Chianti, and our trip to Little Italy would be complete.
Michael Angelo’s
$$ | (973) 882-0001 | WEBSITE
The main draw of Michael Angelo’s (a hidden gem in Fairfield) is not the location. But there isn’t another place in town where we can devour homemade pasta while watching Michael Angelo himself come out to greet customers. And the pasta here is incredible, particularly the rigatoni with vodka sauce that’s been described as unreal or the meatballs that are simply great. Plus, our vegetarian friends can request special options at no extra charge.
After you beat your appetite, enjoy the generous portions and top-notch service that makes every bite a delight.
La Cocina
$ | (973) 882-8586 | WEBSITE
La Cocina serves delicious Latin comfort food in their vibrant and fresh dining room. Plus, there’s a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with warm lighting and colorful murals that make us feel like we’re dining in someone’s home. And because comfort food always makes us think of hearty family meals, we’re particularly drawn to their savory mofongo with garlic sauce (extra points for the authentic preparation), which will satisfy your cravings.
Our other pick is the picadillo, which comes with a ground beef, olives, and raisin mixture that makes our taste buds dance. With friendly and attentive staff, generous portions, and the ability to enjoy a satisfying meal even if some dishes are pricey, La Cocina is a win-win for all our comfort food scenarios.
Traci’s Café
$ | (973) 227-4211 | WEBSITE
Traci’s Café has been a Fairfield favorite since it opened its doors. The cozy storefront sits just off Route 46 and serves up fresh, homemade paninis and breakfast classics. We know it’s tempting to stick with their signature sandwiches, but you’d miss out if you didn’t try one of their vibrant salads, too. Of the several options (all are delicious), we love the garden salad, a crisp mix of greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
And since they open early every morning, this wholesome meal is a bit of a lifesaver when you need a quick, satisfying bite before starting your day.
Dough
$$ | (973) 226-3300 | WEBSITE
You probably know Dough as the best place to grab a pizza and some cocktails at the same time. But next time you hit this restaurant in Fairfield, try one of Dough’s pies on their outdoor patio (the superior pizza-eating spot). The original or specialty pizzas come topped with a variety of creative ingredients, but we like their Luce Bianca or Happy as a Clam best. True to the restaurant’s atmosphere, these pizzas aren’t massive, so we usually order two or grab a beet salad on the side.
Double Zero Pizza
$$ | (973) 244-0055 | WEBSITE
We already know what you’re thinking. How can we recommend any other pizza place in Fairfield besides the big chains? But this beloved neighborhood spot proves they aren’t just another pizza joint with their surprisingly awesome wood-fired pies (and yes, they offer both classic and specialty toppings). After a long day at work, dive into our favorite—the Meat Lovers topped with perfectly seasoned sausage, crispy pepperoni, and savory bacon.
Takeout orders are definitely a thing at Double Zero, but we recommend grabbing a seat at one of their few tables on a Friday evening, so you can enjoy it fresh from the oven while basking in the owner’s friendly banter and the warm glow of the pizza oven.
The Clubhouse | Eat • Drink • Golf
$$ | (973) 396-0515 | WEBSITE
The Clubhouse is primarily known for their indoor golf facility, which earns a spot on our best venues guide. But their lesser known talent (event hosting) is another big reason to make your way here. These events fill an entire spacious area by themselves, so bring your group and some enthusiasm to tackle these gatherings. There are various options, but we usually go with the customer appreciation event.
Accommodating owners and an avalanche of terrific food and drinks sits alongside top-notch simulators. And the ambiance is bathed in warmth and attention to detail—it somehow never feels impersonal despite the mound of corporate or birthday celebrations.
Yellowtail Japanese Bistro
$$ | (201) 408-9292 | WEBSITE
The typical Route 46 strip-mall blandness is refreshingly absent from Yellowtail Japanese Bistro’s cozy dining room and charming sushi boats floating by. But the sushi is fresh until closing, the flavors are vibrant, and the quirks are delightful, so we absolutely adore this place. Their standard Japanese bistro menu is reliable, but the standout favorite is the spicy tuna roll. Pair it with the Kani salad with spicy ginger dressing—we’re partial to the perfect balance of creamy and zesty.
Or honestly, order more. You’re already indulging in Wednesday’s buy-2-get-1-free deal anyway, so why hold back on the culinary joy now?
Boza Creamery
$ | (862) 200-7271 | WEBSITE
The name Boza Creamery tells you everything you need to know about this ice cream shop in Fairfield—all they serve is homemade ice cream. Each of the five flavor options are winners—even the classic cookies and cream, which sounds like a regular vanilla-and-cookie scoop from your childhood, but it’s a tad richer with real cream and chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies.
Whichever flavor you go with, top it off with their made-from-scratch chocolate fudge brownie that will give you a taste of indulgence no matter what season New Jersey is reppin’ that day.
China Pavilion
$ | (973) 575-8322 | WEBSITE
A local favorite in Fairfield since it opened, China Pavilion has become the go-to spot for fresh, delicious Chinese food in the area. The owners’ commitment to quality shows in every steaming-hot dish that comes out of the kitchen, with lunch being especially popular among regulars. The dining area feels welcoming and community-oriented, with simple decor that keeps the focus on what matters most—the food.
And with a space that’s always buzzing during peak hours, you’d think service might suffer. But thank heavens you don’t need a fancy atmosphere to appreciate China Pavilion’s Hot Chili chicken, which we usually order with extra spice. The presentation is visually appealing, and the flavors are so well-balanced they take things to the next level.
The West Essex Diner
$ | (973) 737-9024 | WEBSITE
The West Essex Diner’s tagline might as well be “comfort slingers,” and that’s a pretty good summation of this spot, which serves some of Fairfield’s most satisfying diner classics. Their cavatelli with shrimp is the reason we used to crave a hearty Italian meal after a long day—now we can actually get it right here in town.
In addition to the perfectly cooked shrimp, the dish (with your choice of pasta al dente or extra tender) is tossed in a rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of parmesan for a nice depth, with a side of warm bread to soak it all up. All the elements combine to form a cozy, generous mish-mash of flavors that make a simple diner dish feel like it should have its own five-star review.
The French onion soup, with its melted cheese and savory broth, follows the same satisfying pattern, while the cole slaw adds a crisp, tangy contrast. At around $15-$25 per entrée, you get heaping portions in a clean, bustling setting where the friendly staff keeps things moving smoothly even when every booth is filled. It’s the kind of place where you leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.