Like a reliable neighbor or your favorite park bench, you should always know where to find an exceptional meal. That’s why we compiled this list. Well, that and to justify visiting eleven restaurants in one month—trust us, it’s more work than it sounds. For every gem, there are three forgettable spots. But after all that research, we’re thrilled to share Ramsey’s absolute best dining destinations.
L’Arte della Pasticceria
$ | (201) 934-3211 | WEBSITE
All of the pastries at L’Arte della Pasticceria could be Ramsey’s best dessert, with perfectly flaky (get the sfogliatelle), buttery crusts on fillings so creamy they melt on your tongue. But the caprese panini at this Italian bakery is so good we’d invent a sudden craving just to leave meetings early and eat it as soon as they open at 7am. It’s made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
If you’re feeling indulgent, pair it with their homemade granita—a true sweet tooth might need more than the little chill in the lemon flavor.
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub
$$ | (201) 962-7602 | WEBSITE
This Ramsey-based Irish pub has been serving the community for years, and if you were wondering if it lives up to its reputation, the answer is yes. The friendly, comfortable spot, with warm wooden tables, cozy booths, and a classic bar area does indeed make great food, and it’s as satisfying as it is delicious—just hearty shepherd’s pie, customizable with bacon and cheese for an extra kick, and tasty burgers for around $16.
The knowledgeable staff, especially Fred who provides great recommendations, go the extra mile to make you feel welcome. With plenty of beer options like the Lexington Kentucky bourbon barrel ale, occasional trivia nights, and beautiful holiday decorations, this pub is a must-visit. No offense, but other casual spots can take a seat.
Panera Bread
$$ | (201) 236-6300 | WEBSITE
You gave up fast food years ago (except for the occasional airport dash), so you haven’t had a chain sandwich in a while. Enter Panera Bread—a casual spot so focused on efficiency that you order on a tablet and pick up your food yourself. The BLT Chicken Avocado comes with the basics: crisp bacon, fresh greens, and creamy avocado on toasted bread. And unlike that quick bite you’ve been craving, the friendly staff actually remembers your name and smiles.
It’s a sandwich that’s looking to win you over with its reliable, no-fuss nature, not to impress you with gourmet flair and artisanal ingredients. Pair it with the soup and a coffee while you navigate the sometimes loud music and check your order for completeness.
Giovanna’s Cafe
$ | (201) 825-5835 | WEBSITE
Giovanna’s waffles are basically the little black dress of breakfast. They’re what you want to pull out on a morning when you need something simple that has range. Some fresh berries, whipped cream, and their signature maple syrup on a crisp golden waffle. It works for a family brunch, a weekend with friends, or fueling up before errands. And while we prefer the classic, the cafe has rotating eggs Benedict options like the BLT Eggs Benedict that you can switch to.
CARS: Sandwiches & Shakes
$ | (201) 871-8600 | WEBSITE
Despite being a simple comfort food spot, the fat sandwich from CARS: Sandwiches & Shakes is one we find ourselves craving long after closing time. While the Ramsey destination is best known for its consistently high-quality sandwiches and shakes, the classic fat sandwich got a whole lot better with their signature preparation.
Head to the unassuming eatery for a late-night bite, and enjoy your generously stuffed sandwich piled high with various fillings, served with a thick milkshake on the side.
IHOP
$ | (201) 236-2401 | WEBSITE
The classic pancakes at this Ramsey staple take a moment to settle in. That first forkful of fluffy batter, melted butter, and sweet syrup just don’t seem to blend perfectly, much like you and your first morning alarm. But if you give them a chance, much like your now favorite breakfast ritual, your day will be noticeably brighter. It’s the same fluffy batter, melted butter, and sweet syrup that make these pancakes our family weekend go-to.
Plus, IHOP serves breakfast all day, even during the week, and you never know when you’ll need to pull a reliable stack of pancakes out of your back pocket.
Brothers Smokehouse
$$ | (551) 264-9071 | WEBSITE
Brothers Smokehouse in Ramsey is one of those places that knows what it does well and sticks to it. The BBQ is all delicious, but nothing is better than the pork sandwich—a tender pulled pork piled high on a soft bun with just the right amount of tangy sauce. It’s the kind of sandwich where the juices soak through the bread and pool back on the plate, mingling with the smoky flavor that defines every bite.
The smokehouse is especially popular with groups looking for a lively night out, thanks to the live music and full bar, while the outdoor seating offers a relaxed spot to enjoy the flavorful dishes.
Kinchley’s Tavern
$ | (201) 934-7777 | WEBSITE
While other pizza joints keep things simple, Kinchley’s Tavern in Ramsey takes a maximalist approach. Squeeze into this warm and comfortable spot where customers crowd around cozy booths and bar stools, eagerly awaiting their super thin crust bar pies. Those pizzas come topped with creative options like vodka sauce with pineapples and anchovies or fra diavolo with garlic, onion, and sausage.
They’re indulgent, and just as satisfying as the eggplant rollatini appetizer that’ll have you coming back for more (totally fine and worth it).
Pietro’s Italian Restaurant
$$ | (201) 327-0580 | WEBSITE
Pietro’s Italian Restaurant’s Sicilian pizza is the most Italian pie in Ramsey. It’s got that perfect crispy crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and savory pepperoni slices. It’s the pizza we want to be eating when celebrating a family birthday, or just craving that authentic neighborhood feel. Pair it with the rich, layered lasagna.
Maguro Sushi House
$$ | (201) 327-4888 | WEBSITE
This Woodbury Outlet sushi spot does more than serve fresh nigiri and sashimi, though that’s what most people are here for. Maguro Sushi House also makes a creative, flavorful tuna tartare that we can’t get enough of. The citrus salmon has your typical clean, bright flavors. But also a scallop preparation that tastes more like a delicate ceviche (yes, please).
It’s a little upscale, but still pretty approachable (just like us), and is one of the few places in the area where you can escape both the outlet crowds and chain restaurant fatigue.
Luna Azul
$ | (201) 661-8296 | WEBSITE
Ramsey has a few Mexican spots, but Luna Azul is the one that tastes like a mercado in Mexico City. Don’t expect any of those fancy “fusion” tacos or molecular gastronomy at this local joint. No, you come here for pastor chicken and chorizo street tacos with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime. Homemade tortilla chips, flavorful sauces, and the best nachos, if you’re feeling indulgent.
And if you really want to round out an already great meal, get a taco salad with chili dressing and a side of Carne Asada tacos served with spicy homemade sauces. What? We’re here for authentic flavors, not pretentious plating.