Jersey City is a bustling northern New Jersey city that contains the beautiful Hudson River to the east and the Hackensack River and Newark Bay to the west. These waterfronts offer the city’s diners a truly awe-inspiring view that they won’t soon forget. Proximity to the water has many benefits and can provide you and your loved ones with the perfect dining experience. Here are the top five restaurants in Jersey City that offer waterfront dining for your next big dinner or date night.

Surf City Beach Bar & Restaurant

Located directly on the water and offering diners breathtaking views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, Surf City Beach Bar & Restaurant sits in Liberty Harbor Marina within the newer part of Jersey City at 1 Marin Blvd. The restaurant has four outdoor decks and a full bar featuring wine and unique, fruity cocktails, in addition to 75 beers on tap. While you enjoy your drink, you can watch the boats sail into and out of the harbor and soak in the breeze from one of the restaurant’s extra-long community tables or settle down by the sandy shore. 

While the beautiful outdoor atmosphere is perfect for connecting with friends and family, there’s also a spacious indoor seating area for inclement weather. The menu features a variety of tasty seafood favorites, including fish and chips, crab cakes, and lobster rolls. A myriad of delicious burgers and sandwiches are also available, and a separate party menu ensures you can find something for everyone during your event.

To make a reservation and find out more, you can call 201-516-9000. 

Battello 

Battello is a stylish eatery that sits on the Hudson River at 502 Washington Blvd. and provides captivating views of the Manhattan skyline. It combines luxury with comfort for a truly unique dining experience. Huge ceilings and a variety of roomy and classy areas make it an appealing option for both quiet dinners and large events. The restaurant contains two bars, a lounge with space for live entertainment, several dining rooms, and a bridal suite, making it a popular Jersey City wedding destination. 

Chef Ryan DePersio, one of New Jersey’s most acclaimed chefs, designed Battello’s contemporary Italian menu. The menu takes inspiration from a variety of popular seafood dishes and offers its own unique flair. Chow down on eggs Benedict for brunch, a sandwich or burger for lunch, and oysters, clams, or a whole seafood tower for dinner. Battello’s unusual entrees include everything from sweet ricotta gnocchi to squid ink torchio. The restaurant’s bar also offers a number of fun cocktails and mocktails, as well as signature white and red wines.

To make a reservation, call  201-798-1798.

Hudson & Co.

Located at 3 Second St. at Harborside on the lively Hudson Waterfront, the gastropub Hudson & Co. has enough space to seat a whopping 300 people and offers an exciting and modern dining experience. The establishment boasts impressive views of the historic Hudson River and Manhattan Skyline in its outdoor seating area. The large patio with river vistas also provides a great view of the Financial District. Inside, diners can also enjoy the stylish decor and comfortable seating. 

Hudson & Co.’s menu includes a variety of delicious food options ranging from artisanal wood-fired pizzas to seared salmon. If you’re looking to indulge yourself, the half-pound prime beef burger is a perfect option. The restaurant also offers a myriad of specialty cocktails, wines, and draft and bottled beers. There’s also a lounge with a stage that’s perfect for your next private event or social gathering.

To make an inquiry or a reservation, you can call 201-685-7330.

Lokal Eatery & Bar

Also situated on the Hudson River at 2 Second St. is Lokal Eatery & Bar, which provides diners with the opportunity to learn more about Jersey City’s local culture through food. The restaurant has a number of diverse dishes and drinks to choose from that draw inspiration from all around the world. From salads and flatbreads to tapas and meat dishes, Lokal Eatery & Bar has something for just about everyone. 

Diners can also sample classic and signature cocktails, in addition to plenty of other refreshing drinks. In addition, the restaurant provides space for your next big private event and offers full catering services. Outdoor seating availability may vary, depending on the season and day. 

To reserve a spot or learn more, you can call 201-222-6800.

Smorgasbar

Smorgasbar at 3 Second St. at Harborside is Jersey City’s premier waterfront beer garden, boasting a magnificent view of the Hudson River and nearby Manhattan. Its impressive outdoor seating includes a comfortable grassy area that’s perfect for both private parties and simple gatherings with friends. Sip from a tropical cocktail, margarita, or mojito. Draft beer, wine, and sparkling drinks are also available. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the 40 vendors from 11 a.m. through 6 p.m. on Saturdays.

Vendors include Carlitos Barbecue Aquarian, which offers tasty tacos rich with tradition and sides like guacamole and chips, Mexican street corn, and cheese quesadillas. If you’re in the mood for pizza, San Giuseppe also sells pizza by the slice. You can also find homemade cheese sticks and bread rolls, perfect for dipping in fresh marinara. Smorgasbar doesn’t accept reservations on Saturdays, and reservations for Sunday through Friday must have a minimum of six people. On Saturdays, patrons can also bring their own food if they choose. The bar is open seven days a week but may close in inclement weather.

These are just a few of the impressive dining establishments with magnificent waterfront views in Jersey City. Did we miss your favorite? Reach out to us online and let us know. We’re always looking for helpful feedback. If you live in the Jersey City area, we hope you’ll visit us at New Jersey State Auto and check out our impressive used inventory. You’ll find just about every major brand and style, and we can help you get pre-approved in minutes, regardless of your financial situation.