Date Night: Waterfront Restaurants in Northern NJ
Have you finally managed to snag that kidless night out? Why not elevate your evening out with a romantic ambiance and scenic views? New Jersey is home to a stunning array of waterfront restaurants perfect for a memorable date night. Whether you're planning a special celebration or a casual evening by the water, these restaurants offer the ideal mix of delicious cuisine, inviting atmospheres, and breathtaking backdrops—from serene lakes and flowing rivers to the sparkling Atlantic coast. Here’s a curated list of date night-friendly waterfront spots in NJ that combine great food with gorgeous views to make your night unforgettable.
This European pub-style restaurant offers stunning, unobstructed views of the New York City skyline and the George Washington Bridge. If you get the chance, opt for De Novo’s outdoor seating—it’s hard to beat. That said, the indoor dining area is just as impressive, with its airy ambiance and equally captivating waterfront scenery. They do have a Montclair, NJ restaurant that is not on the water but offers a similar menu with additions like sushi. I personally prefer the Edgewater location though; I find it to be more relaxing and it really does offer stunning views.
When it comes to outdoor waterfront dining in Weehawken, Chart House is a top choice. Perched on Lincoln Harbor Pier, this upscale spot offers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, whether you’re seated on the patio or indoors by the floor-to-ceiling windows. Don’t miss their weekday happy hour—running Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 6 p.m.—for great food and drink specials in an unbeatable setting.
With a prime location overlooking the Hudson River, Blue Eyes offers a laid-back setting for a waterfront Italian meal. Famous for its brick-oven specialties and classic Napoletana pizza, the restaurant pays tribute to Hoboken’s own Frank Sinatra—hence the name. In the warmer months, the outdoor seating along Sinatra Drive is a must-visit, though it’s first-come, first-served, so plan accordingly.
Set along the Hudson River, Haven is a sleek, modern restaurant celebrating contemporary American cuisine. Its outdoor patio is an ideal spot to sip wine and soak in the shimmering city skyline, whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a warm summer evening. Drop in for lunch, dinner, happy hour, or weekend brunch—plus, enjoy the option of a prix fixe menu.
Son Cubano – West New York, NJ
Step into the elegance and excitement of 1950s Cuba at Son Cubano, where vibrant Cuban cuisine and decor create a glamorous dining experience along the Hudson River. With a chic supper club atmosphere and live music to set the tone, guests are treated to a night of rhythm and flavor. As evening falls, the dazzling New York City skyline adds a stunning backdrop to an already unforgettable night.
If you’re craving Greek-inspired cuisine, there’s no better place to enjoy it than by the water. In New Jersey, that means booking a table at Molos, where the stunning waterfront views might just transport you to the Mediterranean. The menu features modern seafood dishes, a local fish market selection, and classic Greek specialties. Floor-to-ceiling windows create a bright, stylish setting with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.
Nestled in Jersey City’s Newport community, Battello is a stunning spot for weekend brunch, but the real magic happens at sunset. This upscale restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Hudson waterfront alongside a contemporary menu that blends Italian flavors with fresh seafood. And if outdoor seating isn’t available, the dining room’s retractable glass walls create the feeling of dining al fresco.
For a taste of tropical vacation vibes without leaving New Jersey, Surf City’s waterfront bar is the place to be. With views of Manhattan and Liberty Island, this laid-back spot invites guests to embrace a “Key West attitude with New York latitude.” Enjoy exotic cocktails at communal tables, relax beneath swaying palm trees, or take in the sight of sailboats gliding across the harbor.