When it comes to fine dining, New Jersey is often overlooked in favor of nearby New York City. However, the state has a number of acclaimed eateries that are worth a visit. In fact, many of these restaurants have earned Michelin stars for their culinary excellence.
The Michelin Guide is one of the most respected restaurant guides in the world and its star-rating system is used to identify restaurants with exceptional cuisine. A single Michelin star indicates that a restaurant has good cooking and is worth visiting.
Two stars indicate excellent cooking and would be worth a detour for those who appreciate fine dining. Three stars signify remarkable cuisine that is worth making a special journey for.
With this in mind, it comes as no surprise that some of New Jersey’s finest restaurants have been awarded Michelin stars. The state has five restaurants with one star each: The Frog and the Peach in New Brunswick, Ninety Acres in Peapack-Gladstone, Restaurant Nicholas in Middletown, Serenade in Chatham and Stage Left Steak in New Brunswick.
The Frog and the Peach
This acclaimed eatery was founded by Bruce Lefebvre in 1978 and has earned widespread acclaim from critics over the years. Its menu features fresh seasonal ingredients from local farmers markets, as well as classic French techniques for achieving flavor perfection. Signature dishes include seared scallops with white truffles; roasted guinea hen with mushrooms; black bass with organic vegetables; and roasted bison ribeye steak with wild mushrooms.
Ninety Acres
Located on an idyllic estate situated on ninety acres of rolling hills, this upscale restaurant offers guests an unforgettable dining experience. Executive Chef David Felton creates exquisite dishes from locally sourced ingredients such as Berkshire pork, wild striped bass and grass-fed beef tenderloin. Popular entrees include pan-seared foie gras with black mission figs; seared day boat scallops with butternut squash puree; whole roasted branzino with cauliflower couscous; and grilled venison loin with mustard spaetzle.
Restaurant Nicholas
Chef/owner Nicholas Harary has been creating culinary masterpieces at his namesake restaurant since 1993. His menus feature both classic French dishes as well as unique creations such as pan-seared diver scallops served with caviar beignets; lobster risotto topped with oxtail ragout; grilled pork tenderloin served over polenta cake drizzled with cherry mustard sauce; and seared duck breast accompanied by sweet potato ravioli.
Serenade
James Laird helms this award-winning establishment located on a residential street just off Main Street in Chatham Township. His menu emphasizes seasonal American cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients such as baby spinach salad dressed with warm bacon vinaigrette; seared diver scallops served over mashed potatoes; braised pork shank paired with parsnip puree; and classic filet mignon wrapped in applewood smoked bacon.
Stage Left Steak
This stylish steakhouse from renowned restaurateur Mark Pascal boasts an impressive selection of prime cuts such as certified Angus beef ribeye steaks aged 28 days or more for maximum flavor intensity. The menu also features seafood entrees such as blackened yellowfin tuna served over mixed greens dressed in Thai chili vinaigrette or jumbo lump crab cakes accompanied by crispy Brussels sprouts.
Conclusion
Yes, New Jersey does have several Michelin-starred restaurants that offer diners exceptional culinary experiences ranging from classic French cuisine to modern American fare made from locally sourced ingredients.