Taste the Best: Top Places to Eat During New Jersey Restaurant Weeks

New Jersey Restaurant Weeks, Sample popular cuisines at discounted rates during Restaurant Week

What Sets Restaurant Weeks in New Jersey Apart?

New Jersey’s Restaurant Weeks are known for a few standout reasons:

  • The state is extremely diverse, so you’ll find a huge mix of cuisines. From Italian and Indian to Korean BBQ, Portuguese, and Dominican meals, locals get to sample food from all over the world, often in one neighborhood.
  • Most participating restaurants are small, independent spots that are family owned. Restaurant Week gives people a simple way to support these businesses and try new favorites nearby. 
  • These events aren’t only about eating. Some feature live music, art displays, cooking demos, or a chance to meet chefs. It feels like a community party centered on food. 
  • Restaurants serve prix fixe menus at lower prices than normal, so you can treat yourself to a nicer meal without breaking the bank. 
  • Chefs highlight New Jersey’s local produce, seafood, and meats, showing off what’s fresh from the area’s farms and shores.

Since many towns and counties host their own events, the vibe and restaurant choices can change a lot depending on where you go.


New Jersey Restaurant Week Highlights

Cape May Restaurant Weekend – Fall
Oct 30 to Nov 2, 2025, Cape May
Invites food lovers to savor the flavors of the Jersey Shore’s culinary scene. This four-day event showcases Cape May’s top restaurants offering specially priced, three-course dinners that highlight seasonal ingredients and coastal charm. Perfect for a cozy autumn getaway, the weekend combines gourmet dining with Victorian seaside ambiance. Whether you're a local or visiting for a fall escape, Cape May Restaurant Weekend delivers delicious value and unforgettable experiencesnvites food lovers to savor the flavors of the Jersey Shore’s culinary scene. This four-day event showcases Cape May’s top restaurants offering specially priced, three-course dinners that highlight seasonal ingredients and coastal charm. Perfect for a cozy autumn getaway, the weekend combines gourmet dining with Victorian seaside ambiance. Whether you're a local or visiting for a fall escape, Cape May Restaurant Weekend delivers delicious value and unforgettable experiences

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week
Friday, November 7 thru November Sunday, 16th, 2025
Get ready to savor the shore! Food lovers can expect a delicious opportunity to explore the region’s top culinary destinations. Participating restaurants will feature three-course prix fixe menus at $32.25 or $42.25, including an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Whether you're craving coastal seafood, farm-to-table fare, or international flavors, this week-long event showcases the best of New Jersey’s vibrant dining scene. Discover exclusive menus, special events, and unbeatable value—perfect for locals and visitors alike looking to indulge in fall flavors along the shore

Scotch Plains-Fanwood Restaurant Week- Dining For Dollars
Sunday, November 16 - Saturday, November 22, 2025
this week-long culinary celebration features exclusive menus and promotions at participating restaurants, with a portion of proceeds benefiting student scholarships. Whether you're craving cozy comfort food or upscale bites, Dining For Dollars blends flavor with purpose—making every meal a meaningful experience in Union County, NJ. Don't miss this chance to dine local and make a difference

Wildwoods Restaurant Week
Friday, November 28th until Sunday, December 7th, 2025
Participating restaurants offering special prix fixe breakfast ($10), lunch ($15), and dinner ($40) menus at great prices. From fresh seafood and sizzling steaks to creative international cuisine and classic boardwalk favorites, there's something to satisfy every preference. Whether you're dining in a cozy restaurant or a lively family-friendly eatery, the experience promises delicious dishes, warm hospitality, and a true taste of the Wildwoods.

Elizabeth Restaurant Week
Tuesday, January 26 Until Friday, January 30, 2026
Get ready to savor the flavors of Elizabeth NJ Restaurant Week  offering a premier culinary experience for food lovers across New Jersey. This five-day event showcases the best restaurants in Elizabeth NJ, from authentic Portuguese and Brazilian eateries to innovative American bistros and global cuisines. Participating establishments will feature exclusive prix-fixe menus, allowing you to enjoy multi-course meals at exceptional value. It's the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant downtown Elizabeth NJ dining scene, discover new favorite spots, and support local chefs. Don't miss this chance to indulge in a memorable culinary event in Union County.

Taste Atlantic City
A month-long culinary celebration happening in March 2026.
This premier month-long culinary celebration transforms America's Playground into a gourmet destination, showcasing the incredible talent of its world-class chefs and restaurants. Throughout the month, foodies can explore exclusive dining events, from chef-hosted tasting menus and wine pairings to interactive cooking demonstrations and exclusive deals at top-rated eateries. Whether you're craving fresh Atlantic Ocean seafood, innovative international cuisine, or classic East Coast comfort food, Taste Atlantic City offers an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

New Jersey African Restaurant Festival
Saturday, Sunday October 17, 18, 2026
This highly-anticipated food festival invites food lovers and culture enthusiasts to explore the diverse flavors of the African diaspora without leaving the state. Discover authentic dishes from across the continent, from savory West African Jollof Rice and succulent Ethiopian Tibs to fragrant Moroccan tagines and sweet Senegalese desserts. More than just a foodie event, the festival is a cultural extravaganza featuring live music, traditional dance performances, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities. Don't miss this premier New Jersey event to support local African restaurants, expand your palate, and experience the rich heritage and hospitality that make this a must-attend celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question
What is New Jersey Restaurant Week?

Answer
New Jersey Restaurant Week is a statewide celebration where participating restaurants offer special prix fixe menus and promotions. It’s an opportunity for diners to experience diverse cuisines at a discounted price.

Question
When does a New Jersey Restaurant Week take place?

Answer
Restaurant Weeks are typically held several times a year, with popular periods in the spring, summer, and fall. Specific dates vary by county or city, so check with your local tourism board or participating restaurants.

Question

Do I need reservations?

Answer
Reservations are strongly encouraged as restaurants often experience high demand during Restaurant Weeks. You can book through the restaurant’s website, by phone, or via popular reservation platforms like OpenTable.

Question
What kind of menus are offered?

Answer
Most restaurants provide special prix fixe menus featuring two or three courses (appetizer, entrée, dessert) at a set price. Some may also include additional beverage pairings or à la carte options.

Question
Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?

Answer
Many participating restaurants include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s best to check the menu in advance or contact the restaurant directly to confirm.

Question
Are beverages included in the prix fixe menus?

Answer
Beverages are typically not included unless specified. Some restaurants may offer drink specials or pairings as an add-on to the prix fixe menu.

Question
Are kids’ menus available during Restaurant Week?

Answer
Policies vary by restaurant. Some offer special menus or reduced portions for children, while others may focus on adult dining experiences. Check with the restaurant beforehand.

Question
How much does it cost to participate?

Answer
Prices for prix fixe menus vary by restaurant and typically range from $25 to $75 per person. Be sure to review the menu details for exact pricing.

Question
Do I tip on the prix fixe amount or the full value of the meal?

Answer
It’s customary to tip based on the full value of the meal, not just the discounted prix fixe amount, as a courtesy to the staff.