87 Sussex Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Jersey City, NJ
87 Sussex
87 Sussex Street, Jersey City, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
87 Sussex: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: New American with French and Asian touches
Price: Expensive
Food quality: Outstanding. A tightly edited menu, focused on top-tier and sometimes rare ingredients.
Service: Warm, informed, and attentive without being stiff or showy.
Decor and ambiance: Romantic and cozy, pairing old-world polish with modern style.
Overall rating: 3 1/2 stars
Rating scale: 1/2 star is poor, 4 stars is best in class
Noise level: Moderate
Recommended for: Foodies, couples, special occasions.
Not recommended for: Budget-conscious diners or those seeking casual fare.
Recommended dishes: When available, Paupiette of Sea Bass Le Cirque, Black Tie Scallops, Braised Short Ribs, and Diver Scallops.
Liquor: Full bar with seasonal and classic cocktails, an informed wine list, and both draft and bottled beers.
87 Sussex offers a refined, theatrical dining experience led by Chef Brian Walter, blending global flavors with modern elegance. Known for its inventive cuisine, warm service, and upscale ambiance, it’s ideal for special occasions and culinary enthusiasts.
🏛️ History & Vision
Located in the charming Paulus Hook neighborhood, 87 Sussex is the brainchild of acclaimed Chef Brian Walter, whose vision is to revive the golden age of fine dining with a modern twist. The restaurant pays homage to decades of culinary excellence, offering a menu that balances nostalgia with innovation. Walter’s approach is rooted in storytelling—each dish reflects a chapter in his journey through elite kitchens and global influences.
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
87 Sussex specializes in New American cuisine with French and Asian influences, emphasizing seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients and progressive techniques. The menu is tightly curated, showcasing rare and premium products. Signature dishes include:
- Thousand Layer Potato – a visual and textural marvel.
- Butter-Poached Lobster – reassembled to mimic its original form, served over coral butter risotto with shellfish sauce
- Beausoleil Oysters with Caviar and Mignonette Spheres – playful and elegant.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully prepared, and the kitchen’s commitment to quality is evident in every plate. Preparation is meticulous, often theatrical, yet never gimmicky.
👨🍳 The Chef
Chef Brian Walter brings decades of experience from prestigious fine dining establishments. His culinary style is refined, playful, and globally inspired earning him industry recognition and accolades. Walter’s dishes often reinterpret classics with modern flair, making him a standout in the competitive Jersey City dining scene.
🪑 Ambiance
The décor at 87 Sussex is a blend of modern elegance and old-world charm. Highlights include:
- Blue and caramel leather chairs, marble walls, and a gold-painted ceiling over the bar
- A sweeping architectural balcony overlooking the dining room.
- Moderate noise level, ideal for conversation.
- Outdoor patio dining available.
- Background music is subtle, enhancing the romantic and cozy vibe.
The space is perfect for date nights, anniversaries, and upscale gatherings.
🤝 Service
Service is consistently warm, informed, and attentive without being intrusive. Staff are knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings, contributing to a seamless and memorable experience.
🍷 Other Features
- Bar Service: Fully stocked with creative cocktails and premium wines
- Child-Friendly: Not ideal for young children; better suited for adults and refined palates.
- Parking: Limited street parking; valet not mentioned.
- Dress Code: Upscale casual to formal recommended.
- Holiday Hours: Open for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day brunch
- Recommended For: Foodies, couples, special occasions.
- Not Recommended For: Budget-conscious diners or those seeking casual fare.
🔍 What Could Improve
While the experience is exceptional, the price point is high, which may deter some guests.
Expanding parking options or offering valet could enhance convenience.
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
87 Sussex stands out for its culinary artistry, chef-driven storytelling, and elevated ambiance. It’s not just a meal—it’s a curated experience that rivals Michelin-starred establishments in creativity and execution
Updated September 2025
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