Amandas Restaurant Review: A must try spot in Hoboken, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Amandas is a polished neighborhood classic, housed in a stately brownstone, blending contemporary American cuisine, warm hospitality, and timeless Hoboken charm.
Food & Culinary Style
Amandas has long been one of Hoboken’s most beloved dining rooms, known for its contemporary American cuisine with subtle global and Argentine influences. The kitchen focuses on high quality, seasonal ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a style that leans toward elegant comfort food rather than heavy-handed experimentation.
Fare:
Contemporary American with refined, modern touches
Amandas’ long-standing reputation is built on the talent of its culinary team, which has been highlighted as a key reason for the restaurant’s enduring popularity.
Signature Dishes
- Spinach ravioli with delicate, house-made pasta
- Focaccia with San Marzano relish, a standout starter
- Mashed potatoes and other comforting sides that diners consistently praise
While not explicitly branded as organic, Amandas’ menu reflects a commitment to quality sourcing and scratch preparation, which shows in the depth of flavor and consistency.
Amandas’ long-standing reputation is built on the talent of its culinary team, which has been highlighted as a key reason for the restaurant’s enduring popularity.
The culinary team's style leans toward:
- Contemporary American with finesse
- Technique-driven comfort dishes
- Elegant, soulful cooking meant to “replenish the soul”
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients; many dishes prepared with a farm to table sensibility
- Balanced flavors, clean presentation, and consistent execution
Ambiance
Amandas is housed in beautifully restored Hoboken brownstones, giving it a warm, historic, and romantic feel.
Décor & Vibe
- Elegant, cozy, and charming—a neighborhood gem with a polished feel
- Restored brownstone architecture adds character and warmth
- Live music every shift, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere
- Comfortable elegance—not stuffy, but refined
Atmospheric Details
- Table spacing: Comfortable, not cramped
- Noise level: Moderate; lively but not overwhelming
- Background music: Live musicians set a warm, inviting tone
- Outdoor dining: Available and beautifully arranged
- Scenic elements: Street-facing brownstone charm and Hoboken’s walkable Washington Street energy
The ambiance works equally well for date nights, celebrations, and upscale casual evenings.
Service
Warm, gracious hospitality. Knowledgeable, accommodating staff who aim to please every guest. Consistent food and service quality, a major reason for its longevity
Other Factors
Alcohol & Bar Service
- Full bar with wine offerings; brunch cocktails available
- Wine and family meals also offered for pickup
Child-Friendly?
Yes—families are welcome, especially during brunch hours
Best For
- Romantic dinners
- Celebrations and special occasions
- Brunch outings
- Date nights and anniversaries
- Upscale casual evenings with live music
Not Ideal For
- Very large groups seeking a loud, high-energy environment
- Diners looking for ultra-modern or experimental cuisine
Parking
- Street parking on Washington Street; can be competitive during peak hours
- Nearby garages available
Dress Code
Smart casual; polished but not formal
What I Like About Amandas
Amandas stands out because it feels timeless. It’s the kind of restaurant that understands its identity—warm, elegant, soulful—and delivers on it consistently. The combination of:
- Restored brownstone charm
- Live music every night
- Thoughtful, contemporary American cuisine
- Genuine hospitality
- …creates a dining experience that feels both special and deeply comforting.
What Sets Them Apart
Amandas distinguishes itself from other Hoboken restaurants through:
- Brownstone Elegance. The setting is uniquely Hoboken—historic, romantic, and full of character.
- Soulful, Contemporary Cuisine
- Not trendy for trend’s sake—just beautifully prepared food that satisfies.
- Warm, Gracious Service
Updated January 2026
How We Review Restaurants?
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation