Fornos of Spain Restaurant Review: A must try spot in Newark, NJ
Fornos of Spain
47 Ferry St.
Newark, NJ
Fornos of Spain has been serving authentic Spanish cuisine since 1980. The restaurant is widely recognized for its long-standing commitment to traditional Spanish cooking and hospitality. Over the years, it has earned numerous awards and has been highlighted by national publications as a “must” when dining in New Jersey.
The restaurant’s mission centers on delivering authentic Spanish dishes, especially seafood and paella, prepared with traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. Their extensive wine cellar—featuring over 450 aged and vintage wines, including one of the rarest Spanish wine collections in the U.S.—is a defining part of their identity.
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
Fornos of Spain specializes in classic Spanish and Iberian cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seafood, paella, and traditional preparations.
Cuisine Style & Quality
- Traditional Spanish cooking with a focus on fresh seafood sourced from Spain
- Generous portions, often large enough for leftovers the next day
- Dishes prepared with olive oil, paprika, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, consistent with Spanish culinary tradition
- Menu includes tapas, seafood towers, grilled octopus, bacalao, paella, steaks, and chicken specialties
While not regarded as organic or farm-to-table; instead, it emphasizes authenticity and freshness.
Signature Dishes
- Paella specialties
- Grilled Octopus
- Shrimp Scampi
- Chicken Villeroy
- Iced Seafood Tower
🌆 Ambiance
Fornos of Spain offers a warm, multi‑room dining environment designed to accommodate both intimate dinners and large groups.
Décor & Vibe
- Cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere
- Multiple dining rooms, each with its own ambiance
- Traditional décor rather than modern industrial or rustic styles
- Not described as ornate or ultra-luxurious, but comfortable and classic
Noise Level & Space
- Generally lively but not overwhelming, suitable for groups and celebrations
- Tables spaced to accommodate families and large parties comfortably
🤝 Service
Service is consistently:
- Friendly and welcoming
- Attentive, with drinks often arriving within minutes
- Efficient, even during busy periods
- Knowledgeable about menu items and wine selections
🍷 Other Factors
Alcohol & Bar Service
- Full bar with wide selections of wines, sangria, and specialty cocktails
- One of the largest Spanish wine collections in the U.S. (450+ bottles)
Child-Friendly?
- Large portions and family-style options make it suitable for families
- Warm service and comfortable seating support family dining
Recommended For:
- Special occasions
- Groups and celebrations
- Business meals
- Seafood and paella lovers
- Wine enthusiasts
Not Recommended For:
- Diners seeking modern, trendy, or minimalist décor
- Those looking for outdoor dining
- People who prefer very quiet, intimate dining environments
Parking
On site, secure parking
Dress Code
Casual dining environment; smart casual is typical but not required
Private Parties
The restaurant offers multiple rooms suitable for private events and celebrations
They actively promote hosting private events on their website
✅ What Sets Fornos of Spain Apart
- Longevity & consistency: Serving Newark since 1980
- Award-winning reputation with national recognition
- Extensive wine cellar with rare Spanish vintages
- Large portions and value-driven pricing
- Authentic Spanish seafood prepared with traditional techniques
👍 What I Like About This Restaurant
- The commitment to authentic Spanish flavors
- The generous portions that offer excellent value
- The warm, attentive service that makes guests feel welcome
- The multi-room layout, ideal for groups and celebrations
- The deep wine list, especially for fans of Spanish varietals
🔧 What Could Be Improved
Décor may feel dated to diners seeking a modern aesthetic
📌 Conclusion
Fornos of Spain remains one of Newark’s most iconic dining destinations, offering traditional Spanish cuisine, exceptional seafood, and a welcoming atmosphere. Its long history, award-winning reputation, and extensive wine program make it a standout in the Ironbound district. While the décor leans traditional and some modern amenities are absent, the overall experience—especially for families, groups, and seafood lovers—continues to earn high praise.
Updated: December 2025
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
