Waterside Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in North Bergen, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Waterside Restaurant Highlights
Fare: New American with Mediterranean influences
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Serves well-executed menu using fresh ingredients.
Service: Friendly, attentive.
Ambiance/Decor: A trendy, attractive setting with a vibrant bar scene and scenic waterfront views of the NYC Manhattan Skyline
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four-star Rating System from no stars = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: High
Dress: Upscale casual
Recommended For: Romantic dinners, special occasions, group events
Not Recommended For: Casual, quiet meals, budget-conscious diners
Recommended dishes: When available; Whole Grilled Fish; Baked tagliolini with house-made egg noodles; and the Dry Aged Cowboy Steak.
Liquor: Broad selection of wines and specialty cocktails. Bar scene is vibrant.
Waterside Restaurant offers upscale waterfront dining with panoramic NYC views, refined Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and vibrant nightlife—ideal for special occasions
🌟 History & Vision
Waterside Restaurant was founded with a vision to blend world-class cuisine with unforgettable city views and nightlife. The restaurant is known for hosting elegant events and curated dining experiences that reflect a commitment to excellence and ambiance
🍽️ Food & Culinary Style
Waterside specializes in New American and Mediterranean fare, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable recipes. The menu features handcrafted pastas, dry-aged steaks, and whole grilled fish, with standout dishes like:
- Dry Aged Cowboy Steak
- Baked Tagliolini with house-made egg noodles
- Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer
Preparation emphasizes culinary artistry, and while not explicitly labeled farm-to-table or organic, the emphasis on freshness and sustainability is clear
👨🍳 The Chef
Waterside’s cuisine is chef-inspired, led by owner and Executive Chef Gus Shizas, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.
The chef’s approach reflects refined technique, modern Mediterranean influences, and attention to presentation and flavor balance.
🌆 Ambiance & Décor
The ambiance is trendy and upscale, with:
- Panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline
- Outdoor patios and retractable roof
- Elegant décor with vibrant nightlife elements
- High noise levels during peak hours
- Upscale casual dress code
The vibe is romantic and energetic, ideal for date nights, celebrations, and corporate events. Background music and a lively bar scene enhance the experience
🤝 Service & Hospitality
Service is generally friendly and attentive. The team is knowledgeable about the menu and responsive to special requests.
🍷 Other Features
- Alcohol/Bar Service: Full bar with creative cocktails and refined wine list
- Child-Friendly: Not ideal for young children due to noise and upscale vibe
- Recommended For: Romantic dinners, special occasions, group events
- Not Recommended For: Casual, quiet meals, budget-conscious diners
- Parking: Available on-site
- Dress Code: Upscale casual
- Holiday Hours: Open on Mother’s Day and other major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, often with special menus
🔧 Areas for Improvement
High noise levels, which may detract from intimate dining
💎 What Sets Waterside Apart
- Unmatched waterfront views without needing a rooftop
- Retractable roof and outdoor bars
- Chef-driven menu with Mediterranean flair
- Event-ready space with vibrant nightlife
Waterside isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination. Whether you're planning to celebrate an occasion or upscale night out, it delivers a multi-sensory experience that few North Jersey venues can match.
Updated October 2025
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