New Jersey has hundreds of amazing restaurants, but there's something extra special about the "mom and pop" restaurants that make you feel like part of the family. There's at least one in every community, bringing people together. Here are 12 mom-and-pop restaurants in New Jersey that offer that friendly vibe along with fantastic food. Please note that they are listed in no particular order; each restaurant is amazing in its own way.

1. Browns Restaurant, Ocean City

See the crowd on the Boardwalk? Those are for the donuts. Opened in 1976, this business is now owned by the second generation of the Brown family. Serving more than magnificent donuts, you can enjoy breakfast and lunch here, or an early dinner. For more information on Browns Restaurant, head to the Facebook page.

2. Belmont Tavern, Belleville

Reviewers rave about the friendly atmosphere at this local favorite. Everyone knows everyone at this Italian joint, and if you don't know everyone yet - you will soon. The delicious dishes will keep you coming back, especially the famous Chicken Savoy (pictured). For more information on Belmont Tavern, head to the website.

3. Pic-A-Lilli Inn, Shamong

Though it has seen several names and incarnations over the years, this has been a family business for decades. The service is top-notch along with the mouthwatering wings and crab soup, proof that some unassuming restaurants in New Jersey are worth a visit. For more information on Pic-A-Lilli Inn, head to the website.

4. Star Tavern, Orange

This iconic eatery has been in business for over 65 years and has been owned and operated by the Vayianos family since 1980. They have a loyal following and amazing thin-crust pizza. This is definitely a spot you don't want to miss. For more information on Star Tavern, head to the website.

5. Kathy's Restaurant, Newton

If you're searching for New Jersey diners to visit, make sure you stop at Kathy's Restaurant. This family-owned eatery in Newton serves up delicious breakfasts all day and reviewers rave about the friendly atmosphere. You'll feel at home here while enjoying good food at fair prices. Owner Chris Kaltsas and his wife Kathy also own the Fredon Dairy, a great local ice cream spot. For more information on Kathy's Restaurant, head to the Facebook page.

6. Federici's, Freehold

This Italian spot has been a family business since 1921 and they still use "Mom's" original recipe for cheese lasagna. The popular pizza spot offers outdoor seating in warmer weather and friendly service that customers love. For more information on Federici's, head to the website.

7. Ventura's Offshore Cafe, Northfield

Lou Di Ventura runs this restaurant, purchased by his parents in 1996. The eatery serves a mix of Italian and global cuisine and offers a great tomato (Pomodoro) pie. Be sure to check out the specials, especially at happy hour. The cocktails here are also fan favorites. For more information on Ventura's Offshore Cafe, head to the website.

8. My Kitchen Witch, Monmouth Beach

It's easy to be enchanted by this magical market. Enjoy "healthy home-cooked comfort food," a fun atmosphere, and fantastic juice bar. Breakfast and lunch are served daily; BYOB candlelight dinners are served on Friday nights. For more information on My Kitchen Witch, head to the website.

9. Caffe Aldo Lamberti, Cherry Hill

You may be surprised to learn that a place as swanky as this makes every guest feel like family, but the restaurant is truly welcoming. A Lamberti family business for over 30 years, patrons can enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, private wine cellars and spectacular seafood. For more information on Caffe Aldo Lamberti, head to the website.

10. Lovin' Oven, Frenchtown

This charming spot offers locally sourced ingredients and delicious homemade baked goods. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, a cafe menu, and great specials. For more information on Lovin' Oven, head to the website.

11. &grain, Garwood

You'll love the unique specials (the Mother's Day Lemon Poppy Crepe is pictured) and homemade bread at this exquisite eatery. Enjoy a small but flavorful menu of fresh, locally sourced options. The owner, John Ropelski, is also the head baker. For more information on &grain, head to the website.

12. Steve & Cookie's By the Bay, Margate City

Cookie Till's shore staple offers an innovative menu and incredible homemade desserts. The local favorite gives back to the community, hosting the neighborhood farmer's market in their parking lot. To top it all off, Steve & Cookie's was nominated for a James Beard Award in 2020. For more information on Steve & Cookie's By The Bay, head to the website.

Have you been to any of these restaurants? What was your experience like? Many of the best, most authentic mom-and-pop restaurants in New Jersey are hidden gems with a limited online presence - do you have any you'd recommend? For more local favorites, check out these 8 tiny restaurants in New Jersey.