New Jersey might be the best spot in the entire country for dining – at least if you ask Garden State residents! We’re not known for being humble, and there’s probably no place in the United States that has a greater variety of dining options in a small space. With all those choices, it’s natural that some local favorites will emerge – and when someone wants ribs in New Jersey, the odds are they’re heading north to Jim Dandy’s. This veteran Nutley restaurant brags that it’s “The Home of Killer Ribs”, and one taste of their barbecue-sauce-slicked offerings live up to the hype. But there’s so much more at Jim Dandy’s than just the ribs, including delicious wings, indulgent apps, and quirky western-inspired decor. So much, in fact, that the owners decided one location wasn’t enough!

An old-fashioned bar and grill mixed with a top-notch barbecue restaurant, Jim Dandy's is the kind of neighborhood restaurant we'd all love to have.
Nina Alamatsaz/Google Local
The atmosphere is casual, with a bit of an old west vibe. You order at the counter and belly up to hearty, classic eats.
Taryn T/Google Local
Most people start their meal with a plate of the restaurant's famous buffalo wings, with just the right amount of spice.
Comfyfuton/Google Local

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In the mood for some more carbs? The chili cheese fries here are the perfect hangover cure or late-night eat.
Comfyfuton/Google Local
Of course, the headliner here is the ribs - massive racks, perfectly sauced and spiced. These are definitely a five-napkin affair.
Comfyfuton/Google Local
The atmosphere at Jim Dandy's gets as much love as the food - keep an eye out for the model train running along the ceiling!
Thomas Bernard/Google Local
Jim Dandy's is so popular that a second Rutherford location opened a few years ago with a flashier, more modern look. Could a nationwide chain be next?
David Rev Ciancio/Google Local

Have you been to Jim Dandy’s in Nutley or Rutherford? Tell us about your visit – and your favorite place for ribs in New Jersey – in the comments section! You can see the full menu on the Jim Dandy’s website, and the Jim Dandy’s of Rutherford Facebook page is updated regularly with specials. Nutley is also home to New Jersey’s most secretive garden – if you’re in town on the right day.

Need a place to sleep off that rib feast? Check into The MC Autograph Collection, less than five miles away.

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Featured Addresses
Jim Dandy's, 563 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
Jim Dandy's, 102 Park Ave, Rutherford, NJ 07070, USA