New Jersey is a diverse state with a wide range of cuisine available. No matter where you are, you’re never far from Thai takeout or Argentinean appetizers. We’ve got Italian, of course, but did you know we also have gourmet hot dogs with 29 different toppings and restaurants in “caves”? If you love one-of-a-kind dining experiences, check out this list of some very unique and fun restaurants in New Jersey!

1. Maui's Dog House, North Wildwood
Tripadvisor/JRPy
Maui's Dog House has been featured on the Food Network and offers unique toppings including baby spinach, sharp provolone and beer soaked sauerkraut.
2. JBJ Soul Kitchen, Red Bank
JBJ Soul Kitchen, 207 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701, USA
JBJ Soul Kitchen
This community restaurant is operated by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. Meals vary as there is no official menu, but you can expect three courses for about $10. If you can not afford to pay, volunteer work is accepted instead. This really is one of the most unique restaurants in New Jersey.
3. Cafe Archetypus, Edgewater
Cafe Archetypus, 266 Old River Rd, Edgewater, NJ 07020, USA
Facebook/Archetypus
This romantic restaurant is designed to look like a cave. Interesting artwork abounds and portion sizes are mounds. The desserts are out of this world! A popular pick is the Coyopa Sundae with banana and vanilla ice cream, crushed sea salt potato chips, caramel, and hot fudge. We're drooling!
4. The Grilled Cheese & Crab Cake Co., Somers Point
Facebook/The Grilled Cheese and Crabcake Co.
Another Food Network favorite (way to be on the national map, New Jersey!), this restaurant allows you to customize the grilled cheese of your dreams. Toppings include sriracha, crab meat, grilled chicken, buffalo shrimp, and bleu cheese crumbles. Have you visited this grilled cheese eatery before?

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5. Harold's New York Deli, Edison
Facebook/Harold's New York Deli
This deli was featured on Man vs. Food and this time, the food won. Their philosophy seems to be go big or go home; Harold's houses the world's largest pickle bar and there's no such thing as a small serving here. Sign us up!
6. Clinton Station Diner, Clinton
Facebook/Clinton Station Diner
The Clinton Station Diner is a unique eatery that has model trains suspended from the ceiling, is famous for its massive burgers and affords customers the opportunity to dine in a restored 1927 Blue Comet Rail Line observation car. Clinton's is also home to the 7-Pound Zeus Burger, an epic feat for any self-described Garden State food!
7. Lovin' Oven, Frenchtown
Lovin' Oven, 62 Trenton Ave A, Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA
Lovin' Oven/Facebook
This unique restaurant in New Jersey offers locally sourced, fresh farm to table meals. They have flavorful options for vegans and omnivores alike and also offer a selection of scrumptious baked goods.
8. White House Sub Shop, Atlantic City
White House Sub Shop, 2301 Arctic Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA
Facebook/WhiteHouseSubShop
This unassuming sub shop on Arctic Avenue is actually a celebrity favorite. Known far and wide for their fantastic subs, Frank Sinatra was a big fan.

Each of these fun places to eat is so unique it’s almost difficult to pick a favorite, like comparing apples to oranges. Even still, we’re sure you can. Which of the unique restaurants in New Jersey on this list is your favorite spot to chow down? What other fun restaurants in New Jersey can you think of? Nominate your favorites here!

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Sarah | October 19, 2021

What are some themed restaurants in New Jersey?

New Jersey is home to all sorts of themed eateries! For starters, there's Elsie's, a sandwich shop that uses absolutely no bread. Instead, their sandwiches are made with pickles! Yes -- New Jersey has a pickle-themed restaurant. It's kind of big dill! Another breath buster, garlic, takes center stage at Garlic Rose Bistro in Cranford, New Jersey. This unique restaurant is devoted to garlic, creating delicious dishes that honor this humble and often persecuted-against ingredient. So, garlic lovers, listen up: we just found your personal corner of heaven!

What's the oldest restaurant in New Jersey?

It's hard to pinpoint the oldest restaurant in the Garden State, so instead, check out this list of 16 historic restaurants in New Jersey. Among those listed, Chef Volas certainly deserves a mention as one of the longest-standing dining rooms in the state. This hidden hotspot has been in business since 1921 and survived for decades only through word of mouth. Tucked away in a basement, the address was kept secret for years. Popular among celebrities, this spot serves up spectacular Italian food in a welcoming environment. Reservations are required for this secret restaurant that's very much for diners in the know. Now you're in the know, too!

What are some must-visit restaurants in New Jersey?

Hands down, New Jersey is the best state in the nation for foodies. Not only will you find the best bagels here, but New Jersey pizza is the best you’ll ever get to try (shh -- don't tell New York!). New Jersey is the Pizza Capital of the Country, which is obvious to anyone who has ever dined here, but we can’t overlook places that serve up other award-winning meals that can hold their own against national competition. If you’re trying to find the best restaurants in New Jersey, check out this list of must-visit restaurants in New Jersey.

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