If there is one place in the United States that can rival the plethora of fantastic Italian and Italian-American food in New York, it's undeniably its next-door neighbor. In the state of New Jersey, Italian heritage runs deep and Italians make up the largest ethnic group in the Garden State. After the Italian Unification in 1861, Italians began moving to New Jersey in large waves and roughly seventy-five percent of those immigrants came from southern Italy and Sicily. It’s no wonder New Jersey boasts some of the best Italian restaurants and specialty food stores you can find. While it may be nearly impossible to compile just one list of the best Italian restaurants in the land of The Sopranos, each part of New Jersey offers countless choices. From old-school red sauce joints to contemporary Italian cuisine, here is a list of epic Italian restaurants in Hudson County worth exploring.
Razza
In 2017, The New York Times published a daring article titled, “Is New York’s Best Pizza in New Jersey?”. Not only did this article turn heads, but it also piqued interest - is the best pizza in New York really in New Jersey? Some would argue absolutely yes. Dan Richer opened Razza in Jersey City in 2012 and it has become one of the shining stars of the Tri-State area dining scene. Cross the river to the Jersey side for the consistently amazing, fresh, and inventive Razza pizza.
Sofia
Located in Englewood, NJ, take a gastronomic tour of Italy at Sofia Steakhouse. The farm-to-table Italian steakhouse boasts a sultry cigar bar and lounge and just the right combination of quality and indulgent Mediterranean flavors on its menu. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the most happening restaurant in Northern New Jersey.
Barge Inn
Reluctant to include on this list because it should be left a secret, if you’re looking for a red sauce joint that’s a true hidden gem then Barge Inn is a must. The unassuming, easily missable restaurant is located on the corner of Monmouth Street and 3rd Street in Jersey City. As the oldest Italian restaurant in town, once you walk through the doors you’re instantly transported to an old-school dining room that serves authentic and delicious Italian-American classics. Don’t forget to leave a cash tip.
Corto
It’s not always easy to find a truly authentic Italian restaurant outside of Italy in an area with a saturated market. Located in Jersey City’s Heights neighborhood, Corto is serving up simple and straightforward Italian food. You can devour rustic Italian classics in a comfortable yet charming environment. You will never be let down by the chef’s inspiration from traditional and seasonal dishes from around Italy.
Bread & Salt
Not a restaurant per se, this counter-service spot is so exceptional it deserves to be listed as a dining destination. Also located in Jersey City’s Heights neighborhood, the same brains behind Corto established Bread & Salt. Come for the airy Italian breads, Roman pizza by the slice, and small dishes like meatballs or bitter greens - it’s worth the trip. The menu will often change so it’s always a new experience.
Augustino’s
If you live in Hoboken then you know to never turn down the opportunity to eat at Augustino’s. As one of the best-known restaurants in Frank Sinatra’s birthplace, you will find only eight tables and eight spots at the bar so a reservation is highly coveted. Authentic and epic are two words to describe the family-owned restaurant serving delicious Italian food. We hope you land a reservation (if you’re lucky).
Laico’s
Off-the-beaten-path, so much so that there aren’t any commercial businesses around it, Laico’s provides an all-star Italian restaurant experience. Located in the Greenville neighborhood of Jersey City in an actual house on a residential street, Laico’s has been run by three generations of the Laicos family since 1972. The Italian haven has an extensive menu guaranteed for a good meal paired with old-school Italian vibes. When former residents drive back into town just to eat here, you know it’s special.
Arianna DiCicco
Arianna DiCicco is an educator and writer from California, born into an Italian American restaurant family with strong ties to her grandparents’ home in Abruzzo, Italy. She has lived in San Francisco, Rome and New York City where she’s made deep connections within the Italian communities and gained new perspectives about her own culture. With a Masters in International Education, Arianna has a love and passion for learning and educating others about Italian history & culture.