The new NJ eatery everyone is talking about lives up to the hype

So many cool restaurants open up every day in New Jersey and I try to stay on top of the newest ones but it’s hard to do. Remember, we are the food capital of the Northeast.

I had heard about Locale, and since Little Silver is always a place where outstanding restaurants go, I ran! I tried Locale, the buzziest new restaurant in New Jersey, and it absolutely delivered.

This place is warm and inviting and serves up Italian classics with a twist. And trust me, the flavors are next level. Plus, they’ve got a full bar with incredible craft cocktails. Locale is exactly the kind of spot Monmouth County needed, and it’s already one of my new favorite places.

SEE MORE: NJ mom’s genius invention lands her on Shark Tank this Friday

localenj via Instagram

The backstory makes it even cooler. Brothers Matthew and Michael Kelly worked for nearly 10 years to bring Little Silver its first liquor license in decades. They teamed up with the Ottaiano family, who are well-known in New Jersey for their amazing Italian cooking. Together, they created Locale, a mix of great food, good vibes, and a real sense of community.

“We wanted a place where people could unwind, share a meal, and feel at home,” Matt Kelly said. Well, they nailed it.

The menu? It’s full of Italian staples made with fresh ingredients, but the real standout is the pizza. Giuseppe Ottaiano Jr. brings over 10 years of experience (and a family history of making award-winning pies), so you already know the pizza here is legit. They even have a separate takeout area for grabbing pizza, garlic knots, and all the good stuff if you’re in a rush.

Inside, it’s cozy and stylish—think farmhouse chic—perfect for everything from casual dinners to date nights. Locale is set to officially open this fall, so follow them on Instagram to keep up with the latest. Honestly, this is going to be the spot in Little Silver. You’re going to love it.

An amazing NJ restaurant in a historic building

If you've never been to Lambertville, you're really missing out on a true gem of a town in New Jersey.

And if you've never been to Lambertville Station you're missing out on a really great restaurant in a truly historic building.

It's housed in the building that acted as the Lambertville train station dating back to 1867.

The building and the town went through its tough times, but for the last 40 years, Lambertville Station has been serving diners in a casual upscale atmosphere with excellent food.

Last year a prominent restaurant group called Genesis Hospitality took over the historic dining spot and they've continued the excellence that has made this place a must-go-to spot anytime you're in town.

The menu consists of varied contemporary American favorites with plenty of options.

The food and the service are excellent and are a good fit for couples, families, and special occasions.

There is a first-class Inn on the property on the river across the parking lot if you want to stay over.

Gallery Credit: Dennis Malloy

50 Most Popular Chain Restaurants in America

YouGov investigated the most popular dining brands in the country, and Stacker compiled the list to give readers context on the findings. Read on to look through America's vast and divergent variety of restaurants—maybe you'll even find a favorite or two.

Gallery Credit: Paul Feinstein

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Judi Franco only.

Report a correction 👈