Best Cozy Restaurants in South Orange

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

BergenEssexHudsonMorrisPassaicUnion

Neighborhoods

Cedar GroveChathamClarkCliftonCranfordElizabeth

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

66 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Giorgio's Ristorante - South Orange restaurant

1. Giorgio's Ristorante - South Orange

4.8

Exceptional(493)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • South Orange

Giorgio's of South Orange has always been one of the landmarks in the area. Specializing in fine Italian cuisine and catering, we have a wide range of signature soups, salads and of course, our special, main-course, all-time favorite items.

A photo of McLoone's Boathouse restaurant

2. McLoone's Boathouse

4.5

Awesome(3765)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • West Orange

Booked 17 times today

McLoone's Boathouse is a cozy place with a warm and inviting ambiance as per the reviews. The restaurant offers a spectacular view, and its decor is enjoyed by customers. The atmosphere is described as 'quiet and cozy', 'nice relaxing', and 'scenic'. The reviews also mention the attentive and friendly staff which contributes to the cozy feel.

A photo of La Famiglia Ristorante and Pizzeria - Maplewood restaurant

3. La Famiglia Ristorante and Pizzeria - Maplewood

4.4

Awesome(10)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Maplewood

Booked 2 times today

Welcome to our Italian restaurant, where we celebrate the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of Italy. From the moment you step inside, you'll be transported to a cozy and charming setting that evokes the warmth and hospitality of the Italian countryside.Our menu is a carefully crafted selection of classic and modern Italian dishes, made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients available. Start your meal with one of our delicious antipasti, such as our crispy calamari or our creamy burrata with tomatoes and onions.To complement your meal don't forget to save room for dessert - our tiramisu and cannoli are not to be missed.Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends and family, our Italian restaurant is the perfect destination. We can't wait to share our passion for Italian cuisine with you

A photo of Carriage House Restaurant restaurant

4. Carriage House Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(1854)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Millburn

Booked 7 times today

The Carriage House Restaurant in the F.M. Kirby Carriage House is open for Pre-Performance and Post-Matinee dining. Two Course Prix Fixe lunch and Three Course Prix Fixe dinners are available two and half hours prior to most Main Stage Performances and after all Matinee Performances at the Paper Mill Playhouse. Reservations are strongly recommended. Check PaperMill.org for scheduling and ticket availability. Sample Menus are linked on PaperMill.org/Restaurant.An eclectic a la carte menu and desserts is available only in the Bar and Loft area; walk up service recommended for our bar areas, reservations available. Our full bar offers premium spirits, fresh fruit sangria, and a stunning selection of interesting wines by the glass or bottle.

5. Nero's Grille

4.8

Exceptional(717)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Steakhouse • Livingston

Booked 26 times today

Now celebrating its 55th year, Nero's Grille continues to be one of north-Jersey's most popular dining scenes. We combine the highest quality, freshest ingredients with a comfortable, familiar atmosphere and service that makes you feel like one of the family. Nero's has become the area's place to see and be seen. Three separate dining rooms, and outdoor patio dining as climate permits, provide a warm, unpretentious intimacy in which to enjoy our high-quality, moderately-priced American and Italian fare, while the large bar area buzzes with the energy of friends gathering over a favorite martini or a glass of wine from Nero's award-winning list. Private rooms are also available, and our banquet staff is noted for making special events 'extra special.' After four decades, the entire Nero's family continues to take enormous pride in offering our guests, new and old, a gracious welcome, a terrific meal, and our sincere appreciation.

A photo of NICO Kitchen + Bar restaurant

6. NICO Kitchen + Bar

4.1

Excellent(1886)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Newark

Booked 15 times today

Unwind from the grind at NICO, Newark's most relaxing space. Savor our American menu and the best fries you've ever had. NICO is the perfect place to meet up with friends after work, enjoy a pre-show meal before your NJPAC performance.. Our award-winning team is always here to bring you good times, great music, and delicious vibes.

A photo of Sugar Tree Cafe - Livingston restaurant

7. Sugar Tree Cafe - Livingston

new

4.1

Excellent(8)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Livingston

Booked 8 times today

## Sugar Tree Cafe: Where Whimsy Meets Flavor Step into a world of vibrant colors, whimsical decor, and mouthwatering delights at Sugar Tree Cafe. This Instagram-worthy haven offers a unique counter experience, where gourmet coffee meets a city brunch menu that will tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in their signature "Cafe Sticky Wings," seasoned with garlic, onion, and a touch of magic. Dive into the fluffy goodness of their pancakes, topped with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. Or, savor the savory goodness of the "DJ's Smash Burger," a juicy masterpiece layered with garlic mayo, tangy BBQ onion jam, and melted cheddar cheese. Sugar Tree Cafe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The vibrant atmosphere, adorned with lush greenery and playful accents, transports you to a world of pure delight. Every dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted and beautifully presented. Whether you're catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking a sweet escape, Sugar Tree Cafe is the perfect destination. Come savor the flavors, soak in the atmosphere, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A photo of MoonShine - Modern Supper Club restaurant

8. MoonShine - Modern Supper Club

4.1

Excellent(1347)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Millburn

Contemporary American cooking executed with style, finesse and an "updated" comfort-food sensibility, featuring new takes on retro-classic dishes. MoonShine is a happy amalgam of modern regionally sourced cuisine with approachable, appealing dishes. The beverage program boasts an emphasis on seasonal specialty cocktails – original creations and updates on classics. 30 beers by the bottle and 20 draft lines will delight the palate of even the novice beer enthusiast. Prefer Wine? 50 wines by the glass, in 3- or 6-oz. pours coupled with another 50 bottle Reserve List from Old- and New World, with brief, vivid, helpful descriptions to assist w/selection provide a sanctuary for any professional wine swoosher. MoonShine Modern Supper Club is an instant new classic.

A photo of da Benito Ristorante restaurant

9. da Benito Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(881)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Union

Booked 4 times today

Exquisite cuisine complimented with our extensive award winning wine list featuring the very best from Italy, France and California. This makes for a unique and memorable dining experience at this top New Jersey restaurant. Attention to detail defines “Fine Dining” at restaurant da Benito. Immaculate Italian table linens on every table and a professional wait staff will cater to your every wish. Our menu is as rich in flavor as it is diverse and incorporating local grown vegetables, homemade pastas, aged steaks that rival the best steakhouses and fresh wild seafood creates a menu that has to be tasted to be appreciated.

10. Lagar Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(43)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Portuguese • Clark

Booked 1 time today

Located in the heart of Union Township, NJ, Lagar Restaurant has always been a staple in the community, serving traditional Portuguese cuisine and Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy a selection of heavenly seafood and fresh fish dishes, as well as the delicious steaks, poultry and pork dishes. Our focus is to provide you with excellent service and to make delicious dishes using only the freshest ingredients. We also offer daily lunch and dinner specials, happy hour, live entertainment, wine tasting dinners and more... Our restaurant has two different party/dining rooms, sports bar, large outdoor patio enclosed and heated.Make your reservations today!

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

L
LorraineVIP
New York City •24 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We were pleasantly surprised with the quality and value of the food. My husband had the octopus salad and the steak and eggs The steak was perfectly cooked and octopus was plentiful, tender and delicious. I had the kale salad and the New England clam chowder pot pie. Both were delicious just the right portion. Our waitress was friendly, professional and attentive. A great experience overall.
More info
Carriage House RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Millburn
•
4.7
S
StephanieVIP
Greater Boston •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Every time we dine here the food never disappoints. The service is exceptional! We will always come back when we are visiting our son at Seton Hall University!
More info
Giorgio's Ristorante - South OrangePrice: Expensive• Italian• South Orange
•
4.8
T
Travis
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We had an awesome experience at the boathouse. Even though it was a holiday, the service was great. The server was very attentive and ensure we had everything we needed. The food was amazing.
More info
McLoone's BoathousePrice: Moderate• American• West Orange
•
4.5
D
Doreen
New York City •15 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
Food and service were very good. Was skeptically because of it being inside a pizzeria and take out service, but once seated and tasting the food, we were pleasantly surprised. The size and taste of the shrimps in the Penne alla Vodka was delicious.
More info
La Famiglia Ristorante and Pizzeria - MaplewoodPrice: Moderate• Italian• Maplewood
•
4.4
R
Roberta
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Excellent business lunch meeting Food & service were outstanding
More info
Nero's GrillePrice: Moderate• Steakhouse• Livingston
•
4.8

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