Teresa Caffe
This trattoria-style neighborhood spot uses fresh, local ingredients including bread from their very own Witherspoon Bread Company and hormone-free chicken. The menu boasts creative pizzas and various pasta dishes in an intimate corner setting. Teresa Caffe is open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as for lunch and dinner all week. A regional Italian wine list is available. The restaurant is located across the street from the Nassau Inn, so it is especially convenient to guests of that property, but is easily reached from anywhere in the downtown Princeton area.
Teresa Caffe
23 Palmer Sq East
Princeton, NJ 08542
(609) 921-1974
terramomo.com
Triumph Brewing Company
Located just across the street from the renowned Princeton University campus, the Triumph building is skinny and tall with lots of atmosphere inside. Taking center stage is the property's large selection of homemade brews, crafted on the premises. Bar offerings may include ales, stouts, IPAs, and seasonal treats. Patrons can nosh on anything from Thai chicken lollipops to pumpkin ravioli to the popular Triumph burger. Reservations are a must on weekend nights.
Triumph Brewery
138 Nassau St
Princeton, NJ 08542
(609) 924-7855
triumphbrewing.com
Lahiere's
For the Princeton visitor who is looking for classy American and contemporary French cuisine, Lahiere's is the natural choice. Paul Newman, Bob Hope, and King Hussein of Jordan are just some of the famous names who have enjoyed meals at this landmark restaurant. The menu lists BLT sliders, crabcakes, honey-roasted duck, and slow-cooked lamb shank among its many choices. A piano player on weekend nights adds to the cozy, upscale atmosphere.
Lahiere's
5-11 Witherspoon St
Princeton, NJ 08542
(609) 921-2798
lahieres.com
The Bent Spoon
After a meal at one of Princeton's fine restaurants (or simply as a treat in its own right, at any time of the day), locals know it is hard to beat Palmer Square's tiny artisanal ice cream shop. Creative scoops are nestled alongside classic favorites such as milk chocolate and french vanilla. With flavors such as blueberry marscapone, eggnog, garam masala, and white peach thyme, this husband-and-wife-run business keeps surprising and pleasing palates.
The Bent Spoon
35 Palmer Sq West
Princeton, NJ 08542
(609) 924-BENT
thebentspoon.net