Rio-Mar
Rio Mar is a large, family-run Portuguese restaurant in South River, New Jersey, a neighborhood that is home to a large Portuguese community. They have separate bar and restaurant areas, offering both a boisterous and intimate setting, respectively. The menu is long, but the seafood selections are the stars: the clam and shrimp appetizers are legendary. There are three types of paella on the menu, all of which are worth a try. The house sangrias---both red and white---are the stuff of legends; having one as an aperitif is a must.
Rio-Mar
25 Whitehead Ave.
South River, NJ 08882
(732) 257-1100
ria-mar.com
Makeda
Makeda is an Ethiopian restaurant offering authentic and fusion-style fare in an elegant and eclectic setting. The bar scene is lively, with African-themed decor, live music (on the weekends) and a wine list specializing in selections from South Africa. The menu is extensive, featuring stewed, hearty vegetables and many lamb dishes. All of the entrees come with a choice of two sides and are a good way to sample a new cuisine. The restaurant can be pricey, with many of the entrees averaging $25 to $35 per plate.
Makeda
338 George St.
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 545-5115
makedas.com
Hotoke Restaurant
Hotoke is a trendy Asian-fusion restaurant and lounge located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The menu melds flavors from Japan, Thailand and China and features unusual twists like hotoke popcorn and hoison-braised pork belly. The décor is stylish and minimal, featuring red lanterns and modernist white sofas. Touches of dark wood and candlelight make for a romantic and sophisticated backdrop for a leisurely supper.
Hotoke Restaurant
350 George St.
New Brunswick, NJ
(732) 246-8999
hotokerestaurant.com
daryl
Daryl is a wine bar and restaurant specializing in New-American cuisine and unique wines from around the world. The décor is polished and minimalist. Sleek furnishings and subtle lighting convey a sense of elegance that is also evident in the food. The menu is concise and seafood-heavy and focuses on conveying a fine-dining experience. The restaurant offers many selections of wild, organic and sustainable options, both in the food and wine menus. The portions can be small, however, so expect to have several courses, none of which will come cheap.
daryl
302 George St.
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 253-7780
darylwinebar.com
