The Garden State’s dining scene has it all—from incredible Italian food to amazing Asian fare, French cuisine and more.

One unifying force in New Jersey, something that all of us can agree on, is that there are countless great restaurants here. Everyone has a favorite neighborhood pub, sushi spot, pizza place—and the list goes on. That’s one reason our annual Best Restaurants list is a must-read for New Jerseyans.

Stepping into the dusky subterranean haunt that is Madame in downtown Jersey City, you feel the hipster vibe but are not necessarily prepared for a redefining margarita like the Spicy Demoiselle. The most scintillating of many good cocktails here, it teases with licks of hibiscus, espelette chili, strawberry and mint; ravishes with its blush hue; and tickles with the perfume of orchid blossom in a thicket of mint.

French food is great for romantic date nights, family gatherings, and honestly any time you’re craving some flavorful comfort food — which is why many locals were disappointed when Madame Claude Bis closed in Jersey City this summer.

Written By Sarah Boyle

Award-winning chef Jamie Knott to open a French bistro in Jersey City. Acclaimed chef Jamie Knott of fine-dine restaurant Saddle River Inn and Saddle River Cafe is set to open a French bistro in fall in Jersey City, right behind Cellar 335, his funky, boisterous Asian restaurant and tiki bar.

One of Jersey City’s more beloved French restaurants, Madame, will be turning the lights back on under new ownership inside a historic building that hopes to create intimate vibes.

JERSEY CITY, NJ – Imagine an upscale, French Bordeaux speakeasy-style bar giving all the glamour of a 1970’s Paris hotel. Romantic lighting with dark upholstery creating cozy vibes, brightened up by the gold and brown cocktail parlor and lively music pulsing through its walls.