Photo by Klara Kulikova on Unsplash
Finding the right restaurant can make date night feel extra special. New Jersey has a growing Black-owned dining scene with restaurants serving soul food, Caribbean cuisine, seafood and more.
Whether you want a romantic dinner or a lively night out, these seven Black-owned restaurants in New Jersey are worth checking out.
Bettie’s Restaurant — Jersey City
If you want an intimate setting for date night, Bettie’s Restaurant is a great option.
Located in Jersey City, Bettie’s serves Haitian, Latin and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The restaurant was created by Chef Benet as a tribute to his mother and her cooking traditions.
The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere also makes it a natural choice for couples celebrating a special occasion.
Delta’s Restaurant — New Brunswick
Delta’s Restaurant is a longtime New Brunswick favorite.
The Black-owned restaurant has served Southern-style soul food since 1999. Its menu features comforting dishes, while live bands and DJs give the dining room an energetic feel.
Take your girlfriend here if you want dinner with music and a little nightlife.
Harry’s Daughter — Jersey City
Harry’s Daughter brings Caribbean flavors to Jersey City with a modern touch.
The restaurant serves dishes such as jerk egg rolls and other Caribbean-inspired favorites. Its colorful menu and relaxed setting make it a fun choice for couples who want something beyond traditional American fare.
It is also one of several Black-owned restaurants highlighted by New Jersey tourism officials.
Cornbread — Newark
Cornbread is a Black women-owned restaurant known for its farm-to-table soul food.
The Newark location serves Southern-inspired dishes and is especially known for its cornbread. New Jersey tourism officials list Cornbread among the state’s notable Black-owned restaurants.
This is a good pick when you want a casual date centered around comforting food.
Kelsey’s — Atlantic City
Planning a weekend date in Atlantic City? Put Kelsey’s on the list.
Kelsey’s has been an Atlantic City staple since 2012. The restaurant serves soul food in a supper-club setting with a full bar and live entertainment.
The combination of food, drinks and music gives couples plenty to enjoy after dinner.
Sweet T’s Southern Eatery — Montclair
Sweet T’s Southern Eatery offers another way to enjoy Southern comfort food in New Jersey.
The Montclair restaurant serves classics such as fried catfish and collard greens. It appears on current lists of New Jersey’s Black-owned restaurants.
Take your girlfriend here for a relaxed meal when you want good food without an overly formal atmosphere.
Oko Fine Cuisine — West Orange
Oko Fine Cuisine gives date night a more contemporary feel.
The West Orange restaurant serves dishes such as fried snapper and oxtail tacos. Its lively approach to food makes it a fun option for couples who enjoy trying creative dishes.
If you want something different from the usual dinner-and-drinks routine, Oko is worth considering.
Make Your Next Date Night Special
You do not need an elaborate plan to impress your girlfriend. A thoughtful restaurant choice can set the tone for the entire evening.
From Haitian and Caribbean flavors to Southern soul food, these Black-owned restaurants in New Jersey offer plenty of choices for couples.
Pick a spot that matches your vibe, make a reservation when needed and enjoy the night together.
Source: BuyBlack.org, Travel Noire, Visit New Jersey and OpenTable.
About the Author
