It’s North Jersey. We have an abundance of delicious and authentic Italian spots, many on- and off-the-beaten-path. But only the savviest of diners and Hudson County locals already know about 15 Fox Place, a true hidden gem in Jersey City. This family-run establishment is simply one-of-a-kind, and 100% worth the visit, even if just once. Located at — you guessed it — 15 Fox Place in the west Journal Square area of JC. Here’s more about a previous visit to 15 Fox Place in Jersey City, one of the most unique restaurant dining experiences this side of the Hudson River:
1. 15 Fox Place is inside a house, so don’t be concerned when the Uber/taxi drops you off in the middle of a neighborhood.
Be excited instead. The New York Times called 15 Fox Place “a delicious touch of the speakeasy about it — a sense that only those who know the password can gain admission.” Read more here.
2. Everyone *MUST* come hungry. Can’t reiterate this enough.
Multiple courses over a span of 2.5 hours = this is not a ‘grab dinner and get on the road’-type of place. It should be THE stop of the evening. There are six courses — but it feels like 20 — so be ready. The dishes are all Italian, with a variety of pasta, chicken, and other meats.
3. The meal is prix fixe + family-style (and BYOB).
There’s nothing quite like a prix fixe meal to satisfy a hungry appetite. This JC spot offers a prix fixe meal to satisfy all customers.
4. Chances are Chef Rich and his son, Marc, will come by to chat and see how things are going.
It’s a family-run establishment, so the servers, maître d, etc. are all friendly and want to make sure everything is served to perfection. There will be about five to six appetizer plates to pass around the table, just to give an idea of the amount of food.
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5. You’ll get breathing breaks — needed — between courses, and the staff will let you explore the house (which is adorably decorated and reminiscent of Grandma’s house).
The space is so cute and will bring anyone back to nonna’s/bubby’s/gma’s house, 10000%. We even got to talk to Chef Richard in the kitchen (there are two kitchens — one upstairs and one down). He’s been living in Jersey City for over 60 years. Richard and his wife, Kathryn, started the restaurant and actually lived at 15 Fox Place until the early 2000s.
Decked out for Christmas last year.
Tragically, Kathryn passed away over the summer of 2018, but Rich and his, son Marc , along with their family, have been continuing the traditions and meals in her memory.
6. The spot is an awesome place for a date night, but probably more amazing for a larger group.
Seriously there is SO. MUCH. FOOD. Extra assistance to finish it = necessary. Of course, since it’s family-style, they’ll make less for a party of two or four, but just something to make a note.
Our Friendsgiving table = which got us so in the mood for the holidays.
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7. Make reservations in advance. And don’t be concerned after calling and leaving a voicemail — someone will most likely call back. Just call early and often.
Similar to Augustino’s, the call will be returned within a few days for the most part. So plan ahead.
8. The restaurant will make accommodations for dietary restrictions.
All of the above = dairy-free and served separately from other food. They even held the parmesan and served it separately!
This JC spot will accommodate any diners with an allergy.
Tip: When making your reservation, call ahead, and let the team there know about the dining allergy.
9. This may not be the fanciest food you’ve ever tasted, but it will be one of the coolest dining experiences you’ll ever have.
Don’t get us wrong – the food was AMAZING. Michelin starred? Maybe not, but everything was hearty, authentic American-Italian, and overall made with love, care, and from-scratch ingredients (think stuffed chicken, stuffed peppers, eggplant parmesan, cacio e Pepe, etc). It varies what is served nightly, but you’ll be satisfied no matter what.
10. There is no menu.
Self-explanatory. Be adventurous, live a little, and enjoy salad in a bowl of bread. You’ll be fine. And pleasantly surprised releasing dinner control/rolling home after loads of comfort food. Just like at Grandma’s.
To make a reservation, call 201-333-1476 and leave a voicemail. That’s pretty much the only way.
