Sometimes figuring out where to take your date to dinner becomes more of a project than you want it to be. You spend WAY too much time on Yelp reading a mixed bag of reviews just to end up at one of your go-to places where you know the food is pretty good and has a decent cocktail menu {boring!}. This time change it up — and take our word for it — because we are highlighting some great restaurants in Jersey City that will be sure to impress you and your special someone.
1. Skinners Loft {146 Newark Ave}
We know is seems like new restaurants are popping up daily on Newark Ave, but Skinner’s Loft has been holding it down as one of the originals since opening in 2007. This quaint three story space has a main bar and tables on it’s first floor and a full dining room on it’s second floor. The third floor is {our fave!} where you will find an eclectic and cozy roof top {yes, rooftop!} with an awesome view, perfect for a spring or summer date night. Imagine warm weather and a gorgeous sunset as your backdrop while you dine on the roof {#dreamy}.
^View of the rooftop!
The forecast has been looking pretty good for the next few days {hello sunshine!!} but don’t jump to make that rezzie just yet – the roof doesn’t open until Mother’s Day weekend. However, should you chose to go sooner rather than later, you wont be disappointed: the other two floors are extremely charming and cozy – who doesn’t love a fireplace, exposed brick, and a table for two? Even better, the rooms are divided making the space more intimate and quiet {perfect for conversation}. The American menu has many seasonal items, and the specials are unique & creative. Check out their menu here.
Our pick: Pan-roasted filet mignon with a seasonal beer {this spot is also a craft beer mecca} or a good glass of red — just ask your waiter for a good pairing. If you’re in the mood for sharing, opt for a few of their sharing or small plates – the fried calamari is delish and the aioli that comes with it is AH-MAZING.
Reservations are made easy, just do it right on opentable.com
2. Satis Bistro {212 Washington St}
Located in the popular Paulus Hook neighborhood, this European bistro will make you forget you’re in Jersey and instead like you’ve been transported to a cozy restaurant in Europe. This is definitely a pricier choice that Skinner’s loft, but a stellar pick nonetheless {you may remember our visit here}. If you have a special occasion coming up or just want to treat-yo-self, this is the place. The décor is extremely tasteful and intimate – you’ll feel relaxed and happy as soon as you walk through the door.
There are a few dining areas: a loft, a main room and a wine bar, each outfitted with something romantic, be it the lighting, cascading velvet drapes or a {gorge} marble bar. The best way to start your meal here is with a chef selection of meats and cheeses – after ordering a glass {or bottle} of wine of course! Speaking of wine, their wine list is extensive – you’ll have forty-five options to choose from {a lush’s dream, that’s for sure}. If you get overwhelmed easily, ask your waiter for their educated opinion, they are extremely knowledgeable and won’t steer you wrong. When it comes time to order your main dish, the pressure is on – everything seems so delicious {and it is}.
Our pick: If you’re in the mood for pasta, you cannot go wrong with their gnocchi…it’s like eating feather-light potato pillows that melt in your mouth. For you carnivores, the short ribs are phenomenal, cooked to perfection and served with chorizo goat cheese mashed potatoes {are you drooling yet!?}. There are chicken and fish options as well, but speaking from experience, those are our faves. If you really want to go all out, there is a prix fixe menu available Tues-Thurs & Sun. We definitely recommend making a reservation because this place is not a well kept secret {anymore} and you don’t want to miss out on this experience. Make a reservation here.
3. Battello {502 Washington Blvd}
It’s easy to choose Battello as your next date destination based on location alone. It’s right on the water next to the Newport Yacht Club and has some of the best views of New York City that Jersey has to offer {the view is SO much better on our side of the river, but you already knew that}. It’s an ideal spot for any meal but especially dinner; however, we would not suggest just showing up on any given weekend, reservations are highly encouraged {disclaimer} this is a really popular {and special} spot for private events so they are closed occasionally {including for our editor’s wedding last year!}.
To say this place is big and beautiful is an understatement — when you walk in the ridiculously high ceilings give it a really funky and romantic vibe: it’s industrial and minimalistic but really chic at the same time. The floor to ceiling windows in the dining room are stunning…so may we suggest buttering up the hostess to get a seat by one of those? Jokes aside, if you call to make your reservation and ask to be seated by the windows, you will most likely be accommodated {a really nice touch for a date!}. This is a place where the high quality ambiance is matched with high quality food. The menu boasts a modern Italian style of cooking that is seafood influenced, true to Mediterranean roots.
Our pick: The pancetta-wrapped scallops, an excuse to have bacon {really amazing Italian bacon, that is} wrapped around the lightest, most tender sea scallops ever. If you’re not a lover of seafood, there are plenty of options to satisfy your palate. The pasta menu is drool-worthy, but so are the red and white meat options.
PS: We are obviously talking date nights, but their happy hour specials are totally worthy of a mention: $5 drinks, 1/2 off apps from 4-close Monday – Thursday {told you it was worth it!}.
So there you have it, we did the work {and tasting} for you.
Which JC spot will you choose for you next date night!?
