There’s just something about South Jersey – maybe it’s the pizza, maybe it’s the people – but every year, we fall in love with it all over again. And that’s what the Best of SJ is all about: celebrating the restaurants, shops, experiences and local legends that make life here feel a little fuller, a little sweeter and a lot more fun. 

Get ready to discover your next favorite. Here’s a few of ours.

  • Best New Spot – Restaurant

    Pops Trattoria

    popstrattoria.com

    This new BYOB in Audubon describes its vibe as old-school, Italian-American, South Philly style. We get it, and the food most definitely lives up to the hype.

  • Best New Spot - Ice Cream

    Maya’s

    Maya’s is new for the summer and you’ll love the variety of snacks here. You can get ice cream flavors like Mazapán & horchata, but then there’s also street corn, Leches cake and mini pancakes. Try ’em all!

  • Best Date Night

    Ristorante LUCCA & Piano Lounge

    ristorantelucca.com

    At LUCCA, the music is as refined as the menu (so you just took your date night up a notch). With nightly live piano performances and a luxe, old-Hollywood vibe, this first-class restaurant creates the perfect, private evening for you and your special someone.

  • Best Desserts

    Spot Dessert Bar

    spotdessertbar.com

    These aren’t just desserts – they’re edible art. Spot’s over-the-top sweets like the Big Orange and cookie-covered Golden Toast are almost too pretty to eat but you’ll definitely want to.

  • Best Milkshakes with a Twist

    Silver Diner

    silverdiner.com

    Sure, you’ll find classic chocolate and vanilla, but Silver Diner takes things to the next level with unexpected, crave-worthy creations – think Campfire Shakes, Chunky Monkey Banana and Dairy-Free Hibiscus Mango.

  • Best Seasonal Menu

    Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar

    harvestseasonal.com

    Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar offers a dining experience that stays fresh as the menu changes for the season. An extra bonus: the changing menu includes a variety of options catering to gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, nut-free, vegetarian and vegan diets.

  • Best Way to Sleep at a Winery

    Saddlehill

    saddlehill.com

     

     

    Who would ever want to leave the stunning acres at Saddlehill Winery? Well now you don’t have to. Guests can stay in the restored 1942 farmhouse (sleeps 6) nestled amidst the working vineyard and farm. We also know where you can pick up some great wine…nearby.

  • Best Specialty Pizza

    Joe’s Pizzeria & Bistro

    joesbrickovenpizzeria.com

     

    Joe’s Pizzeria & Bistro is known for inventive specialty pizzas that cater to every taste. From upside down Sicilian to baked penne and “the works,” there’s a little something for everyone.

  • Best Jewelry Repair & Appraisal Services

    Family & Co. Jewelers

    familyjewelers.com

    With certified gemologists skilled in gem identification, grading and evaluation, Family Jewelers offers precise appraisals for insurance, estate or personal purposes. Plus, their comprehensive repair services ensure your pieces are restored to their original brilliance.

  • Best Waterfront Spot for your Business Event

    Camden County Boathouse at Cooper River

    camdencountyboathouse.com

     

    We already know the Boathouse is great for weddings, but with those sweeping views of the Cooper River and Philly skyline, it’s also a can’t-miss for fundraisers, professional mixers and business meetings.

  • Best Spot for a Romantic Night Out

    Caffe Aldo Lamberti

    caffelamberti.com

    With soft lighting and an elegant Italian menu that practically whispers amore, whether you’re toasting to an anniversary or just sneaking away for a date night, Caffe Aldo Lamberti sets the perfect scene for romance.

  • Best Bite That Gives Back

    CK Catering

    cathedralkitchen.org

    CK Catering serves up delicious, beautifully crafted meals, and every order supports their mission to feed and empower food-insecure residents across South Jersey, so your next event can taste good and do good.

  • Best Place to Learn Something New at Any Age

    Katz JCC

    katzjcc.org

     

    Whether you’re signing up your toddler for their first swim class, enrolling your teen in leadership programs or taking an art workshop yourself, Katz JCC makes learning fun at every stage of life.

  • Best Carryout Cuisine

    Cathy’s Catering

    cathyscatering.com

     

    Sure, Cathy’s is great when you’re having an event, but what if you just need dinner tonight. She’s got you covered at her Moorestown location. Grab salads, packaged meals, veggies – and everything is made fresh every day.

  • Best Zero-Proof Cocktails

    Mercantile 1888

    mercantile1888.com

     

    At Mercantile 1888, the zero-proof cocktails are every bit as crafted and complex as their spirited counterparts. With fresh ingredients, creative flavor pairings and elegant presentation, these drinks let you sip in style – no buzz required.

  • Best Customizable Burger

    Five Guys

    fiveguys.com

     

    At Five Guys, no two burgers are the same (unless you want them to be). With 15 free toppings and more than 250,000 possible combinations, you can build your dream burger exactly the way you like it.

  • Best Cacio e Pepe

    Albertino’s Italian

    albertinositalian.com

    It’s only available on Wednesday and Thursday nights, but make your reservation now to experience Cacio e Pepe served table side in a Locatelli Pecorino Romano cheese wheel. Exquisite.

  • Best All-You-Can-Eat Wing Night

    Pic-A-Lilli Inn

    picalilli.com

     

     

    Every Wednesday, Pic-A-Lilli Inn turns up the heat with their legendary all-you-can-eat wing night – crispy, saucy and endlessly satisfying. Pair your pile of wings with a cold beer and some Pine Barrens charm, and you’ve got a midweek tradition worth planning around.

  • Best Way to Find a Stylist

    Soffiato Via

    soffiatovia.com

     

    Whether you’re looking to try someone new or the person who has been styling your hair has moved away, check out the quick matchmaking survey on Soffiato Via’s website. Answer a few questions about your hair and your preferences, and you’ll be matched with the perfect stylist for you!

  • Best Hands-On Sushi Experience

    Kura Sushi

    kurasushi.com

     

    With sushi rolling by on a conveyor belt and prizes dropping after every 15 plates, Kura turns dining into a game – and you’re in control. Between touchscreen ordering, endless options and interactive fun, it’s sushi with a side of entertainment.

  • Best Prepared Meals

    Haddon Culinary

    haddonculinary.com

     

    When there’s no time to cook but you still want something that tastes homemade, Haddon Culinary has you covered. Their rotating menu of chef-prepared meals – from pot roast and mac & cheese to seasonal soups and veggie sides – makes dinner easy, fresh and totally stress-free.

  • Best Risotto

    The Farm & Fisherman Tavern

    fandftavern.com

    You’ve never tasted risotto like this before (bummer for you!). The Farm & Fisherman’s Spring Scallop risotto includes pea and herb puree, asparagus and parmesan. A surprisingly tasty combination.

  • Best Way To Sip Through South Jersey

    Garden State Wine Trails

    newjerseywines.com

     

    The Garden State Wine Trails wind through some of the region’s most scenic vineyards and charming tasting rooms, offering a laid-back way to explore local flavor. Raise a glass to New Jersey wines!

  • Best Happy Hour With a View

    Carlucci’s Waterfront

    carlucciswaterfront.com

    From Monday to Friday, 3 – 6 pm, guests can enjoy specialty priced sips and bites, all while taking in the stunning views of the Rancocas Creek from the cozy climate-controlled terrazza. You don’t want to miss the sunsets there.

  • Best Salon for Bridal Glam

    Rizzieri

    rizzieri.com

     

    When it comes to looking flawless on your big day, Rizzieri is the go-to glam squad. From timeless updos and picture-perfect makeup to soothing pre-wedding facials, they’ll have you – and your entire bridal party – glowing from “yes” to “I do.”

  • Best Retro Diner Experience

    The Pop Shop

    thepopshopusa.com

     

    Walking into The Pop Shop feels like stepping onto the set of a 1950s sitcom – in the best way possible. With checkered floors, chrome stools and classic vinyl booths, this colorful diner serves up old-school charm alongside their whimsical menu.

  • Best Seasonal Flavors

    Nothing Bundt Cakes

    nothingbundtcakes.com

     

    Nothing Bundt Cakes keeps desserts exciting with an ever-rotating lineup of seasonal flavors to celebrate the tastes of each season. This summer, we’re swooning over the Lemon Blueberry and Pineapple Upside Down cakes.

  • Best Power Lunch

    The Capital Grille

    thecapitalgrille.com

     

    You never know who you’ll see when it’s lunchtime at The Capital Grille – but you can be sure some movers and shakers are getting things done. Go light with a salad or enjoy a savory 14 oz. NY Strip. It’s all there to seal the deal.

  • Best Quesadilla

    Tortilla Press Cantina

    tortillapresscantina.com

     

    At Tortilla Press Cantina, you can get the classics (who doesn’t love a good chicken & cheese?) or get a little wild with combos like chicken, mango & brie or crab & avocado. Whether you play it safe or go bold, every quesadilla is grilled to golden perfection.

  • Best Crawfish Boil Experience

    CrawDaddy’s Cajun

    crawdaddyscajun.com

     

    CrawDaddy’s brings the bayou to South Jersey with a crawfish boil that’s as authentic as it gets. Loaded with tender crawfish, corn, potatoes and bold Cajun spices, it’s a hands-on feast that tastes like a New Orleans backyard party.

  • Best Italian Comfort Dish

    Tre Famiglia

    trefamiglia.com

     

    The Pappardelle Bolognese at Tre Famiglia serves up the kind of Italian comfort food that feels like a warm hug from Nonna. It’s feel-good food that always makes us happy.

  • Best Pizza for Heat Seekers

    Pizza Amore

    pizzaamoredelran.com

    For those who like their pizza with a serious kick, Pizza Amore’s buffalo chicken brings the fire. Topped with hot sauce, bleu cheese and mozzarella, it’s sure to light up your taste buds in the best way.

  • Best Tomahawk Steak

    The ChopHouse

    thechophouse.us

     

    It feeds two, so make sure you bring a friend. This delicious double cut, long bone rib-eye will leave you wanting more – no wait that’s impossible. It’s 48 oz!

  • Best Lounge for Live Music and Cocktails

    Monterey Grill

    montereygrill.com

    Looking for the perfect spot to sip and sway? The “M” Lounge at Monterey Grill brings live music vibes paired with expertly crafted cocktails. It’s sleek, spirited and exactly where you want to be after dark.

  • Best “Snacks”

    Gass & Main

    gassandmain.com

    A meal at Gass & Main is best started with what they list on the menu as “snacks,” but they’re actually incredibly creative small plates. Try the Brussels Chips or the World’s Best Hotdog with wagyu beef, peanut butter and fritos. (See what we mean?)

  • Best Bakery Addition

    Classic Cake

    classiccake.com

    Classic Cake in Cherry Hill just announced Al DiBartolo as their Chief Bakery Officer. Between him and Exec. Chef Michael D’Angelo…filling your bakery needs has never been sweeter.

  • Best Balcony

    Collingswood Grand Ballroom

    collingswoodballroom.com

     

    Not many ballrooms give you an expansive space for the main event plus a wrap-around balcony, for guests to wander and take in a picture-perfect view of every toast, dance and moment below.

  • Best Farm-to-Table Dining

    ITA101

    ita101.com

     

    The menu changes daily at ITA101, and that’s because Chef Kevin Maher – who worked at a two Michelin star restaurant in Italy – creates the entire menu based on what fresh, in-season ingredients he happens to have in the kitchen that day. It’s ever-changing and ever delicious.

  • Best Starters

    Seasons 52

    seasons52.com

     

    Whether it’s a flatbread, soup or specialty dish, you’ll be starting your meal with a flavor-packed preview of what the seasonal kitchen does best. (Don’t miss the lump crab and shrimp-stuffed mushrooms.)

  • Best Chef Specials

    At Indeblue, the chef creates specialty dishes that are available all month long. Look for the menu announcement on Instagram and Facebook on the first day of each month.

  • Best Seafood Tower

    Eddie V’s

    eddiev.com

     

    Of course, you can always have the regular shellfish tower at Eddie V’s, but go for The Big Eddie. That’s wild gulf shrimp, Blue Point oysters and Maine lobster PLUS royal Petrossian caviar.

  • Best Dry-Aged Steaks

    At Toscano, steak isn’t just a meal – it’s a masterclass in flavor. Specializing in 28- and 45-day in-house dry-aged cuts, these steaks are a testament to their meticulous aging process and culinary expertise.

  • Best Courtyard Dining

    Bistro di Marino

    bistrodimarino.com

    Bistro di Marino’s wood-fired courtyard is a hidden gem where Italian Flavors meet al fresco charm. With glowing string lights overhead, it’s the kind of setting that turns dinner into an experience.

  • Best Tomato Pie

    Cacia’s Bakery

    caciabakery.com

    Thick, airy crust. Rich, slow- simmered sauce. No frills – just the perfect balance of dough and tomato. Cacia’s legendary tomato pie is a South Jersey staple for a good reason: Simple, classic and absolutely unforgettable.

  • Best Private Suites

    Laurel Lanes

    laurellanesnj.com

    Laurel Lanes takes bowling up a notch with sleek private suites that let you play, lounge and celebrate in style. Perfect for parties or corporate outings, each suite comes with plush seating, a private bar and VIP service – because your crew deserves more than just a lane.

  • Best Custom Cakes

    Diane’s Patisserie

    dianespatisserie.com

    You may have seen Diane Nussbaum create one-of-a-kind specialty cakes on her baking show on the Eat This Network. At her Cherry Hill location, Diane consults with each customer before beginning the perfect “wow” cake for their special event. (She also offers Vegan and GF cakes.)

  • Best Prix Fixe Lunch

    Umile Trattoria

    Looking to explore more of the menu? Umile’s 3-course prix fixe lunch – offered Tues. through Sat. – is the perfect way to sample something new (and maybe outside of your usual order).

  • Best Farm Market

    Johnson’s Corner Farm

    johnsonsfarm.com

    Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm

    johnsonslocusthallfarm.com

    The same family owns both locations, and they stock the shelves with the freshest baked goods, grab-and-go sandwiches, salads and more. You’ll have a tough time choosing between the Cider donuts and Chicken Pot Pies – go for both!

  • Best Breakfast Sandwich

    Pied Out Bakeshop Cafe

    From the fully loaded B.A.B.S (Big Ass Breakfast Sandwich) to the spicy, avocado-packed Spice it Up, Pied Out’s breakfast sammies are big, bold and made to impress

  • Best BBQ for Tailgating

    Henri’s Hotts Barbeque

    bestbbqsj.com

    Henri’s Hotts is the official BBQ of the Eagles Radio Network, fueling game-day crowds with legendary smoked meats and Southern-style sides. Whether you’re at the Linc or hosting your own tailgate, their catering packages bring the energy of the stadium right to you.

  • Best Signature Soup

    The Soup Bar

    Craving something cozy? The Soup Bar’s rich, creamy Crab Bisque is a local favorite for good reason – loaded with real crabmeat and bold flavor, it’s the kind of bowl that makes you stop and savor every spoonful.

  • Best Cookies

    Downtown Cookie

    downtowncookies.com

    Whether you’re looking for a party tray, favors for your bridal shower or just an afternoon pick-me-up, Downtown Cookie is the place. They also have something called a Dipper Tray. Oh yes, ask about that.

  • Best Breakfast-For-Lunch Spot (And Vice Versa)

    Sabrina’s Cafe

    sabrinascafe.com

    At Sabrina’s the rules of mealtime don’t apply. Whether you’re craving challah French toast at 2 pm or a loaded sandwich at 9 am, their all-day menu lets you eat what you want, when you want it. No judgement here.

  • Best Pistachio Dessert

    By Zena

    byzena.com

    They call them pistachio cheesecake rolls and honestly, you’ve never had anything like them. They’ve been taking orders on their website for years, but a storefront will open in Moorestown…soon.

  • Best Old-World Wine Experience

    Amalthea Cellars

    amaltheacellars.com

    With Bordeaux-style blends, time-honored winemaking techniques and a rustic tasting room that channels the charm of a European vineyard, Amalthea Cellars offers an old-world escape – no passport required.

  • Best Spot for a Drink

    Victor’s Pub

    victorspub.com

    This family-owned pub offers a cool vibe and plenty of original cocktails. If you’re headed to the waterfront for a concert, stop at Victor’s for a pre-concert drink (or post!).

  • Best Enhancements for Your Special Event

    foodwerx

    foodwerx.com

    Sometimes you need something truly special to make your event, well, truly special. How about hanging charcuterie or umbrella-butlered desserts? Yes, that’ll do it.

  • Best Soul Food

    Corinne’s Place

    corinnesplace.com

    For over 30 years, Corinne’s Place in Camden has been wow’ing guests with classic soul food cooking. Check out their Family Value Platter that feeds up to 5 people – includes 3 meats and 4 sides.

  • Best Facial Spa

    Beauty by Biba

    beautybybiba.com

    Some call them decadent. Some call them essential. But the facials at Beauty by Biba give your face a magical reset. There’s a variety of different offerings depending on what you need and also facials for men and teens. Select one that works for you, and then sit back and relax.

July 2025
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