20 Best Restaurants in Princeton New Jersey (For First Timer!)

Whether a first-time visitor or local, you will find something to interest you or the best restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey.

Princeton is well known for its sloppy roads, saltwater taffy, hoagies, and a world-class university with an art museum open to the public.

However, dining in this city can be challenging because there are many restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, to choose from.

Not to worry, I will give you a tour of the best restaurants in Princeton to dine in. There are plenty of restaurant options in this city.

Best Restaurants In Princeton, New Jersey 

1. Local Greek

If you like Greek, and who doesn’t, you can’t ask for somewhere better than Local Greek.

Although it could get a bit noisy if you are indoors, one of the best Greek food restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey. It’s an authentic feel, from the locally sourced, well-flavored dishes, to the non-rushed, welcoming atmosphere.

The only restaurant in Princeton where you can find a cold, frothed cappuccino. Besides, this spot puts you in a great mood, from appetizers to desserts. You will be planning your trip back before you are done eating.

Also, the food is fresh, made from locally grown organic ingredients, and lovingly prepared. Likewise, Local Greek has a variety of delicious starters and entrees to select from and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

They have a bakery with homemade bread and dessert and serve a wide selection of breakfast items on the menu.

Visit Local Greek from 12 PM – 9 PM daily.

Address: 44 Leigh Ave, Princeton, NJ 08542

2. Le Kiosk

Why fly to Europe when you can taste traditional French and Italian dishes freshly made at Le Kiosk?

However, the owners (Francesca and Michel) are from Italy and France, so be prepared to have the best Italian and France in a tiny but mighty space. The meals are made from scratch in-house, and they use imported products to create the taste of Italy ND France dishes.

In between, it has a lovely outdoor space to enjoy your meal. I love the specials, as they are always created with seasonal products and created for a pop of freshness.

Just so you know, Le Kiosk is one of those restaurants in Princeton that serves the best focaccia, charcuterie bread, crepe with goat cheese, sandwiches with eggplants, figs, and dessert filled with pecan.

Also, the ingredients used are so fresh and made every morning inside the kitchen at the restaurant. Quite a busy spot in the town center and a fun place to hang out with family and friends and enjoy some good vibes.

Address: 255 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08540

3. Jagrah’s Restaurant

Looking for a spot in Princeton to excite your taste buds? Then Jagrah’s Restaurant is the place for you. Nice spot on an overlooking golf course, some of the tables are in a lobby-type area as soon as you walk in the door.

There are also high-top tables in the bar area at the back of the building, which has a better ambiance.

However, the servers are friendly and eager to please, and the food is very good at reasonable prices, which is hard to find these days.

Speaking of its menu, Jagrah’s has an extensive list, from the excellent spring rolls even the salmon over a risotto croquette, accompanied by perfectly cooked and seasoned asparagus.

Try out the braised oxtails with rice, red peas, sauteed cabbage, and plantains; you will always want more.

Interestingly, this restaurant is one of those black-owned restaurants in Princeton that serve you the best meal and can cater for a corporate party, birthday party, wedding catering, and whatever event you might have.

Address: 1 Wheeler Way, Princeton, NJ 08540

4. Mistral

If you are looking for eye-catching food, you shouldn’t miss the Mistral restaurant. Whether you want to dine indoors or outdoors, the restaurant has seating on the patio and inside.

Asides from that, this ambiance at Mistral is rustic and inviting and helps create a sense of community. Also, the kitchen is open and serves high-class American classics. Which uses fresh local ingredients that are plated well to satisfy your cravings.

However, the award-winning chef Scott Anderson ensures the meals are culturally prepared with these local ingredients for the guests to enjoy and keep visiting again.

Then they have a great happy hour menu, and the food is exceptional. It’s definitely on a different level of taste and presentation-wise.

Though it is a bit more pricey than other restaurants in Princeton, the quality level is substantial if you are looking for something nice.

Hence, the atmosphere is upscale but more comfortable in the bar section. Where you will get the New York Sour cocktail and other quality drinks to complement your meal.

Plan a visit to Mistral on Mondays – Sundays from 5 PM – 9 PM.  

Address:66 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

5. Jammin’ Crepes

It is best known for its freshly made French crepes than any other restaurant in Princeton, New Jersey, and other extensive food selections.

Although it’s a small place with first come, first serve seats, be prepared to eat without lingering. The food is uniquely and freshly prepared, the marriage of flavors is outstanding, and it tastes delicious.

However, Jammin’ Crepes has indoor and outdoor seating; you pick your table after placing your order at the counter. Trust me; the crepes are delicious and more extensive than you expect.

For dessert, try raspberry and peach dessert crepe. They also make their turkey sausage, and it is so lovely. The turkey club is worth trying, and the homemade pickles are just the right amount of sweet and sour.

Aside from the crepes, they also serve the granola bowl, soups, yogurts, and coffee. Coffee is alright, nothing out of the ordinary.

If you visit Princeton, you should stop by Jammin’ Crepes to taste their meal.

Visit on Tuesdays – Sundays from 9 AM – 4 PM.

Address: 20 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08542

6. Conte’s Pizza

What is a food list without a pizza joint on the list? This is why this family-owned pizza joint, started in 1936 by Sebastiano Conte, has to be on this list.

Since its invention, the family has passed their recipes to its generation. Unlike other restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, Conte’s Pizza specializes in a thin-crust pizza similar to New York-style pizza.

Sebastiano Conte believes in sticking to red pies, no green vegetables, and neither “gourmet” toppings available. These pies are made from simple ingredients, crispy, almost cracker-type quality. The sauce is flavorful, and the cheese is so good and holds up well.

If you want to start your meal by ordering the soup, try homemade soups with flavors like minestrone, split peas, and so on.

Hence, order its signature pizza with a variety of toppings like pepperoni, garlic, sausages, mushrooms, and many more to order for.

Address: 399 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

7. Season 52

When it comes to the rotating menu, use fresh seasonal and local ingredients. Then there are no other restaurants in Princeton than Season 52.

The menu changes with the local ingredients available, so there are plenty of options to choose from the menu. Even though the menu changes, the dishes still keep an American-style touch.

However, this restaurant grills its food on an open grill, brick roast oven, or an oak fire. The locals love the brick oven-roasted Chilean sea bass, sea scallops, and wood-grilled pork.

Also, the salads and soups are great options, and the flatbread is great for appetizers, as are the grilled artichokes with hummus.

Finally, Season 52 offers a wide selection of curated wine, craft beers, and cocktails.

Plan a visit to Season 52 on Mondays – Sundays from 11 AM – 11 PM.

Address:3535 US-1 Suite 100B, Princeton, NJ 08540

8. Eno Terra Restaurant & Enoteca

This restaurant is one of the most popular in Princeton, New Jersey, serving the best Italian-styled dishes.

However, Eno Terra Restaurants & Enoteca boasts its beautiful landscape, rustic design, and wine selection. With private dining for intimate events.

Hence, the menu offers fresh salads, vegetarian dishes, organic chicken, and homemade desserts complemented by Italian and United States wines, classic cocktails, and craft beers.

Also, they are exemplary from the servers and are very knowledgeable and attentive. They usually offer excellent options for you and always check back many times to ensure you are happy with your meal.

I highly recommend a stop here. If you don’t, you will miss out on a great opportunity.

Visit Eno Terra Restaurant & Enoteca on Tuesdays – Sundays from 12 PM – 9 PM.

Address: 4484 NJ-27, Kingston, NJ 08528

9. Agricola Eatery

The Agricola, which means “farmer” in Latin, defines a farm-to-table cuisine that uses organic fruits, vegetables, and salads directly from the farm to make a tasty meal.

However, there are many authentic restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, to enjoy a delicious meal with your family. But trust me, they are no match for this spot.

Aside from the food, the ambiance boasts modern decor and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare the delicacies.

Speaking of its menu, the LORE Pumpkin Ravioli is a fantastic dish you should sample, which includes Brussels sprouts, coconuts, red sherry sauce, cilantro, and pomegranate.

While for dessert, try its signature farmers’ carrot cake. It includes cinnamon and pecan crumbs, toasted pineapples, and pineapple coconut sherbet.

In addition, this spot has limited options for vegetarians, but the portion size and flavors are impressive. Also, it offers wheelchair accessibility on the ground level.

Address: 11 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

10. The Blue Point Grill

This historic restaurant is adjacent to the top-rated Nassau seafood & company. The Blue Point Grill was founded in 1999 to serve as one of the best restaurants in Princeton, serving the best seafood you might crave when visiting Princeton.

However, this spot is also known for the best oysters in Princeton. You can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

Besides, the atmosphere of this restaurant gives you a coastal life in the Hampton vibe, a little fancy, little chic; the outdoor seating is plentiful and quite lovely. Since it is one of the trendy restaurants in Princeton, they try to maximize the number of tables.

However, the menu options are plenty, the fish is so fresh, and I love how simple the dishes are cooked.

In addition, this spot changes its menu daily, making its meals with the sea foods caught that day.

Even with its menu changes, I recommend trying the Maine lobster bisque, New England Clam Chowder, and the jumbo lump crab cakes.

Visit daily from 4:30 PM – 8 PM.

Address: 258 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08542 

Perhaps you might want to see through the attractions in Princeton. Why don’t you check out our list of things to do in Princeton?

11. Alchemist & Barrister

The locals get together spot that provides delicious American bar food. Alchemist & Barrister is a restaurant with a rustic interior ambiance that pairs well with its lovely bar and patio, offering an excellent outdoor dining experience.

Luckily, this spot has an executive chef (Nicole Biondi) who has worked in the restaurant business for over 15 years.

However, the bar is the main center of attraction, so whether you want a quiet or late-night snack. Then this is where you should be.

No doubt, one of the top restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, because it is always a great choice for drinks and upscale food with family and friends. Either in the indoor patio bar or front dining room.

Furthermore, the food is generally good; I recommend the sliders, which include pretzel bites and buffalo chicken tenders.

Interestingly, this spot has happy hours. Hours are from 4 PM – 7 PM, with drinks (limited choices), and are only available when seated at the bar.

There are about 20 seats around the bar, so plan accordingly.

Address: 28 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

12. Witherspoon Grill

The Witherspoon Grill is one of those steakhouse restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, with refined casual seating downtown. Established in 2006, this is just the perfect spot for dinner because of its locally sourced poultry and seafood.

Asides from steak, this award-winning steakhouse also offers American cuisine like burgers, lobster mac, cheese, and so on.

Also, it offers indoor and outdoor seating, a lively bar scene, and accommodating staff.

For its menu, the griggstown brick chicken is the best option if you love white meat. It consists of spinach, mushrooms, mashed potatoes, cherry tomatoes, pesto, and artichokes.

Are you a lover of thick juicy burgers? If you are, try its signature Witherspoon Burger. A 10oz Angus burger with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, pickle spear, side fries, and any topping of your choice.

Not to forget its sophisticated and vibrant bar, which offers an award-winning wine list and a curated craft beer selection. And live jazz to make the atmosphere cozy.

Address: 57 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

13. The Peacock Inn And The Perch At Peacock

Unlike other restaurants in Princeton, The Peacock Inn Restaurant And The Perch At Peacock, also known as “Perch,” serves afternoon tea to its guests.

So when you crave that afternoon tea, make sure to find your way to this spot. It offers small dishes called “finger food” with teas to complement the food.

However, this restaurant is located near Princeton University in the Peacock Inn Hotels. But it still uses the best-sourced local ingredients, so its customers will get the freshest meals.

Hence, chef Alex has created a phenomenal menu, unrelenting, delicious, and gorgeous presentation. Everything from the cocktails to the entrees and desserts is outstanding. The elegant and attentive service is comparable to what you get in a 5-star New York City restaurant.

Also, the outdoors is beautiful in their lush garden, an extraordinary place in Princeton. Hence, the locals love many dishes in the Perch, but their top favorites are the soft-shell crabs, French toast, and oysters.

Address: 20 Bayart Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540

14. La Mezzaluna

This restaurant is a consistently great experience, with a comfortable, intimate ambiance and delicious food.

However, the head chef Michael Morello is a graduate of Sorrento cooking school, so be sure he will serve you the best Italian cuisine.

Hence, the ingredients used in making the meals are locally sourced and regionally produced. Speaking of its menu, La Mezzaluna offers its signature gourmet Italian dishes, which include handmade pasta, sauce, and locally sourced meats.

For the entrees, it comes with craft beers, top-shelf spirits, and casual wine. While its most popular meal, which is also one of the local favorites, is the oven-roasted branzino, calamari fritter, and barramundi fillet.

Note these are not the only best meals being offered at this spot. You can also try the Pork Osso Bucco or the rigatoni.

And don’t forget to treat yourself with a dessert, the most popular being tiramisu.

Visit on Tuesdays – Sundays from 11 AM – 9 PM.

Address: 25 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

15. Mediterra Restaurant And Taverna

Let’s call a spade a spade. Mediterra Restaurant & Taverna is one of the best restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey; you can visit.

A very lively atmosphere that is upbeat and casual, with beautiful wooden tables in the bar area.

Downtown Princeton is filled with numerous restaurants, from high-end molecular gastronomy (Elements), gastronomy pubs (Mistral), Italian cuisine (Teresa Caffe), and Spanish (Despano).

Also, the eclectic (Witherspoon Grill and Mezzaluna), modern American (Agricola), and French (Cargot Brasserie). Not counting smaller joints and ethnic restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey.

However, this spot occupies its niche and does so well. This restaurant serves good Mediterranean cuisine, with Spanish and Italian dishes. As well as some Middle Eastern specialties, such as falafel or hummus.

Hence, the prices here are budget-friendly, with most appetizers priced below $15, pasta costing $20, and most main courses costing $20 to $30.

Also, the service is good, polite, and very satisfying. The ambiance is pleasing, the dining area features generously spaced tables, and the by-window seating allows for street and people-watching.

Then, the last reservation slot on the weekends is 10:30 PM, thus allowing for an after-show dinner. Also, your best parking solution is affordable parking next to Witherspoon Grill and Princeton Public Library.

Address: 29 Hulfish St, Princeton, NJ 08542

16. Metro-North

This is one of the most excellent restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, to meet friends because the parking is plentiful, accessible, and convenient. There is always a spot at the bar to grab a drink while you are waiting for the gang to arrive.

However, there is also room around the bar, and the tables are so close that you can’t stand while chatting over a drink.

Asides from that, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming to all its guests. Metro-North offers some Italian/American cuisine with a lively bar scene.

Also, the menu consists of grass-fed meats with seafood, wood-fired pizza, and freshly tossed salads. Try the chicken prams, which are so good, and the Parmesan risotto is also delicious and soft to bite.

Then for your appetizers, try the mussel or stuffed mushroom appetizer. Both are pretty good, and so is the sauce.

Address: 378 Alexander St, Princeton, NJ 08540

17. Olives Deli & Bakery

Olives Deli & Bakery is a family-owned catering and takeout food deli located in downtown Princeton, near Princeton University.

This is the perfect spot if you are looking for the best restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, to satisfy your sandwich craving. Fantastic place to grab a delicious lunch or contact catering services. The choices seem endless, and the food is fresh and delicious.

Hence, you will find all types of American food favorites, along with Greek specialties. It also offers a wide selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees.

Also offer healthy choices and delectable desserts, including their famous cookies and brownies. However, all the meals are homemade, and the staffs are amiable, efficient, and attentive.

In addition, it has outside seating on the sidewalk, which is very relaxing for evening dining.

Plan a visit to Olives Deli & Bakery on Mondays – Sundays from 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM.

Address: 22 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

18. PJ’s Pancake House

The delight of pancakes can only be discovered by eating them, which is why PJ’s Pancake House serves the best pancakes you can ever imagine. This is one of the best restaurants in Princeton if you want a hearty breakfast.

However, it offers a cute place indoors, and a few tables outdoors to enjoy your meal. Great breakfast/brunch place, and plenty of metered street parking nearby, so you won’t have to walk far.

Interestingly, this restaurant has a great selection of items on the menu, which will be hard to choose from. It comes in different flavors, like bananas, spicy apples, pecan, peach, blueberries, and so on, to mention a few.

Also, if you love grilled cheese sandwiches, I suggest you try The Italian; you will love every bit of it. Even the classic mac and cheese is incredible, with perfect seasoning, a blend of cheese, and a beautiful texture.

The salads are made with the perfect amount of dressing and fresh lettuce. I’m impressed that they have a Mediterranean-themed skillet with gyro meat on the menu.

Address: 154 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08542

19. Olsson’s Fine Foods

A great place to get a well-curated meat and cheese board. Or maybe you are just in the mood for a delicious gourmet grilled cheese; Olsson’s Fine Foods is excellent.

One of the best-grilled cheese restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey, plus a great cheesemonger. It is expensive, but this is the right spot to appreciate good specialty cheese.

The cheese is so good that the ingredients used in making them will make you want it. And the bread is toasted with butter, crunchy and delicious.

The best thing about the restaurant is the staff. Everyone who works here knows the cheese and loves their job. Hence, they can all recommend the perfect pairing for your orders, and they also choose the most delightful party trays for you.

This whole restaurant oozes passion for cheese and is a place you want to visit often.

Address: 53 Palmer Square W, Princeton, NJ 08542

20. Mamoun’s Falafel

This family-owned restaurant was founded in 1971 with the mission to serve authentic Middle Eastern cuisine for decades.

Firstly, Mamoun’s Falafel makes its food from scratch, using the freshest and locally sourced ingredients, also with imported spices, and its secret recipes.

However, this has made this spot different from other restaurants in Princeton. Even the high energy of the staff and its flavorful menu has made this restaurant stand out.

Trust me; you can finally experience the best falafel ever. Not only is it mouthwatering, but the crunch is also so perfect and delicious.

They provide free Wi-Fi and tons of comfortable seating to sweeten the deal. Do not just come here for the free Wi-Fi; make sure to place an order.

Try the excellent falafel sandwich, which is not heavy and greasy. It is flavorful and perfectly cooked; even the hummus is good and creamy. The best falafel pita sandwich ever.

The best part of Mamoun’s Falafel is the drinks; the veggie sides can add to your main meal for a relatively low price.

Visit daily from 11 AM – 9 PM.

Address: 20 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542

Final Remarks

Sit down, relax, and choose from any of these restaurants in Princeton. I’m sure your taste buds will thank you.

Because each of these restaurants has its unique style of cooking, which leaves you the option to choose whichever one you might want to dine in.

Bon Appetite!