6 New Jersey Steakhouse Chains Serving Everyday Favorites & 7 That Locals Say Are Absolutely Legendary
New Jersey may be small, but when it comes to steak, the Garden State goes big. Across bustling cities, quiet suburbs, and even along the shore, you’ll find steakhouses that rival some of the most famous spots in the country.
Some are polished and upscale, perfect for anniversaries or celebrations, while others lean casual, ideal for a hearty family dinner. No matter the occasion, New Jersey proves it has serious steakhouse tradition worth savoring.
1. Roots Steakhouse
Family recipes meet modern cooking at this growing chain that started right here in New Jersey. Their signature dry-aged steaks spend weeks getting tender and flavorful.
Kids love the mac and cheese while parents go crazy for the bone-in ribeye. The warm bread comes out fast, and servers know how to make everyone feel welcome.
Most locations stay busy on weekends, so calling ahead saves waiting time.
2. Morton’s The Steakhouse
This fancy chain brings out a cart full of raw steaks and fresh lobsters to show diners before cooking. The tableside presentation makes ordering fun and educational for everyone.
Portions here could feed two people easily. The Chicago-style steaks cook exactly how you order them, and the loaded baked potatoes are legendary.
Dress codes apply at most locations, so skip the flip-flops and shorts for dinner here.
3. Outback Steakhouse
Australian-themed fun meets American steaks at this popular chain that never takes itself too seriously. The Bloomin’ Onion appetizer is practically required ordering for most tables.
Prices stay reasonable compared to fancier places, making date nights and family celebrations more affordable. Their sirloin steaks offer great value without sacrificing taste.
Happy hour specials and kids menus make this spot perfect for casual dining any day of the week.
4. Fogo de Chão
Brazilian cowboys called gauchos roam the dining room with skewers of perfectly grilled meats at this all-you-can-eat paradise. The salad bar alone could be a complete meal.
Flip your table card to green and watch the meat parade begin. Lamb, beef, chicken, and pork keep coming until you surrender.
Lunch prices cost less than dinner, so smart diners arrive early and hungry for the best deals.
5. Charlie Brown’s Fresh Grill
This New Jersey original started decades ago and still serves comfort food that reminds people of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. The salad bar runs the length of most restaurants.
Their steaks come with unlimited trips to that famous salad bar, making every meal feel like a bargain. Regular customers know to save room for the ice cream sundae bar.
Many locations offer early bird specials that make dining out affordable for retirees and budget-conscious families.
6. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
Former head waiter at Peter Luger opened this chain to compete with New York’s most famous steakhouse. The porterhouse for two or four people arrives sizzling on hot plates.
Aged steaks get sliced tableside and served family-style with simple seasonings that let the meat shine. The German fried potatoes disappear fast from most tables.
Reservations fill up weeks ahead for weekend dinners, especially at locations near major cities and shopping areas.
1. Char Steakhouse
Local legend status comes from decades of serving perfect steaks to New Jersey families who return generation after generation. The owners still work most nights and remember regular customers by name.
Hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood arrive without fancy presentations or gimmicks. Quality ingredients and skilled cooking speak louder than flashy decorations here.
Reservations book solid months ahead for holidays, so planning early prevents disappointment during special occasions and celebrations.
2. The River Palm Terrace
Fresh lobsters swim in tanks while dry-aged steaks hang in glass cases, giving diners a preview of their upcoming feast. This local favorite treats surf and turf like high art.
The lobster bisque recipe stays secret after thirty years of requests from customers and food writers. Each bowl arrives with a generous chunk of claw meat floating on top.
Valet parking and coat check service make special occasions feel extra special without breaking the budget on unnecessary extras.
3. The Brick House
Converted from an actual brick house, this restaurant keeps the cozy feeling of dining in someone’s home while serving restaurant-quality steaks. Each dining room has a different personality and charm.
The fireplace crackles during cold months, making winter dinners extra romantic. Local couples choose this spot for anniversaries and proposals because of the intimate setting.
Weekend jazz musicians play softly in the main dining room, adding live music without overwhelming conversation at nearby tables.
4. Franklin Steakhouse and Tavern
Craft cocktails and local ingredients make this neighborhood spot feel like a hidden gem that only locals know about. The bartenders muddle fresh herbs and squeeze real citrus for every drink.
Farm-to-table steaks come from New Jersey ranchers who raise cattle without hormones or antibiotics. The seasonal menu changes based on what local farms produce best.
Thursday wine tastings pair different bottles with small steak bites, helping diners learn which wines complement their favorite cuts perfectly.
5. Dino & Harry’s
Politicians and celebrities choose this Hoboken institution when they want great steaks without paparazzi or tourists. The walls display photos of famous guests from decades past.
Classic preparations focus on perfect execution rather than trendy innovations. A simple grilled filet mignon arrives exactly as ordered, every single time.
The wine list includes bottles from small vineyards that most people never heard of but taste amazing with red meat and aged cheeses.
6. Rails Steakhouse
Train memorabilia decorates this unique restaurant that sits near active railroad tracks, making dinner an adventure when freight trains rumble past. The building shakes slightly, adding character to every meal.
Massive porterhouse steaks arrive on platters shaped like train cars, delighting kids and adults who appreciate creative presentations. The conductor’s hat gets passed around for birthday celebrations.
Model trains circle overhead on tracks mounted near the ceiling, creating entertainment that keeps families engaged throughout their entire dining experience.
7. Steve’s Sizzling Grill
Hot plates sizzle and steam when servers deliver steaks that continue cooking at your table. The sound and smell create excitement that spreads throughout the entire restaurant.
Generous portions and reasonable prices keep local families coming back week after week. The loaded nachos appetizer could feed a small army of hungry teenagers.
BYOB policy lets diners bring their favorite bottles without paying restaurant markup, making special celebrations more affordable for budget-conscious families and couples.