Diners' Choice: Hot spot restaurants in Essex

OpenTable

Updated November 05, 2026

Looking for restaurants that are the best hot spots in Essex? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Nami Nori Montclair

4.9

4.9 (201)

$31 to $50

Japanese

Montclair

About the restaurant

Nami Nori is a casual, Japanese restaurant specializing in open-style temaki hand rolls, located in Montclair. The menu features signature hand rolls, including crunchy varieties, as well as classic versions, and a special vegan section. Japanese-inspired dishes from the kitchen and desserts are also on offer.

We accept reservations up to 30 days in advance. Please note that the grace period is 10 minutes for guests who are running late. We kindly ask that guests respect our dinner seating times of 1 hr 30 minutes for parties up to 3 and 2 hours for parties of 4-5, and 2 hr 30 minutes for parties of 6 or more.

Featured Menu items:
Spicy Crab Dynamite Temaki
Tuna Poke with Crispy Shallots Temaki
Avocado "Toast" Temaki
Spicy Tuna Dip with Crispy Rice Chips

Top review

TolgaGold

Dined on Oct 30, 2026

Very nice restaurant, food is really delicious. I hope they add really cocktails and drink menu too.

Tops Diner

4.8

4.8 (2874)

$30 and under

American

Newark

About the restaurant

Ever since Tops Diner was established in 1942, our focus has always been to serve what our customers want, exactly when and how they want it. As the American dining culture shifts, we recognize we must strive to recreate the 1920’s renaissance that birthed the diner as we know it today, all the while preserving the historical and cultural identity that made Tops Diner the model all others hope to emulate.

By constantly evolving, we ensure our ability to provide a diverse menu of high quality options with the speed of service we’ve all become accustomed to, providing the uniquely satisfying experience synonymous with the Tops Diner name. Our hope is that we can grow as our clients do, and continue to serve both our Newark family, and our community at large.

Top review

Philip

Dined 2 days ago

Beautiful diner, excellent service and amazing food ! New Jersey is the diner capital of the world and no diner does it consistently better than Tops !

Willow & Whisk - Millburn

4.8

4.8 (268)

$30 and under

Breakfast

Millburn

About the restaurant

Our concept and menu was created with two key ingredients - family and great food. At Willow & Whisk, we’re taking a new approach to your breakfast and lunch favorites. With every meal, we’re dedicated to fresh ingredients and an elevated culinary experience. Whether it’s your first cup of coffee in the morning or your salad at lunch, we’ve put thought and soul into every bite.

Top review

Cheryl

Dined 3 days ago

The service was exceptional friendly prompt very helpful

Blu - Livingston

4.6

4.6 (260)

$50 and over

American

Livingston

About the restaurant

Livingston is an ideal location for our restaurant, offering a vibrant and growing community that is ready for a distinctive dining destination. We aim to provide exceptional cuisine and service at a thoughtful, accessible price point. Our menu, featuring expertly prepared sushi, premium steaks, house-made pastas, and a world-class cocktail and wine program, is designed to elevate the dining scene in Livingston and the surrounding neighborhoods. We are committed to becoming an integral part of the community, offering a sophisticated yet approachable space where guests can gather for memorable meals, celebrations, and social experiences.

Top review

ChuckGold

Dined 4 days ago

Fantastic experience at Blu Liv last night. The server, Santiago, was knowledgeable and accommodating. The salmon tartare was fresh and delicious. The lobster fra diavalo was outstandingly presented and delicious. The basque shrimp was spicy, well portioned and flavorful. Excellent drinks: old fashioned and cosmo Amanda the hostess was very pleasant and gave us a perfect table!!! A Must Visit for all of you restaurant people!!!

NICO Kitchen + Bar

4.3

4.3 (1916)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Newark

About the restaurant

Unwind from the grind at NICO, Newark's most relaxing space. Savor our American menu and the best fries you've ever had. NICO is the perfect place to meet up with friends after work, enjoy a pre-show meal before your NJPAC performance.. Our award-winning team is always here to bring you good times, great music, and delicious vibes.

Top review

Ramon

Dined 6 days ago

It was a relaxed and informal vibe. We sat at the bar and had some drinks, the food was amazing!

Swahili Village OTS

4.3

4.3 (495)

$31 to $50

African

Newark

About the restaurant

Coming Soon!

Top review

Henry

Dined on Oct 13, 2026

My brother and I visited the Swahili Village prior to our visiting NJPAC. He had been there previously; this was my first time. The host, hostessed (Winnie) and talked us through the menu, made excellent recommendation, explained Kenyan food & culture and was absolutely wonderful. The food was excellent but would have liked more ... more portion size and more options. I will definitely go back and would recommend this restaurant for others. We were celebrating my brother's birthday, and they offered a dessert on the house. We did not take them up on it, but the gesture did not go unnoticed. A wonderful time. Thanks Winnie!!

Dhamaal - Montclair

4.3

4.3 (338)

$30 and under

Indian

Montclair

About the restaurant

At Dhamaal, we're not just about serving delicious Indian cuisine; we're about creating an experience that tickles your taste buds and delights your senses. Nestled in the heart of New Jersey, our vibrant and lively restaurant is a celebration of all things fun and flavorful.

Inspired by the rich tapestry of Indian culture and cuisine, we embarked on a journey to create a dining destination like no other. Dhamaal was born from the desire to infuse every meal with laughter, joy, and a generous helping of spice. At Dhamaal, we believe that dining out should be more than just a meal—it should be an adventure!

We're more than just a restaurant; we're a community of food lovers, adventure seekers, and fun enthusiasts. Whether you're dining with family, catching up with friends, or simply looking to spice up your day, Dhamaal welcomes you with open arms and a whole lot of flavor. Come on over and join the fun at Dhamaal - where every meal is a celebration!

Top review

Johnny

Dined on Oct 27, 2026

Great service, great options, extremely great food!!!

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4.2

4.2 (121)

$31 to $50

Italian

Montclair

About the restaurant

Campofiore is a farm-to-table concept that brings the vibrant tastes of Italy straight to the table. Led by Chef Dan Drohan, Campofiore will feature house cured salumi, artisanal regional Italian cheese selection, seasonal local vegetables, salads and seafood antipasto, a pasta selection featuring both handmade and imported pastas, as well as entrees and shared Items made from locally sourced seafood and meats prepared with traditional Italian technique. Desserts made by Pastry Chef Kazmire Puntarovic will be gelato-focused along with other traditional regional Italian sweets. The beverage program, which features a full bar, showcasing a dynamic wine list with bottles starting at $45. Saluti!

Top review

Jeffrey

Dined 3 days ago

Food was very good and well executed. Service very attentive without being overbearing. Prices reasonable. Would definitely go back. Food came out timely and hot. Unlike other newly opened similar Italian restaurants located in upper Montclair.

The Splendid Rooftop

4.1

4.1 (484)

$30 and under

Cocktail Bar

Montclair

About the restaurant

Montclair's only rooftop! Soak in stunning views of the NYC skyline while catching that big game with friends and colleagues at our all season rooftop featuring over 3,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor space. The Rooftop is the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail after work or when taking a break from shopping on Bloomfield Avenue. Enjoy yourself!

Please be aware that the Rooftop Kitchen is currently undergoing kitchen renovations, and we are operating off of a limited menu, which is available on request!

Top review

Kelli

Dined on Oct 10, 2026

We had a great evening sitting outside on a cozy couch with a beautiful sky view above us. I received a much needed blanket and it made my night. Love the Splendid Rooftop Bar-it’s simply SPENDID!

Legacy 27 Kitchen + Cocktails

3.8

3.8 (86)

$50 and over

Creole / Cajun / Southern

Newark

About the restaurant

An Experience, Not Just a Reservation

Legacy 27 is more than a restaurant—it’s a statement.
Located in a landmark building in downtown Newark, we’ve reimagined a historic space into a destination where culture, elevated flavors, and unforgettable experiences converge.
Every detail is intentional—from the ambiance to the menu—designed to create moments that go beyond dining.

Top review

Donson

Dined on Oct 28, 2026

I visited Legacy 27 with a group of friends, and from beginning to end, the experience was absolutely amazing! The atmosphere was beautiful, the energy was incredible, and the hospitality was unmatched. I ordered the fried snapper, and it was cooked to perfection flavorful, fresh, and absolutely delicious! The staff went above and beyond to make our visit memorable, providing exceptional service throughout the evening. Legacy 27 truly delivers the perfect combination of great food, outstanding service, and an unforgettable dining experience. 10/10! I highly recommend Legacy 27 and will definitely be returning!**

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