There’s just something special about dining outdoors. You can’t beat enjoying a delicious meal while surrounded by beautiful landscapes or under the picturesque night sky. Much like melodic tunes and soft, dim lighting create an enjoyable setting inside a restaurant, the outdoors delivers its own elements to help heighten your overall dining experience.
Once spring arrives and the days start to get warmer, many restaurants in Central New Jersey and Middlesex County expand their seating capacity to offer the option of eating outside. That’s why when guests visit the New Brunswick area during this time, they will notice there’s no shortage of Middlesex County outdoor dining options. Here, Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau highlights some of the local eateries and restaurants that provide outdoor seating once the weather permits it.
Best Outdoor Dining in New Jersey
Central Jersey is known for its variety of great-tasting cuisine. No matter what your taste buds are craving, the restaurants in the New Brunswick area can suit every appetite. Outdoor dining options are scattered throughout Middlesex County, meaning, there’s likely a great outdoor dining option just a short distance away from where you are.
These local gems are where guests can gather to join musical entertainment, award-winning wine lists, and, above all else, great-tasting food. Whether you’re looking for a casual or upscale dining outdoor dining experience, the restaurants in Middlesex Country can provide. Consider these options:
Casual Outdoor Dining
Sometimes a burger and fries are just what you need to whet your appetite. Central Jersey is home to several diners and casual-style restaurants that offer outdoor seating while serving classic dishes. If you’re craving delicious-tasting food with a casual outdoor dining experience, check out these great establishments:
- Delta’s Restaurant
- Tavern on George
- Rooster Spin
- Fat Cactus Cantina
- Harvest Moon Brewery & Café
- Stage Left Steak
- Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar
- Victoria’s Tratta Italiano
- Filippo’s Famous Pizza
- Esquina Latina Restaurant & Lounge
- Freshii
- Ramen Nagomi
Fine Outdoor Dining
Looking for an outdoor setting to celebrate a special occasion or treat a significant other to a romantic date? Central Jersey offers great fine dining options that can be enjoyed outdoors. Catherine Lombardi is an upscale Italian restaurant with an authentic feel. The outdoor seating area offers guests a cozy and romantic atmosphere where they can relish the savory flavors and classic Italian dishes that have helped the establishment garner a favorable reputation.
Getting Around in Middlesex County
You know which restaurant you want to visit, but how will you get there? If you don’t have a car, don’t worry —getting around Middlesex County is easy thanks to the various transportation options in the New Brunswick area. Visitors from out of town can take advantage of the NJ Transit lines that serve riders throughout NJ, as well as New York and Pennsylvania. The NJ Transit stations in Middlesex County include:
- Avenel Station
- Dunellen Station
- Edison Station
- Jersey Avenue Station
- Metropark Station
- Metuchen Station
- New Brunswick Station
- Perth Amboy Station
- South Amboy Station
- Woodbridge Station
Note: As weather permits, outdoor seating at the restaurants listed might vary. Please call to confirm outdoor seating is available,
Many of these train stations offer connections to NJ Transit bus lines, as well, for even further convenience.
For travelers and residents who prefer to drive, Middlesex County is in proximity to major highways, including Interstate 287, the New Jersey Turnpike, and the Garden State Parkway. The abundance of convenient parking options makes enjoying a night out in Central Jersey a breeze.
Learn More about Outdoor Dining in Middlesex County, New Jersey
As we approach the warmer months, now is a great time to think about all the ways you can enjoy the outdoors and fresh air. One way is by having delicious-tasting food in an outdoor setting. It’s easy to find outdoor dining in Middlesex County, NJ, but if you want help, turn to Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau. We can help you plan an evening or trip that will meet all your expectations. For more information on the outdoor dining option in the New Brunswick area or assistance planning your next trip, contact us today.