We all want to see the world and try the food. I mean that’s why you came to this blog right? But what about those times when you can’t travel? How many places in your community have you checked out? All the big ones? What about those places that don’t look like anything special? Have they pleasantly surprised you?
That’s what this post is about. The amazing and surprisingly special places in northwestern New Jersey, specifically in Warren and Hunterdon counties. Sometimes they don’t look like much, but man are they amazing!
Muheisen’s Bagel and Deli
(29 NJ-31, Washington, NJ 07882)
New York is always touted as the best bagels in the world, well let me tell you Muheisen’s would give them a run for their money.
This tiny bakery and deli off Route 31 in Washington bakes a variety of flavors daily and the lines out the door are proof of just how good they are. It’s the only place I buy bagels (and cream cheese).
You may not know this, but New Jersey is best known for its deli’s. Yeah, I didn’t know that either but there you have it. What does that have to do with Muheisen’s? Well, you can also get a variety of deli and breakfast sandwiches here too! Don’t forget to try the pork roll (it’s a Jersey thing).
Marley’s Gotham Grill
(169 Main St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840)
Located in Hackettstown, Marley’s is best known for it’s wings, all 100+ flavors. Let me tell you, there are a lot of unique flavors to choose from.
But what I love the most is that you don’t have to settle for a dozen of just one type, you can get as many or as few as you like of each flavor. If you just want one honey garlic and 3 Guinness BBQ, cool, that’s all you will get.
I highly recommend trying the honey garlic. It’s made from real honey and fresh chopped garlic and it is amazing. That sticky sweet goodness of real honey and the punch of the fresh garlic will have your taste buds reeling. I promise.
Taqueria Brenda Lee #V
(113 Main St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840)
Also located in Hackettstown, is some of the best mole I have tasted. Made from all fresh ingredients and cooked from scratch daily, you just can’t beat this place.
Not only is the chicken mole amazing but the food options are authentic, even using the “other bits,” like tripe or tongue tacos.
An added bonus is this place is directly across the road from Czig Meister Brewing Company, a local brewery that is bring your own food. So, grab some tacos and head over to the brewery to was it down with some craft beer (and you can bring your dog with you too!).
31 South Grille and Deli
(1211 NJ-31, Lebanon, NJ 08833)
Located along, you guessed it, route 31 in Hunterdon County is a tiny roadside deli. You can go for the breakfast sandwiches, grab some lunch or get their special of the day. I highly recommend the cheesesteak.
I think the best part about this place, and is also a sentiment of many others, is the owner. When I went there he was the only one working and did all the cooking and serving. He was the nicest guy and just made the entire experience.
It’s a go for the food, stay for the company, kind of place.
Country Corner Store and Café
(746 NJ-57, Port Murray, NJ 07865)
Located in a historic landmark, The Anderson Hotel, the Country Corner Store and Café is a unique spot. A tiny downstairs café, consisting of counter service and a back room with around 3 tables, it’s not likely to be overwhelmed with people.
Using locally sourced products, this farm to table style café has a great selection of sandwiches and soups to choose from. And it’s another one of those places where the staff are second to none. I have never felt so welcomed.
Not only is it located in a historic landmark, it is also next to the Musconetcong River and the Point Mountain hiking trail. So, head out for a hike with sweeping views of the farms and country below and then grab a bite to eat. It’s the perfect way to spend a day.
Café 57
(486 NJ-57, Washington, NJ 07882)
This one is in Washington and a bit outside of town. Honestly, it doesn’t look like much from the outside but the thing to get here are their donuts and cinnamon buns. Baked fresh daily, they are amazing.
And it’s not just the regular ol’ cinnamon buns, though they are also delicious, they have a multitude of flavors that change on a daily basis. I highly recommend the oreo cinnamon buns and a friend of mine recommends the pistachio donuts.
Concluding Thoughts
It’s amazing the places you discover close to home, when travel isn’t an option. As long as you stay curious and give places that you may have overlooked in the past a try, you can’t go wrong. These are by no means the only top places to eat in Northwestern New Jersey, this is just a taste to get you started. Bon Appetit!
What places have you found in your local area that you think the world should know about? Leave a comment, I would love to hear your recommendations.
Looking for other food ideas to help support local businesses? Check out my posts on 5 Affordable Restaurants in NYC and 7 Best Places to Eat in Ogden, Utah
