Named one of the next great food cities by Food & Wine Magazine, Jersey City is proving exactly why it deserves the title. Just a quick PATH train ride away, the city boasts a top-tier, ethnically diverse culinary scene that effortlessly rivals its neighbors.
If you are looking for an excuse to cross the Hudson, The Jersey City Restaurant Fest (JCRF) is officially back for its third consecutive year, and it is bigger than ever.
Taste the world during the summer matches
Running right now and wrapping up soon on July 14, 2026, the festival features a timely “Taste the World” theme. It perfectly aligns with the international energy and excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Whether you are looking for a lively spot to watch the games or just want to celebrate the warm weather with friends, over 100 local eateries, bars, bakeries, and craft breweries are participating from every single corner of the city.
A community-first culinary celebration
Founded by former pastry chef Melanie Rudin, the festival is deeply rooted in community and designed to champion local businesses of all sizes.
The event is heavily supported by local organizations and prominent business sponsors, including food distributor Woolco Foods, the Historic Downtown Jersey City Special Improvement District (HDSID), the NJEDA, and Yelp New Jersey.
Unlike other restrictive restaurant weeks, local chefs are not locked into fixed discount rates. This gives them total creative freedom to showcase their standard high-quality dishes or whip up custom creations.
Plus, restaurants can register completely free of charge, keeping the barrier to entry low so that every mom-and-pop shop can participate.
Fan-favorite deals you can’t miss
From hearty biryani to refreshing boba, there is a global array of delights waiting for you. Here are some of the absolute best offers available this year:
- Bergen Hall: Grab an anti-smash burger, fries, and a beer for $20 (available during Cup matches).
- Honshu: Enjoy a premium $55 per person omakase at the table, running Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Torta Truck: Score a torta and agua fresca for $15, or swap it out for two tacos and an agua fresca for the exact same price.
- 87 Sussex: Treat yourself to an elevated three-course tasting menu for $70.
- Luna: Sip on any cocktail or mocktail, plus your choice of pasta and gelato for $40.
- La Bodega: Start your morning right with a classic Tres Golpes breakfast torta for just $4.99.
- Ani Ramen: Stop by for a $22 three-course meal (dine-in lunch or dinner only) featuring edamame, a bao bun, and your choice of ramen or a rice bowl. You can easily add a draft beer, select cocktail, or wine for $10.
How to plan your visit
The festival has already gathered massive buzz, with over 20,000 social media interactions this season alone. Finding your next great meal is incredibly easy.
Diners can effortlessly map out their culinary path by checking the comprehensive list of participating venues directly at jcrestaurantfest.com. Grab your friends, head across the river, and get ready to #goeatsomething!
