Cranford is a quaint Central Jersey town located in the heart of Union County. There’s plenty of shopping, with antique stores, art galleries, salons and spas, and gift shops. There’s also great dining! Central Jersey in Motion has picked some of our favorite Cranford restaurants in this Local’s Guide feature. If we missed any of your favorites, please let us know!
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Located in the heart of downtown Cranford, a variety of traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare is offered. The atmosphere is comfortable and there is sidewalk seating. 20 North Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-2701. http://oldcitycafeandgrill.com/
Just walking distance from the train station, this elegant BYOB Mediterranean eatery has the best in seafood – lobsters, scallops, shrimp – and prime cut meats. Their Blue Point oysters are a great way to start a meal. 2 South Avenue West, Cranford (908) 272-0045. http://www.romolasnj.com/
Photo by Keith Testa
A farm-to-table treasure with an ever-changing menu. This Cranford restaurant’s current 4.6 Zagat rating is well deserved. Specials include: catch of the day, daily pizza, soups, and much more. 232 Centennial Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-6600. http://www.atouteheure.com/
Not only the ultimate place for a burger (including veggie, turkey or chicken burgers) but also shakes, barbeque, and brunches. Urban Burger has also just launched their Urban Food Truck which caters to all events. 13 Eastman Street, Cranford (908) 272-7790. http://www.urbanburgercranford.com/
A relaxing and welcoming family owned restaurant. Bring your own wine and enjoy slowly braised meats and sautéed seafood, along with just baked breads and desserts. The cream of tomato soup is a warming delight. 10 Walnut Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-4026. http://pairingscranford.com/
Some of the best take-out in Central New Jersey. Organic juices are cold-pressed and raw. They also have organic nut milks made in-house daily, wraps and more. Healthy never tasted so good! 105 South Avenue, East Cranford (908) 272-3927. http://freshpressjuiceco.com/
100 Steps Supper Club and Raw Bar
A wonderful place for a night out, serving raw oysters, clams, and other great seafood. In addition to the raw bar, there’s a full locally sourced menu. BYO and don’t forget Oyster Happy Hour on Wednesdays at this Cranford restaurant! 215 Centennial Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-6600. http://www.100stepsrawbar.com/
Photo by Jason Cesare
First, we must say, the service is extraordinary! We highly recommend the Pad Thai. And the desserts are the best – especially the chocolate mousse. 16 North Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 272-7258. http://www.ave-east.com/
An eclectic menu in a bistro setting that’s cozy, warm, and romantic. All dishes feature that incredible herb – garlic. Most meals are served with their Garlic Rose bread dip, fresh roasted garlic, warm rustic bread and a fresh house salad. 28 North Avenue West, Cranford (908) 276-5749. http://www.garlicrose.com/
Kilkenny House Restaurant & Pub
A traditional Irish pub with live music. Affordable and filling standards such as Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, and Chicken Pot Pie. 112 South Avenue, Cranford (908)276-3414. http://www.kilkennyhouse.com/
A family-oriented Italian restaurant in business since 2001. With quiet, candlelit tables, it’s a great place for date night. Bring your own wine and feast on the Zuppa Di Pesce combo of lobster, calamari, clams, shrimp, sea scallops, and mussels in a fresh garlic tomato clam broth. 10 South Avenue West, Cranford (908) 497-1990. http://www.cranfordbistro.com/
The best fresh, homemade ice cream in the area featuring many rich and creamy flavors such as: Madagascar Vanilla, Chocolate Silk, Salted Caramel Pecan, and award-winning Bananas Foster. 22 North Avenue West, Cranford (908) 272-3000. http://www.cranfordvanillabeancreamery.com/
Photo by Angel Punnuse
Whether you’re dining in or doing take-out, this place is just yummy! Their signature Mizu Roll is amazing – spicy tuna, snow crab, crunch, avocado, eel and tobiko, with soy seaweed and eel sauce. 103 North Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 272-7888. http://www.mizusushinj.com/
Providing authentic homemade Cuban cuisine, it’s like having a little corner of Cuba right in your neighborhood. The Cuban Sandwich is a great choice – layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on Cuban bread. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available. 117 Union Avenue North, Cranford (908) 272-8226. http://www.lidiascubankitchen.com/
If you love French food, you’ll truly adore this classic French and New American bistro that we’ve added to our Local’s Guide to dining out in Cranford. Classics on the menu include: escargots in parsley garlic-butter over puff pastry and seared foie gras. 21 North Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-1900. http://www.tablespooncafeonline.com/
This is the place to go for authentic Thai. We recommend the Tamarind Duck – sliced, boneless, crispy duck half over sautéed mixed vegetables, topped with tamarind sauce; served with Jasmine white rice or brown rice. 110 North Avenue West, Cranford (908) 325-6446. http://www.siaminn.us/#about
Amazingly delicious, especially the South Beach Dragon Roll made with shrimp tempura, cucumber inside, topped with avocado and spicy crab. This Cranford restaurant has a sushi boat that would satisfy any sushi lover’s appetite. 123 North Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 272-2617. http://www.mrbin123.com/
Take delight in an array of authentic Italian recipes such as fusilli integrali, vegetable lasagna, or homemade gnocchi. They also offer Classic Italian cooking classes. 104 North Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-3336 http://trattoriabelpaese.com/
Some say this is the best pizza in New Jersey. With online take-out and delivery to Cranford, Roselle, Kenilworth, Clark, and Garwood. Ask about their gluten free options and specials at this well known Cranford restaurant and take out establishment. 103 Miln Street, Cranford (908) 272-2500. http://www.cranfordpizza.com/
The Cranford Hotel Restaurant & Pub
Last, but certainly not least, established in 1882, this Cranford restaurant, hotel and pub is where memories have been made for years. Our Cranford Restaurant Guide wouldn’t be complete without this grand old building, its restaurant or its pub. In this rustic, historically preserved building, you can enjoy an intimate dinner or cocktails at the bar. There’s a wide variety of American cuisine and craft beer. 1 South Union Avenue, Cranford (908) 276-2121. http://www.cranfordhotel.com/
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