Best Downtown Newark Restaurants with South Beach Options | Top Rated

7 restaurants in Best Downtown Newark Restaurants with South Beach Options | Top Rated

• Queen Pizza II — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Queen Pizza II welcomes guests with the nostalgic aroma of hand-tossed dough and simmering garlic, creating a warm neighborhood hub where the clatter of plates and lively conversation set a cheerful rhythm. Molten cheese stretches over perfectly charred crusts while hearty, sauce-drenched pastas provide a soulful anchor to an experience rooted in the comforting flavors of an Italian home kitchen. Every visit feels like a return to a cherished local secret, where the simple joy of a well-made pie brings a touch of old-world charm to the table.
• Sweet Jeans Kitchen + Espresso Bar — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood haunt hums with the comforting hiss of the espresso machine and the irresistible aroma of golden-toasted bagels. The kitchen elevates the art of the sandwich, layering crusty breads with everything from creamy brie and roasted turkey to the bold, zesty crunch of a Market Veggie Banh Mi. Whether you’re cradling a warm, velvety London Fog or diving into a hearty Italian "sangweech," the experience is one of effortless charm and soulful, handcrafted flavor.
• Giovanni Pizza & Grill — Italian · rated 3.8/5: At Giovanni Pizza & Grill, the air is thick with the irresistible scent of bubbling mozzarella and the smoky char of the open flame, drawing guests into a vibrant space where rustic tradition meets modern zest. Golden, hand-tossed crusts emerge from the oven to meet succulent, herb-infused meats straight from the grill, creating a soulful symphony of Italian flavors that invites lingering conversations and shared plates.
• Yaya Tea — Japanese · rated 3/5: Step into a vibrant oasis of color and flavor where the rhythmic shake of tea tins creates a lively soundtrack for a refreshing afternoon escape. Whimsical, hand-crafted concoctions like the glowing Sunrise and the botanical Lychee Tree offer a sensory journey through sweet and floral notes, while signature blends like First Love and Better Life turn every icy sip into a playful and evocative treat.
• Cornbread — American · rated 3/5: Stepping into Cornbread feels like a warm embrace, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-simmered collard greens and the irresistible scent of golden, crispy fried chicken. Generous plates overflow with soulful staples like tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs and velvety mac and cheese, each bite offering a nostalgic journey through the heart of Southern comfort. Whether you are tucking into a flaky fillet of fried whiting or a hearty slice of savory meatloaf, the experience is one of pure, unpretentious joy shared over tables laden with tradition.
• Bánh & Bo — Vietnamese · rated 3/5: Bánh & Bo pulses with the aromatic energy of a modern eatery, where the scent of toasted baguettes and sizzling, charred meats creates an immediate sense of culinary adventure. The kitchen masterfully reimagines traditional flavors through delicate pho-inspired potstickers and vibrant rice bowls topped with everything from savory sardines to crispy tempura Brussels sprouts, offering a soulful, texture-rich journey in every bite.
• Chateau of Spain Restaurant — Spanish · rated 3/5: Stepping into this vibrant space feels like a journey to the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling garlic and spiced chorizo. Guests gather over plates of tender charred octopus and golden fried calamari, or dive into a perfectly seared Angus skirt steak that anchors the meal with its rich, robust flavor. The experience blends old-world charm with a spirited atmosphere, creating a welcoming destination for those seeking bold, sun-drenched flavors and hearty, soulful fare.