The Ironbound neighbourhood along Ferry Street is Newark's undisputed culinary highlight. The stretch of Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants here is one of the best in the eastern United States — grilled meat, salt cod, and excellent seafood at prices that feel impossibly reasonable given how close you are to Manhattan. Come hungry, expect generous portions, and be prepared to wait for a table on weekend evenings.
Casa Vasca on Elm Road is a Basque institution that has been operating since 1976 and remains one of the best restaurants in the area.