2 NJ Restaurants Among Most Romantic 'Hidden Gems', Survey Says

NEW JERSEY — Two New Jersey eateries were recently included on a new list that highlights the most romantic "hidden gem" restaurants in the United States.

Sacramento-based restaurant Zinfandel Grille surveyed 3,168 diners to find out where the nation’s most romantic and "enchanting" restaurants were located.

From hidden basement bars to historic home-turned-dining destinations, diners craved eateries that offered authentic charm and local flavors over five-star dining reservations.

Two Garden State restaurants offered this experience to couples, according to the survey.

The Saddle River Inn in Saddle River came in at No. 17 on the list. Located at 2 Barnstable Ct., the Saddle River Inn is a fine-dining, contemporary French restaurant nestled along the banks of the river. The menu changes twice seasonally and diners should take their own bottle of wine to enjoy with dinner.

Coming in at No. 23 on the list was Rosie's in Ocean Gate. Located at 401 Monmouth Ave., Rosie's describes itself as a restaurant where "modern design meets sea shore tranquility." The Italian-influenced menu features dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and diners can enjoy a drink from the restaurant's "hip yet classic" bar and lounge area.

The top 10 most romantic hidden gem restaurants included on the list were:

1. Moon and Turtle (Hilo, Hawaii)
2. Cap's On The Water (St. Augustine, Florida)
3. Mama D's Italian Kitchen (Newport Beach, California)
4. La Cave (Las Vegas, Nevada)
5. The Hidden House (Chandler, Arizona)
6. La Noxe (New York City)
7. Wonder Bar Steakhouse (Clarksburg, West Virginia)
8. Grappa '72 (Albany, New York)
9. Wild Goat Bistro (Petaluma, California)
10. Il Lusso (Tallahassee, Florida)

See the full list on Zinfandel Grille's website.