This NJ Eatery Among Top 50 In U.S., New York Times Says In New List

NEW JERSEY — You don't have to go far to taste some of the best food in America — or even make a reservation.

The New York Times has compiled a new list of the best restaurants for 2024, and one unique New Jersey eatery has made the cut.

The list, which features 50 restaurants across the nation, was created by editors and reporters who "traveled to nearly every state scouting restaurants for our annual list," the Times said.

Included on the 2024 list are 32 eateries that are new this year. "But we also made space for longstanding restaurants still in top form," the list authors noted.

South Jersey's Sweet Amalia Market & Kitchen, which opened in 2021, was the Garden State restaurant that caught the eye of reviewers. Located along U.S. 40 in Newfield, the eatery is connected to a farm stand with some typical Jersey Fresh offerings — but with a twist.

As the Times put it: "The place is set up like any other South Jersey roadside farm stand where you might buy a carton of eggs, a bunch of radishes and a basket of strawberries. This farm stand, though, has a raw bar, and naturally, the oysters are exceptional."

Sweet Amalia also has an oyster farm on the Cape May peninsula, where they bring in fresh catches to supplement a "casual, colorful" menu that Chef Melissa McGrath changes weekly, based on what's in season. Lately, these offerings have included a BLT piled with fresh heirloom tomatoes, grilled eggplant sandwiches, and a peach and arugula salad.

"Certain standbys remain no matter the month, like the fried oysters on a grilled buttered roll and the Italian cold-cut hoagies," the Times added.

So, you can grab some fresh eggs and produce before (or after) ordering a bite to eat at the counter. Seating is only available at the picnic tables outside, and the eatery does not take reservations.

Sweet Amalia is located at 994 Route 40, Newfield NJ, 08344. They are open Thursday through Monday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

View the full list of the 50 best restaurants in America here.