10 Best American Restaurants in North Bergen

“Ten of us arrived at Waterside Restaurant and Caterers to celebrate Nina’s birthday. Located at 7800 B River Rd, North Bergen NJ 07047, we pulled up in front and valet parking made everything simple and stress-free. Right from the outside, the restaurant gave off an upscale and elegant vibe.

Our dining experience. The décor was modern and stylish, some tables with linen-draped and low lighting that created a warm, inviting atmosphere. Some seating was indoors or outdoors, and the outdoor seating offered a beautiful waterfront view that made the evening feel even more special. One of the best surprises was the DJ. who played some of my favorite jazzy house tracks, which gave our dinner great energy.

The service was excellent — attentive without being overbearing. Our server knew the menu well and gave spot-on recommendations for appetizers and dinner.

Menu Highlights For our appetizer, it was fresh Gulf Shrimp “Al Ajillo” which is roasted garlic and chili infused olive oil. When brought to the table it was bubbling hot in a small cast iron pan which Lauro and I shared. The other people with us had a variety of choices.

Greek style brick chicken with Baby zucchini, fingerling potatoes, infused olive oil, candied lemon. I thought it would have been half chicken but didn’t realize it was Cornish hens. It was good, but slightly overcooked. The fingerling potatoes were perfect as well as the infused olive oil with roasted garlic and baby carrots.

Homemade Lasagna Alla Bolognese was Beef Bolognese, bechamel, fresh mozzarella, Parmigiano. Lauro said he enjoyed it very much because it had flavor and cooked perfectly. The pasta and mozzarella along with the bechamel sauce was delicious.

Filet Mignon à la Carte Shannel’s choice of the filet mignon proved to be a highlight of the evening. Expertly prepared and elegantly plated, the dish was both a culinary and visual triumph. Each bite delivered rich, tender flavor that she thoroughly enjoyed, while the presentation elevated the experience—transforming the plate into a work of art. However, she noted that the mashed potatoes had no flavor at all and seasoning seemed to be forgotten.

The birthday girl, Nina Pan Roasted Salmon. A beautifully executed dish that balances elegance with comfort. The salmon was perfectly pan-roasted—crisp on the outside, tender and flaky within. It rested atop a bed of crushed cannellini beans and escarole, which added a creamy, earthy depth. A thoughtful composition that delivers both flavor and finesse.

Overall Impression and rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5. Waterside Restaurant and Caterers nail the balance of fine dining and a vibrant nightlife vibe. Between the valet, the elegant setting, the creative menu, and the music, everything came together for a truly memorable night. It’s a little pricey, and not worth what they charge therefore, check their website first. It’s the perfect spot for a date, a celebration, or even just treating yourself. Stop by either by yourself or a date and enjoy your evening. The general consensuses of the food was prepared well but lacked seasoning.“

“Had a delicious dessert! Nice atmosphere!“

“Best food item I had was an appetizer (spicy bang bang shrimp) so take from that what you will. Main course meals were a little on the bland side but I'll chalk it up to not getting the chef at his/her best (near the end of the night). My wife and I did have to attempt to tune out a couple "working out" their grievances with one another at the table next to ours, but other than that ambience and views were exemplary. The staff were top notch and very attentive and accommodating (especially with my photogenic wife's request for photos lolz). Satisfactory evening in my book. 👍🏼“

“The manager sucks and seems lazy, plus he's sitting at the bar talking rabbit stories with employees. Because he should be making sure at customers are being served and not waiting 15-20 minutes, before being asked how may I help. And the place was empty ??...
This employee named Luis came
and saved the day, HE'S A SUPERSTAR!!! ????????????.
Also he's working the bar and serving customers!!! Please Applebee's don't lose this GREAT WORKER!! ????‍♂️⛹?‍♀️?“

“We ordered carnita tacos and the presentation was very good, although the meat was a little too salty, you could eat it, the atmosphere is like a bar where you can go to talk with friends but it is also familiar. In conclusion it is nothing wow but it is not the worst either so you can pass on the customer service is good.“

“very good food and reasonable prices“

“good food nice atmosphere“

“Stopped by today after the dentist Dr DeVito, he's the best, 8th st n blvd. I got: Broc Rob lasagna eggplant parm meatballs sliced up a fresh bread and I drove back to Pa a happy "boy. Had to put everything in the back because I start getting hungry on that Rt 80. Everything was excellent!!! Thank you.“

“The entrance to the restaurant/bar is in the hotel lobby. We received a friendly welcome. We were given a small menu. We opted for penne with a tomato sauce. It was very tasty and sufficient. An error in the billing was immediately corrected to our satisfaction. We can recommend it.“

“This diner has the best french fries with cheese and brown gravy. Friendly staff, quick service with great food and an extensive menu. Whatever you’re craving, this is the place to dine.“