True New Jersey residents know that our lovely Garden State is chock full of perks: there are diners open at all hours of the day, a (sometimes) quick drive down the shore, and, of course, delicious Italian food at our disposal just about everywhere — especially in Hoboken and Jersey City. And while it’s not hard to get the best pizza in Hoboken and Jersey City, getting good pasta is a different story. We covered the best pasta spots in Hoboken, so now we’re sharing the best Italian restaurants in Jersey City for delicious pasta. Whether you’re craving spaghetti, fettuccini, ravioli, gnocchi, or something else, we’ve got you covered. Read on for the best places to go for pasta in Jersey City.
15 Fox Place | 15 Fox Place
One of Jersey City’s best-kept secrets, this by-reservation-only restaurant is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Literally situated inside of a house (hence the name), diners are seated in one of a few intimate rooms aptly named The Library, The Patio, The Garden Room, and more, and everyone is treated to a six-course prix fixe menu that is always a surprise. A new menu each Monday means there is always something to look forward to, but the sample menu on the site includes handmade ravioli with Sunday sauce and Garganelli with brandied shrimp in cream sauce — that’s enough to pique our interest.
Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard
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Delectable, house-made pasta paired with an incredible view of the Manhattan skyline? It’s the perfect combo, and you’ll find it at Battello. While some of the pasta dishes rotate seasonally, the classics include gnocchi and squid ink Torchio. Gluten-free options are also available.
Chickie’s | 236 Pavonia Avenue
Chickie’s moved into its Hamilton Park location back in December and has quickly become a go-to spot for many locals. Though many come for the thick, crispy square pizza, one of its notable dishes is the spicy rigatoni with gigantic noodles and a sauce that’s absolutely delicious. There’s also shrimp scampi, linguini + clams, ravioli, and more. This place is known to get crowded, especially around 7PM on the weekends — so be sure to plan ahead.
Corto | 507 Palisade Avenue
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Full of charm, Corto is a must-try. The menu is small but ambitious — each item a thoughtful take of rustic Italian classics. The pasta is made fresh daily – so you know it’s delicious. Pasta is indisputably the highlight of the menu, a perfect showcase of “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” The sauce is usually made from a shortlist of herbs, cheese, and sometimes cured meat. The flavors are simple, and the portions restrained, but when paired with the right pasta shapes that bring out the merit of the sauce, the result is stellar.
ITA Italian Kitchen | 682 Bergen Avenue
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This Journal Square spot is focused on honoring old-world Italian classics with a modern twist. The bread, pizza, and pasta are all made in-house, and gluten-free and vegan options are available. The menu features all the favorites, including spaghetti pomodoro, fettuccine Alfredo, and rigatoni bolognese. The fresh taste here is sure to hit the spot.
Read More: The Best Spots for Gnocchi in Hoboken + Jersey City
Laico’s | 67 Terhune Avenue
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Another old standby that looks unassuming enough (kind of like an old house), this is a rare gem of a find in the Greenville section of Jersey City. After perusing the extensive wine list, check out the Paglia e Fieno with shrimp and scallops in a vodka cream sauce or the fettuccine Alfredo. The old-school Italian vibe and delectable food will keep diners coming back for more, promise.
Luna | 279 Grove Street
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Luna’s indoor and outdoor tables are cozy and romantic. With seating at the bar, dining rooms, and loft, there’s plenty of room to mangia under the moon. The pasta is handmade. The Cacio e Pepe is authentic and rich, and as per its name, Cacio (cheese) and Pepe (pepper) is a classic Roman dish. Another delectable pasta choice is the Mountain and Sea: fettuccine with porcini, shiitake, and spinach, in a creamy red sauce tossed with shrimp.
Porta | 135 Newark Avenue
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Meaning “door” in Italian, Porta is literally covered with doors of all colors that are scattered throughout this gigantic, high-ceilinged warehouse-turned-restaurant, with an awesome roof bar to boot. Do yourself a favor and get the house-made ricotta or mozzarella as an appetizer – you’ll literally be scraping remnants of this cheese off your plate. When it comes to pasta, Porta serves up a lovely summer risotto with sun-dried tomato, basil, and pesto; fettuccine with gorgonzola cream, arugula, Parmigiano Reggiano, + black pepper; orecchiette with San Marzano tomatoes, sausage, cherry peppers, olives, + cheese; and more.
See More: Where to Find Delicious Bruschetta in Hoboken + Jersey City
Porto Leggero | 185 Hudson Street
Porto Leggero is an upscale, elegant dining experience. The place itself has tall windows to set the ambiance and a cool bar area. While there are many delicious options to choose from, the winner here is the pappardelle con vodka. It’s served with peas in a light tomato basil sauce, and the pasta itself is exceptional.
Renato’s Pizza Masters | 278 Central Avenue
Don’t let the name fool you — while this is a great stop for pizza, there’s also an extensive pasta list as well. At this Italian spot with an enormous menu, diners have the option to choose from spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, linguine, shells, whole wheat penne, cavatelli, fettuccini, and even gluten-free options. Whatever sauce you’re craving, Renato’s got it: garlic + oil, Alfredo, vodka sauce, bolognese, and more. The pastas are expertly cooked, and when paired with flavorful sauces, you can’t miss here.
Roman Nose | 125 Newark Avenue
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This rustic Italian joint located on Newark Avenue is ideal for a cozy night out — just make sure you plan ahead on the weekends since it doesn’t take reservations. Featuring tons of delicious and fresh pasta dishes like fusilli with pesto and spaghetti carbonara and note-worthy meatballs, Roman Nose also offers local beer on tap or wine from an extensive list. Gluten-free pasta is also available.
Satis Bistro | 212 Washington Street
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This European bistro will make you forget you’re in Jersey and instead like you’ve been transported to a cozy restaurant in Europe. Start your meal here with a chef’s selection of meats and cheeses, enjoy a glass of wine, and opt for the carbonara – it’s a must-try. Its location near the Jersey City waterfront makes for the perfect after-dinner stroll.
The Barge Inn | 324 3rd Street
The Barge Inn planted itself nearly 50 years ago right in Historic Downtown Jersey City and is actually in the neighborhood where the Marto Family, owners of The Barge Inn, grew up. Linda’s family opened shop in 1969 and has been going strong ever since. Every Thursday is All. You. Can. Eat. Pasta (you can thank us later). For a great price, Indulge in pasta until you explode, a glass of house red or white wine, and good company. Choices include linguini, angel hair, penne, and rigatoni with Sunday sauce or marinara. Extra hungry? Add a meatball, sausage, or a house salad.
The Franklin | 159 New York Avenue
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Since opening in Jersey City Heights in 2019, The Franklin has become a go-to for Italian food, brunch favorites, and BYOB. The chef and owner began his early cooking career as a pastry chef, then transitioned into making homemade pasta – and it’s a must-try.
