Finding the best restaurant in New Jersey is always a challenge - after all, we might just be the most culinarily diverse state in the country, and hundreds of new restaurants open each year to stake their claim to glory. So to find the cream of the crop, it helps to look at what the awards are saying, and they don't get any more prestigious than the James Beard Awards. Only a select few restaurants in New Jersey were nominated by them in 2024 - and one happens to be a humble cafe in Haddonfield. Gass & Main, a seasonally-inspired BYOB spot in this charming town, was nominated for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic thanks to the innovative cuisine of head chef Dane DeMarco. After a look at the menu here, it became clear that this laid-back spot might really be worth the hype, so read on to discover this hidden gem in the Garden State culinary scene!
Gass & Main is the definition of a neighborhood joint, but this Haddonfield cafe has some big surprises inside.
It only opened in early 2023, but this seasonally inspired restaurant has gained a big fanbase for its diverse menu and its affordable price point - as well as its BYOB policy.
There is always a big crowd at brunch, where you'll be able to dig into creative, light dishes like this summer hash made with sausage and summer squash.
Or you can go back to your childhood and enjoy some silver dollar pancakes with house-made syrup!
At lunch and dinner, some of the best sandwiches in the state are available, light but filling.
The burger is given a little something extra thanks to pickled shallots and a balsamic bacon jam.
There's also a full menu of entrees, including a summer shrimp and crab linguine that is packed with the fresh flavors of the sea.
Make sure to save room for dessert - this smores-inspired tart looks deliciously indulgent.
Have you dined at Gass & Main in Haddonfield? Do you agree with the James Beard Awards that it might be the best restaurant in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments section! If you want to see the full menu, head on over to the Gass & Main website - but the menu changes regularly with the bounty of the season, so make sure to follow the Gass & Main Facebook page for the latest updates. If you're looking for a place to stay in the area that offers comfort and charm at a reasonable price, check into the Best Western Plus Philadelphia-Pennsauken Hotel, only fifteen minutes away.
But if you want to try another James Beard nominee that's getting rave reviews, head on over to Aberdeen to sample the Portuguese fine dining at Lita!