Jordan Bentley Eats in New Jersey: 7 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Paterson

Must-try foods in Paterson

• Beef Shawarma
  Beef ShawarmaSlow-roasted on a vertical rotisserie and thinly sliced, this beef is marinated overnight in a blend of sumac, allspice, and garlic. It is traditionally served in a wrap with tahini sauce, pickles, and onions, or as a platter. Recently opened Saja & Shawarma (2026) has become a trending hotspot for this classic.
• Knafeh
  KnafehA legendary Middle Eastern dessert made of shredded filo pastry or semolina dough, layered with gooey Nabulsi cheese, soaked in rosewater syrup, and topped with crushed pistachios. In South Paterson, also known as 'Little Palestine,' bakeries like Nablus Pastry are local institutions for this warm, stretchy treat.
• Lahmacun
  LahmacunOften called 'Turkish Pizza,' this is a thin, crispy piece of dough topped with a minced meat mix (lamb or beef), vegetables, and herbs like parsley and onion. It is a staple at Turkish eateries like Doner Point, where it is served with fresh greens and lemon to be rolled up and eaten by hand.
• Halal Birria Tacos
  Halal Birria TacosA trending fusion favorite in 2026, these are Mexican-style tacos made with slow-cooked, tender halal beef and melted cheese, served with a rich consommé for dipping. Places like Guacado Mexican Grill have popularized this dish, ensuring the meat is strictly Zabihah halal to cater to the local community.
• Hand-Rolled Warak Dawali
  Hand-Rolled Warak DawaliDelicate grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, simmered in lemon juice and olive oil. Unlike mass-produced versions, Paterson's authentic kitchens pride themselves on hand-rolling these daily, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Chicken Over Rice
  Chicken Over RiceA beloved street-food classic elevated by local spots like Silk City Platters. It consists of seasoned grilled chicken chopped and served over yellow basmati rice, smothered in a signature creamy 'white sauce' and a fiery red hot sauce, accompanied by a crisp side salad.

Trip guide

• About Paterson
  About PatersonPaterson, New Jersey, established in 1792, is classified as the first planned industrial city in the United States. Its development was initiated by the Society for the Establishment of Useful Manufactures, a group led by Alexander Hamilton, to utilize the waterpower of the 77-foot Great Falls of the Passaic River.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Paterson is during the shoulder seasons of May through June and September through October, when mild temperatures between 60°F and 80°F are ideal for viewing the Great Falls at their peak volume. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season but can be humid and crowded, while winter offers significant off-peak discounts despite cold, snowy conditions. For a unique experience.
• Getting around
  Getting around Paterson

  • NJ Transit Rail (Main/Bergen County Line) Trains run from Hoboken Terminal directly to Paterson Station in about 35 minutes; travelers from Manhattan can take the PATH train or ferry to Hoboken to connect.
  • NJ Transit Bus & Private Jitneys NJ Transit routes 161 and 190 provide frequent service from Port Authority Bus Terminal, while independent 'Spanish Transportation' jitney minibuses offer 24/7 express service between Paterson and NYC.
  • Local Bus Network & Rideshare NJ Transit operates an extensive local bus network (routes 703, 704, 712) for intra-city travel, supplemented by 24/7 availability of Uber, Lyft, and local taxi companies.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Navigate the city primarily by car or rideshare, as public transportation options are limited and the layout is best suited for driving.
  • Stick to well-populated and brightly lit areas like the Great Falls National Historical Park, especially when exploring after sunset.
  • Experience the city's diverse culinary identity by visiting the 'Little Lima' and 'Little Istanbul' neighborhoods for authentic Peruvian and Middle Eastern dining.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Paterson

  • Quarry Lawn and River Walk: A newly opened $7.6 million park development at the Great Falls featuring scenic river views and community event spaces.
  • Mr. G’s Diner: The viral reopening of this historic 1940s modular diner, now trending for its 'comeback' atmosphere and signature spicy shrimp and grits.
• See Passaic County↗
  See Passaic CountyThe official tourism website for Passaic County, New Jersey, featuring travel guides, attractions, and events for the city of Paterson and surrounding areas.