Enjoy Al Fresco: Outdoor Dining in Totowa, NJ

Nestled in the heart of New Jersey lies the inviting town of Totowa, where outdoor dining has become a vibrant and thriving scene. With its blend of charming local eateries and upscale dining options, Totowa offers residents and visitors alike a delightful array of al fresco dining experiences. Let's delve into the diverse world of outdoor dining in this picturesque town.

Totowa's outdoor dining offerings cater to every taste and mood, from a quick bite to a leisurely meal. Whether you're in the mood for Italian classics, juicy burgers, or exotic international cuisine, you'll find it on Totowa's bustling streets and scenic riverfront.

The Local Favorites

Every town has its local gems, and Totowa is no exception. Outdoor dining enthusiasts should add these establishments to their must-try list:

The adjacent Totowa Riverwalk, a beautiful pedestrian pathway along the Passaic River, is home to several waterfront restaurants offering stunning views and delectable menus. These include the cozy Riverdale Diner and the upscale Communipaw, both serving up New Jersey classics with a twist.

Riverdale Diner

A local institution since the 1950s, the Riverdale Diner is a beloved Totowa fixture. Their expansive outdoor seating area, featuring a mix of picnic tables and umbrella-shaded tables, provides a casual and comfortable setting for enjoying the picturesque river views. Their menu is a delightful mix of classic American diner fare and innovative, health-conscious options.

Don't miss their signature Riverdale omelette or the mouthwatering summit burger, a towering concoction of two beef patties, bacon, and pepper jack cheese. Save room for their famous homemade pie – the banana cream is a house specialty.

Communipaw

For a more upscale dining experience, Communipaw offers a refined outdoor seating area with striking views of the Passaic River. This sophisticated eatery serves contemporary American cuisine with influences from around the globe. The menus change seasonally, ensuring a diverse and exciting dining experience.

Start with the creamy lobster bisque, then indulge in the perfectly grilled dry-aged strip steak, coupled with a smoked red wine reduction. For dessert, their dark chocolate ganache tart is a rich, velvety treat that's well worth the calories.

Beyond the Riverfront

Totowa's outdoor dining scene extends beyond the riverwalk, offering a variety of experiences in the heart of the town:

Venture to Totowa's Main Street for a taste of international flavors, lively atmosphere, and unique outdoor settings. Here, you'll find خیافدار, an inviting Persian restaurant praised for its stunning outdoor lantern-lit courtyard. Meanwhile, the charming La Muraglia Bistrot represents Totowa's Italian heritage with its classic trattoria fare and cozy alfresco dining.

Vandara

A mainstay of Totowa's dining scene, Vandara is a bustling, family-friendly spot offering a blend of Mexican and American favorites. Their extensive outdoor seating area, complete with colorful umbrellas and vibrant murals, creates a festive atmosphere perfect for all ages.

Start with the classic nachos or go for something creative, like the taqueria-style tacos al pastor. For the main event, the heaping skillet of loaded fries, topped with cheese, bacon, and jalapenos, is a fan favorite. Be sure to save some room for the signature churros, dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with warm chocolate sauce.

La Muraglia Bistrot

Totowa's Little Italy, centered around Main Street, is just a stone's throw from the town's historic red-brick schools. Here, La Muraglia Bistrot serves up classic Italian American fare in a charming, old-world setting. The restaurant's exterior is adorned with classic Italian murals, while its outdoor tables offer a perfect spot for people-watching.

The PLAN | PLANO Buono (the good plan) offers exceptional value, with choices including soup or salad, house-made pasta, and a glass of wine or beer. For a taste of tradition, opt for the eggplant parmesan, tender breaded slices of eggplant layered with cheese and served over spaghetti.

As the sun sets on another day in Totowa, the town's outdoor dining scene continues to thrive. From waterfront views to lively courtyards, there's always a new culinary adventure to be discovered. So gather your friends and family, step outside, and savor the flavors of Totowa.