Best Casual Restaurants in Linden

It was a late (9 pm) evening decision, to go out for a light bite, post a Jack and Jill Baby Shower. Where to go to get some healthy fare like salad, oysters, mussels and clams? Aha, La Griglia was the answer. And so we were off. As always we were greeted with big smiles and a “great to see you”. The service and food was spectacular. .Be it a quick bite or a 3 course dinner, choosing La Griglia is always a great choice!

My dining experience was 10/10. I initially don’t even want to go out for V-day because I was not in the mood to deal with long lines and crowds. However. I was told a reservation was made and I would not have to wait, we traveled an hour to the location, pulled up to Valet parking… ready and friendly service. We walked in and was kindly greeted by the host, she was polite and knowledgeable of the menu. She checked us in and with no waiting we were seated, initially I was a little nervous about the seating arrangement (we sat on high tops at the bar) however, I told my fiancé… it’s really the best seat in the house. My waitress came over at a punctual timing, informed us again about the menu, took our drink orders and shared some water for us. The remainder of the evening was magical.. we had crab cakes and beef kabobs for appetizers, shrimp pasta and short rib for entree and churro and square bite (phenomenal if you are lactose, I am!!) for dessert. The blessed us with complimentary champagne upon sitting down(this was a package deal with the V-day menu) it was very good( I was afraid it was going to be cheap and bitter… far from) the drink were top tier, I loved that the waitress has a chance to taste the food and drinks prior to that night so that she could give her opinion on recommendations. This was such a help when making decisions on the drinks.. ( That Dusse HIT!!) ohhhhh, before I forget the music selection and then the live DJ… AMAZING!!! I have never been to this restaurant on a regular night however, I look forward to going there for a regular date night, it really impressed me.

Loved our waiter. He's Albanian so i dont want to mess up his name. It starts with a B. Its an attractive restaurant with an excellent menu both food and wine. A bartender with skills. The oysters were excellent. I had the filet mignon and the brussel sprouts. Outstanding.

Everything was great, I had the gnocchi. It was really good.

The bartender pulled double duty tending bar, greeting guests and serving tables. The food and beverage were excellent. Generous portions and very tasty. Definitely will go again for a great meal.