What makes the town of Hawthorne so unique and intimate is the outright rejection of allowing chain restaurants to over-populate this town. Hawthorne focuses on supporting local family businesses, creating a close knitted community among their people. This town holds the many hidden gems of tasteful bites, and life changing meals that are bound to get your taste buds watering. Here are the top 3 must haves in Hawthorne New Jersey.
To start your day off right, a trip to Carlos Bagels is just what you need. Carlos Bagels is a family owned Bagel Shop that provides the community with the freshest hand-rolled bagels. At Carlos’s, customers get the privilege of being able to pick from a wide variety of diverse bagels, mixed with endless combinations of breakfast sandwiches. When dining at Carlos’s, it is very important to try the infamous Latte of the Month. The local business has a tradition of creating a limited time, monthly themed latte that sparks great success with customers. This January, Carlos Bagels launched their Good Fortune Latte to bring the good vibes into 2026. The Good Fortune Latte is a caramel latte, with milk, and espresso. To top it off, the latte comes with vanilla sweet foam and a fortune cookie. Carlos Bagels finds a way to out-do themselves monthly, by turning these out-of-the-box concepts into delicious realities. This beloved breakfast spot has been a game-changer for the town of Hawthorne, bringing happiness and good eats to the community.
When it comes to fine dining, no restaurant does it better than Bottagra. Hawthorne’s Bottagra is a modern Italian restaurant that highlights the virtue of a classic Italian dish. Bottagra was first established in 2008, and has skyrocketed in business since. Guests have endless possibilities to pick from on the menu, between signature pasta dishes, mouth watering chicken & veal, and exotic sea foods. All guests who dine at Bottagra are bound to leave with a full stomach and a happy heart. Besides the delicious food, the ambiance and customer service at Bottagra is exquisite. The atmosphere is a warm and luxurious Italian setting, leaving guests feeling relaxed in a wonderful dine-in experience. When in Hawthorne, Bottagra is simply a must have.
What better way to end your day than with a sweet treat. Hawthorne is home to one of the best ice cream shops in North Jersey. The Goffle Creamery is a family owned business that has been serving up smiles since 2021. The Goffle Creamery is best known for their homemade ice cream, balancing between classic and eccentric flavors. Whether you prefer plain vanilla, or are feeling adventurous and ready to try oatmeal cookie, The Creamery is prepared to fulfill your craving. The Goffle Creamery also offers a handful of gelato flavors, Italian ice, milkshakes, banana splits, cakes, and even gourmet milkshakes. The Goffle Creamery’s signature gourmet milkshakes are giant drinkable treats topped with a tall mountain of whip cream and decorated with toppings based on the exotic flavor you choose. They are offered in flavors such as Strawberry Cheesecake, Nutter Butter, S’mores, and more! The friendly atmosphere leaves guests feeling warm inside, and ready to delight in their delectable ice cream. The Goffle Creamery is a top tier ice cream spot that has brought such a positive light into the town of Hawthorne. This sweet spot is a must have when in Hawthorne New Jersey.