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Portuguese Fisherman

Portuguese Fisherman, 11 Jackson St, South River

4.7
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.7 out of 5 (136 Ratings)
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0.6 miles Starland Ballroom
About Portuguese Fisherman
The Spotlight on Portuguese Fisherman

Authentic Portuguese Fare in a Laid-back Setting

Located in the heart of South River, just a short drive from local concert venues, Portuguese Fisherman offers a cozy, casual escape with the bold flavors of coastal Portugal. Known for its fresh seafood, hearty portions, and family-run vibe, this restaurant is a local favorite that combines traditional recipes with a welcoming atmosphere. The rustic interior and warm lighting make it feel like a hidden gem, perfect for starting your concert night with something special.

Why Concert-goers love it

Its close proximity to music venues makes Portuguese Fisherman a convenient pre-show choice. The friendly staff and efficient service help you enjoy a full meal without stressing about time. The dining area tends to stay relatively quiet and relaxed, even during peak hours, which is ideal if you’re looking to fuel up before the energy of a live show. With generous portion sizes and a menu full of shareable seafood platters, it’s great for groups and easy to split.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking to share large seafood dishes and toast before a show
  • Solo travelers enjoying a good meal before a night of music
  • Couples on a romantic weekend with a taste for authentic cuisine
  • Fans wanting a laid-back, flavorful pre-show experience
  • Budget-conscious music lovers – prices are reasonable for the amount of food

What People Say

Reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable highlight the authenticity of the dishes, especially the paella and grilled octopus. Many guests mention the friendly, attentive service and note that it’s the kind of place where the staff remembers your name. Diners love the value – massive portions at fair prices – and say it’s a great spot to unwind before heading to a show. The cozy, family atmosphere also gets frequent praise.

Areas for Improvement

While the food is consistently praised, some reviewers note that the decor could use a modern refresh. Parking can be a bit tight on busy nights, so it’s worth arriving a few minutes early. Also, the menu is heavily seafood-focused, so picky eaters might have fewer options.

The Bottom Line

For concert-goers looking for authentic Portuguese flavors, quick service, and great value just minutes from the venue, Portuguese Fisherman delivers a memorable meal before the music starts.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Portuguese
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Opening Hours
Dinner
Wed-Sun 12:00 pm-8:00 pm

Portuguese Fisherman Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Portuguese Fisherman is #1 of 35 things to do in South River

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: 50suzettes, Clark, New Jersey
Wed 26 Feb, 2025
l Party of 3 Made dinner reservations Authentic Portuguese food! Complimentary bread loved the flavored butter! Hubby enjoyed the special: Barril monk fish and shrimp with rice Just like the meal we...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Guide23973215458, Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania
Fri 1 Nov, 2024
l The meal and service was great. We had the clams with white wine and garlic make sure you save the bread for dipping. Main course was delicious we had the Grouper and the Garlic Chicken. MMMM...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: fletchlives1966, Old Bridge, New Jersey
Sat 27 Jul, 2024
l It’s been almost three years since I visited this wonderful restaurant and it’s still amazing. The food, ambience, staff, everything. The sangria is tasty, and did I mention, that the food is...

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Portuguese Fisherman 11 Jackson St, South River