Don Pepe Restaurant

- 844 McCarter Hwy, Newark, NJ 07102

For nearly four decades, Don Pepe Restaurant has been a cornerstone of the New Jersey culinary scene, a true institution located right on McCarter Highway in Newark. Established in 1981 by Pepe and Luisa Lopez, who brought the classic culinary artistry of their home town of Galicia, Spain, to the Garden State, Don Pepe offers an authentic and unforgettable dining experience blending the best of Spanish and Portuguese traditions. It stands as a beacon for those seeking genuine European flavors, enormous portions, and an old-world charm that is increasingly rare in modern dining.

Known for its commitment to fresh, flavorful specialties, Don Pepe is celebrated across New Jersey for its incredible seafood, particularly its Nova Scotia lobsters and array of shellfish dishes, alongside an impressive selection of USDA graded and hand-selected steaks. The menu is a delightful showcase of perennial favorites, including the famous Paella, the must-try Gambas a Ajillo (Shrimp in Garlic), and hearty meat dishes. This unique combination of classic cuisine, generous hospitality, and a cozy yet upscale atmosphere ensures that Don Pepe remains a top-tier choice for lunch, dinner, and all special occasions.

Don Pepe Restaurant is conveniently located at 844 McCarter Hwy, Newark, NJ 07102, USA. Situated near the heart of Newark's bustling center and easily accessible from major roadways, it serves as a central hub for diners coming from all parts of New Jersey and even neighboring states, as noted by enthusiastic customers who travel for the experience. The location on McCarter Highway (Route 21) provides excellent connectivity, whether arriving by car or public transit.

The restaurant places a high emphasis on accessibility for all patrons. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance, designated wheelchair accessible parking lot, accessible restroom facilities, and ample wheelchair accessible seating. Parking is often a crucial consideration in Newark, and Don Pepe addresses this comprehensively by providing a free parking lot specifically for customers, along with the convenience of valet parking service. Additionally, there is the potential for free street parking in the vicinity. For those utilizing public transportation, the restaurant is well-positioned, being just a short distance from major transit hubs like Newark Penn Station, which is a focal point for NJ Transit, Amtrak, and PATH services.

Don Pepe provides a full spectrum of professional dining services, catering to both intimate meals and large-scale celebrations, all executed with a commitment to quality and efficiency.

• Dine-in and Table Service: Offering a proper sit-down dining experience with attentive table service for lunch and dinner.
• Reservations Accepted: Guests are encouraged to make reservations, particularly for lunch and dinner, to secure seating, reflecting the restaurant's popularity.
• Takeout: Meals can be prepared for convenient takeout for those who prefer to enjoy the cuisine at home.
• Catering and Banquets: Renowned for its ability to host large private parties and events. Don Pepe offers multiple banquet rooms capable of accommodating between 25 and 400 guests, suitable for anything from intimate dinners to elaborate weddings, with customizable party packages.
• Full Bar Onsite: A bar is available, offering a great selection of alcohol, including beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and a distinguished wine list. Happy hour drinks are also available.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The restaurant is good for kids and provides high chairs for younger diners, making it an excellent spot for family groups.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Valet Parking: A stress-free parking solution for customers visiting the popular Newark area.

The enduring appeal of Don Pepe Restaurant stems from its distinctive features and exceptional culinary highlights, making it a sought-after destination for diners throughout New Jersey.

• Dual Spanish and Portuguese Cuisine: Uniquely masters both culinary traditions, offering classic dishes from both Spain and Portugal, expanding the range of fresh seafood and hearty meat options available.
• World-Class Shellfish and Seafood: A primary highlight is the fresh seafood, including the famed Nova Scotia lobsters (available in sizes from 2 lbs to 6 lbs), various preparations of shrimp (such as Camarones en Salsa de Ajo—Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, noted as a house specialty), and the signature Mariscada Don Pepe, a rich shellfish casserole in a tomato, brandy, and wine sauce.
• Prime-Grade Steaks: Features a selection of USDA graded and hand-selected cuts of beef, including Prime New York Steak, Prime Aged Sirloin, and Prime Porter House, guaranteeing quality and generous portions. Specialty meat dishes like Solomillo a la Sevillana (Sirloin Sevillana Style) are also offered.
• Paella Excellence: Offers several varieties of this classic Spanish rice dish, including Paella Marinera (all shellfish) and Paella Valenciana (shellfish, chicken, Spanish sausage), prepared authentically.
• Atmosphere and Charm: The setting is described as "old school," combining old-world charm with an elegant, comfortable feel that is both romantic and upscale, yet casual and cozy enough for groups and families.
• Outstanding Beverage Selection: Highly praised for its great wine list, featuring imported Spanish wines, and its offering of great cocktails and a solid beer selection to complement the rich flavors of the cuisine.
• Great Dessert and Coffee: Features a selection of desserts and great coffee, ensuring a satisfying conclusion to the dining experience.
• Late-Night Food Options: Caters to diners seeking late-night meals, offering flexibility for varied schedules.

To make a reservation for lunch, dinner, or to inquire about hosting a private party in one of their spacious banquet rooms, please contact Don Pepe Restaurant using the information below. Given its popularity, making reservations is highly recommended.

Address: 844 McCarter Hwy, Newark, NJ 07102, USA

Phone: (973) 623-4662 or +1 973-623-4662

Choosing Don Pepe Restaurant is choosing a piece of Newark history and a guarantee of culinary richness. What makes it particularly worth the trip for any New Jersey resident is the unparalleled combination of massive portions, fresh seafood, and prime meats, all delivered in a time-honored, old-school atmosphere. Patrons rave about the sheer quality and quantity of the food, from the spectacular Paella filled with a variety of seafood to the perfectly cooked garlic shrimp and steaks. It’s a place where you truly get a "bang for your buck."

This restaurant is a top contender for those seeking an upscale-casual environment for group gatherings, family dinners, or a romantic evening. The provision of private dining rooms for banquets up to 400 people is a notable feature for those planning major life events. The attention to detail, from the signature Gambas a Ajillo to the comprehensive wine list, reflects decades of commitment to fine Spanish and Portuguese culinary artistry, ensuring that every visit to Don Pepe Restaurant is not just a meal, but a classic New Jersey dining tradition.

Don Pepe Restaurant

844 McCarter Hwy, Newark, NJ 07102, USA