Prepare The Perfect Picnic
Dining alfresco? Bergen’s sandwich shops and parks are an ideal combo for a relaxing meal outside.
After a week filled with dreary days, we’re certain you’re ready for some sunshine and fresh air. There are some outdoor Easter egg hunts this weekend, and Earth Day events always connect us with Mother Nature. Another way to spend some leisurely time outside is to take your crew on a picnic—National Picnic Day, after all, is coming up on April 23.
In a county teeming with great restaurants, why head out for a picnic? For starters, a picnic can create a unique bonding time for family and friends and allows everyone to get some fresh air and valuable vitamin D. Then, of course, there’s delicious food, of which you decide the menu. Pack anything from fresh salads to last night’s leftovers to Chinese takeout—the world is your oyster. (Mmm, oysters.)
Our go-to picnic item? That’s easy: an overstuffed sandwich from one of Bergen’s great shops. Below are just some of our favorite delis and sandwich shops, some of them winners in last year’s Readers’ Choice Contest and all of them highly rated:
• Anna Maria’s Deli, East Rutherford. This neighborhood favorite will pile high any meats of your choice, from porchetta and roasted chicken to prosciutto and imported tuna. Vegetarians can build their own sandwiches or select from more than a half-dozen specialty options.
*216 Hoboken Ave., East Rutherford, 201.438.7203
• Italian Riviera, Waldwick. Named Best Italian Deli in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Contest, this spot specializes in both hot and cold sandwiches (and entrées too). The roast beef is perfect when you’re in the mood for a cool sandwich, while the eggplant parm is always a hit for those wanting something warm.
*8 E. Prospect St., Waldwick, 201.652.9415
• Grosso’s La Strada, Midland Park. From signature subs to hot subs to specialty subs, there are dozens of sandwich options at this local standout. The spicy Cuban sandwich (house roasted pork, ham, Swiss, spicy relish, pickles and mustard) is our favorite!
*231 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201.670.9233
• Casa Del Sole, Woodcliff Lake. Home to the “Overstuffed Hero,” this neighborhood fixture can fill anyone’s belly. The classic Casa Del Sole Hero (genoa, ham, capicola and provolone) is the best seller.
*115 Broadway, Woodcliff Lake, 201.391.5671
• Foster Village Kosher Delicatessen, Bergenfield. Serving everything from pastrami and brisket to white fish and chopped liver, the sandwich options here run the gamut.
*469 S. Washington Ave., Bergenfield, 201.384.7100
• Kosher Nosh, Glen Rock. Last year’s choice for best Jewish Deli is the place if you’re looking for pastrami, corned beef or any other overstuffed sandwich. Pro tip: Don’t forget an order of matzah ball soup to go with your sandwich.
*894 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201.445.1186
• Ted’s North Delicatessen, Paramus. Standards at this family-owned deli like turkey and cheese and BLTs are always good choices, as are Ted’s specials such as “The Goomba” (prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes) and The Melrose Chicken (grilled chicken, Swiss, honey mustard).
*314 Spring Valley Rd., Paramus, 201.261.9599
A Park For Your Picnic
Now that your picnic basket is packed with sandwiches, chips, drinks and more, it’s time to choose a spot for your spread. Your backyard is always a great choice, as are popular parks like Darlington Park in Mahwah, Overpeck Park in Leonia and Ridgefield Park, Van Saun Park in Paramus and Palisades Interstate Park along the Hudson River. But here are other options where you can enjoy an alfresco meal and delightful scenery:
• Dahnert’s Lake Park, Garfield. Grassy areas scattered around this 10-acre park are picnic-perfect spots for you and your family. There are plenty of walking trails, a gazebo and a small picturesque lake to enjoy before or after your meal.
• James A. McFaul Environmental Center, Wyckoff. Residents from all over visit the center’s nature exhibits, gardens and trails, but you and your crew can set up on the grass for a quiet picnic.
• Pascack Brook Park, Westwood. Several acres of open grass surround walking trails, a creek and a small pond—they’re ideal for small picnics and get-togethers.
• Riverside Park, Lyndhurst and North Arlington. Most visitors will spend time at this park’s ballfield or the dog park, but you and your family can pick any spot on the lawn for bonding time and an easy bite.
• Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, Ridgewood. This pocket park sits above the hustle and bustle of the town’s business district, so you won’t be disturbed while eating and lounging on the lawn with friends.
Thinking about your next picnic? Share your favorite sandwich shop and picnic location with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.
