Authentic Italian Spots in Hoboken for Pre-Game Dinner
Hoboken is famous globally as the birthplace of Frank Sinatra and the site of the first recorded baseball game. But for locals across New Jersey and New York, Hoboken is famous for one thing above all else: unbelievable, multi-generational, incredibly authentic Italian food.
Because Hoboken connects directly to MetLife Stadium via the NJ Transit train system (with a quick transfer at Secaucus Junction), it is strategically the greatest place you can possibly stay or eat before a World Cup match. You get the incredible urban vibe of a walkable city, waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline, and the absolute best Italian dining on the East Coast, all while being a 20-minute train ride from the stadium gates.
The Italian restaurants in Hoboken range from old-school red-sauce joints where the menus haven't changed in 60 years, to modern, upscale concepts. This guide highlights the absolute elite tier of Hoboken Italian dining.
Leo's Grandevous
Established in 1939, Leo's is not just a restaurant; it is a living museum of Hoboken history. The walls are completely covered in photographs of Frank Sinatra, many of which are original and signed. The jukebox plays a constant stream of Sinatra classics. It is loud, it is dark, and it is absolutely magnificent.
Must Order: The legendary "Half and Half" - a plate divided evenly between cheese ravioli and spaghetti, smothered in their signature meat sauce, accompanied by two massive meatballs.
Vibe: Old school, nostalgic, unpretentious. The waiters wear white shirts and ties.
Wait Time Warning: They do not take reservations. On a matchday weekend, the line will be down the block. Arrive before 5:00 PM if you want a table.
Other Unmissable Italian Spots
Augustino's
Augustino's is notoriously the hardest reservation to get in the entire state of New Jersey. They only have about eight tables inside a very small storefront on Washington Street. If you manage to get a table, you will be treated to the best chicken parmigiana of your life.
Otto Strada
A brilliant modern take on classic Italian. They feature a massive wood-fired brick oven that produces incredible pizzas to accompany your pasta. The portions are huge, the atmosphere is vibrant and young, and the food is consistently excellent.
The Hoboken Transit Strategy
Do not try to drive or take an Uber from Hoboken to the stadium on matchday! You will be sitting in gridlock traffic on Route 3. The train is your secret weapon.
1. Walk to the Hoboken PATH / NJ Transit Terminal (located at the southern tip of Washington St).
2. Take any NJ Transit train heading to Secaucus Junction (usually a 10-minute ride).
3. Follow the massive crowds to transfer at Secaucus onto the Meadowlands Rail Line, which drops you off directly at the stadium gates.