It may surprise you to learn that Woodland’s dining scene has only blossomed into a true culinary destination in recent years. What was once a quiet corner of New Jersey has quietly transformed, with innovative chefs and passionate restaurateurs putting this unassuming town firmly on the foodie map.
Billy Boy’s Tavern
$ | (609) 726-1355 | WEBSITE
Cozy and welcoming, Billy Boy’s Tavern is a down-to-earth spot nestled in the peaceful pines near Woodland. There are a handful of wooden tables and some bar stools to settle into for a satisfying, unceremonious meal. But come evening, you’ll want to be at the lively bar with a $4 Rolling Rock bottle and a plate of their large, juicy burger. The menu spans classic bar fare, and you can be certain about leaving satisfied.
The tasty, hearty, and comforting cheesesteak is particularly lovely, especially when paired with the friendly, attentive bartenders who keep things moving even when the place is packed.
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
$ | (609) 893-3000 | WEBSITE
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard should be enjoyed at a small table, balanced on a counter stool, or taken outside to the sidewalk on a warm June evening. That’s because Rita’s—a cozy frozen treat spot that’s a bit tight but always clean—makes the most consistently smooth, creamy, and fruity Italian ice in the area. You’ll want to order extra of whatever’s swirling in the machines behind the counter at Rita’s cheerful setup, be it the mango Italian ice or the rich vanilla custard.
Shogun Wok
$ | (609) 735-0081 | WEBSITE
A red paper lantern glows above Shogun Wok’s entrance—your first hint that the pork fried rice should be on your order. The hint that you should (try) and get it with a side of their house lo mein will be because it’s the most requested. Or, if you’re lucky, on suggestion from the friendly staff at this cozy, counter-service Chinese and sushi spot in Woodland. They’ll also nudge you towards adding a drizzle of sweet and sour sauce, which you should get too.
Country Lakes Pub & Grill
$ | (609) 893-9239 | WEBSITE
Some might say that warmth comes from a crackling fireplace or a cozy blanket. But in our honest opinion, warmth also radiates from Country Lakes Pub & Grill. This rustic and welcoming Browns Mills spot never fails to put us at ease and the same applies to ordering a basket of wings while you’re waiting for your burger to arrive.
All in all, it’s one of south Jersey’s most reliable comfort zones and grabbing a seat by the wood accents is a no-brainer if that friendly community vibe makes an appearance.
Starbucks
$ | (609) 769-1229 | WEBSITE
With its familiar green signage, spacious interior, and view of the bustling street, it would be very easy to overlook this coffee shop in Woodland. But this Starbucks is a solid choice. The service spans friendly and professional interactions, like remembering regular orders and preferences, and it’s these personal touches that pair wonderfully with the efficient operations.
A caramel macchiato with extra shots and a couple of pastries, which satisfy with their consistent quality, turn this convenient location into somewhere reliably pleasant.
5 Star Deli & Grill
$$ | (609) 735-2500 | WEBSITE
With its straightforward signage and no-frills interior, 5 Star Deli & Grill looks and feels like somewhere you pull into after a long drive when you need something reliable. Everything about this deli near Woodland is convenient. You’re treated like a regular customer as soon as you walk up to the counter and the portions are similarly satisfying.
A plate of crispy fried chicken with that tasty white sauce could easily make for a solid meal and what it might lack in fancy presentation, 5 Star Deli & Grill makes up for in quality and ease.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (732) 941-7224 | WEBSITE
Jersey Mike’s is right there in Woodland, where the hiss of the grill and the clatter of the slicer are the constant background music. Jersey Mike’s signature aroma is the fragrance. This is New Jersey’s most legit sub shop. The sandwiches are made-to-order, served fresh, and have that generous meat portion and crisp freshness that can’t be replicated. You’ll want the Big Kahuna cheese steak, the Salsa Verde Chicken Cheese Steak, and the gluten-free options for sure.
Order, grab a drink from the cooler, and settle into a spot at the clean, organized counter.
Nonna’s Place Ristorante Italiano
$ | (732) 716-0002 | WEBSITE
Nonna’s Place feels less like a restaurant and more like a grandmother’s kitchen where you plan to linger far too long. So many regulars at this strip-mall Italian spot in Whiting are welcomed like returning grandchildren, and you’ll understand why once you experience the warmth of the friendly staff and their sensational meatball parm.
There are all manner of comforting flavors in this dish—rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, tender meatballs—and it all comes together in generous portions that speak to homemade care and tradition.
Sugar Plum Fairy Bakery
With its hand-lettered signage and homespun-feeling interior, Sugar Plum Fairy Bakery is a reminder that there’s more heart to be found in a bakery that hasn’t been designed by a corporate team. The charming dessert spot in Woodland offers a tempting selection that spans delightful custom cakes, to foil-wrapped cherry almond cookies and treats. Order a freshly brewed coffee and enjoy vibrant funfetti-sprinkled house-made cupcakes.
That death-by-chocolate cake is an indulgent affair but is still perfectly moist and with classic holiday tunes on repeat, it’s hard not to feel cozy here.
Papi’s Pizza
$ | (609) 893-5447 | WEBSITE
At Papi’s Pizza in Woodland, every pizza is made fresh to order. This family-owned spot knows that there aren’t many better combinations than crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and generously topped cheese. The restaurant is mostly casual dining but there are a handful of booths if you want to settle in and eat there, and sitting down with the Sicilian works pie or jalapeno poppers is a very good idea. But if you’re grabbing takeout, the calzone with perfect cheese ratio is always a solid choice.
No 1 Chinese Restaurant
$ | (609) 893-8868 | WEBSITE
No 1 Chinese Restaurant goes for maximum flavor impact via its sizzling woks in back. The reliable Chinese spot in Woodland, off a main thoroughfare, has always been a popular destination for takeout and that’s without question thanks to its consistency. The shrimp in general tso’s sauce are sufficiently plump with nice snap to the bite and perfectly seasoned throughout. Find us at our kitchen counter digging into our own generous portion.
Romanza Pizza & Pasta
$ | (609) 894-9200 | WEBSITE
Grabbing a slice or two from Romanza Pizza & Pasta has long been one of our favourite it-would-be-rude-not-to activities around Woodland and, in fact, everything from this local hidden gem hits the mark. Their pizza—crispy, perfectly sauced, and generously cheesed—is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Expect to be greeted warmly, expect to have a friendly chat with staff like Jose, and expect to leave very satisfied.
Their exceptional service, like delivering to stranded customers, is also worth noting.