Oceanos Restaurant, Fairlawn, NJ:
A Dining Review

Oceanos Seafood restaurant. Fairlawn, NJ, A dining review

Oceanos: A Culinary Gem in Northern New Jersey

Oceanos Restaurant
2-27 Saddle River Road
Fair Lawn, NJ

Best NJ Restaurant

Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.

Oceanos:  Restaurant Highlights

Fare: Mediterranean-Seafood

Price: Expensive

Food Quality: Well-executed. Seafood is sourced daily.

Service: Welcoming, professional, and attentive.

Ambiance/Decor: Old world elegant with lots of polished dark wood and dim lighting,

Overall Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Note: Four-star Rating System from 1/2 star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class

Noise Level: High during peak times

Dress: Upscale casual

Recommended For: Diners who enjoy excellent sea food in an upscale, elegant setting.

Not Recommended For: Diners who may prefer simpler food, lower prices, and less trendy ambiance.

Recommended dishes: When available; The Lavraki, Bronzino - lean Mediterranean white fish, mild moist tender flakes; the Dover Sole, fresh fish from Holland, firm texture with a fine delicate taste; and for landlubbers, and the 22 oz Rib Eye Steak with grilled shallots demi sauce.

Liquor:  Extensive international wine list with over 5,000 wines, specialty cocktails. Bar scene is vibrant.

Renowned as one of Northern New Jersey’s premier seafood destinations, Oceanos is a family-owned treasure helmed by Nicos (Nick) and his father, Executive Chef Peter Panteleakis. With decades of expertise, Chef Peter personally sources the freshest catches from New York’s Fulton Fish Market, ensuring impeccable quality in every dish.

Step into an elegant space featuring two dining rooms adorned with polished dark wood, soft lighting, and grass-cloth walls accented by vintage sailing yacht photographs. Crisp white linens and sophisticated black-and-white décor create a refined yet inviting setting, perfect for romantic evenings, business gatherings, or milestone celebrations. For intimate conversations, request one of the secluded back booths.

In warmer months, dine outdoors in a lush tropical oasis brimming with vibrant greenery, cascading blooms, and twinkling chandeliers—a serene escape that complements the restaurant’s coastal charm.

The warm, energetic vibe begins with a gracious welcome from the staff and extends to attentive service by polished waiters and bartenders. Chef Peter’s dedication shines beyond the seafood-centric menu; he crafts artisanal bread and desserts daily, adding a homemade touch to every meal.

Oceanos celebrates Mediterranean flavors with Greek influences, emphasizing simplicity to let fresh ingredients shine. Signature dishes include whole grilled fish, seasoned with lemon and served alongside julienned vegetables. Begin your meal with the renowned raw bar or shellfish starters, paired with warm bread and a globally inspired olive medley featuring peppercorn and chili accents for a subtle kick.

Hours & Reservations: Open for lunch Monday through Friday, Sunday brunch, and dinner daily. Note: Weekend waits can exceed two hours without reservations.

Oceanos welcomes guests for major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Mother’s Day.

Updated: January 2025

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