Sam's Rialto Bar & Grill
Restaurant seen on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

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SAM'S RIALTO BAR AND GRILL

Jersey’s Hidden Southern Soul Spot

New Jersey's got its diners, its pizza, its attitude—but Southern soul and seafood? That's where Sam's Rialto Bar and Grill sneaks up on you like a curveball you never saw coming. Tucked into the Garden State's hustle, this classic eatery's been dishing out some of the most jaw-dropping plates for over 30 years. You wouldn't peg Jersey for ribs or fried shrimp, but one stop here, and you'll be grinning like we were—pleasantly shocked and already planning your next visit. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a family legacy that's rewriting the rulebook, one bite at a time.

Family-Run Legacy: Three Decades of Heart and Flavor

Step inside, and it's like walking into a hug—wood-paneled walls, the hum of chatter, a vibe that's pure family-style warmth. “Welcome home,” Brenda Hunter says, her smile as wide as the platters she's carrying. She runs the show now with her son Jake, keeping the flame lit on a dream her husband, Samuel Hunter, sparked three decades ago. “He wanted to share our family recipes,” she says, setting down a basket of fried wings. Share? He succeeded—and then some. This place isn't just about food; it's about heart, and it's the service that steals the spotlight. “That's what keeps ‘em coming back,” Jake chimes in, pouring a drink with a nod. He's right—day after day, year after year, it's the people that make this a staple.

Southern Comfort Meets Seafood: The Signature Menu

The menu's a love letter to the South, with a seafood twist that'll make you forget you're north of the Mason-Dixon. “We cook what we know,” Brenda says, and what they know is comfort—deep, soulful, stick-to-your-ribs good. Start with the Southern Ribs—meaty, smoky, slathered in a sauce that's sweet, tangy, and a little sassy. “Slow-cooked ‘til they fall apart,” Jake brags, and one bite proves it—tender, juicy, a BBQ sermon on a plate. You'll be gnawing the bone, sauce on your chin, and loving every second.

Chicken and Waffles: Sweet and Savory Perfection

Then there's Chicken and Waffles—a combo so perfect it's practically poetry. Crispy, golden chicken perched on a waffle that's fluffy inside, crisp outside, drizzled with syrup that ties it all together. “It's breakfast, it's dinner, it's everything,” Brenda laughs, and she's not wrong—one forkful, and you're in a sweet-savory trance. The Fried Shrimp Platter rolls up next—plump shrimp, battered light and fried crisp, with a crunch that echoes through the room. “Fresh as it gets,” Jake says, and you taste it—briny, golden, pure ocean joy.

Southern Classics: Gizzards, Wings, and Hunter Fries

“Ever tried gizzards?” Brenda asks, sliding over a plate of Chicken Gizzards or Livers. These aren't for the faint-hearted—crisp outside, tender inside, a Southern classic that's bold and funky. “Family recipe,” she winks, and you feel the history—chewy, rich, a taste of the old ways. The Fried Wings follow—hot, crunchy, spiced just right, wings that hit you with flavor and don't let go. “Can't stop at one,” Jake grins, and he's daring you—go ahead, prove him wrong.

The Hunter Fries? Oh, man. These aren't your average spuds—crisp, piled high with toppings that might include cheese, maybe a sprinkle of Southern spice, a sidekick that's a star in its own right. “Named ‘em after Sam,” Brenda says, her voice soft. You taste the pride—crunchy, messy, addictive. And for seafood lovers, the Southern Catfish swims in—cornmeal-crusted, fried to a golden snap, flaky and moist inside. “Like the South moved to Jersey,” Jake chuckles, and it's true—every bite's a road trip below the line.

Drinks and Bar Experience: Perfect Pairings

Drinks? They've got you covered—an arsenal of cocktails, beers, whatever washes down the feast. “Gotta have something cold with the hot,” Brenda says, pouring a draft with a steady hand. Cold's right—whether it's cutting the spice of those wings or balancing the richness of the ribs, it's a perfect match. The bar's alive, the service seamless, and you're sinking deeper into this family's world. “It's about the whole experience,” Jake says, and you get it—food, drinks, that unbeatable warmth.

Desserts: Sweet Potato Cheesecake Finale

Dessert's the closer, and the Sweet Potato Cheesecake steals your soul. Creamy, spiced with that earthy sweetness, a crust that crumbles just right—it's a Southern twist that'll haunt your dreams. “Sam's favorite,” Brenda whispers, and you taste the love—a finale that's rich, smooth, unforgettable. You're full, you're happy, and you're already plotting your return.

Why Sam’s Rialto Bar and Grill is a Must-Visit

Sam's Rialto isn't just a meal—it's a vibe. The clink of glasses, the sizzle of the fryer, Brenda and Jake weaving through the room like they were born to it. “We're keeping Sam's vision alive,” Brenda says, her eyes bright. Alive? It's thriving—seafood that sings, Southern dishes that hug, service that shines brighter than the food (and that's saying something). This is Jersey's hidden gem, a family joint that's stood the test of time.

Visit Sam’s Rialto Bar and Grill: A Jersey Culinary Destination

So, next time you're in the area, hit Sam's Rialto Bar and Grill. Ribs that melt, shrimp that crunch, cheesecake that lingers—it's a lineup of heavy hitters served with a smile. Three decades strong, this family's still cooking up magic. Grab a seat, soak in the love, and taste why this isn't just a stop—it's a destination.
Aired on January 15, 2016
Updated October 18, 2025

Address / Location

18 S Main St
Pleasantville, NJ 08232

609-646-5128 Permanently Closed