BEST Portuguese Restaurant I have ever eaten at!! Classic ambience, very clean and efficient! Food-AMAZING! I ordered the MIXED SEAFOOD IN A COPPER POT, and enjoyed EVERY SINGLE BITE! Full of Shrimp, Clams, Muscles, Calamari, 1/2 lobster in an AMAZING broth filled with vegetables and served with Rice! Just OUTSTANDING!! A mixed salad is served first, more oil than vinegar and was DELICIOUS!! Service- Well... EVERYONE I came in contact with was extremely friendly and helpful. I had more than 1 server for my table and found that the "left hand didn't talk to the right hand". When I got a server, they were AWESOME! But as a single diner, I kept having to call someone over for everything-To order, to get a drink refill, to get my check... I was treated like a single diner! The food, and atmosphere and menu are OUTSTANDING!! I WILL definitely will go back and try something else because my meal was GREAT and the menu looked fabulous! GREAT experience...except for service. read more

Valença Restaurant - Complimentary Salad - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

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This is a really lively, full of locals, Portuguese restaurant in Elizabeth, NJ dishing large portions of traditional and other dishes. The servers are attentive handling small and large groups easily. The menu ranges from traditional Portuguese to veal and chicken parmigiana to steaks. It's in a neighborhood and was busy on a random Tuesday. read more

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Food was delicious. Service was excellent. Lamb on the hot stone was amazing! It's a bit confusing finding the main restaurant though. read more

Always a good time at Valenca! I feel like when you hear the words Elizabeth NJ this is the restaurant that comes to mind. Yes parking gets a little tricky but if you walk a few blocks, parking is easier to find. They serve really good Portuguese dishes, and you don't need to make the trek to Newark. Everything is always good from the food to the service. Highly recommend checking this place out. They also have two different type of ambiance's, bar scene and restaurant scene so it really depends on your preference. If you're going on a weekend highly encourage you to make reservations. read more

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Valenca is one of those old-school establishments that's been around for years, and it's easy to see why it continues to thrive. The staff was super friendly, even if they didn't speak much--they made us feel welcome right away and kept everything moving smoothly. Our food arrived quickly, and we ordered a little bit of everything. The empanadas were flavorful, the lamb chops were a fun interactive experience as we seared them ourselves on a sizzling stone, and the seafood paella was such a massive portion that we easily had to pack up leftovers. We also couldn't help but laugh (and take photos) of the full-sized fried fish--eyes and all--served exactly as tradition demands! Meals come with a surprisingly huge complimentary salad and plenty of fresh rolls, which is such a refreshing touch you don't see often anymore. Parking can be tricky in this area, but Valenca makes it easy with a private lot right across the street. Classic food, generous portions, and old-world charm--Valenca is absolutely worth a visit. read more

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Amazing service. Amazing decor. Great taste. Went here with my department and we all had blast. The flamed sausage we had as an appetizer had that nice smoky taste - I ate most of it since it was so good. Had to be the flames of fire literally that the dish came out in. I had the tbone and I thought it just came with the steak but I was wrong - it came with their version of patatoes (chips) and a rice to die for. Never tasted rice cooked that way. Left a taste in your mouth of wanting more or just that the next time. The steak was cooked perfectly at medium and it was so big - so worth it. For desert, I had the flan. Bingo - that got me. Not only was it a large portion but it was soft and creamy to the point that it was an OMG moment. My colleagues had different plates which they enjoyed to the point where we started sharing with each other. The laughs we had and the different birthdays being celebrated while we were there made the ambience a friendly and chill place to go with colleagues, friends and family. read more

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The food was amazing! Be aware the portions are LARGE! The staff is wonderful at advising best choices. The salad was so fresh and delicious, it's served family style and love how sweet it all tasted. We also got the calamari, it's enormous. Very soft calamari and lightly fried. Then we split the penne with shrimp that could feed the two of for week! It was so succulent, I wanted to take it the airport with me! We wrapped it up with chocolate martinis that were absolutely decadent! If you have not been here please do, parking is easy and lovely and very available. read more

Came here after a show at Prudential Center. Parking is across from the restaurant, valet parking only, super convenient compared to the other Portuguese restaurants in the area. The restaurant itself is huge, a great space for events. The food selection is extensive, my absolute favorite is the lamb chops cooked on a hot stone. It was simple with just butter and salt, but so delicious and I love the whole experience where you cook them yourself. The complementary salad was really good with the perfect dressing. Service was prompt and unobtrusive. read more

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For real authentic Portuguese cuisine, THIS is the place if you're in town! Great food for a great price! The deserts are plentiful with the highlight for me being the house made rice pudding!! We'll be returning for sure!! read more

Highly recommend this place. Food is delicious and well served! Price is reasonable and the service is always excellent. I've been coming here for years and neither do their dine-in experience or take out ever disappoint. read more

Another great meal at the Corner Grill of Valença restaurant. Tremendous octopus appetizer that was so large we put the name of it into our paella. Speaking of which the paella was very good but i would not rate it near the best I've ever had. The bottom of the pan had too much liquid that did nothing to keep the chicken moist. The lobster was tiny and overcooked - the meal for two was otherwise good with s b lot to take home. The skirt steak was absolutely delicious cooked to perfection. The menu is varied and I would not hesitate to return and try other dishes. Do try the tres leches for dessert. read more

Valença Restaurant - Paella. - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

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The food here was amazing. The stuffed crab cakes was my favorite part of my meal. The portion size was great and the flavor was immaculate. The octopus was well seasoned which u thoroughly enjoyed. I had one of the strongest old fashioned ever and I was completely satisfied. The service was great and I'll waiter was very attentive. It was a big party but the ambiance seemed cool. It was lounder than what I would expect for this type of restaurant. But most people were dressed nice. I would definitely recommend and go back. read more

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Went to Valença Restaurant for lunch on a Saturday. The restaurant was quite busy, but we had reservations so we were seated quickly. They have a free valet parking lot. It's a pretty nice restaurant, but fairly loud since it was so packed. The waiter came by and we were able to place our orders. I ordered the New Zealand lamb chops cooked over a hot stone. They provide an extremely hot stone to cook the lamb chops at the table, along with a side of rice and fries. It cooked the lamb pretty well, but didnt give much of a sear. It's really more novelty than anything. Finished the meal with a cortado. Prices were fair, i'd come back. read more

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Everything could improve. A lot. Under cooked chorizo.... Clams ok sauce ok Ordered fillet w 2 jumbo shrimp med rare. There were no cook marks on the fillet and raw inside. Said it was medium rare and argued w me. Punk That said , stay in Newark. Far better options. So disappointed. read more

This was the best meal I've had in Elizabeth, by far! The service was immaculate- everyone was so kind, and it was beautiful inside of the restaurant. My meal was so delicious: shrimp and steak with cheese and the most delicious sauce. Will 100% be returning to this establishment. read more

Valença Restaurant - Shrimp & steak - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

Had to return and bring some friends. Once again everything was absolutely delicious and the service was stellar. read more

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Went to Valença recently for a business lunch with a group of 15 and everything was excellent. The service was attentive and smooth, the food was delicious, and the pricing--especially for the current times--was fantastic. Perfect spot for both business and casual meals! read more

Valença Restaurant - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

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The service could be a little better... Our waiter was friendly but slow... He kept disappearing... The only issue I had was I ordered the skirt steak(which was delicious)... I ordered mine medium... I kept stressing medium because that's my only preference... They brought my steak out WELL DONE... He offered to take it back to the kitchen but I declined because I never send food back as I dont want to offend anyone... The garlic shrimp, a 10 out of 10... The calamari was good but could have been fried little more... Just a tad bit too mushy for me... read more

I originally made a reservation for the large, beautiful restaurant portion of Valenca, but upon arrival they explained that they'd be closing early (7:15pm was their last seating). The gentleman suggested we check out the bar and grill portion that was right next door and I'm glad we did! This section of the restaurant is a bit louder and not as "fancy" as my original choice but it was great! My server was Enrique and he was quick, had lots of great suggestions and did everything with a smile. I went with the house special lamb that's cooked on a granite slab, right in front of you. At first it wasn't what I expected but after Enrique's help, and the garlic butter, the lamb was quite a choice. Portions are huge at this place, especially their pasta- which someone else from my party ordered. My other guest ordered the cordon bleu and he thoroughly enjoyed it!!! Three entrees, a bottle of wine and two cocktails with leftovers for lunch for the next day, ran us about $175 without tip. If you're looking for a nice healthy, Portuguese meal, check out Valenca, I think you'll enjoy it! read more

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Tried walking into the restaurant, or at least what I thought was the restaurant. There was one couple at a table but no one to greet you. Walked out and walked next door to the bar and grill. There the staff seated me and was very attentive. Started with a glass of red sangria some delicious Portuguese rolls and a bowl of olives. I ordered the shrimp in garlic Valencia sauce (meal) after reading reviews. The shrimp were delicious, very tasty. It came with rice and house made chips. There is a lot of shrimp, so if you are not sharing you may want to consider the app portion. Decided to splurge on their signature dessert of bolacha e d martinho that was accompanied with a graham cracker gelato. So the slice of cake is like a soften tea biscuit with cream and a hint of cinnamon which is heighten with the graham cracker gelato. Excellent choice. read more

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10/10 incredible and worth every penny. The octopus was cooked perfectly and had so much flavor. Everything they have here is incredible. Huge menu with something for everyone read more

Valença Restaurant - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

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Lemme tell ya...I go to pricey restaurants often and find myself still hungry, but not the case here. Everything is perfectly made and large portions. I was stuffed to the gills. The waiter was personable and we laughed so hard. Everything we had was worth the price. I had an after dinner coffee that was absolutely perfect. I have it a4 because it comes with home made chips, but they just felt out of place, but it's a solid 4.5 out of 5. Ample parking, but get there early. This place is an experience. read more

Food is fantastic . Prices are fair. Busy even in Tuesday night. Good parking as multiple parking lots. Service could be a little better and hostess is arrogant. Overlook these shortcoming for great food . My favorite is baby lamb chops on hot stone. read more

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I would have zero reason to travel this far had I not been invited to an event I could not refuse, that took place on the top floor to the right as you look at the building. The ladies room, to the rear and back of the top floor had typed notices in the stalls DO NOT FLUSH TOILET PAPER IN THE TOILET - so you were supposed to use the wastebasket. If you had to poop, you were supposed to put your poop toilet paper in the waste basket - !?!?! NO WAY IS THIS SANITARY. I could not leave, so let's talk about the food. Opinions varied from person to person. I thought it was...just ok, not spectacular. They put out a variety of desserts, without coffee or tea, and a cake was brought to the event, which was served after the desserts were basically gone and/or picked over, and again, no coffee or tea. If you wanted coffee, you would stand at the service bar where it was being served (brewed???) ONE CUP AT A TIME in paper cups. After waiting, people simply said forget about the coffee, not worth standing/waiting. Parking is valet across the street, so that's a nice little perk. I will never return. They need to address and fix their toilet/plumbing issues. read more

Great traditional Portuguese restaurant. Large flavorful appetizers - try their clams in a garlic sauce. They also do a great steak and egg dish - bitoque along with various daily special and a menu to appease all. The steak on a stone is perfect for any special occasion and they have a great outdoor seating area for the summer months. read more

Very slow service tonight. Difficult getting wait persons attention as small as the bar and grill area is. About three of them kept walking by me but not once after dropping dinner off have they checked to see if like another drink or anything else. Food is excellent though. I guess if you're not a regular here don't expect more than minimal attention. read more

Valença Restaurant - Paella - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

I have been going here for about 20 years, every time I fly into Newark I stop here for dinner. I typically get the fillet mignon which is a 10+. Last visit I shared the tomahawk steak with my colleague and it was delicious! Service is always top notch. I would say it's a hidden gem but it's always busy. read more

Valença Restaurant - Tomahawk steak - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

Wonderful experience. We came on the recommendation from our hotel shuttle driver, and were not disappointed. We were seated more quickly than estimated, and had bread and salad on table in minutes. The menu is extensive, with lots of options. We ordered the crab stuffed mushrooms, chicken soup, salmon penne ala vodka and the Hot lava cake. The salad is a great start with a delicious balsamic dressing. The chicken soup is fantastic, homemade with couscous like noodles, and chicken chunks. The bread is warm and yummy. The stuffed mushrooms I wouldn't order again, a little chewy, dry, and not a lot of flavor. The Salmon Penne ala vodka sauce was fantastic. It was a huge portion with lots of Salmon and lots of red vodka sauce. The lava cake with ice cream was decedent deliciousness. I had a glass of the sangria which was good. The service is fantastic! Great teamwork. The food is delicious and prices are fair. It is very busy and noisy, you should make a reservation. We'll be back. read more

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Great food! Great service! Definitely will be going back. The food is delicious, great wines and plenty of food read more

Valença Restaurant - Steak on the hot stone, cooked to perfection - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

This past weekend we enjoyed another delicious meal at one of our favorite Portuguese restaurants. I think my favorite dish was the green salad they serve at every table with hot Portuguese bread. We ordered: -fried calamari -leitao - roasted suckling pig -salmon stuffed with crab meat - veal cutlets with mushroom sauce & shrimp, served with rice and Spanish French fries -flan -creme brûlée -espressos Their servers are always so attentive and service is great. The ambiance is always lively, no matter what time of day you visit. Definitely the top of my list for local Portuguese cuisine. read more

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A solid date night go to! Superb eats and service! The octopus in garlic always a great choice for apps, pairs well with their mango sangria. read more

Valença Restaurant - Mango sangria - Steakhouses Near Me - Elizabeth, New Jersey

This used to be my favorite restaurant... so sad. Service is absolutely terrible. They are verry rude in there now and not attentive at all. The quality of the food and steaks has declined drastically over the years. read more

Beautiful restaurant with and amazing party room. Stuffed lobster tail is delicious as is the stuffed salmon. Sangria is also good. I gave them a 4 because service does not consistently match the ambiance. We've gotten some servers that are great but others are just bare minimum. Worth the visit read more

Heaping platters of good food. Casual, good service, even a family ambiance if you go early. Planning my return! read more

We were seated in the Patio area, which we were not familiar with. The Patio was absolutely stunning. The service, for a very busy Saturday night, was very very good. Food was prepared perfectly and quickly. Personally I had the chicken parmesan, which was delicious. read more

Valenca in Elizabeth has been our go-to spot for an affordable yet amazing date night for years. The ambiance varies depending on which room you're seated in, making each visit feel unique, and the service is always superb. We always share a mango white sangria pitcher--it's strong, refreshing, and so good. They start you off with complimentary Portuguese bread and butter, plus a vinaigrette-tossed salad that's so good you'll wish there was more. Our favorite appetizer is the garlic shrimp, packed with flavor. And we can't leave without getting the filet mignon on the hot stone--incredible with coarse salt and a side of garlic butter for searing. The smoke is a lot, but it's absolutely worth it. For dessert, we had the crème brûlée--a little over-burnt but still tasty. This is one of those places where I'll order the same thing every time because it's just that good. Valenca never disappoints! read more

I have been at the Bar and grill side, it was good. The service was good, the staff very gentle and helpful. I went with my friends and we had a few appetizers, octopus Salad, Portuguese sausage with shrimp and Clams Casino. They were all good, As main course we shared an octopus paella and a filet mignon. The paellla was more than enough for 3 people, it was nice; the filet mignon was served in a cool way. Almost raw to be cooked on a hot stone at the table. It was tender and good! If you want to have a nice Portuguese experience please visit this place! read more

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This is a huge Portuguese restaurant with tons of seating. Went for our holiday party and it didn't disappoint. Ordered a margarita since I had been drinking tequila all day and others ordered a sangria or a glass of red wine. Servers were able to do a quick turnaround on drinks and also bring our appetizers which is a plus as always. We ordered codfish critter, king crab legs, and some octopus for starters and all were quite tasty. For the main I got the shredded codfish with potato and black olives, another solid choice. The flan dessert for me was a little lackluster but the other food were enough for me to give this place a solid review. read more

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Valenca is a nice spot to try out in the area. My family and I came here for my mother's birthday. There's valet parking across the street, which makes it super easy. The restaurant itself is huge. I believe there's a bar area on the corner and the restaurant itself is off to the side. We were seated right away on a busy Sunday night. Service was absolutely fantastic, and I have a very intimidating Portuguese family to say the least. Servers here definitely earn their money with the crowds we saw. All the food coming out of the kitchen looked really great. We decided to start with the chorizo and shrimp appetizer, which was delicious. We also got a huge seafood platter to share. Everything was fresh and tasty, the shrimp, lobster, scallops and calamari were excellent. All the sauces were very seasoned well too. No complaints anywhere. We got a small dessert just to celebrate my mom's birthday. I don't think any of the desserts are made in house so you might be better off going to a little bakery somewhere afterwards, but we made do just for the occasion. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth checking out. read more

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Highly recommend this restaurant every time we have eaten here nothing but, amazing food, amazing service and this restaurant is perfect for date night! We always get the steak on a stone and it's so fr era king good the cut of steak they give is huge too my boyfriend and I can never finish it so we each take half a steak home with us! Insider tip if you take a while to eat and your stone isn't cooking like it did when you first started eating you can ask for a new stone!! We eat here every time we are in the area great place! read more

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