First Communion is a beautiful and sacred milestone in the lives of many families. It’s a day filled with love, unity, and cherished memories as children take this significant step in their faith journey. At SolMar, we understand the importance of celebrating this special occasion with family and friends, creating an unforgettable experience that honors both tradition and togetherness.

A Tradition Worth Celebrating
First Communion isn’t just a religious ceremony – it’s a family celebration that often brings together loved ones from near and far. It’s a time to gather around the table, share a meal, and rejoice in this spiritual achievement. At SolMar, we believe the best way to celebrate is with good food, great company, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

A Menu to Please Every Guest
Whether you envision a small, intimate gathering or a grand family-style feast, SolMar offers a variety of dining options to suit your needs. Our menu is rich in traditional Portuguese flavors and modern culinary touches, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied. From savory seafood dishes to tender meats and vegetarian options, our chefs take pride in crafting meals that are both authentic and memorable.

• À la Carte Dining: Perfect for smaller groups looking for an intimate experience. Choose from our extensive menu of Portuguese specialties, including grilled fish, bacalhau, and piri-piri chicken.
• Family-Style Dining: Ideal for larger gatherings, our family-style options bring generous portions of classic dishes to your table, creating a communal dining experience that fosters connection and joy.
• Private Event Packages: For those who wish to make the day extra special, our private event spaces can be reserved to accommodate your party. Customize your menu with a selection of appetizers, entrées, and desserts that reflect the tastes and traditions of your family.

Why Choose SolMar?
For decades, SolMar has been a beloved destination for Portuguese cuisine and hospitality in the heart of Newark’s Ironbound District. Our experienced staff is dedicated to making every celebration unique and unforgettable. We know how important First Communion is to your family, and we’re here to help make the day seamless and special.

Book Early – Availability is Limited!
First Communion season is one of the busiest times of the year at SolMar. To ensure your preferred date and time, we encourage families to book their reservations well in advance. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate this milestone in a space that feels like home.

📞 Reserve today with João or Luis at 973-344-3041.

Let SolMar be part of your family’s cherished memories. Celebrate faith, family, and fantastic food with us, and create a tradition your loved ones will remember for years to come.

#FirstCommunion #FamilyCelebration #SolMarRestaurant #PortugueseCuisine #NewarkIronbound #EventPlanning #FamilyGathering #FaithAndTradition #SpecialOccasions #BookEarly #CelebrateWithUs

The magic of Christmas is best celebrated with family, friends, and a table full of exquisite flavors. This year, let SolMar bring the warmth and joy of the holiday season to your celebration with our specially curated Christmas Day Menu. From the freshest seafood to tender meats, each dish is crafted to make your holiday unforgettable.

Reserve Your Table Today – Spaces are Limited!
Make this Christmas Day extra special by dining with us at SolMar. Our warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional dishes will transport you to the heart of Portugal, all while celebrating the holiday spirit.

Let SolMar set the table for your Christmas celebration. Whether you’re gathering for an intimate dinner or a lively family feast, our menu offers something for everyone. Enjoy the flavors of Portugal and the warmth of the holidays with us.

Important Holiday Hours:
On December 24th, our last seating will be at 2 PM and the restaurant will close at 4 PM.
On December 25th, we will be open during normal hours.

Don’t wait – make your reservation today!
Call us or book online to secure your spot. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Merry Christmas from all of us at SolMar

As the clock counts down to 2025, indulge in an extraordinary dining experience crafted by the culinary masters of SolMar Restaurant. Known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and passion for tradition, SolMar has designed an exclusive New Year’s Eve menu that promises to delight your taste buds and elevate your celebration.

Dance the night away with the mesmerizing performances of Duo Musical Polly & Juliana Victor. Their dynamic rhythms and captivating voices will keep you on your feet as you celebrate the arrival of 2025!

From a lavish Portuguese Table featuring artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and flavorful seafood, to an extensive Buffet of Signature Dishes showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of Portugal, every dish reflects SolMar’s legacy of culinary excellence. Top it off with a decadent Dessert Table, an Open Bar, and a Champagne Toast at Midnight for a celebration to remember.

📅 Date: December 31, 2024
⏰ Time: From 7:30 PM
📍 Location: N.S. de Fátima Church, Elizabeth, NJ

Here’s a taste of what awaits you:

The Portuguese Table – A True Taste of Tradition

Start your evening with a mouthwatering selection of classic Portuguese appetizers and snacks, reflecting the heart and soul of Portugal’s culinary heritage.

• Olives (Azeitonas) – Classic marinated olives bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
• Smoked Ham (Presunto) – Sliced to perfection, a true Portuguese delicacy.
• Pork Sausage (Salpicão) – Rich and savory with traditional seasonings.
• Corn Bread (Broa de Milho) – Rustic and hearty, perfect with cheese and ham.
• Fresh Cheese (Queijo Fresco) – Mild and creamy, ideal for a flavorful bite.
• Codfish Fritters (Bacalhau Albardado) – Crispy codfish bites.
• Smoked Salmon (Salmão Fumado) – Fresh and delicate with a smoky finish.
• Fried Small Sardines (Petingas Fritas) – A Portuguese coastal specialty.
• Pork Ear Salad (Salada de Orelha de Porco) – A unique and flavorful traditional dish.
• Assorted Portuguese Cheeses (Diversos Queijos Portugueses) – A selection of premium cheeses.

The Buffet – A Celebration of Flavors

Dive into a sumptuous buffet featuring expertly prepared dishes, from savory roasts and fresh seafood to comforting stews and vibrant salads. Each dish is a tribute to Portugal’s rich culinary history, prepared with authenticity and love.

Meat & Poultry

• Roast Suckling Pig (Leitão à Bairrada) – Slow-roasted, crispy, and tender.
• Baby Goat in Red Wine (Chanfana de Cabrito) – A rustic and hearty specialty.
• Pork Loin (Lombo de Porco) – Juicy and perfectly seasoned.
• Farm Rooster Stew (Arroz de Cabidela) – A traditional dish simmered in a rich sauce.
• Pork Alentejana Style (Carne de Porco à Alentejana) – Tender pork with clams in a savory garlic sauce.
• Chicken Breast with Mushrooms (Peito de Frango com Cogumelos) – Tender chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce.

Seafood & Fish

• Seafood with Rice (Arroz de Marisco) – A seafood lover’s dream with lobster, shrimp, and mussels.
• Codfish Lagareiro (Bacalhau à Lagareiro) – Baked cod with olive oil, garlic, and potatoes.
• Codfish with Heavy Cream (Bacalhau com Natas) – A creamy, indulgent codfish casserole.
• Fried Calamari (Lulas Fritas) – Crispy and golden.
• Salmon Loin with Orange Sauce (Lombinhos de Salmão com Molho de Laranja) – Delicately cooked with a citrus twist.

Sides & Salads

• Boiled Potatoes (Batata Cozida) – Simple yet flavorful.
• Sliced Fried Potatoes (Batata Frita Cortada) – Crispy and irresistible.
• Breaded String Beans (Peixinhos d’Horta) – A Portuguese comfort classic.

The Seafood Bar – Ocean’s Finest

Experience the freshest catches from the sea, from perfectly steamed lobsters to tender shrimp in garlic sauce. This seafood selection is a coastal-inspired culinary journey you won’t want to miss.

• Sushi Selection – Fresh and artfully prepared.
• Natural Oysters (Ostras Naturais) – Served on ice with classic accompaniments.
• Clams Casino (Ameijoas Casino) – Baked clams with a savory topping.
• Shrimp in Garlic Sauce (Camarão à Guilho) – Sautéed shrimp with garlic and olive oil.
• Steamed Lobster (Lagosta ao Natural) – Sweet and tender.
• Stuffed Crabs (Caranguejos Recheados) – Rich and flavorful.
• Mozambique Prawns (Gambas em Molho Moçambique) – Prawns in a bold and spicy sauce.

The Dessert Table – Sweet Endings Done Right

Savor a grand finale with a decadent dessert spread, including Portuguese specialties like Bolo Rei, Arroz Doce, and a rich Chocolate Fountain for the ultimate indulgence.

• Fruit Cake (Bolo Rei) – A festive Portuguese classic.
• Rice Pudding (Arroz Doce) – Creamy and topped with cinnamon.
• Flan Pudding (Pudim Flan) – Silky and sweet.
• Vanilla Parfait (Serradura) – A creamy layered dessert.
• Crème Brûlée (Leite Creme) – With a perfectly caramelized top.
• Assorted Miniature Cakes (Miniaturas) – A bite-sized dessert variety.
• Chocolate Mousse (Musse de Chocolate) – Rich and indulgent.
• Fresh Fruit Tartes (Tartes de Fruta Fresca) – A colorful fruit selection.
• Chocolate Fountain (Fonte de Chocolate) – With fruit and treats for dipping.

Drinks & Toasts – Bebidas & Brindes

• Open Bar – Featuring fine wines, cocktails, and Portuguese spirits.
• Port Wine (Porto Lágrima) – One bottle per table.
• Champagne Toast at Midnight – Celebrate with a sparkling toast!

Late-Night Comfort – Lanche da Madrugada

At 1:00 AM, enjoy a comforting bowl of Kale Soup (Caldo Verde) and warm Bread with Sausage (Pão com Chouriço) — the perfect way to keep the celebration going!

📞 Reserve Your Tickets Today! (973) 344-3041 Adults: $150 | Kids (6-12): $75

Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with incredible flavors, festive music, and unforgettable memories. 🎉 Join us for a Portuguese feast like no other! 🥂

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and enjoy a feast with loved ones. This year, why not add a Portuguese twist to your holiday table? Let SolMar Restaurant take the stress out of your preparations with our Thanksgiving Specials, featuring the finest flavors and traditions from Portugal!

Our Holiday Menu Highlights:

🦃✨ Roast Turkey Special (approx. 14-15 lbs)

• With Sides: $100
  Includes:
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes
  • Rice with Walnuts
  • Cranberry Jelly
  • Fresh Watercress Salad
• Turkey Only: $80
  Enjoy our perfectly seasoned turkey that will impress your guests and elevate your Thanksgiving feast.

🐷✨ Leitão à Bairrada

• $250
  Elevate your holiday meal with this Portuguese classic, featuring succulent roast suckling pig served with Spanish Potatoes and our special sauce.

Why Choose SolMar for Thanksgiving?

Our dishes are crafted with care, bringing authentic Portuguese flavors straight to your table. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or an intimate dinner, SolMar’s expertly prepared holiday specials ensure a memorable meal.

Order Now

These specials are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait! Reserve your Thanksgiving meal today by calling (973) 344-3041.

Make your holiday stress-free and delicious with SolMar Restaurant. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful and flavorful Thanksgiving! 🧡

Mark your calendars! From November 15th to 17th, SolMar Restaurant invites you to a festival dedicated to Portugal’s beloved Bacalhau, showcasing over 20 unique codfish dishes that embody the heart and soul of Portuguese cooking.

Portugal’s love affair with Bacalhau is legendary—no other country prepares codfish with such variety and mastery. At this festival, you’ll experience the flavors that make Bacalhau a staple at Portuguese tables, each dish crafted with care to honor tradition and flavor.

From familiar favorites to unique SolMar creations, our menu celebrates the versatility of codfish. Here are some highlights:

• Bacalhau na Broa: Cod encased in a flavorful cornbread crust, locking in juices for a deliciously moist bite that’s rustic and satisfying. (photo)
• Bacalhau à Moda do Porto: This iconic dish from Porto features tender cod with migas—a savory mix of crumbled bread, garlic, and herbs—alongside golden potatoes and caramelized onions, making it a hearty tribute to the city’s culinary roots. (photo)
• Bacalhau à SolMar: A house specialty! Fried and baked with caramelized onions and served with Spanish potatoes, this dish offers a rich taste that will win over your palate. (photo)
• Bacalhau à Lagareiro: An iconic choice featuring tender, roasted cod with garlic, olive oil, and crispy roasted potatoes—a rustic dish that captures the essence of Portugal’s countryside.
• Bacalhau à Brás: Shredded cod mixed with thin, golden fries, eggs, and fresh parsley, creating a creamy, comforting dish beloved across Portugal.
• Bacalhau à Zé do Pipo: Baked cod topped with mashed potatoes and caramelized onions, this recipe is as rich and indulgent as it sounds.
• Açorda de Bacalhau: This rustic bread and codfish stew is a beloved Portuguese tradition, blending soft bread with rich flavors of garlic, olive oil, and tender cod.
• Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: A cozy, layered casserole of cod, tender potatoes, caramelized onions, and briny olives.

Reserve Your Spot for an Unforgettable Experience

Don’t miss this unique chance to explore the flavors of Portugal, right here at SolMar. Whether you’re a longtime Bacalhau fan or trying it for the first time, our Festival do Bacalhau promises an authentic taste experience like no other.

Join us from November 15-17 and savor the best of Bacalhau at SolMar. Make your reservation today!

SolMar Restaurant is proud to offer a special 3-course menu for Newark Restaurant Week, highlighting the very best of Portuguese cuisine. From savory seafood to tender meats and traditional desserts, every dish is a tribute to Portugal’s rich culinary heritage. Here’s a closer look at the dishes featured in our exclusive lunch and dinner menus:

Lunch Menu – 3 Courses for $30

1st Course (Choice of):

• Soup of the Day: Fresh, hearty, and prepared daily, our soups bring comforting flavors with a Portuguese twist.
• Fresh Salad: Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and olive oil with vinegar dressing.

Main Course (Choice of):

• Bacalhau à Brás: This traditional dish is made with shredded codfish, mixed with crispy potatoes and scrambled eggs. It’s one of the most beloved ways to enjoy cod in Portugal and is bursting with flavor.
• Arroz de Mariscos: Our seafood rice is packed with shrimp, clams, and mussels, all simmered in a fragrant, flavorful broth. It’s a seafood lover’s dream, offering the perfect taste of the Atlantic.
• Alentejana: A savory mix of tender pork cubes, briny clams, and golden fried potatoes. This dish brings together land and sea in one delicious plate, inspired by the Alentejo region.
• Peito de Frango ao Molho de Alho: For those who prefer chicken, this tender breast is served in a rich garlic sauce, adding a touch of bold Portuguese flavor to a comforting dish.

Dessert (Choice of):

• Pudim: Our silky, caramel-flavored flan is a sweet way to end your meal, with its smooth texture and rich taste.
• Molotof: This light, airy cloud cake is a Portuguese classic, perfect for those who love a delicate dessert that melts in your mouth.

Dinner Menu – 3 Courses for $45

1st Course (Choice of):

• Chouriço Assado: Roasted Portuguese sausage that’s packed with smoky, rich flavors. Perfectly charred on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s a delicious way to start your dinner.
• Camarão à Guilho: Shrimp cooked in a garlicky sauce that’s full of flavor. These tender shrimp are served sizzling and are a crowd favorite.

Main Course (Choice of):

• Bacalhau à Brás
• Arroz de Mariscos
• Alentejana
• Peito de Frango ao Molho de Alho

Dessert (Choice of):

• Pudim or Molotof

Whether you’re joining us for lunch or dinner, each dish is crafted to showcase the authentic flavors of Portugal. Our three-course lunch menu is available from 11 AM to 4 PM (Sunday-Friday), and the three-course dinner menu is served from 4 PM to 10 PM (Sunday-Friday). Please note that prices exclude taxes and gratuity. Reserve your table today and enjoy this exclusive culinary journey during Newark Restaurant Week!

Get ready for a seafood celebration like no other! The “Second Annual Seafood Festival at SolMar Restaurant”, happening from September 27th to 29th, 2024, is back and bigger than ever. Known for its unparalleled seafood offerings, SolMar will be showcasing the very best fish and shellfish from Portugal’s coastal waters and around the world. Whether you are a seafood enthusiast or simply love exploring culinary traditions, this event is the place to indulge in the finest and freshest flavors.

This edition, besides the classic favorites, the festival will feature special seafood dishes and famous Portuguese recipes that highlight the rich maritime history and culinary innovation of the region. Let’s dive into some of the standout recipes that will make this festival unforgettable:

Açorda de Mariscos
Açorda is a traditional Portuguese dish that traces its origins to the Alentejo region. This humble bread-based stew was created as a way to use up stale bread, but it evolved into a flavorful seafood delight. Açorda de Mariscos is prepared with a medley of fresh shellfish, such as shrimp, clams, and mussels, cooked in a garlic and cilantro broth, thickened with rustic bread. The dish is both hearty and aromatic, capturing the essence of the Portuguese coastline in every bite.

Seafood Rice (Arroz de Marisco)
Arroz de Marisco is one of the most beloved seafood dishes in Portugal, and it’s easy to see why. This seafood rice dish is a luxurious combination of the ocean’s bounty, including shrimp, clams, mussels, and even lobster, all simmered together with rice in a tomato-based broth seasoned with garlic, parsley, and a hint of chili. The result is a flavorful, comforting dish that is often compared to paella, but with a distinctly Portuguese flair.

Caldeirada de Chocos
The Caldeirada de Chocos is a hearty Portuguese fish stew, where cuttlefish (chocos) is the star of the show. Originating from the coastal towns of Portugal, this dish is a testament to the country’s fishing traditions. It combines a variety of fresh fish and shellfish, slow-cooked with potatoes, onions, and peppers, all seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white wine. The cuttlefish adds a unique texture and flavor to this comforting stew.

Feijoada de Mariscos
Feijoada, a traditional Portuguese bean stew, takes on a seafood twist with the Feijoada de Mariscos. This version is packed with fresh shellfish, like clams, shrimp, and mussels, paired with creamy white beans. Simmered with rich tomato sauce, garlic, onions, and a touch of paprika, this dish is an explosion of flavors and textures, blending land and sea in perfect harmony.

A Global Seafood Experience
While the spotlight is on Portugal’s coastal bounty, the festival will also celebrate seafood dishes from around the world. From succulent lobster to delicate scallops, every plate will offer something unique and delicious. The chefs at SolMar Restaurant are known for their commitment to quality and tradition, ensuring that each dish represents the best of both Portuguese and international seafood.

Whether you’re enjoying the bold flavors of a Portuguese Caldeirada or savoring a plate of freshly shucked oysters, the Seafood Festival at SolMar promises to be a feast for all the senses. This three-day event is not just a dining experience; it’s a celebration of the sea, its abundance, and the culinary craftsmanship that transforms it into unforgettable meals.

Don’t miss this opportunity to taste the best seafood in New Jersey, right in the heart of Newark at SolMar Restaurant, where tradition and flavor meet to create an extraordinary gastronomic adventure. Save the date – September 27th to 29th, 2024!

Be sure to follow us on social media for more updates and sneak peeks of the delicious dishes awaiting you at the Second Annual Seafood Festival! Reservations (973) 344.3041.

 A Portuguese seafood experience like no other in Ironbound, Newark 

The highly anticipated second edition of the SolMar Seafood Festival is set to take place from September 27th to 29th, 2024, at the iconic SolMar Restaurant in Newark’s Ironbound district. This event promises to be a grand finale to the season, offering guests an unforgettable weekend filled with the finest seafood and shellfish, sourced from Portuguese waters and beyond. 

As the logistics behind this grand event are nothing short of impressive, Luis Nobre, the restaurant manager, explains, “Most of our seafood arrives alive in the United States by flight, ensuring that our dishes are as fresh as if you were dining on the Portuguese coast.” Hosting an event like this is crucial for maintaining Ironbound’s reputation as a traditional food destination and for celebrating the culinary heritage that draws so many to our neighborhood.” 

This year’s festival will showcase a variety of special dishes that highlight Portugal’s rich maritime traditions. Guests can enjoy Arroz de Marisco com Lagosta, a hearty seafood rice dish from the coast, brimming with lobster and fresh catch; Açorda de Mariscos, a rustic Alentejo stew made with bread, garlic, and shellfish; Feijoada de Mariscos, a northern bean stew with a seafood twist; and Caldeirada de Chocos, a delicate cuttlefish stew from coastal towns, all perfectly paired with Portuguese wines. 

Reflecting on the festival’s evolution, Tony Nobre, the restaurant owner, shares, “In the first edition, we noticed that most of our guests were Portuguese who no longer live nearby but came back to enjoy the specialties they can only taste in Portugal. Recently, after three editions, the audience has become more mixed, with more Americans discovering our seafood delicacies. The Seafood Festival is here to stay, and you can count on this event twice a year!” 

Since its establishment in 1969, SolMar Restaurant has been a beloved staple of Newark culture, renowned for its dedication to authentic Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence was recently recognized when 24/7 Tempo selected SolMar as the leading seafood eatery in New Jersey, a testament to its enduring legacy and high reputation. 

Join us at the SolMar Seafood Festival to experience Portuguese seafood cuisine at its best. For more information and reservations, please visit www.solmar-restaurant.com or contact SolMar Restaurant at (973) 344-3041. 

As we gear up to celebrate Brazilian Independence, SolMar Restaurant is thrilled to offer a unique culinary experience: our “Festival do Bacalhau” from August 30th to September 2nd. This special event is designed to showcase the beloved Bacalhau, or codfish, which holds a special place in the hearts of Brazilians and Portuguese alike. But what makes Bacalhau so beloved, and why is it the perfect dish to honor this weekend of celebration? Let’s dive into the details.

Why Brazilians Love Bacalhau

Bacalhau, or dried and salted cod, is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition. With deep roots in Portuguese cuisine, Bacalhau has been a staple in Brazilian households for generations. Its versatility allows it to be prepared in countless ways, each region adding its unique touch. For many Brazilians, Bacalhau represents home, comfort, and the celebration of family gatherings and holidays. It’s a dish that transcends simple sustenance, bringing people together around the table.

The Festival do Bacalhau Menu

To honor this rich tradition, we’ve crafted a special menu featuring a different Bacalhau dish each day of the weekend. Each dish offers a unique flavor profile, showcasing the versatility and depth of this iconic ingredient.

• Friday, August 30th: Bacalhau com Natas + Bacalhau à Brás
  • Bacalhau com Natas: A creamy delight, this dish combines Bacalhau with a rich sauce of cream and potatoes, baked to perfection. It’s comforting and indulgent, a true crowd-pleaser.
  • Bacalhau à Brás: A more rustic preparation, this dish features shredded Bacalhau mixed with sautéed onions, thinly cut potatoes, and eggs, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
• Saturday, August 31st: Bacalhau com Natas + Bacalhau à Lagareiro
  • Bacalhau à Lagareiro: This dish showcases Bacalhau roasted with olive oil, and garlic, and served with roasted potatoes. It’s a celebration of simple, quality ingredients that allow the flavors of the fish to shine.
• Sunday, September 1st: Bacalhau com Natas + Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
  • Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: Named after its creator, this dish is a classic Portuguese recipe featuring Bacalhau baked with onions, potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and olives. It’s a beautifully balanced dish, offering a mix of textures and flavors that highlight the versatility of Bacalhau.
• Monday, September 2nd: Bacalhau com Natas + Bacalhau Assado no Forno
  • Bacalhau Assado no Forno: A perfect way to conclude the festival, this dish features Bacalhau roasted in the oven with vegetables and herbs, bringing out a rich, deep flavor that’s sure to satisfy.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance your Bacalhau experience, we’ve carefully selected wines that complement the flavors of each dish. A crisp Vinho Verde pairs beautifully with the creamy Bacalhau com Natas, while a robust Douro red brings out the depth of the Bacalhau Assado no Forno. And don’t forget to try our famous sangria, the perfect refreshing companion for a weekend of celebration.

Celebrate with us at SolMar, where every dish tells a story, and every bite brings you closer to the heart of Brazil. Don’t miss out on this unique experience—reserve your table today and be part of a tradition that spans generations.

🇧🇷🍷🥘 #SolMarNewark #FestivaldoBacalhau #BrazilianIndependenceWeekend #CelebrateWithUs #NewarkNJ