A New Jersey All-You-Can-Eat Spot So Good, It Deserves A Visit In 2026

When I’m in Newark, one spot that always stands out is Fernandes Steak House II, 158 Fleming Ave, Newark, NJ 07105.

It’s not just a steakhouse; it’s a full Brazilian rodizio experience that turns dinner into a celebration.

The moment you step inside, the atmosphere feels festive, with servers moving through the dining room carrying skewers of sizzling meats straight from the grill.

What makes this place unforgettable is the abundance. Endless cuts of beef, lamb, chicken, and more arrive at your table in waves, each perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

The portions are generous, the flavors bold, and the energy of the room keeps you engaged from the first bite to the last.

I love the ritual here: flipping the card to green and watching the parade of proteins begin. It’s indulgent, lively, and distinctly Newark.

Locals know it well, but for anyone traveling through New Jersey, this is the kind of culinary treasure worth seeking out.

If you’re ready to loosen your belt and embrace a carnivore’s paradise, Fernandes Steak House II delivers every single time.

Rodizio Experience That Never Stops

Walking into Fernandes Steak House II means surrendering to an eating experience unlike any other in New Jersey. The rodizio format turns dinner into an adventure where you control the pace but never the excitement.

Servers move through the dining room with giant skewers loaded with everything from juicy picanha to tender lamb chops, slicing portions directly onto your plate.

Each table gets a small card with green on one side and red on the other. Flip it to green, and the meat parade begins; flip it to red when you need a breather.

Most first-timers make the mistake of filling up on the delicious sides before realizing just how many different cuts are coming their way.

Reviews consistently mention trying ten or more varieties of meat during a single visit, with servers bringing them out so quickly that keeping count becomes impossible. The beauty lies in sampling everything from perfectly seasoned ribeye to succulent chicken hearts, each prepared with Brazilian flair and served piping hot.

For around seventy dollars per person, you’re getting an endless protein party that beats any typical steakhouse portion.

The key to maximizing your rodizio experience? Pace yourself, try everything at least once, and don’t be shy about asking servers to bring back your favorites.

They’re incredibly accommodating and genuinely want you to leave satisfied. New Jersey knows good value, and this all-you-can-eat format delivers both quality and quantity without compromise.

Portuguese and Brazilian Fusion Done Right

Fernandes doesn’t limit itself to just Brazilian barbecue – the menu celebrates Portuguese culinary traditions with equal passion. Diners rave about dishes like authentic paella loaded with seafood, chorizo appetizers bursting with smoky flavor, and European sea bass prepared so perfectly it practically melts off the bone.

This fusion approach gives the restaurant a unique identity that sets it apart from standard steakhouses.

The Portuguese influence shows up in unexpected ways throughout the menu. Garlic shrimp arrives swimming in fragrant sauce that begs to be soaked up with crusty bread.

Clams get prepared with white sauce that highlights their natural brininess. Even the sides reflect this dual heritage, with plantains sitting alongside traditional rice and beans.

What makes this combination work so beautifully is the kitchen’s refusal to compromise on either tradition. Brazilian rodizio meats receive their proper seasoning and preparation, while Portuguese seafood dishes maintain authentic flavors passed down through generations.

Customers mention trying the duck breast, various fish preparations, and even discovering new favorites they never expected to find at a steakhouse.

The chorizo appetizer deserves special mention; multiple reviews highlight it as a must-order starter despite some noting it can run slightly dry. Still, the flavor profile wins people over every time.

This blending of two rich culinary cultures creates a menu with something for everyone, even those who might not consider themselves red meat enthusiasts.

Sides That Steal the Show

While the endless meat parade gets top billing, the sides at Fernandes Steak House II hold their own in impressive fashion. The crispy fries earn consistent praise from reviewers who call them the standout among an already solid lineup.

Rice, beans, plantains, and various vegetable options arrive before the rodizio service begins, giving diners a chance to build their base before the protein onslaught.

Smart diners know not to overload on sides despite how tempting they look. The plantains offer that perfect sweet-savory balance that complements grilled meats beautifully.

Black beans provide earthy richness that cuts through the fat of premium cuts. The rice acts as a neutral canvas that soaks up all those delicious meat juices.

One interesting detail from customer feedback involves the grilled pineapple – several people wish it had more char for deeper caramelization. It’s served as part of the rodizio rotation, providing a sweet palate cleanser between savory selections.

The fruit’s natural sugars offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of continuous meat courses.

The restaurant understands that great sides elevate the entire dining experience rather than just filling space on the plate. Everything arrives fresh and properly seasoned, never feeling like an afterthought.

First-time visitors should sample the sides but save plenty of room for what’s coming on those skewers. The balance between accompaniments and main attractions shows careful menu planning that respects both elements equally.

Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Exceptional service transforms a good meal into a memorable experience, and Fernandes Steak House II clearly trains its staff to deliver exactly that. Reviews overflow with praise for servers who manage to be attentive without hovering, knowledgeable without being pretentious, and efficient even during packed weekend rushes.

The team works together seamlessly, with multiple staff members checking on each table throughout the evening.

During rodizio service, meat servers explain each cut as they approach, answering questions about preparation and offering cooking temperature adjustments on the spot. If you prefer medium over well-done, they’ll bring exactly what you requested within minutes.

This flexibility shows respect for individual preferences while maintaining the fast-paced flow that makes rodizio exciting.

Large groups receive particularly impressive treatment, with staff coordinating to ensure everyone’s needs get met simultaneously. One review mentions a party of twelve where every single person’s order arrived correctly and at the proper temperature.

That level of execution requires serious kitchen and front-of-house coordination that many restaurants struggle to achieve.

The staff’s friendliness creates a welcoming atmosphere that puts first-time visitors at ease. They’re happy to explain how rodizio works, recommend dishes for hesitant diners, and even perform tableside services like deboning whole fish.

One server named Rafael earned specific praise for his expert fish preparation skills. When service reaches this caliber, it becomes part of the entertainment value, not just a functional necessity.

Desserts Worth Saving Room For

After consuming what feels like an entire farm’s worth of meat, most diners assume they couldn’t possibly eat another bite. Then the dessert menu arrives, and suddenly everyone discovers a mysterious second stomach.

The lava cake gets frequent mentions as an absolute must-try, with its molten chocolate center providing the perfect sweet finale to a savory feast.

Tiramisu offers a lighter option for those who want something traditional and not overly heavy. The coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream deliver authentic Italian flavors that cleanse the palate after all that grilled meat.

Almond tart provides yet another choice for diners who prefer nutty sweetness over chocolate richness.

The most Instagram-worthy dessert has to be the orange sorbet served inside a frozen orange peel. This creative presentation turns a simple frozen treat into a conversation piece that delights both visually and taste-wise.

The natural citrus notes help cut through the richness of the meal, leaving you feeling refreshed rather than uncomfortably stuffed.

Dulce de leche cheesecake combines creamy texture with caramel sweetness in a way that South American dessert lovers will immediately recognize and appreciate. The portion sizes remain generous even for desserts, so sharing becomes a smart strategy if you want to sample multiple options.

Coffee drinks like cappuccino pair perfectly with any dessert choice, with several reviews specifically praising the quality of the coffee program.

Atmosphere That Brings the Party

Fernandes Steak House II creates an environment that feels celebratory from the moment you walk through the door. The spacious interior features beautiful tile work that adds visual interest without overwhelming the senses.

Upstairs and downstairs dining areas provide plenty of seating, though the restaurant fills up quickly on weekends, making reservations absolutely essential.

The noise level runs high when the place is packed, which happens frequently given its popularity throughout New Jersey. This isn’t the spot for intimate quiet conversations; it’s where groups gather to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions with energy and enthusiasm.

The lively buzz adds to the festive vibe rather than detracting from it.

Some customers note that background music consists of regular radio programming, which occasionally includes commercials that interrupt the ambiance. A few reviewers suggest switching to instrumental jazz or traditional Brazilian music to enhance the dining atmosphere.

Despite this minor quibble, the overall environment remains comfortable and inviting.

The restaurant’s size allows it to accommodate large parties without making smaller groups feel lost in the crowd. Cozy seating arrangements and thoughtful table spacing help maintain some intimacy even in a bustling room.

The decor strikes a balance between upscale elegance and approachable warmth, never feeling stuffy or pretentious. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just enjoying a weekend dinner, the atmosphere supports both occasions equally well.

Premium Cuts at Reasonable Prices

Quality meat doesn’t always require taking out a second mortgage, and Fernandes proves this point with every service. The rodizio option around seventy dollars per person represents exceptional value when you consider the variety and volume of premium cuts included.

From tender filet mignon to richly marbled ribeye, the meat quality consistently exceeds expectations for the price point.

The restaurant sources cuts that showcase proper marbling, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites that don’t require drowning in sauce. Picanha, the prized Brazilian sirloin cap, arrives perfectly seasoned with just coarse salt, allowing the beef’s natural flavors to shine through.

Lamb chops maintain tenderness while delivering that distinctive gamey richness lamb lovers crave.

For diners who prefer ordering off the menu rather than doing rodizio, options like the Delmonico steak and Tomahawk receive high marks for preparation and flavor. The kitchen understands proper cooking temperatures and delivers steaks that match requested doneness levels.

Accompanying sauces enhance rather than mask the meat’s quality.

While some reviews mention the Tomahawk running smaller than expected for its price, most agree the overall value proposition remains strong. The double dollar sign price indicator on review platforms suggests moderate pricing, especially considering the upscale presentation and service quality.

For New Jersey diners accustomed to high restaurant costs, Fernandes offers a refreshing combination of quality and affordability that keeps them returning regularly.

Seafood Options for Non-Meat Lovers

Calling yourself a steakhouse doesn’t mean ignoring the ocean’s bounty, and Fernandes embraces seafood with the same enthusiasm it brings to grilled meats. The European sea bass stands out as a customer favorite, prepared with such skill that multiple reviews describe it as worth the trip alone.

The delicate white fish arrives perfectly cooked, maintaining moisture while developing a beautiful exterior.

Garlic shrimp functions as both an appetizer and a revelation for garlic lovers. Swimming in aromatic oil infused with generous amounts of garlic, the dish practically demands you soak up every drop with bread.

The shrimp themselves arrive plump and properly cooked, avoiding the rubbery texture that plagues lesser preparations.

Fresh clams receive preparation that highlights their natural brininess without overwhelming it. Several reviewers specifically mention the clams as the best item they tried, which says something considering the meat-focused menu.

The kitchen clearly understands seafood requires a lighter touch than beef, adjusting techniques accordingly.

For mixed groups where some members don’t eat red meat, these seafood options provide legitimate alternatives rather than obligatory afterthoughts. The octopus in garlic sauce offers another choice for adventurous eaters, delivering tender texture and bold flavors.

Even the paella, loaded with various seafood selections, earns praise for authenticity and generous portions. This commitment to quality across proteins ensures everyone at the table finds something to love, regardless of dietary preferences or restrictions.

Perfect for Celebrations and Large Groups

Some restaurants claim they can handle big parties but then struggle with execution when twelve hungry people actually show up. Fernandes Steak House II has clearly mastered the art of large group dining, with numerous reviews praising how smoothly everything runs even for substantial gatherings.

Birthday celebrations happen here regularly, with staff going out of their way to make the guest of honor feel special.

The spacious layout accommodates groups without cramming everyone into uncomfortable proximity. Tables can be arranged to keep parties together while maintaining enough room for servers to circulate with their skewers of meat.

This logistical consideration might seem minor until you’ve experienced restaurants where large groups create bottlenecks that disrupt service flow.

Valet parking becomes especially valuable when arriving with multiple vehicles for a group event. The service helps coordinate arrivals and ensures everyone can enter together rather than straggling in over thirty minutes.

Though some busy nights see valet capacity maxed out, the convenience when available removes a major stress point from group dining.

The rodizio format actually works brilliantly for celebrations because it keeps everyone engaged throughout the meal. Instead of waiting for individual orders to arrive at different times, the entire table experiences the same progression of meats together.

This shared experience creates natural conversation opportunities and ensures nobody finishes eating while others are still waiting. For milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or just gathering friends for a memorable meal, Fernandes delivers the space, service, and food quality that special occasions deserve.

Location and Practical Visit Information

Finding Fernandes Steak House II at 158 Fleming Ave, Newark, NJ 07105 requires a bit of local knowledge since it sits in a somewhat tucked-away location. The area might not win beauty contests, and several reviews mention feeling hesitant about the neighborhood, especially when parking on the street during evening visits.

However, the restaurant’s valet service addresses safety concerns while adding a touch of upscale convenience.

Operating hours run from noon to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, with slightly earlier closing at 10 PM Sunday through Thursday. These hours accommodate both lunch and dinner crowds, though evenings naturally see heavier traffic.

Calling ahead at 973-589-4099 for reservations isn’t just recommended; it’s practically mandatory on weekends when the place fills to capacity.

The restaurant’s website at fernandessteakhouse.com provides menu information and reservation options for those who prefer booking online. With over 3,200 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the place has built serious credibility throughout New Jersey’s competitive dining scene.

That rating reflects consistent quality over time, not just a brief honeymoon period of excellence.

First-time visitors should arrive hungry, bring patience for potential waits even with reservations during peak times, and prepare for a leisurely meal that can easily stretch past two hours when properly enjoying the rodizio experience. The restaurant accepts the reality that great food takes time, and the staff never rushes diners out the door.

This combination of location, hours, and approach to service creates an experience that rewards those willing to seek it out.