Hype or Hit?

If you’re anything like me — a Jersey Italian who loves real food but also cares about how it actually makes you feel — then eating out in Northwest, New Jersey has to hit two marks: delicious and smart.

That’s where Stonewood Tavern in Byram Township, NJ comes in.

This is one of those New Jersey restaurants that understands balance. Flavor without regret. Comfort without the crash. No guilt, no bloat, no “why did I eat that?” spiral on the ride home.

If you’re looking for a low carb–friendly restaurant in Sussex County, or just a spot that nails freshness, protein-forward meals, and clean ingredients, Stonewood Tavern deserves a spot at the top of your list.

Everything here tastes intentional. Thoughtfully prepared. And that’s the foundation of eating well whether you’re fully low carb, gluten-conscious, or just trying to be smarter about date-night food choices.

Burrata That Actually Makes Sense

Let’s start with the Burrata appetizer.

This isn’t a throwaway plate. It’s creamy, satisfying fat paired with peppery arugula and ripe tomatoes — exactly what you want when you’re eating out but still being mindful. You’re getting protein, calcium, and healthy fats that help keep blood sugar steady and cravings quiet.

If you’re doing strict low carb dining in NJ, skip the glaze. But honestly? Even as-is, it’s balanced and worth it.

Grilled Portuguese Octopus (A Low Carb Win)

The Grilled Portuguese Octopus is a standout for both flavor and nutrition.

Octopus is lean, high-protein, and rich in minerals like iron and B12. It’s incredibly satisfying without being heavy — ideal if you’re aiming for a Mediterranean-style, heart-healthy meal.

Finished with olive oil, capers, red onion, and red wine vinegar, this dish supports digestion, keeps things light, and still feels elevated.

Clean. Elegant. Filling.

Yes, the French Onion Soup Still Works

Let’s talk about the French Onion Soup.

Yes, soup can absolutely fit into a smart, lower-carb night out when it’s done right. This one is deeply savory, made with care, and not overloaded with unnecessary fillers.

It’s comforting, collagen-supportive, and grounding — perfect for a cozy night out in Byram Township without going completely off the rails.

The Stonewood Salad = Smart Italian Eating

The Stonewood Salad is where smart choices shine.

Crisp greens. Fresh vegetables. That parmesan crisp adding flavor without excess carbs. I go with oil and vinegar: simple, classic, and blood-sugar friendly.

This is how Italians actually eat. Quality ingredients. No complicated nonsense. Just food that does what it’s supposed to do.

The Entrée: 14oz Grilled Pork Chop

If you’re eating low carb at a New Jersey tavern, this is the move.

The 14oz Grilled Pork Chop is high-quality protein, simply grilled, finished with olive oil and lemon. Protein like this supports muscle, metabolism, and satiety, especially when you’re eating out.

Pair it with grilled vegetables, skip the whipped potatoes if you’re low carb, and you’ve got a hearty, nourishing plate that fuels you instead of weighing you down.

Final Take: Low Carb Dining Done Right in NJ

This is food you can enjoy confidently.

Flavorful. Fresh. Protein-forward. Customizable.

Whether you’re planning a low carb date night in Sussex County, looking for healthy restaurant options in Byram Township, NJ, or just want a meal that doesn’t leave you sluggish — Stonewood Tavern gets it right.

That’s how we do it in Jersey.

Eat well. Eat smart. And never apologize for choosing food that loves you back.

📍 What I Ordered at Stonewood Tavern (Byram Township, NJ)

Appetizers

• Burrata (Arugula, Tomato & Balsamic Glaze)

• Grilled Portuguese Octopus (sushi-grade octopus, capers, red onion, olive oil & red wine vinegar)

Soup

• French Onion Soup (fresh and boldly seasoned in the best way)

Salad

• Stonewood Salad (mixed greens, tomato, cucumber, carrots, red onion, parmesan crisp, oil & vinegar)

Entrée

• 14oz Grilled Pork Chop (olive oil, lemon, grilled vegetables; whipped potatoes skipped)