Red Reisa Grill and Catering Newark NJ - Comfort Food & Craft Pizzas

Red Reisa Grill and Catering Introduce

Located in the heart of Newark, New Jersey, Red Reisa Grill and Catering is a culinary destination that has quickly become a local favorite, celebrated for its high-quality, homemade food and genuine hospitality. More than just a local eatery, Red Reisa Grill is a versatile establishment that successfully blends the warmth of a classic grill with the diverse offerings of a modern restaurant, bar, and specialized catering service. Identifying proudly as a Black-owned business, it brings a fresh perspective and a lot of passion to the Newark dining scene, with customers consistently praising the commitment to scratch-made dishes and flavorful, perfectly cooked comfort food.

The core philosophy of Red Reisa Grill revolves around cooking with "love," a sentiment echoed by its co-owners, Donald and Steve, who are known for being authentic and welcoming to every patron. This dedication translates into a diverse and inviting menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. From specialty pizzas and juicy burgers to hearty entrees and gourmet sandwiches, the menu is designed to offer something for every craving at both lunch and dinner. This variety, combined with an engaging and laid-back atmosphere, makes it an excellent choice for solo diners, families, and groups looking for a reliable, delicious, and friendly spot in the area.

The offerings clearly demonstrate a focus on elevated comfort classics, such as the highly-touted 'Vermont Rooster' fried chicken sandwich and the 'Newark Cheesesteak,' alongside more refined dinner options like Salmon, New York Strip Steak, and the signature 'Red Reisa Sea Food Stew.' With a full bar serving alcohol, beer, cocktails, and wine, the grill transitions smoothly from a fantastic lunch spot to a cozy dinner venue, complete with table service and a dedication to fast, efficient service.

Location and Accessibility

Red Reisa Grill and Catering is situated in a convenient and accessible part of Newark's landscape, with its location specified as 74 Sussex, Entrance at, 12 Lock St please, Newark, NJ 07103. This dual address highlights the primary access point for patrons, making it easy to find and enter the establishment. Located in the area of the University Heights neighborhood, this positioning allows it to serve both the local residential community and the nearby academic populations.

Accessibility is a key advantage for this location. The establishment offers both Free parking lot and Free street parking, which is a highly valuable amenity in any New Jersey city and significantly simplifies a visit. Furthermore, Red Reisa Grill has considered all patrons by providing both a Wheelchair accessible parking lot and Wheelchair accessible seating, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming everyone.

The entrance on Lock Street, with inviting outdoor seating and music, creates a warm first impression for local users. Whether you're driving in or walking over from a nearby professional or academic setting, the ease of parking and clear entry point enhance the overall dining experience. The area is well-connected, making it a viable option for those traveling from other parts of Essex County or even Manhattan via nearby transportation links.

Services Offered

Red Reisa Grill and Catering provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of the Newark and broader New Jersey community:

Dine-in and Table Service: Providing a full restaurant experience for both lunch and dinner with comfortable indoor seating and a full bar onsite.
Takeout and Curbside Pickup: Catering to busy schedules, offering quick and easy service for those who wish to enjoy their meal at home or on the go.
Full-Service Bar: Serving a full menu of alcohol, beer, cocktails, and wine, making it an excellent spot for happy hour or a full evening dining experience.
Catering Services: The 'Catering' part of its name is crucial, indicating that the establishment is equipped to handle large orders for events, meetings, and parties across the New Jersey area, offering signature menu items for any gathering.
Accepts Reservations: For those planning a special meal or dining with a large group, the option to accept reservations ensures a seamless experience.

Features / Highlights

The unique features of Red Reisa Grill and Catering contribute significantly to its high praise from local patrons:

Black-Owned Business: Proudly identifying as a Black-owned establishment, it is a key part of Newark's local business and cultural community, offering patrons a chance to support local entrepreneurship.
The Vermont Rooster Sandwich: Frequently highlighted in customer reviews, this fried chicken sandwich is a standout item, noted for its crispy, juicy dark meat and perfectly seasoned preparation.
Full Bar Onsite: The availability of a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cocktails, and wine, elevates the dining experience beyond a simple grill or sandwich shop.
Homemade, Scratch-Made Food: The owner, 'Don,' is praised for cooking everything from scratch with 'love,' ensuring exceptional freshness and quality in every dish, from the burgers to the complex dinner entrees.
Versatile Menu & Dining Options: Offering everything from burgers, sandwiches, and pizza for a casual lunch to multi-course dinner options like New York Strip Steak and Salmon, along with numerous vegetarian options.
Welcoming and Safe Atmosphere: The establishment boasts an environment that is Family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a Transgender safespace, fostering an inclusive and comfortable dining experience for all.
Focus on Speed and Sports: Cited for Fast service and a viewing area for Sports, it is an ideal location for a quick, quality lunch or a relaxed evening watching a game.

Contact Information

Connecting with Red Reisa Grill and Catering is straightforward using the provided contact information:

Address: 74 Sussex, Entrance at, 12 Lock St please, Newark, NJ 07103

Phone: (862) 237-7050

Mobile Phone: +1 862-237-7050

Patrons are also advised that while the dining area is welcoming, the establishment utilizes a modern, online-first approach for viewing the menu and placing orders, ensuring accuracy and efficiency, especially for takeout and curbside services.

What Is Worth Choosing

Red Reisa Grill and Catering is well worth choosing for any New Jersey local in the Newark area who values homemade quality, diverse options, and a genuinely warm dining environment. Unlike many specialized eateries, Red Reisa manages to excel across multiple food types—serving up gourmet-level burgers and cheesesteaks, craft pizzas like the 'St. Gerard,' and sophisticated dinner plates. This versatility means you can return multiple times and enjoy a completely different, yet equally satisfying, meal every time.

The commitment to fresh, scratch-made food, as highlighted by the praise for the owner-chef, elevates simple comfort food into a memorable culinary experience. For the dedicated New Jersey diner, the signature sandwiches, such as the 'Vermont Rooster' or the hearty 'Newark Cheesesteak,' are must-try items that justify a visit alone. Beyond the food, the fact that Red Reisa Grill provides a welcoming, inclusive space, complete with a full bar and easy, free parking, removes common dining hassles. Whether you are looking for a quick, quality lunch, a cozy dinner with friends, or a reliable catering partner for an upcoming event, Red Reisa Grill and Catering stands out as an exceptional, community-focused, and flavor-driven choice in Newark, New Jersey.

Red Reisa Grill and Catering Food & drink

Catering Menu
Grilled Vegetable Salad $15.50
Grilled cauliflower or grilled broccoli, grilled zucchini, grilled peppers, celery, onions, olives, toasted coconut or available seasonal garden vegetables. (Side of grilled chicken $6; side of grilled shrimp $7)
• Steam Clams Oregano.. Per Order $0.00

Lunch Menu
St. Gerard $22.50
House-made tomato sauce, seasoned grilled chicken, grilled diced zucchini, mozzarella cheese, oregano and parmesan. All pies are 12": Additional toppings, peppers, onions, extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $3 each. Fresh mozzarella, sausage, or goat cheese $3.5 each. Prosciutto $5.
St. Lucy $20.50
House-made tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, seasoned roasted eggplant, pickled olives, and basil. All pies are 12": Additional toppings, peppers, onions, extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $3 each. Fresh mozzarella, sausage, or goat cheese $3.5 each. Prosciutto $5.
Sweet Pig $15.00
Pulled- pork sandwich topped with house made “sour cabbage” (apple, nutmeg, brown sugar and vinegar) served on a Kaiser roll with a side of French fries.
Turkey Burger $16.00
All burgers served on a toasted bun with a side of fries (or sub onion rings for $4.5); Swiss, American or Mozzarella cheese, lettuce and sliced tomato. (There will be a charge for extra items)
Vailsburger (Beef) $17.00
All burgers served on a toasted bun with a side of fries (or sub onion rings for $4.75); Swiss, American or Mozzarella cheese, lettuce and sliced tomato. (There will be a charge for extra items)
Vermont Rooster $17.50
Fried chicken sandwich made with deboned skinless chicken thigh, seasoned with garlic, allspice, salt and pepper, then dipped in milk and seasoned flour, topped with sliced radish, sliced pickle, bacon, Vermont maple syrup mayonnaise sauce slightly flavored with ginger, served on a Brioche roll with a side of French fries.
Field Green Salad $14.50
Field greens (mixed greens) with sliced apple, toasted sliced almonds, shredded carrots, served with a slightly Asian flavored vinaigrette dressing (ginger, roasted apple and sesame or available dressing).
Garden Salad $13.00
Romaine lettuce and mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced onion; seasonal tomato, pickled olives, sliced celery, toasted coconut flakes and house-made balsamic garlic dressing.
Grilled Vegetable Salad $15.50
Grilled cauliflower or grilled broccoli, grilled zucchini, grilled peppers, celery, onions, olives, toasted coconut or available seasonal garden vegetables. (Side of grilled chicken $6; side of grilled shrimp $7)
Newark Cheesesteak $20.00
Topped with American, provolone and mozzarella, caramelized onions, horseradish sour cream sauce and served with French fries.
RESA Ruben $19.00
Corned beef served with house-made "sour cabbage" (apple, nutmeg, brown sugar and vinegar), Thousand Island and ranch dressing, Swiss cheese on rye bread and a side of French fries.

add
Extra - $2 $2.00
Extra - $1 $1.00
Extra - $3 $3.00
Extra - .50 $0.50
Add Cheese $0.75

Beverages
Water $1.25
Bottle - Snap-Pelig $3.00
Soda - Can $1.75
Seltzer Water $2.00
Diet Coke $1.95
Pineapple Juice ( Can) $2.50
Apple Juice $3.00
Cranberry Juice $3.75
Orange Juice $3.00

Desserts
Carrot Cake $11.00
Chocolate Cake $12.00

Dinner Menu
Salmon $30.00
Grilled or blackened Cajun style - in a lemon and wine butter sauce.
Chicken Breast $29.50
Pan-seared sage chicken breast (skin on) with bone-in wing & drumstick. Served with house-made two-potato Gnocchi (regular & sweet potato), carrots, peas or beans (depending on availability), garlic, celery or seasonal vegetables in a lite chicken sauce and topped with a reduction of balsamic infused with allspice.
Penne Vodka $21.00
Prosciutto, basil, cream, plum tomatoes, grated cheese.
Fettuccini Alfredo $20.00
Vegetable Parmesan $25.00
Grilled eggplant and zucchini or yellow squash (depending on availability) topped with house-made marinara, mozzarella and grated cheese served over pasta. Add chicken $6.
Pork Tenderloin Au Poivre $34.00
Pork tenderloin stuffed with sweet plantains, lemon, house-made sundried tomato, wrapped in thinly sliced prosciutto, served over vegetables and Rice with au poivre cream sauce.
New York Strip Steak $45.00
Grilled and served with garlic mashed potatoes, mixed seasonal veggies and a side sauce infused with soy ginger sesame and garlic.
Chef's Pie $26.00
Olive oil, arugula or spinach salad form (depending on availability), house-made balsamic vinaigrette, grilled pepper garlic diced prosciutto, basil and goat cheese. All pies are 12"; additional toppings: peppers, onions, extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $2.50 each / sausage, bacon, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese $3.50 each.
RESA Pie $28.00
Olive oil, garlic, house-made Lox, goat cheese, fresh tomato, sliced onion oregano, olives, arugula or spinach salad (depending on availability), house-made Italian-style vinaigrette, parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. All pies are 12"; additional toppings: peppers, onions extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $2.50 each / sausage, bacon, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese $3.50 each.
Vailsburger (Beef) $17.00
All burgers served on a toasted bun with a side of fries (or sub onion rings for $4.75); Swiss, American or Mozzarella cheese, lettuce and sliced tomato. (There will be a charge for extra items)
Vermont Rooster $17.50
Fried chicken sandwich made with deboned skinless chicken thigh, seasoned with garlic, allspice, salt and pepper, then dipped in milk and seasoned flour, topped with sliced radish, sliced pickle, bacon, Vermont maple syrup mayonnaise sauce slightly flavored with ginger, served on a Brioche roll with a side of French fries.
Newark Cheesesteak $20.00
Topped with American, provolone and mozzarella, caramelized onions, horseradish sour cream sauce and served with French fries.
Coffee $3.50
Tea - Hot $3.00
Red Reisa Sea Food Stew (Like Zuppa Di Pecse) $40.00
Lobster Tail, salmon, mussel and shrimp, in a light tomato sauce, dash of white wine, thyme, served over pasta and springle toast coconut flakes 40
Ital Stew Rasta Dish $27.50
Broccoli, beans, (spinach or arugula depending on availability ), diced Pumpkin, in coconut pumpkin tomato sauce, served with penne pasta.
Thick Cut Pork Chop 16oz $32.00
Grilled Thick Cut Pork Chop: fennel infused seasoned, served with (red Cabbage lightly infused with Nutmeg and Apple) Caribbean seasoned rice.

Pizzas
St. Lucy $20.50
House-made tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, seasoned roasted eggplant, pickled olives, and basil. All pies are 12": Additional toppings, peppers, onions, extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $3 each. Fresh mozzarella, sausage, or goat cheese $3.5 each. Prosciutto $5.
St. Gerard $22.50
House-made tomato sauce, seasoned grilled chicken, grilled diced zucchini, mozzarella cheese, oregano and parmesan. All pies are 12": Additional toppings, peppers, onions, extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $3 each. Fresh mozzarella, sausage, or goat cheese $3.5 each. Prosciutto $5.
Chef's Pie $26.00
Olive oil, arugula or spinach salad form (depending on availability), house-made balsamic vinaigrette, grilled pepper garlic diced prosciutto, basil and goat cheese. All pies are 12"; additional toppings: peppers, onions, extra cheese, arugula, broccoli $2.50 each / sausage, bacon, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese $3.50 each.

Burgers
Vailsburger (Beef) $17.00
All burgers served on a toasted bun with a side of fries (or sub onion rings for $4.75); Swiss, American or Mozzarella cheese, lettuce and sliced tomato. (There will be a charge for extra items)
Turkey Burger $16.00
All burgers served on a toasted bun with a side of fries (or sub onion rings for $4.5); Swiss, American or Mozzarella cheese, lettuce and sliced tomato. (There will be a charge for extra items)

Hot Sandwiches
Sweet Pig $15.00
Pulled- pork sandwich topped with house made “sour cabbage” (apple, nutmeg, brown sugar and vinegar) served on a Kaiser roll with a side of French fries.
Vermont Rooster $17.50
Fried chicken sandwich made with deboned skinless chicken thigh, seasoned with garlic, allspice, salt and pepper, then dipped in milk and seasoned flour, topped with sliced radish, sliced pickle, bacon, Vermont maple syrup mayonnaise sauce slightly flavored with ginger, served on a Brioche roll with a side of French fries.
Newark Cheesesteak $20.00
Topped with American, provolone and mozzarella, caramelized onions, horseradish sour cream sauce and served with French fries.
RESA Ruben $19.00
Corned beef served with house-made "sour cabbage" (apple, nutmeg, brown sugar and vinegar), Thousand Island and ranch dressing, Swiss cheese on rye bread and a side of French fries.

Starters & Salads
French Fries $6.00
Onion Rings $9.00
Field Green Salad $14.50
Field greens (mixed greens) with sliced apple, toasted sliced almonds, shredded carrots, served with a slightly Asian flavored vinaigrette dressing (ginger, roasted apple and sesame or available dressing).
Garden Salad $13.00
Romaine lettuce and mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced onion; seasonal tomato, pickled olives, sliced celery, toasted coconut flakes and house-made balsamic garlic dressing.
Grilled Vegetable Salad $15.50
Grilled cauliflower or grilled broccoli, grilled zucchini, grilled peppers, celery, onions, olives, toasted coconut or available seasonal garden vegetables. (Side of grilled chicken $6; side of grilled shrimp $7)
Bone-In Fried Chicken Bites (Pieces) $13.00
Seasoned and fried, Topped with spicy Jerk BBQ, served with blue cheese/ ranch dressing mixed, carrot sticks and celery.

UNCATEGORIZED
Grilled Vegetable Salad $15.50
Grilled cauliflower or grilled broccoli, grilled zucchini, grileld peppers, celery, onions ,olives, toated coconut or available seasonal arden vegetables. (Side of grilled chicken $6; side of grilled shrimp $7)
Chicken Marsala $10.00
Sauted chicken breast, marsala wine and mushroom in a lite tomato sauce served over coconut, goat cheese flavored polenta and Parmesan cheese.
• Chicken Bites On The Bone With Jerk BBQ Sauce Or Ginger Sesame Flavored As-Per Menu Price. $0.00
Coffee $3.50
Tax Exempt $0.00
Sub Brioche $1.40

Red Reisa Grill and Catering Details

From the business
Identifies as Black-owned

Service options
Outdoor seating
Curbside pickup
Takeout
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights
Fast service
Sports

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Crowd
Family-friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safespace

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
On-site parking
Parking

Red Reisa Grill and Catering Photos

Red Reisa Grill and Catering Location

Red Reisa Grill and Catering

New Jersey Essex County Newark University Heights Lock Street

74 Sussex, Entrance at, 12 Lock St please, Newark, NJ 07103, USA

Red Reisa Grill and Catering Reviews

An average rating of ★4.8 from 217 user reviews.

sandwichroosterseasonedpricecampusareadinnersauceatmospherestudent

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This sandwich was truly incredible, it’s been almost a month and I still think about it. Dark meat chicken fried crispy on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside. The veggies were fresh and the bun was perfectly toasted. The onion rings were an explosion of favor. The herbs in the batter were magic.The only thing is the ambiance is not great. They don’t have menus, just a website, so I walked in and then popped outside to order from the website on the door. Outside in front there is a very small seating area that’s cute, but the inside isn’t really. It wants to feel cozy but isn’t. That’s the only reason for under 5 stars because the food is phenomenal.
July 02 · Charlotte Schwebel
We found this place while working in the area and decided to give it a shot. Located on Lock St in Newark. The outside looks inviting with music playing and seating outside. Inside is newly built with plenty of seats and a bar area. The menu is all online as is the ordering. I ordered the Vermont rooster sandwich which comes with fries .. it's a deep fried boneless chicken thigh on a brioche bun with lettuce tomato and pickles with bacon cooked perfectly. My buddy had the cheese steak which he said was really good and he's a bit picky. Tons of cheese and a horseradish aoli spread. They have salads and pizza as well. Don the owner cooks everything from scratch and it really shows once you dig in! Nicely plated and priced right. They also serve dinner after 4 pm. If you're looking for good food cooked with love and you're in the area stop in and I think you'll be glad you did.
April 11 · Michael Watson
Must visit!!!!Food here is made with so much love, care and passion which you can definitely taste.This place has the best vegetarian salad that I have ever had, it’s so light and has really good grilled taste in every bite.We tried St Gerard pizza and Vermont rooster sandwich, everything was freshly made. All the flavors were so distinct and fresh.Would definitely love to visit again.We even spoke with the owner he is very polite and nice. He cooks freshly made food all by himself.Note- use the QR code on the table and order your food online. You’ll get your food served as soon as possible.
May 16 · mansi morye
Very nice place with awesome food.Whatever we got was just awesome.For the first visit We ordered:1. French Fries2. Onion Rings3. Grilled vegetable salad4. Vermont Rooster sandwich5. St. Gerard pizzaFor the 2nd visit we ordered:Turkey burgerVermont Rooster sandwichSt. Gerard pizzaNew OrleansThe taste of the foods we ordered during both the visits was just amazing.Everything on menu is best but New Orleans just blew my mind and will highly recommend.The host was very friendly .Must visit place if you are in Newark.Will visit soon again.
July 03 · akshay tare
You will not be disappointed. Each dish is prepared fresh and on the spot. The food is absolutely delicious. It is located in the cut which is perfect for relaxing and having an enjoyable meal with the relaxing environment. The ambience us a vibe! Definitely recommend. I have been a customer for years even before the expansion and have never been disappointed.
June 15 · Chillie Britt