Hello dear
Welcome To The Vanguard
The Vanguard, located at 705 Frank E Rodgers Blvd S in Harrison, NJ, stands out as a culinary gem. Known for its inviting atmosphere and attentive service, this American-style eatery offers a delightful mix of classic favorites and innovative dishes. Highlights include the Miso Bourbon Chicken and Winter Steak Frites, praised for their vibrant flavors and quality ingredients. The restaurant’s signature Chicken Tenders and Buffalo Wings have garnered rave reviews for their juicy textures and bold seasoning. With a comfortable lounge vibe perfect for gatherings, The Vanguard promises an unforgettable dining experience, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts.
About
The Vanguard
Welcome to The Vanguard, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Harrison, NJ, at 705 Frank E Rodgers Blvd S. This eatery is not only about food; it's a holistic experience that beckons food lovers and casual diners alike. With an inviting atmosphere and a menu that combines comfort food with elevated flavors, The Vanguard has quickly become a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience.
As a food reviewer for Foodjoyy, I am delighted to introduce you to what makes The Vanguard stand out. Their plates are a celebration of culinary artistry, showcasing dishes like the Miso Bourbon Chicken, a succulent roasted half chicken served with roasted yam and mojo verde for $26. Then, there’s the Winter Steak Frites, featuring a grilled 12 oz. strip loin paired with aji verde and parsnip fries for $28—an indulgent treat for steak aficionados.
If seafood tickles your fancy, you can't miss the Hake, which comes beautifully complemented by fennel-roasted celery root and broccolini in a sumptuous tomato cream sauce, priced at $25. The Crab Linguine Al Limone, with fresh lemon, parmigiano reggiano, and a pine nut crumble, is another highlight at just $22—bringing a touch of elegance to traditional pasta dishes.
The Vanguard's menu caters to every palate, from the creamy Rigatoni Pasta ($22) to kid-friendly options that ensure the entire family has a delightful meal. Diners rave about the atmosphere as well. The ambiance feels warm and welcoming, providing a cozy retreat that competes with the most popular eateries. Many guests, like Joseph and Kay Pepper, have noted the restaurant's blend of excellent service and delicious food. Joseph particularly highlighted the crispy Chicken Tenders, a dish he describes as a “burst of flavor” — a sentiment echoed by many!
The reviews paint a clear picture of The Vanguard as a vibrant spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Whether you're indulging in their renowned Buffalo Wings with a satisfying crunch or savoring the well-seasoned Vanguard Burger topped with bacon and caramelized onions, every bite is designed to satisfy. The sense of care in each dish is palpable, transforming simple ingredients into memorable meals.
In addition to food, The Vanguard excels in providing an engaging social experience, with events like "Brunch N’ Grind" and an extensive drink menu featuring delightful cocktails. Patrons like Alessa Garland-Smith have praised the brunch experience, combining great food with free-flowing mimosas and a fun atmosphere. It's the kind of place where every visit promises to be better than the last, leaving you eager to return.
For those wondering whether their dining experience will meet or exceed expectations, let me assure you: The Vanguard is a culinary oasis in Harrison where quality meets comfort, and every guest is treated like family. Prepare to be pampered not just by the food, but by a team dedicated to making your visit truly special. Make the journey to The Vanguard—you won’t be disappointed!
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“ Visited the Vanguard couple weeks ago and my experience was amazing, the food, atmosphere and even a lounge with just a such a nice vibe you feel right at home on your couch. The Chicken Tenders ARE A MUST!!! Juicy, fresh, hot and CRIPSY?! All coated with a parmesan breading, My God I never been so surprised with just a burst of flavor by a simple appetizer accompanied with their honey mustard?! To. Die. For. The Buffalo Wings were a nice portion and the size was above average from any other wing spot that I've visited so far. Nice crunch, good kick of flavor and heat with their ranch dipping sauce. Can never go wrong with wings fellas! Vanguard Burger such a well seasoned burger with bacon, carmalized onion, bbq sauce and a nice toasted bun and their little acidic pickle that just helps bring out the flavor even more with a side of crispy fries. Muah, definitely need to go back for their standard Cheeseburger. Overall this is one of the best spots in Harrison to take friends, date or just to catch up. It's above average prices for food and liquor but you won't be disappointed by their quality and taste. I can't wait to come back and try even more! ”
“ I am sorry I doubted the place from the beginning. I never usually eat at American style foods because the menu is not usually for my pallet. But this place is WONDERFUL... Its not much from the outside, but once you go inside the atmosphere is very nice, an old style dining set up. Nice look and confortable music. The service is good and quick, they take care of you here, so my experience with the overall service is great. Beer: Its beers, its going to be good. Boneless Wings: I had mine tossed with thai chili sauce. The outer shell have an amazing crunchy textures, perfectly fried. The sauce fine, it just taste like chili sauce from any thai bottle you'll buy at the Asian market. The meat is good and tasted like a perfect chicken nugget Cheese Fries: Nice cheese sauce with bacon on it. The fries were shoestring type, but it was nicely fried and not burned at all. The taste was nicely blended together and the cheese sauce was highly quality than the cheap canned nacho cheese type you usaully will get at other places... Cheesesteak: The meat is good and the cheese and veggies in it blend pictures. Laid out without a nice piece hoagie bread. I loved it, its up there with the classic philly cheesesteaks Mac'n'Cheese: Nice melted cheese on some pasta, I mean it was what I wanted, and I was satisfied. But unfortunately this item didnt hit the spot, not something i'ed buy again, good for kids thought. Overall, give it a shot and you won't be disappointed. ”
“ I went for an event called Brunch N’ Grind. The menu was prefixed, meaning we had to select our main course when buying tickets. 90-minute unlimited mimosas and sangria. After brunch, there was a party. It was a great time. Will definitely return to The Vanguard to experience their food. ”
“ First time coming here and let me tell you it was amazing. Food was delicious - had the steak and the flavor was everything meat was tender Here we had sangria it could’ve used a bit more of an uff but it was good not sweet at all The ambient vibe music and waiters were all amazing Would definitely be coming back to enjoy more on the menu and and their fine drinks! Thank you for making Valentine Day one to remember ”
“ The food was delicious!! The server was amazing!!! The vibe was really nice!! It’s one of the best spots (foodwise) in Harrison!! Will definitely go back and try other food! It was a lovely experience ”
“ A great restaurant near Harrison station. They have amazing cocktails and tikki bar open from Christmas to Jan 18th. They sometimes have live music on Saturdays. It's usually crowded, so do make a reservation before hand. The manager and staff is very friendly and the place is covid friendly. Very clean toilets and interiors. Manager also offered us free shots at the end. We ordered fried pickles, veg nachos and veg club sandwich. All 3 dishes were tasty. ”
“ We went to Drag Bingo night on Thursday and it was a blast! Harmonica was funny and friendly. The food at the Vanguard was good—we tried the Pupu platter and the Vanguardian burger. We also had some drinks, which were great and priced fairly. Harrison doesn’t have a lot of restaurant options so it’s nice to see a good one nearby—we’ll be back! ”
“ Love love love this establishment. Jazz Night..thursdays at 7pm, is what intro'd me. The place is a whole vibe...daytime and evenings! Food is great, most of the staff is cool! A few are a little interesting. Manager is good money! Difficult to get to when there's a soccer game at the Stadium tho but it's worth it. ”