If you find yourself wandering through the picturesque Chanticleer neighborhood in Cherry Hill, NJ, with a craving for something delicious, you’re in luck. While Chanticleer is renowned for its tree-lined streets, friendly vibe, and well-kept homes, it’s also a rising star on Cherry Hill’s diverse food scene. Whether you’re searching for a memorable brunch, a cozy café, a family-friendly spot for dinner, or a secret sweet treat, Chanticleer and its nearby stretch of bustling eateries along Kresson Road and Route 561 won’t let you down.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
One of the best things about Chanticleer? The food gems you won’t find in any guidebook.
The Little Sicilian on Kresson Road
Nestled just off Chanticleer Drive and Kresson Road, The Little Sicilian food truck is a revelation for lovers of authentic Italian street food. It’s famed for arancini—crispy, stuffed rice balls with fillings ranging from gooey mozzarella and peas to rich ragu. The menu is small but mighty, focused on perfecting every batch, and at roughly $3-$6 per arancini, it’s the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t break the bank.
Sweet Corner on Evesham Road
For those with a sweet tooth, Sweet Corner, tucked at the corner of Evesham Road and Cropwell Road, is a bakery worth crossing town for. Their cannoli is legendary in Cherry Hill, but regulars rave about the ever-changing pastry case stocked with croissants, biscotti, tiramisu cups, and seasonal cookies. Pick up a box for under $15 and you’ll be the hit of any gathering—or enjoy them outside with a cup of their small-batch coffee.
Standout Restaurants Offering Global Flavors
Chanticleer is surrounded by a wonderful mosaic of restaurants offering everything from Mediterranean to New American. It’s a neighborhood where you can savor both cozy, family-run institutions and hip, modern dining spots.
Maglio’s Market & Grill
Right at the edge of Chanticleer, on Route 561/Marlton Pike E, Maglio’s Market & Grill is a beloved Italian deli-meets-casual eatery. Locals swear by their classic Italian hoagies stacked high with fresh meats and provolone, and their chicken cutlet sandwiches are legendary. Prices hover around $10-$14 for generous portions; the friendly staff and bustling atmosphere make it perfect for a grab-and-go lunch or a quick, satisfying dinner.
Pho Barclay
Take a short ride east on Marlton Pike and you’ll find Pho Barclay, an unassuming Vietnamese spot that has quietly become a foodie destination. Their steaming bowls of aromatic pho, tender grilled pork vermicelli, and crispy spring rolls keep regulars coming back. The price point is easy on the wallet (most entrees under $15), and the spacious, relaxed setting is perfect for a weeknight family meal.
Estia Taverna
Craving something Mediterranean? Estia Taverna at the intersection of Route 70 and Kresson Road brings the authentic flavors of Greece to Cherry Hill. The open, sunlit dining room is as inviting as the menu, with perfectly charred lamb chops, impeccably fresh seafood, and shareable mezze platters. It’s on the pricier end, with entrees ranging from $16-$30, but the quality and service make it well worth the occasional splurge—especially for a festive group outing or a romantic date night.
Cozy Cafés & Coffee Stops
For those lazy weekend mornings or work-from-home escapes, Chanticleer’s café scene delivers on comfort and charm.
Coffee Works Too
On nearby Springdale Road, Coffee Works Too is a go-to for artisanal espresso drinks and house-baked muffins. The vibe is relaxed, with cozy couches and free Wi-Fi. Don’t leave without trying the salted caramel latte or their zesty lemon-ginger scones. With most drinks and snacks under $8, it strikes the perfect balance of quality and value.
Funky Cow Café
Just a stone’s throw away, Funky Cow Café offers bold sandwich creations (the “Chicken Wafflewich” is a can’t-miss), inventive salads, and a rotating array of locally roasted coffees. Prices range from $7-$14, and the quirky interior—think chalkboard walls and colorful cow decor—makes it a favorite among students, artists, and young families alike.
Local Food Traditions
One charming tradition in Chanticleer is the summer Neighborhood Block Parties where local food trucks, including The Little Sicilian and Happy Arepa, roll up for an impromptu feast. Residents gather with picnic blankets and lawn chairs, creating a festival atmosphere. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during one of these weekends, don’t miss the chance to sample multiple local specialties in one go!
Another must-try: the *Chanticleer “Progressive Dinner”*. This informal event sees neighbors rotating from house to house, each hosting a course featuring their favorite local takeout—think sushi starters from Sakura, hoagies from Maglio’s, and cannoli from Sweet Corner. It’s proof that food isn’t just sustenance in Chanticleer; it’s a way to build community.
The Food Scene Clustered: Where to Start?
If you’re looking to coordinate a food crawl, begin your journey near the intersection of Kresson Road and Evesham Road. Within a couple blocks, you can hit Sweet Corner, grab coffee at Coffee Works Too, and head toward Maglio’s for lunch. Evenings are livelier near Route 70 and Marlton Pike, with Estia Taverna and Pho Barclay both offering plenty of parking and patio seating when weather allows.
Why Chanticleer’s Food Scene Stands Out
What makes dining in Chanticleer special is the blend of old-school hospitality and culinary innovation. Here, you’ll find multigenerational family-run delis sharing space with Instagrammable cafés and fusion restaurants. Prices span casual to premium, meeting any craving or budget. And while it might not boast the celebrity chef names of Philly or the crowds of the Cherry Hill Mall, Chanticleer’s food scene feels truly local—crafted by people who live here, for people who love food.
So next time you’re in Chanticleer, skip the chains and follow your nose (and this guide). You’ll discover flavor-packed bites, friendly faces, and maybe even a hidden gem to call your own.