Harper’s Table in Annandale, New Jersey isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a community living room, a local landmark, and a place where neighbors feel like family the moment they walk through the door.
The restaurant is owned by Samantha Hansen and her mother, Norma, who purchased the business a little over three years ago. Samantha, who spent nearly a decade bartending and working in hospitality, always dreamed of owning her own place.
“I always wanted to have a restaurant of my own,” she says. “When this one became available, it just felt right. We loved the story behind it and the community that came with it.”
A Menu With Something for Everyone
Harper’s Table offers a wide range of comfort-food favorites—burgers, pizzas, salads, tacos, pastas, steaks—and a few fun twists too. Their playful peanut butter and jelly burger has its own fan base, and their pickle-and-bacon pizza is a must-try for adventurous eaters. Seasonal drafts rotate frequently, with 20 beers always on tap.
“We try to keep things exciting while still offering the classics people love,” Samantha says.
Rooted in Local Schools and Community
Giving back is at the heart of everything Harper’s Table does. Many employees are students or graduates of North Hunterdon High School, and the restaurant regularly supports school events.
“We employ a lot of local teens,” Samantha says. “We’re involved in their activities, we host dine-to-donates, and we donate a percentage of sales to the booster club. Every fall, we even kick off football season with a big tailgate outside.”
The warmth inside the restaurant mirrors the warmth of the community—literally. Much of the interior wood was sourced locally, and many of the staff grew up right in town.
Server and local graduate Kayla O’Connor says the atmosphere is what sets Harper’s Table apart.
“It just brings a lot of joy when you step inside,” she says. “Everyone knows each other. The staff feels like a second family.”
A Place That Celebrates Every Season
Harper’s Table has become known throughout Hunterdon County for its charming seasonal celebrations.
For kids, the restaurant hosts:
-
A Halloween brunch complete with costumes, themed food, and face painting
-
Two annual Santa brunches, where the staff dresses as elves and snowmen
For adults, Harper’s recently introduced Oktoberfest, featuring pumpkin ales, fall lagers, and festive food specials.
And they aren’t stopping with winter traditions—more celebrations are already in the works.
Upcoming festivities include a variety of spring events — from St. Patrick’s Day–inspired specials to Easter-themed family fun and warm-weather patio celebrations. Stay tuned for details as the season gets closer.
“We love creating events the whole community can enjoy,” Samantha says. “Whether it’s families, kids, or adults, we always try to make Harper’s Table feel like the place to be.”
A Family Feel That Keeps People Coming Back
Ultimately, Samantha hopes guests leave Harper’s Table with full stomachs and even fuller hearts.
“I want people to enjoy the food and feel the vibe we’ve created,” she says. “It’s about community, family, and a place where everyone feels welcome.”
Harper's Table
Address: 1316 NJ-31 North, Annandale, NJ
Phone: (908) 200-7271
Website: harpersclinton.com