618 Restaurant, Freehold, NJ: A Dining Review

618 Restaurant Freehold, NJ, A restaurant review

618 Restaurant: A Culinary Gem in Central Jersey


618 Restaurant
618 Park Ave
Freehold, NJ

Best NJ Restaurant

Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.

618 Restaurant: Highlights

Fare: Creative New American with Mediterranean, Italian, Caribbean, Asian, and French flavors

Price: Expensive

Food Quality: Excellent - Serves a seasonally changing menu with inspirational dishes prepared using fresh, locally sourced produce and seafood, with meats sourced from quality purveyors.

Service: Professional, well trained, with a good knowledge of the menu. Friendly and attentive without being intrusive.

Ambiance/Decor: Upscale, contemporary rustic, with a romantic atmosphere.

Overall Rating: 3 Stars. One of the top restaurants in Central Jersey.

Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = Poor to 4 stars = Best in Class  

Noise Level: Moderate - background music kept to a comfortable level for quiet intimate conversation.

Dress: Casual

Recommended For: Diners who enjoy well prepared creative new American food in an upscale, trendy setting with a well-stocked bar..

Not Recommended For:  Diners who prefer "Old World" fine dining or a low-key BYOB setting with a heavy sauce, traditional menu.

Recommended dishes: When available, The Cabernet Braised Short Ribs; The 8 oz Filet Mignon; and The Grilled Organic Salmon.

Liquor: Full bar service featuring creative, hand crafted specialty cocktails, and a variety  of craft beers and beers on draft, with a good selection well-priced wines by the glass and bottle.

Rising above the sea of mediocre BYOBs and chain eateries, 618 Restaurant has cemented itself as a premier dining destination in Central Jersey.

Since its 2016 debut, the creation of both Matt Borowski and Executive Chef Christopher Dutka, this chef-driven establishment has captivated locals and visitors alike with its commitment to excellence in food, ambiance, and service.

Executive Chef Christopher Dutka, a James Beard House-featured talent, leads the kitchen with a passion for innovation.

His seasonal menu showcases creative American cuisine, blending fresh, locally sourced ingredients with premium shipped-in specialties.

Most of the menu items are prepared from "Scratch" --- meaning that the food has not undergone significant modification, including being heated, marinated, assembled, or a combination of those procedures.

Don’t miss the daily specials, where Chef Dutka’s skills shine brightest, or the legendary warm sticky toffee cake crowned with sea salt and orange-whipped mascarpone.

Ambiance: Rustic Elegance Meets Modern Comfort
Defying its unassuming exterior, 618’s interior dazzles with exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and striking crystal-chandelier lighting.

The vibrant 20-seat bar, lined with artisanal spirits, sets the tone for a dining experience that balances trendy and intimate.

Dining room tables are thoughtfully spaced, illuminated by soft cordless lamps, while curated background music ensures conversation flows effortlessly.

618 Restaurant masterfully blends culinary artistry with warm, approachable luxury—a must-visit for those seeking a memorable meal in Central Jersey.

Hours: Dinner served Tuesday–Sunday.
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially weekends.
Parking: Onsite availability for hassle-free visits.

Updated February 2025

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