Park West Tavern, Ridgewood, NJ: A Dining Review
Park West Tavern is a high end Ridgewood dining spot serving a creative menu with chic, energetic, ambiance
Park West Tavern30 Oak St
Ridgewood, NJ
Park West Tavern: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: Contemporary American
Price: Moderate - Expensive
Food Quality: Well prepared, creative dishes prepared with fresh, quality ingredients.
Service: Wait staff young, knowledgeable, attentive, and enthusiastic.
Ambiance/Decor: Upscale tavern, with chic ambiance, has a large stone fireplace, dim soft lighting.
Overall Rating: 2 1/2 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy a well executed, creative menu with chic energetic ambiance and a full service bar
Not Recommended For: Budget conscious diners who enjoy a low key, BYOB setting.
Recommended dishes: When available for dinner, The 18 Oz Cowboy Steak Classic aged certified angus bone-in rib eye steak on the bone, and the Roasted Amish Chicken Breast w/ Fregula "Risotto", Spinach, & Chicken Sausage. For Brunch, The PWT Tavern Burger, The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes w/ lemon infused ricotta cheese, and The Quinoa & Baby Spinach w/ parmesan, scrambled eggs, & hollandaise sauce.
Liquor: Full Service Bar with a good craft beer and wine selection
Park West Tavern is a sleek, modern American tavern offering an upscale yet inviting ambiance in the heart of Ridgewood.
Co-owned by John Halligan and Randy Carson (the duo behind Park Steakhouse), this 80-seat gem combines rustic charm with contemporary flair, featuring dark earth-toned wood, stone accents, a grand fireplace, and soft, intimate lighting. The design cleverly separates the bar area from dining tables, ensuring lively energy without sacrificing conversation-friendly comfort.
Helmed by Executive Chef John Halligan (Culinary Institute of America alum) and day-to-day kitchen leadership under the direction of Chef Paul Scheffle, the seasonal menu re-imagines American classics with creative twists. Standouts include 21-day aged steaks, prepared on-site, and a Sunday brunch hailed as one of Ridgewood’s best—a notable feat in a town brimming with brunch spots.
The brunch menu strikes a perfect balance between breakfast staples and lunch-inspired dishes, starting with warm chocolate mini muffins as a sweet welcome. Highlights include inventive egg dishes, hearty lunch options, and brunch cocktails like Bloody Marys and Mimosas.
For holidays like Easter and Mother’s Day, the upstairs loft hosts a lavish buffet complete with an omelet station, French toast, braised short ribs, and decadent pastries.
In warmer months, enjoy outdoor seating at the front sidewalk or the cozy back courtyard. Despite Ridgewood’s parking challenges, the tavern offers complimentary valet service—a major perk in the bustling downtown area.
Open daily for lunch and dinner; Sunday brunch begins at 10:30 a.m.
Reservations highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.
With its polished vibe, standout cuisine, and thoughtful amenities, Park West Tavern is a go-to for refined dining and festive gatherings alike.
(Updated: February 2025)
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