Saddle River Inn, Saddle River, NJ:
A Restaurant Review
The Saddle River Inn: A Culinary Gem in Bergen County
Saddle River Inn
2 Barnstable Ct.
Saddle River, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Saddle River Inn: Restaurant Summary
Fare: New American- with French influences
Price: Very Expensive
Food Quality: Well executed menu using prime dry-aged beef, fresh line caught, sustainable seafood and locally sourced, fresh ingredients.
Service: Professional; warm, and attentive.
Ambiance/decor: A 19th century restored barn alongside the banks of the Saddle River, with elegant, rustic ambiance.
Overall Rating: 3 1/2 Stars
Four-star Rating System from 1/2 Star = poor to 4 stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate
Dress: Upscale Casual
Recommended For: High income diners who enjoy excellent food with upscale, rustic ambiance, and fine dining amenities.
Not Recommended For: Budget minded diners and young families who prefer more casual dining with lower menu prices and larger food portions.
Recommended dishes: When available, The Australian Lamb Chops; The Yellow-fin Tuna; and The Snake River Farms Wagyu Tomahawk Ribeye For 2
Alcohol: BYOB.
Nestled in a meticulously restored 19th-century barn along the banks of the Saddle River, The Saddle River Inn stands as a premier destination for romance, celebration, and refined dining in Bergen County.
Co-owned and helmed by Executive Chef Jamie Knott, this upscale yet approachable restaurant masterfully blends the sophistication of fine dining with a relaxed, rustic ambiance—eschewing the formality of traditional "Old World" establishments.
A graduate of The New York Restaurant School, Chef Knott honed his craft under renowned mentors, including Chef Clifford Crooks, while working at acclaimed venues such as NYC’s Salute, Fascino in Montclair, China Grill, and Artisanal Fromagerie and Bistro. His tenure as Executive Chef at The Empire Hotel and ESquared Hospitality further solidified his reputation, culminating in a menu that reflects his diverse expertise and passion for quality.
The 80-seat restaurant spans two floors, featuring dark rustic walls, exposed beams, and rich hardwood flooring. Elegant burgundy leather chairs surround linen-clad tables adorned with crisp china, creating an intimate yet inviting atmosphere. Large windows offer serene views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the dining experience with natural charm.
The menu celebrates New American flavors with French technique and occasional Asian accents, showcasing premium ingredients like dry-aged beef, sustainable line-caught seafood, and hyperlocal produce. Dishes evolve with the seasons, ensuring freshness and creativity, while a curated wine list complements the culinary artistry.
Practical Details:
Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday,
The Saddle River Inn caters to adults seeking an elevated experience; children under 10 are not accommodated.
Last Updated: January 2025
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