Bergen County is buzzing and no it’s not just because of the traffic, we swear. New businesses are popping up all over, bringing fresh, must-visit spots to the area. These newcomers are flipping the script on our local scene, adding bold + unique concepts. This is your unofficial official guide to the exciting new businesses that are about to put us back on the map of culinary greatness. Keep reading to find out more about what is coming to Bergen County, New Jersey this spring.
Aura Head Spa | 119 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood
Aura Head Spa is gearing up to open its first Bergen County location this spring. The new spot will open on May 1st, per Google, and provides various, IG-worthy relaxing scalp treatments for things like build-up, oily hair, dry hair, hair thinning, sensitivity, blood circulation, and damaged hair. Aura Head Spa’s other storefront is located in Montclair.
Bar Mutz | 90 Center Avenue, Westwood
Bar Mutz is owned by local restauranteur Robbie Felice. This spot is a casual yet oh-so-trendy Italian trattoria and mozzarella bar serving up a menu of Southern European dishes with a twist. Robbie Felice is also behind other Northern NJ favorites, including pastaRAMEN, Osteria Crescendo, and Viaggio. While a New Jersey Italian restaurant devoted to crafting perfect mozzarella-inspired dishes might sound like something that’s been done before, this new spot is anything but.
Read More: The Best Coffee Shops to Work Remotely in Bergen County
ButterFish Sushi | 15 Franklin Place, Rutherford
Rutherford has become the hub for a major culinary revolution, and ButterFish adds flavor to the already bustling foodie scene. Owned by Sherif Salib under the culinary direction of Chef Jeffry Undiarto, ButterFish is chic, intimate, and delicious. With an a la carte menu in addition to the Omakase tasting menu, this restaurant has something for everyone. While we are partial to the Premium Omakase menu, which includes three appetizers, 12 sushi, and two handrolls, guests can also snag some more unusual dishes like 15 Wagyu Nigiri Sushi pieces and White Truffle Scallop Carpaccio, as well as standard rolls. Reservations are recommended at this new and highly coveted restaurant.
Carsons Cookie Dough | 25-05 Broadway, Fair Lawn
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This bakery in Fair Lawn, which has dedicated itself to giving back to its community, recently opened its doors. According to its website, “with every sale, [it] [donates] a portion of the proceeds to organizations that support adults and kids who are differently-abled.” At Carsons Cookie Dough, locals can find a menu of classic cookies, including chocolate chip, chocolate crinkle, sprinkle sugar, M+M, and molasses. Customers can also merchandise like mugs, t-shirts, hoodies, and more. The bakery will also hold a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony on Saturday, March 15th, from 1PM to 4PM. The first 75 customers will receive a free cookie.
El Cid | 205 Paramus Road, Paramus
El Cid, which has been a beloved staple in Bergen County, is set to reopen under new ownership this spring. The Moreira family, who also owns the well-known Nanni Ristorante in Rochelle Park, purchased the liquor license and property from the previous owners. The family will give the space some TLC while keeping the El Cid classics that everyone knows and loves, in particular, the famous sangria. This cherished local restaurant will feature Spanish entrees, seafood, and steak. An official opening date has not yet been announced, but a soft opening in the spring is anticipated.
The Filling Station Burger Works | 273 Center Avenue, Westwood
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This burger joint will join the ranks in Westwood amongst some of the best local restaurants in Bergen County. Owned and managed by 22-year-old Old Tappan Native Jake Braet, the restaurant will feature fast-casual meals like burgers, fried chicken, hotdogs, and fries, all made using simple, natural, and organic ingredients.
K Beauty Outlet | 725 River Road, Edgewater
This local beauty store officially opened its second location along the Hudson this January. This Korean beauty specialty store has a wide range of Korean skincare and beauty products available, with a focus on skincare products. The staff is known for their helpfulness and friendliness, guiding new and returning customers towards the best products for their needs. The store is open for business, but can also be shopped on its website.
The Little Kitchen | 875 Route 17 South, Ramsey
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This spring, local chef Adrienne Cirillo will open The Little Kitchen, the home of her latest venture, in Ramsey. The storefront will serve up family meals, custom catering, and grazing tables, all made from scratch and featuring a variety of options using high-quality ingredients and family recipes. Chef Adrienne’s philosophy of creating dishes that are both flavorful and comforting comes to Bergen County with a variety of options, including main courses, sides, soups, and salads.
Lula | 28 Oak Street, Ridgewood
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Created by Ridgewood native and chef Conor Browne, Lula’s New American menu features seasonal, sustainable ingredients and elevated yet approachable dishes. Chef Browne’s culinary background, which includes stints at some of NJ + NYC’s top restaurants, has helped to create a welcoming atmosphere and an exceptional menu. The foccacia with whipped herbed butter + sea salt to start and the red wine braised beef cheek cottage pie, root vegetables, mushrooms, herb au jus, and a creamy mash on the side are just a few of the savory dishes available.
Lulu + Bo | 85 Godwin Avenue, Suite 21, Midland Park
Midland Park has welcomed a new women-owned boutique just in time for Women’s History Month. This sister-owned shop sells apparel, jewelry, and gifts. Lulu + Bo is the spot “where LUxury meets BOho and everything in between,” as per the shop’s Instagram bio.
Napoletano Wood Fired Tavern | 625 Rivervale Road, River Vale
Napoletano Wood Fired Tavern will be opening this spring, taking the space of the former Let’s Meat Steakhouse. Serving up a variety of Italian classics and authentic Italian pizza in its wood-fired oven, this eatery will have small, intimate tables as well as larger spaces for groups. As per a post on its Instagram page, the restaurant and bar will accept gift cards from Let’s Meat Steakhouse.
Otter Fine Sushi + Beyond | 1001 Anderson Avenue, Fort Lee
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This local restaurant promises to bring an elevated sushi experience to its guests. From traditional nigiri to innovative fusion rolls, this restaurant brings the freshest, highest-quality sushi with a focus on bold, vibrant flavors. The restaurant has happy hour specials Monday through Friday from 11:30AM to 5PM with 20% off the bill as well as free parking for up to three hours.
Poke the Bear | 450 Livingston Street, Norwood
A new eatery will be taking over the former Mochinut space this spring. According to the signage that has gone up recently, Poke the Bear will feature an assortment of rice bowls and la myun. As of now, there is no official opening date.
See More: New Businesses Opening in Hoboken + Jersey City in 2025
World Market | 400 Bergen Town Center, Paramus
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World Market will return to the Paramus shopping scene, this time in a new location. Alongside other similar retail stores, World Market will feature a variety of products from around the world (hence the name), including furniture, home décor, international foods, and unique gifts. The store is set to open on the ground floor of Bergen Town Center, facing Route 4, in 2025.
20 Creative Date Ideas in Bergen County, New Jersey
Bergen County is packed with romantic + cozy spots for a classic dinner date. But sometimes, it’s all about switching things up with experiences that are anything but basic. From farmers’ markets and movie nights to hands-on cooking classes and cozy couples’ massages, there’s no shortage of fun ways to spend time together. This lineup of BG-approved date activities in Bergen County is here to keep things fresh, fun, and full of good vibes. Read on for a list of fun date ideas in Bergen County, New Jersey.
Enjoy Brunch at Willow + Whisk | 319 Franklin Avenue, Wyckoff
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This modern, upscale eatery in Wyckoff serves an impressive brunch daily from 8AM to 3PM, which means diners can indulge in a Sunday-style brunch spread any day of the week. Known for its flavorful dishes and effortlessly trendy vibe, this spot is basically made for Instagram. While classic brunch staples are available, the menu also features creative dishes like Cacio e Pepe Scrambled Eggs—made with pecorino romano, parmesan, and cracked black pepper, and served with rustic sourdough. Another must-try is the So-Cal Breakfast Bowl, featuring a sunny-side-up egg, breakfast potatoes, black beans, pico de gallo, sharp Wisconsin cheddar, and roasted tomato aioli, all paired with a side of sourdough. BG insider tip: This spot has been all over our FYP lately, and for good reason. So be sure to plan and book your reservation well in advance — there’s almost always a wait.
Read More: 12 Alcohol-Free Things to Do in Bergen County, New Jersey
Take a Hands-On Cooking Class at Ridgewood Culinary Studio | 223 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood
For couples who enjoy getting creative in the kitchen, a cooking class is a great way to bond with your boo. Whether learning to roll fresh pasta, or mastering the art of French pastries, hands-on culinary experiences create lasting memories—and a delicious meal to share. We recommend checking out Ridgewood Culinary Studio, which provies a variety of adult cooking classes each month. For more information on the classes available, click here.
Get Creative at Clay Paper Scissors | 380 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell
Clay Paper Scissors hosts fun, hands-on events that create a notable + nonchalant date experience. Even if most of the time is spent laughing over silly and messy mistakes, it’s a great way to bond and unleash those creative sides.
Cruise Through the Thielke Arboretum | 460 Doremus Avenue, Glen Rock
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Snuggled in Glen Rock, the Thielke Arboretum is a serene getaway featuring a wetland forest. This spot is great for enjoying a quiet walk together — especially with the weather warming up.
Hit the Greens for a Golf Date at Darlington Golf Course | 277 Campgaw Road, Mahwah
As soon as spring rolls in, golf season is on. For those perfecting that swing or just enjoying cruising in the cart, spending time on a beautiful course like Darlington Golf Course is a great way to connect. BG pro-tip: After a day on the green, swing by Bar Boutique located at 110 East Main Street in Ramsey for celebratory cocktails or mocktails.
Unwind with a Couples Massage at Olive Tree Spa | 33 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs
For absolute relaxation, Olive Tree Spa has a "Couple Special Body Massage" that is available for 60 or 90 minutes. This treatment includes a full-body massage using essential oils and hot stones.
Pick Up a Gourmet Charcuterie Box at Graze Craze | 88 East Main Street, Ramsey
For a cozy night in with pajamas on and a movie marathon playing in the background (maybe a Harry Potter binge), grab a beautifully arranged charcuterie box from Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards + Boxes. The Grazing Boxes are suitable for two, with four styles to choose from: Gone Grazey, Grazey for Keto, Sweet + Grazey, and Vegegrazian. These curated boxes make for a simple date-night spread at home.
Embark on a Food Tour of Main Street in Fort Lee | 212 Main Street + 249 Main Street + 242 Main Street + 244 Main Street
Fort Lee has a thriving food scene, and Main Street is where the magic happens. For a mini food tour, start with a classic slice at Baggio’s, grab some pan-fried dumplings from Dumpling Den, make a boba stop at Q Tea Tapas, and finish with a decadent Nutella-filled crepe from T Swirl Crepe.
BG’s Fort Lee Main Street foodie lineup:
- Margherita slice (classic + cheesy perfection with a great crisp)
- Vegan soup dumplings (super flavorful)
- Passion fruit tea + tapioca bubbles (refreshing and super sweet)
- Banana-strawberry Nutella crepe (when sweet treat o’clock calls)
Explore The African Art Museum of the SMA Fathers | 23 Bliss Avenue, Tenafly
This museum — founded in 1980 — is one of the few in the U.S. dedicated entirely to African art. Open daily from 8AM to 5PM, it offers free admission and guided group tours by appointment, making it a budget-friendly date idea.
Wander Through a Local Farmers' Market | 2 West Main Street, Ramsey
A stroll through the Ramsey Farmers Market makes for a sweet weekend date. The market has a ton of fresh produce, cool snacks, incredible baked goods, and even homemade dog treats. Open year-round on Sundays, hours run from 9AM to 2PM (May to November) and 10AM to 1PM (December to April).
Test Your Knowledge at a Trivia Night at Tommy Fox’s | 32 South Washington Avenue, Bergenfield
Tommy Fox’s hosts trivia nights every Tuesday at 7PM, providing a night of playful competition + great pub food. BG’s favorite is the Fox’s Combo—a platter loaded with potato skins, mozzarella sticks, buffalo wings (ask for ranch—IYKYK), and curly fries.
Get Matching Tattoos for a Bold Bonding Experience at Lola’s Tattoo Shop | 117 East Main Street, Bogota
Lola’s Tattoo Shop in Bergen County is a well-known spot with six talented artists ready to bring your ideas to life. Whether getting something meaningful or just spontaneous, this could be an unforgettable date experience.
Experience a Luxury Movie Night at Landmark Cinemas | 130 Vervalen Street, Closter
A trip to Landmark Cinemas experience in Closter Commons makes for a chill vibe night out. This theater has plush recliners and a full-service menu, including burgers (with an Impossible option), wings, and even gluten-free cauliflower crust pizzas — all delivered right to one’s seat.
Indulge in an Omakase Dinner at Sushi Kai | 206 Main Street, Fort Lee
For an unforgettable date night, head to Sushi Kai in Fort Lee. This intimate omakase spot serves refined sushi creations prepared right in front of diners. Omakase isn’t just dinner — it’s an occasion. It’s a front-row seat to the art of sushi, where one can discover the different types of fish, and learn about how dishes are made and the chef’s creative process. While on the pricier side, the experience is well worth it for a night of high-quality dining.
Catch a Live Show at the BergenPAC | 30 North Van Brunt Street, Englewood
BergenPAC presents an impressive lineup of live entertainment, from concerts and comedy shows to Broadway-style performances. There’s always something exciting going on. See the lineup here.
Stroll Along the Scenic Edgewater Waterfront | 1057-1165 River Road, Edgewater
For a simple and free date (which can be tough to find), take a relaxed walk along the Edgewater waterfront, soaking in breathtaking views of the NYC skyline. Whether it’s a sunrise stroll or an evening under the city lights, it’s always a gorgeous view.
Sing Your Heart Out at Rock 21 | 400 Bergen Boulevard, Palisades Park
Nothing says romance like a heartfelt serenade moment. Rock 21 in Palisades Park is a top karaoke spot, delivering private rooms so you and your boo can sing your hearts out in style.
Take a Picturesque Drive Up Route 9W
Sometimes, a peaceful drive with a great playlist (we recommend anything Gracie Abrams) is all one needs for quality time together. Route 9W provides a scenic, smooth road that’s ideal for a drive, free of potholes (which we feel is very important) and city traffic.
See More: Romantic Restaurants for Date Night in the Montclair Area
Spend a Fun Day at the Van Saun Zoo | 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus
The Van Saun Zoo in Bergen County is a nostalgic BG favorite, with a variety of animals from exotic birds to colorful reptiles. Strolling through the zoo and enjoying the sights makes for a lighthearted and fun date.
