Matisse 167, formerly known as Café Matisse, has been a fixture in North Jersey for over 30 years. The restaurant, located in the heart of Rutherford at 167 Park Avenue, has earned national recognition in recent years, with Food & Wine naming it New Jersey’s Most Romantic Restaurant — and for good reason. With its candlelit dining room, an enchanting patio, and an artful tasting menu, Matisse has long been a favorite for special occasions and memorable nights out. With new chef and owner Greg Power at the helm, the restaurant is entering an exciting new chapter. Read on to hear more about what makes Matisse 167 an exceptional dining experience in Rutherford, NJ.

Fresh Energy

Chef Greg Power is now leading the way at Matisse 167, bringing his two decades of experience and a fresh perspective to the kitchen. His path to the restaurant was a story of perfect timing. When dining at Matisse with his wife in March 2024, Greg met longtime owner and Chef Peter Loria, who was preparing to retire after nearly four decades in the business. By the end of the week, the two had struck a deal, and Greg stepped in to take the reins.

After graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago, Greg spent 20 years cooking in a wide range of New York City restaurants, from steakhouses and hotel kitchens to upscale dine-in movie theaters. His experience, combined with a deep appreciation for seasonal cooking and global flavors, is shaping the next chapter of Matisse 167.

While the restaurant’s core identity remains intact, including its popular four-course tasting menu and the familiar faces of longtime staff, Greg introduced several updates this past season, like cozy outdoor igloo dining. New programming has also taken root, with the restaurant now hosting private events such as bridal showers, weddings, cigar nights, sweet sixteens, and first communions.

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Fine Dining At Its Core

Under Chef Greg’s direction, the menu at Matisse 167 continues to follow the restaurant’s well-loved tasting menu format, with four curated courses that rotate seasonally. While the structure remains familiar, the flavors and techniques reflect Greg’s culinary journey. “The prix fixe menu is inspired by season, product availability, and inspiration from my favorite travels and 20 years of NYC experience,” Chef Greg shared with The Bergen Girl.

Current favorites include a tender grilled octopus with chorizo and fingerling potatoes to start; seared scallops with gnocchi and corn purée for the second course; and a surprising crowd-pleaser for the third — the Matisse Burger, a refined take on a comfort classic, topped with Wagyu, candied bacon, and blue cheese mousse. For dessert, there is banana crème brûlée, raspberry lemon cheesecake, and PB&J brownie.

Chef Greg credits the establishment’s former chef, Peter Loria, for paving the way. As Greg shared on the restaurant’s website, “When you look at the culinary history of New Jersey, he’s the one who made all these high-end dishes at this price point. Thirty-seven years ago, nothing like this existed. I make sure every dish meets Peter’s expectations because I am working to keep his legacy intact as well as build my own.” 

An Elegant Atmosphere

The charm of Matisse 167 lies not only in its food but in the atmosphere surrounding it. The restaurant’s interior has two distinct spaces. The front room features warm, Moroccan-inspired decor with rich colors, ornate lanterns, and an eclectic mix of artwork that creates a cozy, almost transportive feel. Low lighting and intimate table arrangements make the main dining room an ideal setting for date nights, anniversaries, and quiet celebrations.

The garden patio tucked in the back is one of Rutherford’s most beloved hidden gems. Lush greenery, twinkling string lights, and vibrant floral accents create a whimsical backdrop for al fresco dining. In the winter, the patio transforms with heated outdoor igloos, allowing diners to enjoy the magic of the space even when temperatures drop.

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Additional Details

Matisse 167 is a BYOB restaurant serving a seasonal prix fixe menu. The four-course menu (three savory courses and one dessert) is available Wednesday through Sunday for $125 per person. A three-course option (two savory courses and one dessert) is served on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings for $95 per person. Please note that the three-course option is not available on Fridays or Saturdays. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available with advance notice.

Dinner service hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 5PM to 9:30PM, Friday and Saturday from 5PM to 10PM, and Sunday from 5PM to 9PM. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.