Carli Clesmere Bergen County has become a go-to foodie destination for locals and visitors, bringing an impressive line-up of restaurants suitable for catching up with friends or enjoying a night out with loved ones. But…high popularity means high demand, so making reservations, especially for brunch or dinner, is difficult. Some restaurants accept online reservations, while others require a bit more planning. Whether it’s a spot that books out weeks in advance, one that skips online reservations, or simply doesn’t take them at all, we know the struggle of trying to get in and striking out. Read on for a list of Bergen County’s toughest tables to snag, along with insider tips + tricks to help beat the wait and score a reservation.
Tips to Get Seated + Served Faster
Join the Waitlist: If the restaurant has a waitlist, sign up as soon as possible, especially if cancellations occur. Some places even send text alerts when your table is ready (which helps a ton).
Call Ahead or DM the Restaurant’s Social Media Accounts: If dining with a group, giving the restaurant a heads-up can make a difference. They may be able to prepare a table or provide a realistic time for your group. FYI: It’s best to send a DM a few days in advance.
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Peek at the Menu Ahead of Time: Save time at the table by reviewing the restaurant’s menu online beforehand. If your group already knows what they want, it speeds up the ordering process.
Be Flexible: For larger parties, consider splitting into a few smaller groups at nearby tables. It’s not ideal, but it can cut wait time.
Avoid Peak Dining Hours: Restaurants are typically busiest between 4:30PM and 7PM on weekend nights. For quicker seating + service, try going earlier, dining later, or visiting on weekdays (Team BG loves a weeknight dinner out).
Opt for Bar/Counter Seating: If you’re a smaller group, on a date, or dining solo, ask if bar seating is available. Many popular restaurants serve the full menu at the bar, and seats there often turn over more quickly. Sitting at the bar gives you that one-on-one connection with the bartenders, which might just come in handy when asking for a refill.
Arrive Right at Opening: For popular restaurants that don’t take reservations, being there when the doors open gives you the best shot at being seated immediately.
Use Dining Apps: Apps like Yelp, OpenTable, or Resy can give real-time waitlist status, estimated wait times, and alerts when tables open up — some even have last-minute cancellation slots.
Tap Into Local Facebook Groups: Joining a community-based Facebook group can be surprisingly helpful. Locals often share tips, post last-minute cancellations, or give up reservation slots they can no longer use. Sometimes, group members have insider connections — whether they work at the restaurant, know the owners, or simply dine there often — and may be able to help you get in.
130 Club | 130 County Road, Tenafly
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Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available but tend to fill quickly, so it is recommended to check frequently or set alerts. A $100 fee will be charged for each absent guest if fewer guests arrive than originally reserved. Cancellations made without at least 48 hours’ notice, or a complete no-show, may also result in a charge of $100 per person based on the original reservation.
The 130 Club provides an upscale dining experience with premium cuts of meat, an impressive wine selection, and expertly crafted cocktails by skilled bartenders. The atmosphere evokes a sense of old-school charm, reminiscent of the Gatsby era.
Bar Mutz | 90 Center Ave, Westwood
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
Bar Mutz is a modern Italian spot known for its housemade mozzarella and elevated takes on classic dishes. The menu highlights fresh pastas, shareable plates, and a curated selection of wines, making it a go-to for both casual dinners and special nights out.
Bon | 487 Broadway, Westwood
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Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
Bon features a menu with a strong emphasis on omakase and sushi. The tasting menu (omakase) at the table is a standout, including five appetizers, ten pieces of premium nigiri sushi, an optional premium mini bowl (+$25), and one dessert.
Felina | 18 Prospect Street, Ridgewood
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
This restaurant and wedding venue provide a stylish setting for a night out. The open, industrial-style space features a modern design with influences from Italian cuisine. The white clam pizza is a popular choice and consistently a BG go-to item.
La Noma | 2010 Hudson Street, Fort Lee
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available. Guests are required to confirm the reservation at least 48 hours in advance to avoid cancellation. A 15-minute grace period is provided.
LaNoma is an Italian steakhouse located in the Hudson Lights Center. With a warm and welcoming ambiance, it’s ideal for family dinners, date nights, or evenings out with friends. While the menu leans toward the higher end, the quality of the dishes makes it well worth the splurge.
Matisse 167 | 167 Park Avenue, Rutherford
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available and tend to fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to check often or set alerts.
Matisse 167 is a BYOB restaurant with a seasonal prix-fixe menu, thoughtfully crafted and regularly updated by Chef Greg to highlight the best in fresh, local ingredients.
Ora | 304 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available, but times aren’t guaranteed, and there may be a wait even with a reservation booked. Reservations for up to eight guests in the main dining room can be made online up to 28 days ahead. For larger groups or bookings not available online, call the host team for help.
Ora Freestyle Italian is currently a Bergen County hotspot, and rightfully so. Although this restaurant serves dinner and brunch, Team BG highly recommends dinner. This evening’s vibes are ideal for a date or a get-together with friends.
Roots | 17 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood
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Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
This chophouse has a wide selection of steaks, seafood, and New American sides in a traditional, upscale setting. While the menu features plenty of variety, the seafood remains a favorite among Team BG. The Ridgewood location is the only one in the county, but there’s another nearby in Morris County.
Saddle River Inn | 2 Barnstable Court, Saddle River
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available and tend to fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to check often and try to book your table about a month ahead of time.
Saddle River Inn is a romantic BYOB restaurant serving upscale French-American cuisine. The New York Times rated it “Excellent,” and OpenTable has ranked it among the top 100 restaurants in the country for three years running.
Savini Restaurant | 168 West Crescent Avenue, Allendale
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
Savini Restaurant is a longtime Bergen County staple serving classic Italian cuisine in a cozy, old-school setting. The menu features traditional favorites like pasta dishes, seafood, and hearty entrées, perfect for a relaxed, comforting dining experience.
Sofia | 36 Engle Street, Englewood
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
Sofia brings a chic, upscale dining experience to Englewood with a menu centered around modern Italian cuisine. Expect beautifully plated dishes, fresh ingredients, and a stylish atmosphere that’s ideal for date nights or celebratory dinners.
Stern + Bow | 171 Schraalenburgh Road, Closter
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available.
Stern and Bow blend a lively atmosphere with romantic details, leading to real-life marriage proposals (we witnessed one!). The interior is modern + inviting, ideal for a special night out. Fresh seafood is the highlight here, with oysters as a must-try.
The River Palm | 1416 River Road, Edgewater
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available and fill up fast on weekends, but if you dine early or visit during the week, there’s a good chance you can walk in without a wait.
The River Palm Terrace is an upscale chophouse known for its top-quality steaks, seafood, and pasta, complemented by an extensive wine list. The sushi menu, led by Chef Andy, is a major draw, often attracting many eager diners. While it’s a favorite among Bergen County locals, it’s also a popular spot for celebrities.
Varka | 30 North Spruce Street, Ramsey
Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available and tend to fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to check often or set alerts.
This upscale Greek seafood restaurant features a fresh fish display and a sophisticated atmosphere. The cuisine is rich, and the drinks are equally impressive.
BG pro-tip: Before dinner, swing by Bar Boutique just a few minutes up the road for a pre-dinner drink — seriously, they make one of the best espresso martinis around.
Verana | 530 Livingston Street, Norwood
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Reservation Sitch: Reservations are available and tend to fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to check often or set alerts. Verana accommodates parties of up to six guests, with exceptions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when groups of up to 10 are welcome.
Verana serves modern Italian cuisine under the direction of Chef/Owner Giuseppe Agostino, previously of Del Posto. After honing his craft in some of Italy’s greatest kitchens, he brings a fresh perspective to New Jersey’s dining scene. The Pollo a Parmigiana is a standout.
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Wooga | 1296 Palisade Avenue, Fort Lee
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Reservation Sitch: Reservations are not available.
This Korean BBQ spot in Fort Lee stays busy every day of the week. All meats served are USDA Prime or American Wagyu, ensuring high quality in every cut.
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