Heated outdoor dining tent at Elia Modern Mediterranean. Photo credit: @eliamediterraneanrestaurant via Instagram
New Jersey restaurants have certainly had to get a little more creative this year. But with innovative additions like fireplaces, heat lamps, and fully enclosed illuminated igloos, they have definitely risen to the challenge!
Check out some of my top picks for heated outdoor dining in Bergen County this winter. These family favorites have taken the cozy comfort of the their indoor spaces outside for season!
DeNovo – Edgewater
This beautiful European-inspired restaurant is keeping it’s patio open this year, adjusting to the cold winter months by providing guests with private tables inside heated igloos! Overlooking incredible views of the New York City skyline, the restaurant has managed to maintain a warm and inviting environment – even outdoors in the dead of winter! The menu is a fusion of traditional Italian and French cuisine, and includes house-made breads, small plates, charcuterie, flatbreads, salads, burgers, house-made pastas, entrées and late-night bar bites.
Location: 1257 River Road, Edgewater, NJ 07020
Hours: Tues-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 4:30pm-10:30pm; Sun 4pm-9pm
Details: 8 to 12 guests can be seating inside Denovo’s private heated igloos. Reservations recommended. Tables can be booked through Resy or by calling 201-496-6161.
It’s Greek to Me – Ridgewood
This Ridgewood staple is now offering personal greenhouses so you and your party can socially distance safely! With heating and ventilation, you can feel completely comfortable to fully enjoy your meal. This restaurant prides itself on offering traditional Greek cuisine, as well as a variety of contemporary Greek dishes – an option for everyone!
Location: 21 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Hours: Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm; Sun 1pm-10pm
Details: Casual dining. Outdoor greenhouses can seat up to 4 people. Reservations available via OpenTable, or by calling (201) 612-2600.
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern – Hohokus
French toast at the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn. Photo Credit: @hohokusinnandtavern via Instagram
An all time favorite of mine! I’m so excited that the Ho-ho-kus Inn has decided to expand outdoors this winter with their new heated dining tent! This historic tavern offers a modern twist on American classics like burgers, sandwiches, soups, steak, and seafood. I also recommend trying the delicious Sunday brunch – with it comes a complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary!
Location: 1 East Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423
Hours: Wed-Sat 11:30am-10pm; Sun 11am-9pm
Details: Casual dining. Reservations available on OpenTable.
Heated outdoor dining tent at Elia Modern Mediterranean. Photo credit: @eliamediterraneanrestaurant via Instagram
Elia Modern Mediterranean – East Rutherford
This unique and modern restaurant has one of the most beautiful outdoor dining options I’ve seen so far. Under their heated tent you’ll find mood lighting, comfortable sofas, overarching beach umbrellas, potted palms, and elegant chandeliers – it’s more than a meal, it’s an experience. The restaurant boasts, “The moment you step through our doors you will feel as if you have been transported to a Mediterranean island” – and I couldn’t agree more! Not to mention their exceptional chefs who specialize in preparing fresh seafood. This hot spot is definitely my pick for romantic Valentine’s day dining this year!
Location: 240 Hackensack Street, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-3pm and 5pm-10:30pm; Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun 10am-2pm and 4pm-8:30pm
*Valentine’s Day Hours*: Open all day! 10am-10pm
Details: Reservations recommended, and can be made through the restaurant’s website or on OpenTable
Pearl – Ridgewood
If enjoying award-winning Italian cuisine from the warmth and safety of a private heated outdoor igloo sounds like your dream come true – look no further! Specializing in a variety of homemade pasta crafted by Sicily-born Nonna Carmela, this restaurant makes you feel like you’re dining in Italy itself. And as an added bonus, they have a BYOB option – so you can splurge a little more and order one of their delectable desserts!
Location: 17 S Broad St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 1pm-9pm
Details: Reservations required. Call 201-857-5100 to book your table!
Other Notable Outdoor Dining Options in the Area:
Emma Bistro in Edgewater: Argentinian and American Fusion
Blossom in Palisades Park: Korean Fusion
Fauborg Montclair: French Brasserie
Casual Habana in Hackensack: Cuban Cuisine