Spring is here. And we see a park in your future.
One that doesn’t include screaming toddlers. Or bruised knees.
Just a glorious meal and perhaps a cocktail. Yup.
We’re talking about the grand opening of Park & Orchard, restaurateur David Madison’s dazzling re-launch of an iconic restaurant that is near and dear to many hungry hearts in East Rutherford and beyond.
Founded nearly 40 years ago by brothers Buddy & Ken Gebhardt, Park & Orchard was one of the nation’s first organic restaurants and quickly became a NJ culinary landmark. But restaurants can be a finicky business, and what was once full of excitement had fallen a little flat. Enter new owner David Madison, who proved his prowess for reinvention when he successfully re-launched another culinary landmark, the Saddle River Inn. He knew he could re-capture it’s magic—his way.
What he’s done with Park & Orchard is nothing short of astounding. From the brand new décor—cushy leather booths (perfect for date night!), a lively bar area serving reasonably priced wines and craft cocktails, brick balusters, and an industrial-chic interior—to an updated menu featuring a mixture of new dishes along with their take on many of the Park and Orchard favorites, courtesy of celebrity chef Christopher Albrecht (Gramercy Tavern, Craftsteak), Park & Orchard is once again the definition of destination dining.
We sampled a few dishes, including the Grilled 12 oz. Boneless Ribeye ($44), Cacio e Pepe (linguini, toasted cauliflower & mint; $12 for a half-portion), and the P&O Biscuits (sprinkled with parmesan-black pepper and served with whipped butter & honey; $14). All were outstanding. We also appreciated the many gluten-free options. A wonderful homage to the original P&O.
Now that's our kind of park.
