Although a late season blizzard doesn’t make it obvious, spring is on its way (we promise), which means it’s time to gear up for some warm-weather fun. Romantic road trips, al fresco dining, and family celebrations are just a few of the reasons to get excited. So, why not combine them all and make this season a delicious one to remember? Here are five restaurants worth a trip outside of Bergen County guaranteed to put a spring in your step (and your stomach).
Campagna (954 Old Post Rd, Bedford, NY, 914-234-6386)
Located inside actor Richard Gere’s 14-acre country hotel, Bedford Post Inn, this fine dining spot, set up inside the 18th century farmhouse, might not have a red carpet at the entrance but the buzz is definitely red-hot. Famed chef Michael White has crafted a rustic—and rather romantic—menu of mouth-watering modern Italian dishes—think classic Chicken Cacciatore and brilliantly prepared branzino, not to mention sensational soups, risotto, and freshly prepared pastas—that are definitely worth the ride out. Finish with one of their delectable desserts, and you might just want to book a room for the night.
Halifax (225 River St, Hoboken, NJ 201-253-2500)
This one’s far from a one-tank trip, but it does fuel our hunger for spectacular dining. Nova Scotian executive chef Seadon Shouse brings a taste of his homeland to the very chic W Hotel in Hoboken with a dinner menu of what he calls Northeastern Coast cuisine. Dive into extra-fresh seafood specialties like smoked Pollock rillettes, lobster rigatoni and salt cod quenelles while taking in the relaxed seaside-themed dining room décor. Linger longer over cocktails at the cozy Living Room , so romantic you might almost forget you have kids.
Blue Hill at Stone Farm (630 Bedford Rd, Pocantico Hills, NY, 914-366-7920)
Chances are you’ve never heard of Pocantico Hills, NY, but Blue Hill is a big reason you should. Sourcing its ingredients from the surrounding fields and pasture, as well as other local farms, Blue Hill highlights the abundant resources of the Hudson Valley. There are no menus here; instead, guests are offered the multi-taste Grazing, Pecking, Rooting menu featuring the best offerings from the field and market. Warning: it’ll run you $238 per guest, but trust us, it’s worth every penny.
Ninety Acres (2 Main St, Peapack, NJ 908-901-4701)
We’ve got 99 problems, but Ninety Acres definitely ain’t one. Operated inside a historic Peapack, NJ, mansion’s carriage house and garage and featuring a menu of modern cuisine developed by Chef David C. Felton, this is the perfect place for a romantic weekend rendezvous. Get ready for one of the most beautiful meals—and dining rooms—you’ve seen in a while. Offering small plates to contemporary entrees to prix fixe menus, Ninety Acres celebrates the 360-degree experience and art of fine food and wine. It’s an unforgettable evening, for sure. Oh, and be sure to dress to impress.
Post Road Brewhouse (1946 Campus Dr. Route 9, Hyde Park, NY, 845-451-1015)
Want a table at this much-buzzed-about pop-up restaurant from the Culinary Institute of America? You’d better book it now, because this place has been packing up since their mid-February opening and they are only open through June. Serving up unique CIA brews, local craft beers, Hudson Valley wines and spirits, and gastro pub fare—burgers, cassoulets, salads, and more—that redefines deliciousness, this is the perfect place to host that long-talked-about family reunion or a night out with the besties. Before you head home, be sure to take in the breath-taking views of the Hudson River from a 30,000 square foot terrace located in the parking deck.
