Cafe Matisse in Rutherford - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

what a wonderful and delicious evening! the tastings and their complements are perfection we sat inside close to the back door, and yes, occasionally there was an odor of must, but it was fleeting the service is attentive, alas some of the young servers aren't experienced in fine dining. that didn't affect much, tho was a little off-putting. (i may expect too much with all my years in the biz) definitely a delectable and lovely dining experience adored the music and decor please turn off the heat in the very small bio the desserts were just ok... graham crust crumbled like from the box and creme brulee on the cold side ( i like mine a bit warm) overall, lovely night! 🥂

Just had an unforgettable 4-course meal at @cafematisse167 by the new owner and chef @chefgpower! The food was divine, and the BYOB policy made it even more special. Stepping inside felt like a European vacation-beautiful both inside and out. Highly recommend for your next date night!

Let me start off by saying I’ve been coming here for many years. I’ve attended birthdays, anniversaries,company parties etc. this place was very special to me. I have recently been here and I hate to say I’m a bit disappointed in the portion size. I’m aware they’re small plates but the size of the plate has significantly decreased from when I’ve dined from the previous owner. What I have noticed is the flavor is still the same but the layering of different textures in the dishes are non existent. In my opinion this is what set aside this restaurant from others. They no longer layer as much as the they did in the past.I’m sure it’s to cut corners, but this diminishes the quality. For over 30 dollars a plate i expect more. Also there was an up charge if you ordered steak,it was never like that before. I’m a huge foodie, please bring back the integrity of the old dishes. Again flavor was great,service was great, would I come back probably but the old way in my opinion was the best way.

Your mid-town nyc fine-dining experience without the logistical competition and the hefty price tag! Highly recommend Matisse 167 as the menu evolves seasonally, and the portion sizes are generous to share amongst two people. As the menu is largely pre-fixe, each diner is able to pick a different cuisine track and share with one another once the dishes arrive. The interior decor is classy and very comfortable. The wait staff are attentive and engaging. Another gem in Bergen county.

The food is delicious, the staff is fantastic. GO!

So happy that the former Cafe Matisse is now Matisse 167 and accommodates gluten sensitivities as well as vegetarian and vegan preferences. We had a fabulous meal last night (tuna, Pastrami Reuben, Duck, and Chilean Sea Bass; crème brûlée for dessert!) and it was all delicious! Our server Adrian was excellent, funny and attentive. Can’t wait to return. Thank you Chef Greg!

Loved celebrating my birthday at Matisse 167. Truly a special experience. Exceptional attention given by Adrian from the moment we arrived. We requested seating outside for the first two courses until rain persuaded us to move indoors for dessert. The food was delicious and Kevin was so nice and helpful. We even were introduced to the Chef and had a nice chat with him. Overall, one of the best dining experiences.

Outstanding dinner to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. Our first time dining at this favorite restaurant under the direction of their new chef and owner. Peter is off to a great start!

A definite WOW! Been going to Matisse for over 20 years. Must admit initially being disappointed and concerned to hear chef/owner, Peter had retired. But new chef/owner Greg Power quickly and fully won us over with his incredible offerings. Using the same type of over the top, quality ingredients prepared and presented with a level of skill and deep passion only a master chef can produce. We can’t wait to go back!

A Delightful Evening on a Beautiful Patio My recent dining experience at Matisse 167 was nothing short of magical. We were seated on the most beautiful patio, surrounded by lush greenery which created an ambiance that was both serene and romantic. The service was outstanding, with the staff striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and allowing us to enjoy our evening at a relaxed pace. Our server was knowledgeable and made excellent recommendations, ensuring we had the best possible experience. The food was absolutely exquisite. Each dish was a work of art, both in presentation and flavor. The the octopus stood out as a personal favorite, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Every bite was a testament to the chef’s skill and creativity. The patio truly added an extra layer of charm to an already exceptional meal. For anyone looking to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in a beautiful outdoor setting, Matisse167 is the place to be.

A very wonderful restaurant.Great service and food.

Been going to Matisse for over 20 years, one of my favorites in the whole world.

We enjoyed the four course tasting menu very much, although as a person allergic to shellfish and trying to eat a vegetable-forward (rather than red meat) diet, the choices were very limited. It is a fixed-price menu, so we were very surprised to get a mistake on our bill. Our party of two had a 20 percent “large group surcharge.” There were no large groups at the restaurant that evening, so it seemed odd. The just corrected it, and all was fine.

Wonderful time at Matisse 167! Thoroughly enjoyed our time as we celebrated my wife’s birthday…. From the moment we walked in, we were warmly greeted and throughout our dinner, we were taken care of without missing a beat! Staff and chef/owner were genuinely attentive. As far as our prix-fixe menu options, ALL were above expectation, from presentation to taste… As an example, the first-course octopus plate was truly superb. The blend of flavors was amazing and the texture was appropriately tender! The dish was done to perfection! The third-course sirloin plate, which is a small up-charge special, was truly delectable… My palate was singing. The sirloin seared and crusty on the outside with a nice pink center. Once again, the flavors were beyond amazing. Also, I must give a shout out to the Chilean sea bass… Melts in your mouth as well as the foie gras add-on truffle! Overall, all of our dishes were uniquely presented and savory… My taste buds can’t wait to dance with the next new menu in the fall! Importantly, in true French custom, nothing was rushed and hospitality was spot-on! Highly recommend Matisse 167! You won’t regret it…

Great food,great vibes. A must try

I love this place. The decor, ambiance and food were 10/10. I have eaten at Michelin star restaurants so I would say I’m a tough critic. My first time here and it won’t be the last. It’s nice to experience a great restaurant in my home state of NJ. I thought I knew what life was until I met Adrian. He was wonderful and guided us through our culinary experience & the chefs tasting menu. Needless to say, I highly recommend.

Here for a romantic anniversary dinner and they didn’t disappoint! Amazing service and explanation of all the dishes and courses. Each course was better than the last. Fresh ingredients and beautifully presented plates of food. The chef even wished us well before we left, so we felt very special. My two favorite dishes were the scallops and the sea bass. My husband loved the “burger” and the cheesecake dessert. BYOB. Fantastic!

We had our wedding dinner at Matisse and it was absolutely amazing. The food was delicious, the wait staff were so helpful and kind. Highly recommend: octopus, duck, pan seared scallop and crème brûlée

Great food, atmosphere and experience. Staff was great. Food was great.

Chef Greg had big shoes to fill from Chef Peter, who created Cafe Matisse 37 years ago, but I am happy to report he's got this! His seasonal, llight recreations of some of Peter's dishes are amazing and he has stayed true to some of the most popular dishes. Shout out to Chef Greg, congratulations!

What can I say about this place. What a beautiful and cozy atmosphere. Been here several times, but this was my first visit with new ownership. It STILL does not fail to deliver. Chef Pete was great, but there is no drop off in taste, quality, or experience. We were blessed with a beautiful night which allowed us the opportunity to eat in the garden which is SO romantic and quaint. We chose not to bring our own spirits as we feel it can interfere with the taste of the food. And does Chef Greg deliver! The staff is welcoming, friendly, and attentive and retains its character which has made Matisse the gem it is. We went with the 4 course meñu, which was somewhat pricey, but there are options to keep cost down. The portions are deceiving as you think they are small, but there's plenty of food leaving room for the next course. Deserts are delectable, orange vanilla cheesecake and the PB&J brownie....yum! Parking is somewhat limited, but we made early dinner reservations so we found a space right out front. I love this place and the people who make it work. Hat's off to Chef Greg and his staff.

Great service. Waiter guys were wonderful. They gave us just enough personal space but they were also attentive at the same time. The garden was beautiful. Food was delicious. We were all not very crazy about the duck breast dish. But everything else was perfect. Scallops and octopus were perfectly made. Delicious Creme Brulee. Great place to spend summer evening with friends or family at.

My new favorite restaurant, the service was incredible! The staff made us feel so welcomed from the moment we stepped in and left, went through the entire menu and accommodated our request to move outdoors. The food was absolutely divine, it’s impossible to pick a favorite. Will definitely be returning and bringing family & friends! This place is a must visit 😍

We reserved a table in the garden. Unfortunately, the mosquitos won, and we had to move to the dining room. Something to consider when opting for that seating. The service staff are all VERY young and don't seem to have much experience. Our server spent a long time giving us a word salad as an appetizer. When we asked him about one of the ingredients, he gave us a silly answer, but to his credit, he returned to the kitchen to check and give us the right answer. It was clear, however, that the food knowledge wasn't a match for the menu. WHICH WAS AMAZING. NOTHING MATTERS BUT THIS FOOD. IT IS SO GOOD!

My husband and I have been coming here for 7 years to celebrate our anniversary. It is the best restaurant in the area by far. The food, service, and ambiance are all exceptional. The perfect place for any special occasion.

Best place I've ever been to...Adrian has to be the best host I have ever met. The food was absolutely amazing. They make you feel at home. I'm a man of few words but this is definitely our new place for all our special occasions....I highly recommend this restaurant...

Food was delicious and the service was spot on! Chef/owner came out to talk with us. It was a lovely evening and a great place for a special dinner as it is very pricey. BYOB is a great touch.

We celebrated our wedding anniversary in the garden last night. It was so lovely! The food was delicious and the service excellent

Matisse 167 was absolutely a beautiful experience. We sat in the garden area and it was gorgeous, a perfect date night spot. The food was 10/10, and the waiters were very attentive. My boyfriend and I were celebrating our anniversary and they brought out our desserts with a a candle on each and said Happy Anniversary! Very special experience, would definitely come again!

I made my reservation before the announcement of the new chef/owner, so I was uncertain of what to expect, worried about my choice for my wife's birthday dinner. I've never been before, so I can't compare, but Chef Greg's food was amazing!! each course was so delicious. Our service started off strong, but by the end of the meal had become less attentive. We sat there waiting to pay for what seemed like way too long. Overall, we loved it and would definitely go back for another special occasion

The food was amazing, it was a wonderful journey and experience on the pallet. The infuison of flavors was phenomenal. Chef Greg and his staff go above and beyond to make you feel at home. I will definitely go again and highly recommended Matisse 167 to everyone.

The food and service were both extraordinary; special attention was paid for special food needs. We had a perfect evening!

A real gem of a restaurant! Beautiful and romantic outdoor garden seating with delicious food. We were so impressed with the chefs tasting menu. Excellent portion sizes for the price with plenty of variety to choose from. BYOB so bring a bottle! Thank you for the amazing service, Keith! Can't recommend enough for an anniversary or small birthday celebration. We will 100% be back

Chef Greg Powers created an outstanding seasonal menu which changes frequently. The outdoor patio seating is very nice. The wait staff are professional & vert attentive to giving great table service. It's a prefix menu with 3 courses & 1 dessert. The Burrata & Scallop and Sashimi Tuna were outstanding. The Matisse Burger & Chicken Wing entree was outstanding as well. Go check this place out!

Outstanding service and attention to detail. The decor is beautiful and creates a romantic atmosphere. Remember to dress on the nicer side. Food - excellent and beautiful as well. The 3 dish choices within each of the 4 courses offers a suitable selection for most palettes. We will definitely return!!

This was our first time visiting. The staff was very attentive and friendly. The restaurant is quaint and romantic. The food was delicious. I loved dining outside, But would suggest that perhaps the area be treated to reduce the mosquitoes . 

My husband and I enjoyed my Birthday celebration night.

Chef Greg was phenomenal and Adrian was too kind! From the moment we walked in, the all the staff were incredibly attentive and caring. The food was super quality. I’d recommend anyone with my eyes closed!

I recently dined at Matisse 167 and was blown away by the amazing food and excellent service. Adrian provided top-notch customer service, making sure our dining experience was smooth and enjoyable. Chef Greg's culinary skills truly shined through in every dish we tried - each bite was bursting with flavor and expertly prepared. I highly recommend Matisse 167 for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience with exceptional food and service.

Great place and atmosphere, definitely would go again and recommend

Good food and good service. Very relaxing evening.

For our anniversary last month we chose Matisse as our first tasting experience. Each course was one of the best things I've ever tasted. We requested to sit outside and had a blast talking to another couple about the different dishes, they mentioned they've come several times and it's consistently good. I'm a big guy and I was satisfied by the end of the fourth course. The server was passionate and well trained to discuss the food, owner made a point to chat with us on the way out and thank us for coming. The restaurant ambience is classy and has a couple different rooms, I'd like to come back to sit in a dim and elegant room off to the side when you walk in. Felt like we had a special evening visiting this place and will be enjoying again in the future.

Had an amazing experience at Matisse last week. I honestly enjoyed it better than the last time under the previous owner. Everything was exceptional and the 1st course Burrata and Artichoke was one the best dishes I've had in a very long time. The service was excellent and the timing of the courses was perfect. I've read people concerned about the change of ownership. Don't be. It may be better.

Cafe Matisse has been our favorite foodie restuarant for the last 20 years. Actually found it by "mistake" when we thought it would be a quick place to go before a concert at the then Brendan Byrne Arena. It is not a "cafe" so plan to spend time dining. We have been many places in US and Europe and the menu is the most creative. Ironically, it is in Rutherford, NJ. You have to be an "adventurous" eater as the former chef Peter and present chef Ryan (welcome and great job) prepare each dish with many ingredients that are blended perfectly. Basically, "NO SUBSITUTIONS". The stafff is ultra accommodating. Overall, one of the best culinary experiences you will have.

A dazzling, extraordinary meal. This is not a normal restaurant - and it’s obvious after eating there why it was awarded a Michelin star. Service was great, atmosphere amazing (definitely recommend the patio seating) and the food an explosion of unique tastes.

Just had an amazing experience at Matisse. Each course was better than the last. The beet salad special was by far the best beet salad I’ve ever had. The buratta and artichoke app was unexpected and delicious. The sirloin with crisp polenta was perfect. Also loved the scallops topped with foie gras truffle. The service was impeccable. I can’t wait to come back.

I’ve been here a number of times. The place was very good before and seems to be getting better. The menu has switched up a bit, and the new chef is knocking it out of the park. The duck and crab dishes were phenomenal.

Every dish from start to finish was delicious! Service was excellent. Portions were above and beyond. We left wanting to come back asap! We will be back soon

Dazzling food, a truly special, extraordinary meal. This is not your run-of-the-mill restaurant.

Amazing dinner again. We have never been disappointed. The only thing was flies and gnats while we were outside.

Highly recommend Cafe Matisse! Personally re: dessert, though delicious would have preferred a lighter dessert ie fruit compote, souffle etc I’m sure Chef Greg could create something special! Thoroughly enjoyed our dinner et Al!! Our server Keith was a delight all making our 69th anniversary a delight! We look forward to next year or sometime sooner! Anna

Wonderful dining experience in a lovely garden setting. Four courses with three choices each, plus dessert. Food is inventive and well prepared. Not inexpensive but a fantastic special occasion restaurant

Adrian was the absolute best! Is the definition of perfection. He made our dinner and the rest of his team was just as amazing!

This restaurant is magnificent, food and the patio is sensational, Adrian and Greg are an incredible team.

Had an amazing dining experience at Matisse with Melinda as our server. She was an expert and so incredibly helpful. Loved everything we ordered! The chef truly knows their craft. Beautiful atmosphere for outside dining. Can’t wait to go back for another fine meal at Matisse!

Never disappointing, the service is always the best and food was amazing as usual. Matisse 167 is our go to for special occasions.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at this hidden gem in my backyard, and I absolutely loved the concept and the eclectic menu. The food was not only delicious but also presented exceptionally well. The service was outstanding, which is incredibly important to me. Our server, who has been with the restaurant for approximately 25 years, was friendly, accommodating, and truly service-oriented. What made the experience even more special was the engagement from the executive chef and co-owner, who took the time to ask for our feedback. This level of personal interaction really sets this place apart. Highly recommend!

Overall it was lovely. I wasn’t thrilled two of the dishes I ordered but loved the sushi and pineapple appetizer. We will return!

My experience at Matisse was amazing Adrian our host was amazing !!!! He was so funny and polite … then before the night was out we got to meet the chef !!! He was so nice and overall my experience was A1

Chief grey and Adrian are amazing. 10/10

All the food was expertly prepared and absolutely delicious!!! As always, a great experience!$

Loved it … Adrian was cool and I met the chef who was so nice

An evening like you would have when dining in Europe! Great service and food. We were also fortunate to have lovely weather so that we could sit on the patio. Chilean sea bass was our favorite although everything was delicious. Staff are so friendly and provide for a nice atmosphere.

Amazing experience from the food to the service.

5 star experience from beginning to end service and food were outstanding

Excellent service by Adrian, good atmosphere and the food is amazing; a great place for a unique byob dining experience

Our go to place for special occasions. Can be pricey, but never left disappointed. Wait staff make sure you feel at home and we get to give the chef a personal thumbs up on the way out. Dining in outdoor gardens a nice touch as well.

Beautiful, intimate restaurant with creative dishes

An adventure in every artistic bite. The seabass with risotto and pineapple is unlike anything I've ever experienced. Service is impeccable, and the garden is a romantic getaway in the heart of Rutherford.

Most delicious, innovative menu. Service is impeccable. Atmosphere is perfect.

A great place to celebrate an anniversary, or any special occasion. The garden seating is beautiful and whimsical; a perfect setting for the artful plates that arrive in perfect succession. You can tell everyone here loves and appreciates fine food. Every dish was fantastic. My favorite was the sea bass over a risotto with crab and pineapple. I also loved the fried artichoke over burrata and the crab and shrimp dish. Our server was a joy. We may just have to come back again to celebrate the next seasonal menu change!

As always, an amazing evening. Ate outside and the weather was perfect

We had an amazing dining experience at Matisse 167. The food was spectacular along with the service. A special shoutout to Adrienne for the amazing service and incredibly fun banter that made our experience all the better.

We’ve been going to cafe matise the last 3 years and it gets better every time.The food is delicious and almost like eating art the chef is amazing.Thank you for doing such a great job we’ll be back next year

Everything was excellent from beginning to the end. So many wonderful choices on the menu.

Chef Peter is beyond compare! I have travelled the world and dimmed in many come restaurants, but none with the creativity and superb execution as Peter.Highly recommend for any special occasion.

it's like stepping into another world. From the service, to the service, to the ambiance. My husband and I had such an amazing date night. We will definitely be back! Thank you for such impeccable service and food for the rare night we can get away from our toddler and have a date night!

The food, service and atmosphere were all excellent! I wish I had found Cafe Matisse years ago!

I hadn't been back to Cafe Matisse since June 2018 but the meal was just as great!!

I liked the experience, especially the garden. The food yet coming from a good place, is a bit too complicated, rather confusing. The chef is using many interesting techniques in each dish, most of the time there are 2-3 sauces per dish with seared, fried and roasted items in the same plate, it’s impressive the level of details but it’s a bit too much for one dish. I prefer to feel the main ingredient and than have the complimentary tastes from other sauces, sides etc, but when everything in a plate is “the super star” nothing is a super star. But again, maybe not my coup of tea, but the ambiance and service definitely worth a try it

The staff was very attentive, and the ambiance (we ate outside in the garden) was beautiful) & definitely very romantic. The four course meal started out strong and the 1st & 2nd course were delicious! However, things started to fizzled out by the 3rd course meal and unfortunately the mediocre desserts ended our experience with a flat note. We appreciate the attempt of the inventive Prix-Fixe menu however for the price we were expecting a higher caliber of taste and flavor throughout our entire dining experience.

Amazing experience on par with Micheline level NYC establishments. Top notch presentation and service.

This was absolutely one of the best date night dining experiences. The food was excellent and the service was impeccable. A great way to spend our 38th anniversary. We will be back .

Last night will go down as one of the greatest dining experiences of my life! (And I’ve eaten at restaurants all over the world and have been a foodie forever!) I wish I could go every night!

Unbelievable you got to try the crabcake extremely happy beautiful restaurant 

Food was outstanding! The price fixed menu gives you a lot of food and they do a great job of spreading the courses out. They definitely don't rush you through dinner. Every table there that night was celebrating an anniversary. So, obviously a grwat place for a special occasion.

We went to celebrate my wife's birthday and everything was fantastic from start to finish at this cute ,very romantic, chef inspired, BYOB restaurant. Five course pre-fix menu where each course was better than the next. Service was very professional, yet very friendly and unpretentious. The only course that was mediocre was desert. Not bad, just not as stellar as the other courses. Highly recommend!!

I’m lost for words! What an experience! I will definitely be returning

I was here last Saturday with 2 other people to try their Spring Menu. It was absolutely amazing. We each ordered one item from the menu and shared so we were able to try the entire menu. Have to give lots of credit to the service and ambiance to the restaurant. Very intimate and artistic. Just a beautiful place. You feel like being transported to another place instead of being in Rutherford, NJ. The presentation of each dish was art and the taste was pure satisfaction. I prefer the seafood course because the flavors were just captured so well. The crab cakes the Chillean Sea Bass and the tuna appetizer were my favorites and stood out to me. I was just in the mood for a lighter fare. Their duck was very lean and not fatty. I can't wait to go back when their garden is ready. They have a really cozy back patio that will be filled with various plants in the summer. By then they will have a summer menu and I will back to try. Great date night spot or just treating yourself and catching up with friends. BYOB

Food and experience was very enjoyable, would recommend.

This was my first time, the blends of taste and texture were outstanding, I highly recommend and will definitely be adding to my list of favorites.

Our favorite special occasion place. Thank you to chef Pete and staff for another fantastic dinner and experience

Great spot for a date night. Lovely Matisse-inspired decor. Food was excellent and service was great. Highly recommended for a special occassion dinner.

It was extremely nice environment. The chef is amazing. The food is so delicious. we love it there. We had a date night and we’re intending to go back. Thank you.

It was truly a phenomenal and unique experience. It's a Bring Your Own Bottled alcohol. So we had fun pairing the right wine with the artistically plated culinary delicacies that were making their momentary appearance at our table. Do Not Make a Brunch appointment before coming to this marvel of a gem in Rutherford. Keep the extra space available and an open palate to begin this savoring voyage of loving crafted food. Bill

We have tried each seasonal menu and all are worth trying, each one unique and special. We are fortunate to live within walking distance so it makes a very nice evening. Looking forward to summer surprises

Expensive, but this place is king. Even their dessert is absolutely worth it. Absolutely Love their crab cakes. Service is top notch and their ambience is absolutely gorgeous. It's so artistically beautiful inside. The service is always outstanding and they take great care. Each time I come the menu changes and it's always amazing. This place is one of a kind. And it's so pretty inside!

The service is outstanding. The food is amazing and so creative. I always ask to keep a copy of the menu so I can identify all the layers of flavors. The presentation is superb. I have been coming to Cafe Matisse for many years and I’m always amazed. Thank you for such a wonderful experience that can never be matched.

First time there . Outstanding food great flavor. Service was great. Staff was very accommodating.

Delicious food in an intimate setting. Great service