The Ridge House is now open at 191 Valley Blvd in Wood-Ridge, offering their take on American cuisine in a newly redesigned space that previously housed Gus’ Last Word.

Described by the team as “Fresh, Consistent, Delicious American Food” with “elevated, nuanced, personal hospitality and service,” The Ridge House aims to fill what its owners see as a gap in the market—a spot that feels upscale without being pretentious.

The restaurant is led by veteran restaurateurs Alan and Nairelys Lopez, who operate 14 restaurants including Rumba Cubana and Olivo, and Operating Partner Peter Metaxas, a hospitality professional with 25 years of experience, including time with Hillstone and Rumba Cubana.

Their shared goal is to create “a restaurant the town and surrounding communities are proud to have… and for people to travel to The Ridge House to make it a true destination restaurant.”

Chef Johnathan Betancur heads the kitchen with 12 years of culinary experience across Europe, South America, and the U.S., including time working under Michelin-starred chefs Jaime Uz, Paco Rocero, and Jose Andres.

The menu (see below) features American staples such as steaks, burgers, ribs, sandwiches, and entrée salads, along with vegan and gluten-free options while the full-service bar offers craft cocktails, local beer, and a curated wine list.

The space includes the main dining room, bar, and back patio—accommodating roughly 150 guests.

Currently open seven days a week, The Ridge House serves dinner  and will expand to include lunch service in the near future.

The Ridge House
191 Valley Blvd
Wood-Ridge, NJ
Website

[photo source: The Ridge House]

Menu (click to enlarge)