Baumgart's Café

- 158 Franklin Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450

For residents of New Jersey looking for a dining experience that is as eclectic as it is delicious, Baumgart's Café in Ridgewood, NJ, stands out as a unique and long-standing local favorite. More than just a Chinese restaurant, Baumgart's Café is a culinary intersection where classic American diner charm meets an extensive and authentic Pan-Asian menu. It’s a place where you can comfortably order General Tso’s Chicken or Crispy Sesame Beef alongside a classic cheeseburger or a creamy, old-fashioned milkshake. The combination might seem surprising, but for Bergen County locals, this blend of flavors and ambiance has made Baumgart’s a cherished institution for decades.

Tracing its roots back to the 1940s as a beloved ice cream parlor in Englewood, the Baumgart’s name has long been synonymous with high-quality frozen treats and a nostalgic atmosphere. When the Ridgewood location opened, it successfully preserved this friendly, classic American "soda fountain ambiance"—complete with vintage decor and music—while simultaneously expanding its offerings to embrace a broad spectrum of Asian cuisine. This dual identity—the classic American dessert spot with an exceptional Pan-Asian kitchen—is precisely what makes the Ridgewood location so special and popular with families and diners of all ages. From savory Dim Sum and complex Malaysian Curry dishes to perfectly seasoned Grilled Szechuan Filet Mignon, all menu items are prepared with attention to fresh, quality ingredients, which is something that customers consistently praise.

The restaurant’s commitment to providing a diverse and high-quality menu ensures that everyone in a dining party, regardless of their craving, will find something to love. Whether you are seeking a comforting plate of Baby Shrimps, Diced Chicken and Vegetable stir-fry, a generous portion of Young Chow Fried Rice, or a healthy selection from their steamed-to-order Healthy Creations section, the kitchen is equipped to deliver. Even the diner classics, like the Hamburger or the Chunky Chicken Salad sandwich, are prepared to satisfy the most traditional tastes. The Ridgewood location is noted as a strong anchor for the brand, holding firm as a cherished spot for Bergen County residents.

Location and Accessibility

Baumgart's Café is conveniently situated right in the heart of Ridgewood, New Jersey, making it an easy-to-reach spot for locals and visitors throughout Bergen County.

The exact address is:

158 Franklin Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA

For those driving, accessibility is enhanced by the availability of a free parking lot behind the restaurant—a considerable convenience in a busy town center. The restaurant’s commitment to serving all members of the community is reflected in its comprehensive accessibility features, which include a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible parking lot, a wheelchair accessible restroom, and wheelchair accessible seating. This attention to detail ensures a comfortable and welcoming visit for every patron. The central location on Franklin Avenue also places it within a vibrant area for a complete day or evening out in Ridgewood.

Services Offered

Baumgart's Café provides a range of services designed to accommodate various dining preferences and schedules for New Jersey patrons:

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy the nostalgic '50s soda fountain ambiance and full table service.
• Delivery: Options including standard and No-contact delivery are available for enjoying their eclectic menu at home.
• Takeout: Conveniently order ahead and pick up your meal at the restaurant.
• Reservations Accepted: Guests are welcome to plan ahead and secure seating, which is especially useful for groups or during peak dining hours.
• Private Dining Room: A dedicated space is available for hosting private parties, gatherings, or overflow crowds.
• Catering to Families: The restaurant is known to be good for kids and offers a kids’ menu and high chairs, making it an ideal family destination.
• Full Meal Service: Dining options span all parts of the day, including Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and a robust Dessert menu focused on their famous ice cream classics.

Features / Highlights

Baumgart's Café is celebrated in the New Jersey community for its distinctive features and diverse menu offerings:

• Unique Dual-Concept Dining: Seamlessly blends a large Pan-Asian menu (Chinese, South East Asian, and more) with American diner classics, ensuring a satisfying option for every palate in a group.
• Nostalgic Atmosphere: Known for its friendly, '50s soda fountain ambiance, which includes vintage decor and a casual, family-friendly crowd.
• Signature Dessert Offerings: A historic soda fountain legacy means they serve decadent homemade ice cream, milkshakes ($9.00), Ice Cream Sodas ($8.00), and classic Old Fashioned Egg Creams ($5.50).
• Extensive Pan-Asian Menu: Features Chinese favorites like Crispy Sesame Chicken ($22.00) and General Tso’s Chicken ($20.50), unique Chef Specialties such as Wok Seared Filet Mignon ($24.00), and South East Asian dishes like Malaysian Curry and Pad Thai.
• Diner and Sandwich Classics: The menu also includes beloved American options, such as the Hamburger ($13.00), Cheeseburger ($14.50), and the Funky Chunky Club Sandwich ($16.00).
• Focus on Freshness and Health: Offers a "Healthy Creations" section where proteins (White Meat Chicken, Flounder Fillet, etc.) are prepared steamed or sautéed with a choice of sauce and fresh vegetables. They also feature healthy options and vegetarian options throughout the menu.
• Generous Portions: Customers frequently comment on the larger-than-average portions for both Asian entrees and diner classics, offering great value.

Contact Information

For New Jersey locals interested in visiting or placing an order with the Ridgewood location, the contact details are:

Address:

158 Franklin Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA

Phone:

(201) 612-5688

What is Worth Choosing

Baumgart’s Café’s charm lies in its successful commitment to quality across two seemingly disparate culinary worlds, making almost anything a worthwhile choice. For a first-time visitor, the best experience often involves a combination of both.

From the Chinese and Pan-Asian side, the Crispy Sesame Chicken or Szechuan Shrimp come highly recommended by regulars for their authentic flavor and satisfying preparation—the Szechuan Shrimp, in particular, is noted for its quality. For those looking to explore more diverse Asian flavors, the Dim Sum or Malaysian Curry dishes offer excellent choices, while the selection of Chinatown-Style Big Bowl Soups is perfect for a comforting and hearty meal. The generous portion of the Vegatable Spring Roll and the perfectly cooked chicken in dishes like Chicken & Broccoli with a brown garlic sauce are consistent highlights.

But no visit to a Baumgart’s location is complete without embracing its soda fountain heritage. The homemade ice cream is a must-try dessert, whether enjoyed in a classic sundae or blended into one of their popular Milkshakes or a nostalgic Ice Cream Soda. Choosing from both sections of the menu allows one to fully appreciate the "East meets West" concept that has made Baumgart’s Café a true New Jersey favorite. The combination of a savory Chinese entree followed by an old-fashioned American ice cream treat is the ultimate Baumgart's experience. With fresh ingredients, attentive service, and a diverse menu, it is genuinely a spot where every member of the family can find their perfect meal, cementing its status as a cherished Ridgewood dining staple.

Baumgart's Café

158 Franklin Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA