Piccolo Bistro

- 29 Chestnut St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Welcome to Piccolo Bistro, a cherished destination for authentic Italian-American cuisine nestled in the heart of Ridgewood, Bergen County, New Jersey. This local gem has built a reputation among North Jersey residents for providing a consistently delightful dining experience, balancing traditional flavors with a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Far from being a fleeting trend, Piccolo Bistro offers a reliable spot for a quality Italian meal, whether you're planning a romantic date night, a relaxed family dinner, or a quick, delicious solo lunch. It is celebrated by locals as a 'hidden gem,' providing an easy, satisfying Italian night out with a commitment to fresh, and often scratch-made, dishes.

The restaurant's philosophy centers on delivering flavorful food with warm hospitality. Patrons frequently highlight the staff's friendly and attentive nature, ensuring every guest feels right at home from the moment they walk in. The menu features a comprehensive selection of classic Italian preparations, from hearty pasta dishes to perfectly prepared meat and seafood entrées, all served in generous portions that speak to the establishment's family-friendly approach to dining. For anyone in the New Jersey area seeking a cozy, unpretentious, yet high-quality Italian meal, Piccolo Bistro in Ridgewood should be at the top of your list.

Location and Accessibility

Piccolo Bistro is conveniently located at 29 Chestnut Street in the charming Village of Ridgewood, New Jersey, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors across Bergen County and beyond. Ridgewood is a vibrant community with a bustling downtown, and this restaurant is positioned to be a perfect culinary stop. The location contributes to the restaurant's cozy and comfortable atmosphere, offering a welcoming retreat from a busy day.

Accessibility is a priority at Piccolo Bistro, ensuring a pleasant experience for all guests. The premises include a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, demonstrating a commitment to serving the entire community. For parking, guests have multiple options available in the vicinity, including a free parking garage, free parking lot, free street parking, as well as on-site parking and paid options for maximum convenience. This attention to ease of access makes planning your visit straightforward and stress-free.

Services Offered

Piccolo Bistro provides a wide array of services to accommodate various dining preferences and occasions, solidifying its role as a versatile local eatery in North Jersey.

• Dine-in and Seating: Guests can enjoy table service in the main dining area, which is described as having a cozy, rustic, and intimate ambiance, perfect for both casual and romantic outings. Dinner reservations are recommended, and the restaurant accepts reservations.
• Outdoor Seating: An outside garden area is available for al fresco dining, creating a lovely setting for spring and summer months. Dogs are allowed outside in this area.
• Takeout and Delivery: For those preferring to dine at home, the restaurant offers both traditional takeout and full delivery services, including a no-contact delivery option and curbside pickup.
• Catering: The restaurant offers catering services, allowing you to bring the authentic flavors of Piccolo Bistro to your special events and gatherings.
• Dining Options: Serving both lunch and dinner, with a full dessert menu available.
• BYOB Policy: Piccolo Bistro operates as a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) establishment, which is a significant highlight for many patrons, offering a personal touch to the dining experience and making a special night out more affordable.

Features and Highlights

Piccolo Bistro distinguishes itself in the competitive New Jersey dining scene with several key features that draw in a loyal local clientele:

• Contemporary Italian Cuisine: The menu offers a wealth of classic and unique Italian-American dishes, prepared by an executive chef. From staples like the Rigatoni Bolognese and Lobster Ravioli to interesting appetizers like the Arancini di Mare (risotto seafood balls) and Grilled Octopus served with quinoa and chickpeas, there is something for every palate. The kitchen is noted for preparing much of its food from scratch.
• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The interior is often described as cozy, rustic, upscale, and romantic, with dim, candle-lit warmth that makes it a perfect choice for an intimate dinner with friends or a significant other. The atmosphere is casual, yet the dining experience feels special.
• Excellent Desserts and Coffee: The dessert menu receives high praise, with options like Homemade Tiramisu and Chocolate Lava Cake. The restaurant is also highlighted for serving great coffee, the perfect end to an Italian meal.
• Family and Group Friendly: The establishment is a good choice for groups and is particularly family-friendly, offering high chairs and a designated kids' menu. The overall atmosphere is LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace.
• Diverse Dietary Offerings: The menu is accommodating to various dietary needs, featuring organic dishes, small plates, vegan options, and vegetarian options.
• Woman-Owned Business: Piccolo Bistro identifies as a woman-owned business, adding to the diversity and unique character of the Ridgewood business community.
• Exceptional Service: Patrons consistently compliment the friendly and attentive staff, noting the efficient service that enhances the overall dining experience.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or arrange for a takeout order, please use the following information:

Address: 29 Chestnut St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA

Phone: (201) 882-1111

What is Worth Choosing

When considering an authentic and satisfying Italian meal in Bergen County, Piccolo Bistro stands out for numerous compelling reasons. The core strength of the restaurant lies in its ability to deliver classic Italian comfort food in an atmosphere that is genuinely warm and welcoming. For many New Jersey residents, it’s the ideal blend of a special night out that doesn't feel overly formal or break the bank, largely thanks to its excellent reputation and BYOB policy.

Specific dishes often recommended by loyal customers include the Rigatoni Bolognese, known for its rich, homemade sauce, and the decadent Lobster Ravioli served in a brandied cream sauce with shrimp. The appetizer selection is also highly regarded; the Arancini di Mare and the Grilled Octopus offer unique and flavorful starters that move beyond standard fare. Even for those not focused solely on Italian dishes, the Piccolo Burger is a popular, well-received option.

More than just the food, the restaurant's commitment to creating a cozy, almost candle-lit environment makes it an excellent location for a quiet, romantic evening. Whether you are coming in for a celebratory dinner, a casual meal with the family, or simply to enjoy some late-night food, Piccolo Bistro provides a delightful and reliable culinary experience. In a town with many dining choices, Piccolo Bistro remains a steady and beloved option for those who appreciate good, honest, homemade Italian food paired with friendly, efficient service right here in Ridgewood, NJ.

Piccolo Bistro

29 Chestnut St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA