The Hill

- 252 Schraalenburgh Rd, Closter, NJ 07624

For New Jersey residents seeking a world-class dining experience without the commute to Manhattan, The Hill in Closter stands as an undeniable culinary landmark. Located at 252 Schraalenburgh Rd, this establishment is far more than a typical American restaurant; it is a destination for sophisticated, seasonally-driven cuisine led by one of the state's most decorated chefs. Chef/Owner Ben Pollinger, a former Michelin-starred chef at Oceana in New York City, has brought his exceptional expertise and refined approach to create an upscale yet cozy haven right here in Bergen County.

The Hill specializes in New American fare, characterized by "seasonal New American dishes with just a touch of global goodness thrown in for good measure." This commitment to quality, combined with an elevated atmosphere featuring a grand dining room and a roaring fireplace, has earned the restaurant numerous accolades, including "Best New Restaurant" in the past. Whether you are planning an intimate, romantic dinner, a lively gathering with friends for cocktails, or a celebratory event, The Hill provides a polished setting, impeccable service, and inventive food and drink that truly make it a Manhattan-worthy dining spot. This guide details everything you need to know about this premier local restaurant.

The Hill is perfectly situated at 252 Schraalenburgh Rd, Closter, NJ 07624, USA, making it a convenient fine dining option for residents across Northern New Jersey. Its location provides a tranquil setting, adjacent to a local farm, offering a sense of escape that is rare for a restaurant so close to major population centers. Furthermore, it is just about 20 minutes from the George Washington Bridge, offering an easy drive for those venturing from further south or crossing over from New York.

Accessibility is thoughtfully managed to ensure a welcoming visit for all guests. The restaurant provides multiple convenient parking options and is fully equipped with comprehensive features for mobility assistance.

Key Location and Accessibility Features:

• Abundant Free parking lot and On-site parking is provided for ease of arrival.
• The facility includes a Wheelchair accessible entrance.
• Designated Wheelchair accessible parking lot spots are available.
• The dining areas and common spaces include Wheelchair accessible seating.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom facilities are on-site.

The restaurant's setting and practical access features ensure a stress-free start to your dining experience.

The Hill provides an array of dining and hospitality services, designed to cater to various occasions, from casual lunch and dinner to private corporate and social events.

Comprehensive Dining and Service Options:

• Dining Service: Offers both Lunch and Dinner, with full Table service and comfortable Seating.

• Indoor and Outdoor Seating: Guests can enjoy the elegant interior or opt for Outdoor seating on the patio, often with a pleasant tree-lined backdrop.

• Takeout and Delivery: Provides convenient options for dining at home, including Takeout, Delivery, Curbside pickup, and No-contact delivery.

• Full Bar Service: Features a fully stocked Bar onsite with a focus on Great cocktails, a Great beer selection, and an extensive Great wine list.

• Special Events and Private Dining: Known for being an excellent venue for private events, hosting everything from wedding parties to corporate dinners. Offers a dedicated Private dining room (The Loft) and full Catering services.

• Reservations: Dinner reservations are recommended and the restaurant Accepts reservations, ensuring your table is secured, particularly during peak hours.

• Specialized Menus: The kitchen offers a variety of selections including Small plates, Comfort food, Healthy options, Organic dishes, Vegan options, and Vegetarian options.

• Payments: Accepts all major forms of payment, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Operating hours are typically Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Thursday and Friday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. On Saturday, the restaurant is open from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the bar often remaining open later.

The distinct features and ambiance of The Hill are what truly set it apart as an upscale dining choice in the region. The restaurant was completely remodeled in 2018, resulting in a clean, modern, and notably Cozy atmosphere.

Key Features and Experience Highlights:

• Michelin-Starred Leadership: The kitchen is helmed by Chef Ben Pollinger, whose reputation from his time at Oceana ensures an exceptionally high standard of food preparation and presentation, providing Manhattan-worthy dishes locally.

• Stunning Atmosphere: The spacious main dining room features a striking Fireplace and often massive floral displays, contributing to an ambiance that is simultaneously Romantic, Trendy, and Upscale.

• Acoustics: The dining room ceiling is engineered with speaker fabric, creating exceptional acoustics—a often-overlooked feature in grand spaces.

• Exceptional Beverage Program: Known for its Great cocktails (such as the Toasted Pear Negroni and Crooked Smile), the bar also features an impressive list of Draft Beer (like Allagash White and Brix City Brewing IPA) and a well-curated Wine By The Glass selection (including Pascal Jolivet Sauvignon Blanc and Alpasion Grand Malbec).

• Hospitality and Inclusivity: The restaurant has a welcoming policy, noted as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, appealing to a diverse crowd including Groups and those seeking Solo dining at the bar.

• Live Entertainment: The venue occasionally offers Live music, enhancing the dining and bar experience.

For reservations, inquiries about catering, or general information, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 252 Schraalenburgh Rd, Closter, NJ 07624, USA

• Phone Number: (201) 899-4700

The Hill’s reputation is built on delivering a superior culinary experience, and local diners are strongly encouraged to visit for the following reasons.

Culinary Excellence: The food is the primary draw. Patrons consistently praise the chef’s technical skill and imaginative compositions. Guests can choose from refined appetizers like the Tuna Tartare Nikkei ($15.00) or the Salmon Ceviche ($15.00), which are artfully plated and full of flavor. For a main course, look for seasonal favorites such as the rich Pumpkin Risotto or ask about the rotating New American entrées that showcase local specialty ingredients. Even side dishes, like the Blistered Shishito Peppers ($10.00) and Fresh Potato Gnocchi ($10.00), demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to quality. The Dessert menu is also lauded as "amazing," with decadent options that perfectly conclude the high-end meal.

The Bar Experience: For a more casual visit, the bar area offers an elevated experience that goes beyond typical pub fare. The bar menu is satisfying and crave-worthy, pairing perfectly with the Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food specials available daily from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The bartenders are known for being knowledgeable, providing both classic options and higher-level mixologist creations, making it an ideal place to have an after-work drink or watch a game.

Unmatched Hospitality: The Hill is known for its accommodating service. Customer testimonials frequently mention that the staff and chef go out of their way to cater to specific dietary needs, such as creating custom, high-quality vegetarian options on the fly—a true indicator of a skilled and genuinely welcoming establishment.

If you are in Closter or any surrounding Bergen County town and desire a high-end, chef-driven American dining experience marked by quality ingredients, beautiful presentation, and a warm, elegant setting, making a Dinner reservation at The Hill is absolutely worth choosing.

The Hill

252 Schraalenburgh Rd, Closter, NJ 07624, USA