Ho-Ho-Kus Inn Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
1 East Franklin Turnpike
Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn; Restaurant Highlights
Fare: New American
Price: Moderate - Expensive
Food Quality: Well-Executed with an emphasis on locally sourced and seasonally sustainable ingredients, naturally raised meats, grain-fed beef, and sustainable ingredients.
Service: Friendly, attentive, without being intrusive
Ambiance/Decor: Cozy, warm, historic circa 1796. Dining room ambiance is "Old World" elegant
Overall Rating: 2 1/2 Stars
Note: Four-star Rating System from
1/2 Star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: Romantic dinners, holiday meals, business lunches, and upscale brunch
Not Recommended For: Fast casual dining or loud group celebrations
Recommended dishes: When available, The Braised Veal Osso Buco wth Wild Oyster Mushroom Risotto, Grana, Pecorino, Red Wine Demi; The Pan Seared Halibut with Butternut Squash Purée, Creamy Farro, Broccolini, Shallot Fondue, Roasted Fingerling Potatoe; and The Sunday Brunch.
Liquor: Full-service bar Extensive wine list with over 340 varieties, and beers from a variety of local breweries
The Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern blends historic charm with elevated New American cuisine, making it a standout destination for refined dining in Bergen County. Known for its seasonal menus, elegant ambiance, and rich Revolutionary-era roots, it’s ideal for special occasions and culinary exploration.
🏛️ History & Ownership
Built in 1796 as a manor home for the Zabriskie family, the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn is one of New Jersey’s oldest surviving structures. After serving as a tavern and private church, it was restored in 2009 by local residents Gordon and Laurie Hamm, to preserve its legacy while modernizing its culinary offerings. Their vision: to create a neighborhood gem that honors tradition while embracing contemporary tastes.
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
The Inn specializes in New American fare with eclectic influences, emphasizing seasonal ingredients, farm-to-table sourcing, and regional craft beverages. Signature dishes include:
- Duck and sweet potato gumbo – a standout praised for decades, even enjoyed by Richard Nixon
- Foie gras, short ribs, and locally sourced seafood
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, though not the primary focus
Preparation leans toward classic techniques with modern flair, and while not strictly organic, the kitchen prioritizes freshness and quality.
👨🍳 The Chef
Executive Chef Troy Piegaro runs the kitchen. Chef Piegaro received his formal culinary training at the Culinary Institute of America. He later honed his culinary skills at the Pig and Prince in Montclair, NJ and as Sous Chef at Ho-Ho-Kus Inn before being promoted to Executive Chef.
The Inn’s reputation for duck dishes and seasonal innovation speaks to a chef with strong roots in American and French techniques.
🌟 Ambiance
The Inn features seven unique dining rooms, each with its own personality—from the Crystal Room’s elegance to the Tap Room’s rustic warmth. Highlights include:
- Original fireplaces, bluestone patio, and outdoor fireplace
- Historic décor with modern touches
- Low to moderate noise levels, ideal for conversation
- Table spacing allows for privacy without feeling distant
- Background music is subtle and curated
The vibe is elegant yet inviting, perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or celebratory dinners.
🤝 Service
Staff are friendly, attentive, without being intrusive s. The dining room team and bartenders are well-versed in both classic and craft cocktails.
🍷 Other Features
- Full bar service with regional and international wines, craft beers, and seasonal cocktails
- Child-friendly in most rooms, though ambiance suits older children better
- Recommended for: romantic dinners, holiday meals, business lunches, and upscale brunch
- Not recommended for: fast casual dining or loud group celebrations
- Parking: ample on-site and nearby street parking
- Dress code: smart casual to business casual
- Holiday hours: Open for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day, often with special menus
🏆 What Sets Them Apart
- Historic setting with Revolutionary War roots
- Diverse dining spaces tailored to mood and occasion
- Consistently praised duck dishes
- Commitment to seasonal and locally inspired menus
For those seeking a refined yet welcoming dining experience, the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern offers a rare blend of culinary excellence, historic ambiance, and community spirit.
Update October 2025
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
