Restaurant Serenade Dining Review:
A must try spot in Chatham, NJ
Restaurant Serenade
6 Roosevelt Ave.
Chatham, NJ
Restaurant Serenade: Highlights
Fare: European/French influenced
Price: Very Expensive
Food Quality: Exceptional, well-executed menu, artfully presented.
Service: Professional, attentive, and low key.
Ambiance/Decor: Attractive, sophisticated.
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate, bar area can be noisy.
Dress: Upscale Casual
Recommended For: Romantic dates, anniversaries, business dinners, holiday celebrations.
Not Recommended For: Budget diners, casual family outings.
Recommended dishes: When available, Organic Wild Salmon; Roasted Rack of Lamb; and the Filet Mignon, au poivre.
Liquor: Small, elegant full service bar with an excellent selection of pricey wines.
Restaurant Serenade offers a refined, French-inspired dining experience led by acclaimed Chef James Laird, known for his artful cuisine and elegant ambiance.
🏛️ History & Vision
Restaurant Serenade was founded by Chef James Laird and his wife Nancy Laird, both deeply committed to elevating New Jersey’s fine dining scene. Their vision blends European sophistication with local charm, creating a destination where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
Serenade specializes in contemporary French-American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients and farm-to-table sourcing. The menu is exceptionally well-executed, featuring dishes that are artfully plated and rich in flavor. Signature items include:
- Organic Wild Salmon
- Roasted Rack of Lamb
- Filet Mignon au Poivre
The kitchen prioritizes organic and locally sourced ingredients, and preparation is meticulous, with a lighter and brighter, classic technique.
👨🍳 The Chef
Chef James Laird is a Culinary Institute of America graduate who refined his craft in Europe under legends like Georges Blanc and Alain Pic. He’s celebrated as one of New Jersey’s best classically trained chefs, with a style that’s subtle, romantic, and deeply rooted in French technique.
🪑 Ambiance & Décor
The restaurant’s interior is sophisticated and attractive, with a jewel-box elegance. Expect:
- Moderate noise levels (bar area can be lively)
- Upscale casual dress code
- Well-spaced tables for privacy
- No outdoor dining
- Elegant bar area with a curated wine list
The vibe is ideal for romantic dinners, celebrations, and refined gatherings.
🤝 Service
Service at Serenade is professional, attentive, and low-key. Staff are knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings, and the experience is consistently smooth from reservation to dessert
🍷 Other Features
- Alcohol: Full-service bar with premium wines and cocktails
- Child-Friendly: Not recommended for young children; ambiance suits adults and teens
- Recommended For: Romantic dates, anniversaries, business dinners, holiday celebrations
- Not Recommended For: Budget diners, casual family outings
- Parking: Available nearby
- Dress Code: Upscale casual preferred
- Holiday Hours: Open on Mother’s Day and other major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
Restaurant Serenade stands out for its chef-driven vision, European finesse, and consistently high-quality execution. It’s not just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that blends artistry, ambiance, and hospitality in one of New Jersey’s most picturesque towns.
Updated October 2025
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