The Hill, Closter, NJ: A Restaurant Review
The Hill: A Bergen County Gem Helmed by Michelin-Starred Chef
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
The Hill: Restaurant Summary
Fare: New American
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Creative, well executed menu, with international influences, using high quality ingredients
Service: Knowledgeable, attentive, accommodating
Decor/Ambiance: Upscale, attractive, airy, rustic farmhouse
Overall Rating: 3 ½ Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy a creative menu with quality ingredients in an attractive, rustic, farmhouse setting, with bar service
Not Recommended For: Budget minded diners who prefer simpler food, more selections, and lower prices.
Recommended dishes: When available, The Slow Cooked Halibut with cherry tomato-chili-herb vinaigrette, wilted spinach; The Wild Boar Fettucini with parmigiano-reggiano, chestnuts; and The Spanish Octopus & Chorizo Sausage with crushed potato, charred scallions, romesco sauce.
Liquor: Bar service with a limited selection of beers, wines, and specialty cocktails.
Nestled in Bergen County, The Hill is a beloved upscale dining destination owned and operated by acclaimed Executive Chef Ben Pollinger.
A culinary virtuoso, Pollinger first rose to prominence after earning a Michelin star at New York City’s renowned seafood institution, Oceana. His expertise was forged through formal training at the Culinary Institute of America and refined at elite kitchens worldwide, including Alain Ducasse’s three-Michelin-starred Le Louis XV in Monaco and celebrated NYC establishments like Lespinasse, Union Square Cafe, and Tabla.
In 2018, Pollinger returned to his New Jersey roots, transforming the former Harvest restaurant into The Hill through a meticulous renovation. Today, the restaurant showcases his culinary vision through a seasonal menu that artfully blends seafood, steaks, chops, game, and Italian-inspired dishes. Emphasizing creativity and precision, Pollinger’s globally influenced cuisine highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering lighter preparations that let natural flavors shine.
The Hill’s rustic farmhouse charm spans two inviting dining areas, a bar lounge, and outdoor seating, accommodating over 125 guests: The main dining room is cozy yet elegant space with a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, exposed beam ceilings, and walls adorned with contemporary art and reclaimed barn wood. Rustic oak tables, white oak floors, and navy-upholstered chairs complete the warm, earthy aesthetic.
The Bar & Lounge features vintage barn wood accents, flat-screen TVs, 15 bar stools, and 20 high-top seats for casual dining or cocktails.
The Outdoor Patio offers a seasonal retreat with a fire pit, open from spring through fall.
The Hill is family-friendly with a dedicated kids’ menu
The Hill operates six days a week, closed Tuesdays. Hours include lunch service Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and dinner Sunday through Saturday (closed Tuesday evenings).
(Updated January 2025)
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