French Restaurants near Closter, NJ

“Seriously the best French food I have had in a while! And for sure the best French Restaurant in NJ.“

“From start to finish we had an amazing meal. The service is impeccable and the food is delicious and imaginative. Beautiful ambiance too.We have had a perfect dinner every time we have been here and can't wait to come back!“

“I’m visiting my mom from Los Angeles, and as we planned a night out together, I wanted to support a local spot. There’s always something new whenever I return home, and this time it was Chez Messy, just around the corner from the 157th Street train station. Perched up upon a small staircase, this two-floor restaurant is intimate, cozy, and deeply sultry.

Nestled in the heart of Uptown New York City, a neighborhood known for its Dominican roots and growing diversity, Chez Messy shines as a Spanish Caribbean infused gem that took my breath away. The space feels both refined and familiar, elegant yet soulful. As I sat waiting for my mother, I opened the menu, and immediately everything called my name.

Our server Joshua was an absolute delight, attentive, kind, and confident in every recommendation. Antonio, the owner and floor manager, greeted us with charm and poise. Dressed in a sharp suit, he exuded pride and grace, the embodiment of someone who deeply loves what he has created. What touched me most was realizing that this Spanish Caribbean dream of a restaurant is owned and operated by Dominicans. As someone who has traveled the world and eaten in countless hidden gems tucked along cobblestone streets, I can say this place holds its own among the best.

We started with a crisp glass of Albariño and dove into the pulpo and mofonguitos filled with ropa vieja. Let me start by saying I’m not typically a red meat superfan, but that evening I was completely transformed. The ropa vieja was tender, savory, juicy, and full of flavor. The plantain cups that held it were subtly sweet, creating a beautiful harmony between bold and delicate notes.

The pulpo was perfection, tender octopus paired with a light touch of vinegar and oil, thinly sliced onions, capers, and cherry tomatoes that burst like little jewels of freshness. It was bright, balanced, and refreshing, a perfect prelude to what would become an unforgettable meal.

Then came a surprise from Antonio, the avocado salad and batatas bravas, further inviting us into the full Chez Messy experience. I’ve had batatas bravas in Spain and beyond, but these were divine. Perfectly crisp on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, with seasoning that danced on the palate. The avocado salad was heaven itself, silky avocado paired with slivers of almonds and a hint of citrus, perhaps grapefruit, creating a beautifully layered bite that was both rich and refreshing.

By the time our entrée arrived, filet mignon and shrimp in cream sauce, medium rare, we were already swept away. The filet was tender and bursting with flavor, the shrimp perfectly cooked, and the cream sauce was so delicious that I found myself tempted to lick the plate.

Everything about our experience at Chez Messy was divine, from the impeccable service to the romantic, dark, and dreamy ambiance, the vibrant music that moved through the air, and the drinks that sparkled as much as the conversation.

Chez Messy is where you go when you want great food in a wonderful location, when you want to feel inspired, seen, and transported. It is a love letter to Spanish Caribbean flavor and Dominican pride, wrapped in elegance and joy.

This place deserves to be full every night, though a part of me secretly wants to keep it all to myself.“

“Lovely Atmosphere - friendly staff. Food was on point. French bistro type food.“

“Cozy atmosphere perfect for winter dinner Great food and wine“

“Friendly all the way and salut for Mary! Great service!“

“My husband and I had a most delightful dinner. Michel the owner welcomed us like into his home. Excellent wine recommendation with our dinner. All staff efficient and attentive to our needs. Octopus appetizer, Pasta Bolonase delicious and generous. The venue itself is charming, with Michels own artwork as decor. We were visiting from out of town, otherwise this would be a favorite to frequent.“

“Simply Great“

“Great food. It may not be just like in Paris, but it’s good. We return here cause it’s fresh and tasty and reasonably priced. Took away a star because once we walked up at 8pm on a Friday and they told us the kitchen is closing shortly. Restaurant is supposed to be open till 10pm. Turned away that one time but now we know.“

“This is my go to place for lunch or dinner whenever I need something quick whether for myself or my family. They have the best legumes in town. I love their soursop juice, spaguetti with hot dogs, fritay. I've been going there for years now. Owners are very nice, friendly and hardworking.“

“White rice red beans and teriyaki chicken yum yum.
The place is clean and smells good. The servers speak both Spanish and English very well, which is great as you cater to the majority of the customers.
The setup is nice as you have a sitting bar for a quick grab (eat and go area).

The food layout is good. No flies, no bugs seen.. I love it...

Again, that food is delicious, not salt at all... very good, and thanks

Visited again and got white rice red bean and teriyaki chicken, and it tasted awesome just the same. The food was hot and it looked good.
Different people serve food and different people handle money... very good“