Stern Bow Restaurant Nautical Theme

Step into Stern Bow Restaurant and you’ll notice more than just a meal on your horizon—the nautical theme draws you toward a seaside atmosphere from the moment you arrive. You’ll spot maritime artifacts and ocean-inspired hues shaping the ambiance, while the gentle sounds and subtle decor immerse you further. Each detail is crafted for those who appreciate the sea, but what awaits on your plate might surprise you even more.

Name and Concept

The establishment named "Stern and Bow" reflects a distinct nautical theme, with its name referencing the stern (rear) and bow (front) of a boat. This venue is characterized by its eclectic, seasonal American cuisine, emphasizing regional seafood dishes, gourmet burgers, and housemade pastas.

The menu offers a variety of options including steaks, seafood, pot pie, and a signature lobster roll, alongside raw bar oysters, pizzas, and a comprehensive liquor selection.

The design of the restaurant features bar areas that prioritize premium service, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere while utilizing high-quality ingredients and skilled culinary techniques.

Located in New Jersey, Stern and Bow positions itself as an elevated dining option, striving to cater to a diverse clientele with its varied menu and sophisticated service.

Location and Operating Hours

Stern and Bow is located at 171 Schraalenburgh Road in Closter, NJ, and serves as a dining option for patrons in Bergen County. The establishment operates Tuesday through Thursday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Friday until 1:00 am, Saturday from 11:30 am to 1:00 am, and Sunday until 9:00 pm.

Notably, the kitchen closes one hour prior to the bar.

The menu at Stern and Bow includes a variety of offerings such as custom-blend burgers, regional dishes like Lobster Roll and Pot Pie, a raw oyster bar, a premium liquor selection, and a pizza bar.

Each item is crafted with authentic ingredients, and the preparation is executed with a focus on culinary standards. This approach aims to provide a comprehensive dining experience that caters to diverse tastes while maintaining a commitment to quality ingredients.

Design and Atmosphere

Stern and Bow presents a nautical theme that is evident in its design and ambiance. The interior features an eclectic style, incorporating coastal-inspired colors and textures that aim to create a maritime atmosphere. The establishment accommodates 155 guests, including distinct bar areas: a raw bar and a full liquor bar, fostering both an intimate and lively environment.

A notable aspect of the venue is the wood-fired pizza bar, which highlights a range of American specialties. The menu includes seasonal offerings that incorporate regional ingredients, showcasing items such as custom blend burgers, housemade pastas, steaks, and seafood. This approach aligns with current dining trends that emphasize quality sourcing and seasonal menus.

Furthermore, the establishment prioritizes premium service and authentic ingredients, which contribute to the overall dining experience. The diverse menu options, including traditional dishes like Pot Pie and Lobster Roll, are designed to be both flavorful and memorable, appealing to a broad customer base in New Jersey.

Overall, Stern and Bow aims to balance a thematic dining experience with quality culinary execution.

Raw Bar Experience

Stern and Bow's raw bar presents a selection of oysters that are routinely updated, sourced from reputable farms across the United States known for their high quality. The establishment is recognized for its attentive service and the skilled execution of its offerings, characteristics typical of a well-established Eclectic American restaurant in New Jersey.

The raw bar, curated under the expertise of Kevin Joseph, not only features a range of oyster varieties but also includes regional clams and unique offerings such as gelled gin pearls. This aspect of the menu is designed to highlight seasonal ingredients and flavors from various parts of the country, setting it apart from other dining options within the venue, such as the pizza bar and liquor bar.

While Stern and Bow's overarching menu includes diverse items ranging from custom blend burgers to steaks and seafood, the raw bar emphasizes freshness and quality, catering to patrons seeking a distinct culinary experience.

Overall, the raw bar serves as a focal point for those interested in seafood, providing a notable contrast to other food and beverage offerings at the establishment.

Culinary Highlights

Stern and Bow presents a focused approach to its culinary offerings, which include a mix of seafood, meat dishes, and pizzas, reflecting a commitment to Eclectic American Cuisine. The menu emphasizes the use of seasonal and regional ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality in each dish. Notable items include the Devil’s Kiss pizza, which is featured prominently at the pizza bar, and other selections such as Fisherman’s Stew and the S Lobster Roll, all prepared using traditional methods.

The establishment also offers a variety of premium oysters and maintains distinct bars, including a liquor bar, to provide comprehensive service to patrons.

One of the standout items is the housemade Pot Pie, which incorporates locally sourced apples, contributing to the restaurant's reputation both in New Jersey and beyond. This emphasis on local sourcing and careful preparation reflects a broader trend in the culinary industry towards authenticity and quality.

Meat and Regional Dishes

The menu at Stern and Bow is characterized by a carefully curated selection of meat and regional dishes, highlighting quality and source integrity. It offers items such as custom blend burgers and premium cuts of meat, including the double-cut Berkshire pork chop and dry-aged ribeye, which are sourced from reputable purveyors in New Jersey.

In addition, the menu features regional specialties like Cajun gumbo, prepared with authentic ingredients to ensure authenticity.

The portion sizes are substantial and designed for communal dining, particularly around the distinct raw bar and pizza bar. The establishment emphasizes American cuisine, complemented by housemade pastas and various options, including Pot Pie and Lobster Roll.

This combination aims to provide a notable dining experience, positioning Stern and Bow as a significant choice among seasonal and eclectic dining options.

Overall, the focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation supports the establishment's reputation in the culinary landscape.

Popular Menu Selections

Stern and Bow’s menu offers a variety of options that appeal to a wide range of guests, with particular focus on seasonal and regional specialties. Among the notable items is the S&B Lobster Roll, which highlights the establishment's emphasis on premium seafood and regional cuisine.

The menu is updated regularly, ensuring the use of authentic ingredients and cooking techniques, including custom blend burgers and Hanger Steak, which is known for its robust flavor and tenderness.

The options available include a Margherita Pizza from a dedicated pizza bar and a classic Caesar Salad, both of which are suitable for sharing. Additionally, the menu features a selection of oysters and raw bar items, paired with generous portion sizes.

This variety not only reflects culinary expertise but also caters to diverse dining preferences throughout New Jersey and beyond. Overall, Stern and Bow’s offerings represent a thoughtful integration of quality ingredients and skilled preparation, aimed at satisfying a broad customer base.

Amenities and Services

Stern and Bow offers a range of amenities and services designed to enhance the overall dining experience. Customers have the option to place orders by phone for both delivery and take-out, which caters to those seeking convenient dining solutions.

The menu features a diverse selection of dishes, including custom-blend burgers, housemade pastas, steaks, and seafood, alongside specialties such as pot pie and lobster rolls. The establishment emphasizes the use of seasonal ingredients, which contributes to the overall quality of the cuisine.

The layout includes a family-friendly wood-fired pizza bar with nautical accents, making it an inviting space for children and families. For those interested in beverage options, there are separate bars, including a premium liquor bar and a raw oyster bar, which provide a variety of drink selections.

Additionally, Stern and Bow hosts happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. on weekdays, offering customers an opportunity to enjoy discounted drinks in a social setting. Overall, the combination of menu variety, accessibility, and inviting atmosphere is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of patrons.

Guest Experience and Reviews

Diners generally perceive Stern and Bow’s nautical-themed dining atmosphere positively, as evidenced by a 3.9-star rating based on 281 reviews. The establishment offers a contemporary and upscale environment, complemented by its menu, which features an eclectic array of regional American cuisine. The offerings include housemade pastas, custom blend burgers, steaks, seafood, and a raw oyster bar, all prepared using authentic and seasonal ingredients.

Additionally, Stern and Bow includes separate bar areas, such as a full liquor bar and a pizza bar, which provide items like Pot Pie and Lobster Roll.

The combination of premium service and a diverse menu has contributed to the restaurant's recognition and appeal across New Jersey and beyond. This analysis suggests that Stern and Bow has successfully positioned itself as a notable dining option, supported by its consistent performance in guest satisfaction metrics.

Delivery and Dining Options

Stern and Bow offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to different preferences and occasions. The restaurant, which features a nautical theme, provides flexibility for both individual and group dining experiences. Customers can choose from dine-in reservations, take-out services, or delivery through DoorDash, making it accessible for various needs within New Jersey.

The menu showcases a variety of American cuisine, including custom blend burgers, steaks, seafood, housemade pastas, and specialty dishes such as pot pie and oysters. The establishment also includes a separate raw bar and a liquor bar.

For families, there is a designated kid-friendly pizza bar, which adds to the family-oriented dining experience.

A notable offering is the regional Lobster Roll, crafted using seasonal ingredients and prepared with attention to culinary expertise.

Overall, Stern and Bow seeks to provide a comprehensive dining experience that accommodates a broad spectrum of customers, whether they prefer to enjoy their meals on-site or in the comfort of their homes.

Conclusion

At Stern Bow Restaurant, you’ll find a dining experience thoughtfully crafted around nautical charm and coastal flavors. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, relaxing on the waterfront patio, or exploring themed cocktails, every detail is designed with your comfort and enjoyment in mind. With friendly service, memorable menu selections, and a welcoming atmosphere, you’re invited to return again and again. Discover why guests consider Stern Bow a top choice for both special occasions and casual waterfront dining.