Steel Wheel Tavern is one of my absolute favorite spots in the area and a true go-to for both casual drinks and a fun night out. The atmosphere is warm, lively, and always welcoming, whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or settling in for the evening. My absolute must-order every time is the short rib grilled cheese sandwich--it's genuinely the best thing on the menu. Perfectly rich, melty, and packed with flavor, it's the kind of dish you end up craving long after you leave. It's also a great place for date night or hanging out with friends. Some nights they even have live music, which really adds to the vibe and makes the whole experience even more enjoyable. Between the food, drinks, and atmosphere, Steel Wheel always delivers! read more

Solid bar/restaurant with lots of seatings inside and some patio areas. Friendly staff and quick service. They serve food at the bar but I only ordered dessert. I had the banana pudding, it was perfectly moist and not too strong on the banana. The beers were cold and refreshing on a sat night listening to live bands? Couldn't get any better! Def recommend Steel wheel for a drama free night out. But keep in mind they do get pretty busy by like 6pm. I believe they do take reservations, def make one if you plan on visiting. Otherwise you'll be on top of others by the bar aka don't be that annoying kinda person. read more

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A cozy, very popular Ridgewood spot with good food--but come prepared for tight seating and a lively atmosphere. We stopped in mid-week for a family dinner after work and even on a Wednesday the place was buzzing. The restaurant itself is pretty tiny, which makes for a cozy atmosphere but also means tables are very close together. If you can, I'd definitely recommend making a reservation. The menu is somewhat minimal, but the food overall was good. I eat gluten-free and noticed the options were a bit limited, which made ordering slightly challenging. I ended up going with the sea scallops. They were nicely cooked, but the portion was smaller than I expected--five small scallops with some vegetables. For the price, I do wish the portion had been a bit more generous. I have to admit I left still a little hungry. My dad ordered the short rib grilled cheese and really enjoyed it. That was probably the standout dish at our table. My sister ordered the honey bourbon chicken and said it was okay, but afterward she mentioned she probably should have gone with the short rib grilled cheese instead. One surprise of the night was live music on a Wednesday. I usually enjoy live music, but since we were hoping to catch up as a family it made conversation a little difficult. The music was fairly loud for such a small space. Service was friendly and attentive throughout the meal. They also have a rewards program, which worked out nicely--my dad received a complimentary dessert for his birthday. I ordered the crème brûlée, which was a great way to end the meal. A couple practical tips: parking in Ridgewood can be tricky. The restaurant advertises valet parking, though we didn't use or see it during our visit. If you find street parking, make sure to feed the meter because the town is known for giving out tickets. In warmer months they do offer some outdoor sidewalk seating, though it looks fairly limited. It also appears they have a happy hour, though we didn't arrive in time to try it. Overall, I'd recommend checking out Steel Wheel Tavern--just be mindful of the timing of your visit, especially if you're hoping for a quieter dinner. read more

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Excellent little place good service, good food and a good bar. Wish I had one near me.

I stopped in this bar and grill to get dinner. When I arrived I found parking on the street nearby. I walked in and they had a live band playing! I sat and was served by John and he was great! I had: Vodka Martini Twin Maryland Crab Cakes Half Roasted Duck Wagyu Burger Keylime pie The food was delicious but that burger was my favorite! It was super tasty! All in all I had a great experience! read more

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Food was good, portions ample Ambiance, tavern vibe we enjoy, it's casual. Tavern like menu. Service was very good until the server had more tables. They do have others delivering food to your table but our server was the only one that could take drink orders which was a little slow. read more

The food was very tasty and the service attentive, despite it being crowded for Mother's Day. My only issue was an old fashioned that was cloudy and salty. read more

Steel Wheel Tavern - Lobster grilled cheese with a side salad - Bars Near Me - Ridgewood, New Jersey

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Hubby and I stopped here Saturday for a quick dinner date before our daughters performance and enjoyed it! Nice local bar with TVs and a live performer was perfect for a warm Saturday in Jersey. We started off with the fried mozz which was tasty but could've been a little warmer to achieve that gooey cheese feeling. I had the Bourbon which was delicious, I loved the sugar stick! Great touch. For dinner I had the crab cake with grilled/charred brussel sprouts. The crab cake was flavorful with a great crisp but soft texture inside. Brussel sprouts were amazing and I loved the charred flavor, absolutely elevated the veggie. Hubby had the wagyu burger medium rare with the truffle fries. He said the bun was soft/buttery and enjoyed the burger. The place was packed bar and sit down area but our waitress helped us not even 5 mins after seating and was attentive the entire time. We will definitely return if we're ever in the area again and highly recommend it to locals if you haven't been yet! read more

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The sandwiches here are AS GOOD AS THEY GET ANYWHEREEEE. Having frequented the Ridgewood downtown area numerous times over the years, I figured we'd eventually get to Steel Wheel Tavern, but never did I think I was totally missing out all of these years. We FINALLY made our way to Steel Wheel on a really pleasant Friday evening recently for a 5:45PM reservation. For some reason I had anticipated the restaurant to be more like a pub/bar atmosphere, but it was quite family friendly with groups of parents and young kids surrounding us. Our waiter wasn't the most pleasant server, but we assume it had nothing to do with us because he seemed pretty curt and fast with other tables too. As for the menu, it's as New American as it gets as it's filled with a hodgepodge of appetizers, salads, meat entrees, burgers, sandwiches and sides. To describe our meal, it was sort of a roller coaster of highs and lows. First, we started off with an appetizer of Rhode Island Calamari. It was mostly good, but it was sort of an inconsistent bag of really well-fried pieces and others that were just soggy. In addition, where was the rest of it????? We definitely felt like we could have used A LOT more in the serving. For our entrees, first, we ordered the Kids Fish and Chips for our two youngins to share and it was anything but kid-sized! In no way are we complaining as I'm a "more the merrier" type of person, but it was wayyyyyy more than what our kids could eat, so we definitely felt like we made the right choice with ordering just 1 kids meal for them to share. However, with all of the praise we had for the serving size, the fried fish was such a disappointment. The fish was soggy, soft and, yeah there was breading around it, but resembled anything other than fried. It might have been the worst fish in a fish and chips I've ever had. On the positive, the fries were super crispy and delicious. As for my wife and I, she ordered the French Dip Sandwich with Fries and I got the Braised Short Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Fries. Unfortunately, the waiter and my wife had a slight miscommunication for us wanting to sub out her fries with sweet potato fries and he ended up adding it to our order instead of subbing, so we got a chance to try the sweet potato fries too. Let me just flat out cut to the chase and say these were some of the verrrrry, verrrrrrry best sandwiches we had everrrrr eaten at a restaurant!!! Period!! They were so dang good. The beef in the French Dip Sandwich was so tender and sooooo delicious with the au jus. We loved every bite of it. Same can be said for the Braised Short Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich. In fact, it might have been the best grilled cheese sandwich I ever bit into. Yes, I'm going there. The short rib was absolutely delicious and mixed in with a perfectly grilled cheese??? Absolute perfection. For the kids meal, they also got their pick of 1 scoop of ice cream or sorbet, in which we choose the Rainbow Sherbet for them. Anyone who orders a kids meal for their kids, make sure to make space for the ice cream/sorbet because it was one heck of a large serving. Yes, the food got mixed reviews from us, but the sandwiches definitely made our meal. Besides the predominantly good food here, there was also a live band that played some memorable hits and, on those beautiful days, there are outdoor seats you can plop yourself down at. P.S. For anyone who loves staring at trains all day, the Ridgewood train station is directly across the street from the restaurant. read more

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The only reason we went there is bc friends chose it. Very loud, we were seated right next to the speaker. Service was rushed although courteous - we got take out boxes seated on a table as entries arrived. Calamari were overdone and oversalted. Short ribs were ok, duck was overdone and not carved. Sides were good. Another fairly mediocre experience. read more

I received a giftcard to this restaurant, so my husband and I decided to check it out this past Saturday night. We enjoyed our experience here! We were seated right away and the main dining room was cozy with a fire place along the wall. They even had live music (which was really good)! Prepare for it to be a bit noisy given the circumstances. We ordered the loaded tots, NY strip steak, Wagyu burger, banana bread pudding & key lime pie. Food was served hot & was tasty - the burger was cooked perfectly and one of the best that I have had in a while. We would definitely consider coming back here again either for a date night or dining out on the weekend. read more

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It's been ages since I've been to Steel Wheel Tavern, but I decided to pop in for a fun cocktail meetup with my mom. It was early afternoon, so we had no issues getting seats at the bar. While my mom stuck to the same drink, I opted to try a few different ones. The bartender was absolute fabulous, concocting everything perfectly. I can't recall the last time a bartender was so on point with every drink. While they don't have a lot of food options for me, I can definitely say the drinks are worth stopping for. read more

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My first time here and everything was so great! The perfect spot for dinner with friends or to watch a game at the bar. The staff was so nice and made great recommendations. Some of my favorites I tried were the braised short rib potato skins, the vegetable spring rolls and the cornflake crusted chicken blt sandwich. The truffle fries are a MUST! read more

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Service, food and ambiance was pleasant.c The fried sweet potatoes were to die for and the ribeye spring rolls a must try. The meatballs and crab cakes were moist and delicious. As far as the cocktails go, highly recommend the cucumber cooler and I customized the basil gimlet to include cucumber, juice and ginger and it was delicious read more

Steel Wheel Tavern - Bars Near Me - Ridgewood, New Jersey

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I absolutely love this place to watch any Sunday game or to go for brunch. It's a really fun spot. I love the fire pits outside. We can have your cocktails or wine with the amazing food outside and even sometimes they have live music. The food is really delicious. Everything we got was so good. I especially love the homemade sauces like the chunky blue cheese dressing Service amazing as well read more

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First time at the Steel Wheel Tavern. Place was quite busy on a Sunday afternoon compared to some other restaurants. Outdoor dining and also a large indoor dining area. I had the scallops which I enjoyed, decent and wasn't disappointing. My wife had the braised ribs. Food was overall good. Our server however needs to expand his knowledge of the food they served. When questioned about how the roasted duck was prepared all he could say was it's good. No description of portion or temperature. That's why I decided to have the scallops. read more

Went here on a whim and found it to be a great place. The food was great and the people were nice. The service was excellent. They cared about us and it showed. I would definitely go here again! read more

Came for there brunch every good if this as good as brunch. I think lunch n dinner would be great. The service is wonderful very good helpful and make it feel great read more

Steel Wheel Tavern - Bars Near Me - Ridgewood, New Jersey

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So impressed with the food here! The burger and steak were delicious. They have live bands and music 6 days of the week. Service was great. They have fire pits when it's nice out. read more

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Been there once so far and the experience is positive. Seems like a really hopping place! I was there with friends to support our friend who was in the band that performed that night - THE RACKET. Food is really good! I'm not a drinker, so I can't comment on their alcoholic beverages. Yes, I'm one of those who goes to a bar and orders ginger ale! read more

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May 2026- What a surprise! I was invited to see a friend's college buddy sing. Thought it would be a nice dinner out. I could not believe how good the singing duo Faculty Meeting would be. They played for 3 hours non stop and I knew every 70s/80s song. As I watched the cars go by I could see people in their cars singing along as they waited for the light to change or waited for someone to get off the train. It made me smile to see so many enjoying what I was also experiencing. The duo were very entertaining and their momentum got better and better. But it was not just the live music that complimented the night. The food choices were plentiful and I could not decide as I looked at the tables around me. The entrees were all amazing on the menu so I did what anyone would do. I closed my eyes and just picked one!! Happily, I was not disappointed. The burger and fries were flavorful and incredibly satisfying. Not like a typical pub. Shout out to the chef. To wrap up the night at Steel Wheel Tavern, the staff were friendly and I must give kudos to our server Nicole and Cheryl who pitched in. The attention to detail was something you would expect at a five star restaurant. Every worker knew what to do, how to be and how to compliment the atmosphere at Steel Wheel Tavern. At night, the tables converted into fire pits and made you feel like you were at home. So cozy and such a delight. I picked up the schedule for Faculty Meeting, because even with high gas prices and toll charges, I am going back!!! At last I have to mention the parking was plentiful, trains/buses were right across the street - could not make it any easier. Location! Location! Location! read more

Great spot that I love to frequent during the summer - I love sitting outside and people watching and enjoying a beer. The service is always fine, never had an issue. Sometimes they have a singer or some live entertainment which is great. The food is good, this is a popular spot in town for sure read more

Great bar, great food, great live music, great vibes, great location! Family friendly.

Nice location in the heart of Ridgewood, solid food, service and price. Will certainly visit again!

Actually a clean cool place, we sat at a high top in the bar area games were on it was perfect. Our waiter was amazing and the bartender made the best Sangria we have had in a while, Not just juice but pretty potent. Manager came by a few times and it made it even better. like it a lot will be back soon, read more

Service was great. Our server was kind and perfectly attentive. She made suggestions when asked questions and stated could accommodate orders if needed Ambiance was good this is definitely an after work spot or out to dinner spot. Food was okay the mozzarella sticks and buffalo wings were good for what it was. It's a bit overpriced but during happy hour looks like it's over half off. There was live music which was also pleasant. read more

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Great atmosphere and food. I had a cup of chili, Crispy chicken wrap and chicken quesadilla. The food was tastefully seasoned and vegetables were fresh, crisp and complimented the Chicken. Great for large groups and families and they hold chili cook offs and other monthly events read more

Steel Wheel Tavern - Crispy Chicken wrap - Bars Near Me - Ridgewood, New Jersey

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Greek food in atmosphere. Like having the like music to chill with while having lunch.

Felt it was ok at best. None of the items stood out, with the burger probably being the best thing. Drinks were similarly average. I had expected better given the prices. Server seemed to disappear and was basically stuck with unfilled water glasses for the entire time. They were pretty busy that night so will cut a little slack here. Ambience was decent, but they played quite a bit of extremely loud music that night. Some may prefer that, but wasn't really our taste and honestly made the night uncomfortable, as it was just way too loud. If I worked in the area, I'd say this would probably be a good after work happy hour spot, but probably wouldn't come back otherwise. read more

Great food spot! Visited on a Sunday for brunch, but ordered off the lunch menu instead. The short rib potato skins are amazing, highlight of our meal. read more

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Stopped by after neutering our dog Moses for a quick meal. Place was busy but the accommodations and courtesy were at a high level; the type that's normally reserved for the local brass and not the common man. Despite having issues because of the cone the wait staff had a long straw concoction made for me and blender ready to meet my needs. Great atmosphere and even had outdoor heat lamps to enjoy the brisk fall weather for some al fresco dining. Will be back when fully recovered and look to getting the full experience along with food in solid form. Great place ! read more

Is it normal to serve a soda like this because I asked for light on the ice due to cold sensitivity!?! I've never had this happen before, maybe a new bartender is needed - or some lessons of customer service and presentation its just my opinion its not like I ordered a tequila with no ice - its a really bad look the guinness beers also had a couple sips missing ,,, just some words of advice Server and food was great and music too! read more

Steel Wheel Tavern - diet pepsi severed like this - Bars Near Me - Ridgewood, New Jersey

Food was ok at best, but for a pickup order, half the order was wrong. When we called it in, we had to repeat the order multiple times. As almost expected, all three burgers were missing multiple paid add-ons (caramelized onions, mushrooms, aoili), included tomato where we said no tomato, plus they added truffle fries we did not ask for (none of us wanted truffle fries). Not to mention, fries were all so soggy they weren't even fully cooked. The burgers were all well done, we asked for medium on two, medium rare on one. We looked at the receipt, in which all those items were in fact included in what we were charged for (a $92 tab not to mention). While all this is generally frustrating, I would've let it be without a review. However, when we called to get reimbursed for the roughly $15 extra we paid for things we didn't get, rather than an "of course, what was missing and I'll send it back to your card", the person just explained that they'd been busy. Want a mediocre burger and service? Go for it I guess. Maybe it's better in person, maybe it was because it was busy, but just righting a wrong goes a long way, would've been no harm no foul. read more

Awesome tavern, good food, full bar, live music, outside seating. Friendly staff. Get a salad for lunch, they are good. Burgers and wings are great as well. read more

Like every real estate agent says, "Location, location, location" Ridgewood has become a second city for us to hang, with tons of food and drinks options. Steel Wheel is also conveniently across the NJTransit station, so props to no Ubers/Lyfts needed after a night of drinks. Props to their team for hosting our massive party with ease and still making us feel comfy! read more

Steel Wheel isn't just dinner out...it's an amazing experience! The unique menu is sophisticated even though the venue is quite casual. The food is exceptional. From the crab cakes to the roasted duck to the out-of-this world burgers, the experience is outrageous. The prices are so good they spoiled us when going to other restaurants. The topper is when the music starts. Oldies, new sounds,pop are an inviting way to spend an evening. Best part is the way the staff makes us feel at home and special at the same time. Will spend my birthday there in January while entertaining family from out-of-town. Wouldn't go anywhere else. read more

So we made a reservation through Miracle Pop up (the Christmas restaurant chain) the day the reservations opened up in October. Steel Wheel was listed as a participating location so we snagged a table for 12 on a Saturday night, which is nearly impossible to get. When we went this weekend there were NO Christmas decorations. Not even Christmas music. I'm assuming they removed themselves as a Miracle Pop Up but this was so disappointing since I got so many people together for this reservation. I mentioned it to the hostess and she said they didn't decorate yet, but it was already December 6th so I'm very confused. Food was okay and our waiter was amazing. But I was very disappointed about the ambiance read more

Always a fav in warm weather - food has been good to me. I love that they provide live music!!

Everything went well, service, ambiance they had a happy hour so much was great, it was packed but everything went just fine and would definitely go back read more

Steel wheel is a local favorite spot of mine. Always great appetizers and for a quick drink. Service is always great no matter how busy or backed up the wait is. The inside is a nice casual vibe or you can have a seat right at the bar. They also have outdoor seating which is nice for lunch or an evening. I am a huge pretzel spear aficionado and steel wheel definitely is up there on my list. A must try spot if you are in the Ridgewood area. read more

Steel Wheel Tavern - Pretzel spears - Bars Near Me - Ridgewood, New Jersey

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