Have you ever found yourself wondering about the term "New American" cuisine? It's a phrase one might have heard in passing, but perhaps you're not quite sure what it calls for. The concept of "New American" cuisine made its debut in the 1980s and is believed to be an evolution from the 1960s "nouvelle cuisine." It marries the farm-to-table movement with a diverse range of ingredients, providing chefs with a canvas for culinary creativity. Attached to the Courtyard Marriott since 2009 off of Chestnut Ridge Road in Montvale, my partner and I decided on dinner at this establishment. The reservation was easily made via OpenTable. Upon entering Fire and Oak as first-timers, we were greeted by the host offering patrons four unique experiences in separate and distinct areas of the restaurant. Just to the left of the bar is the elevated Candle Room. With its soaring high ceilings, the Main Dining Room suggests the views of the gleaming open kitchen. Their Upper Balcony Dining Room renders a magnificent view of the main dining room. The private Oak Room is ideal for business presentations or private social gatherings. We were seated immediately in the Candle Room with a dim, warm, inviting, and upscale/cosmopolitan vibe. Their menu contained an eclectic assortment of high-quality options with steak, fish, chicken, pork, and sushi to meet just about anyone's palate. As a starter, we decided on F&O Mac 'n' Cheese and Slow Braised Meatballs. As our main entree, we opted for Cabernet Braised Short Rib of Beef and BBQ Pork Ribs served with Coleslaw and substituted Sautéed Spinach instead of Fries. The flavors were fresh, unique, and simply amazing. However, we were disappointed in the Mac 'n' Cheese by using some kind of mozzarella cheese, making it bland, dry, and stringy. The dishes were beautifully prepared. The portion was healthy. The price was comparable to the area and worth every penny. The staff are well trained and service-oriented. Our server, Hawkins, was prompt, friendly, professional, and engaging. While touring the restaurant, I exchanged a few words with Patrick, the general manager, and he gave me a tip to take a wonderful picture of the amazing wine bottle room. As the restaurant filled up, it definitely got louder, and we had to talk louder to hear each other. If the above-mentioned New American menu items have left one's mouth watering, there's only one thing to do: visit Fire and Oak, which we can recommend. read more