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Personal Injury AttorneyYou Deserve with Help from William Gonzalez
William Gonzalez-Black

The Personal Injury Attorney in Rutherford, NJ, You Can Trust

Did you know that as a state, New Jersey has the 3rd most personal injury cases per capita? In fact, personal injury cases occurred at a rate of 30.34 per 100,000 capita, which is 218% higher than the national average of 9.53%. Perhaps even more alarming, personal injury cases account for 31% of New Jersey's entire caseload - 166% higher than the U.S. average, which lies at 11.65%. One look at those stats, and it's clear that thousands of men and women in New Jersey suffer from the unfortunate negligence of others.

The truth is, when an accident happens out of nowhere, even the most prepared New Jersey native can become a victim. Imagine driving home after a tough day at work, looking forward to relaxing, but suddenly, your life takes an unexpected turn due to someone else's negligence. Coping with the aftermath of personal injury accidents is a daunting task involving long-lasting pain, concerns about work, and worries about your loved ones.

Unfortunately, victims often fall prey to lowball settlement offers and provide official statements to insurance companies without a personal injury attorney in Rutherford, NJ. Once you accept a settlement offer or make an official statement, it becomes challenging to correct the situation. That's where William Gonzalez Law Group comes in - to protect your rights and fight on your behalf for the compensation you deserve.

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Personal Injury Attorney Rutherford, NJ

The William Gonzalez Law Difference

William N. Gonzalez was Born in 1961 in the Bronx. He moved to Puerto Rico in 1973, where he attended Middle School, High School, and freshman year at the Catholic University of Ponce, Puerto Rico. Ultimately, he transferred to John Jay College of Criminal Justice C.U.N.Y., earning a B.A. degree in 1984.

After completing that achievement, he attended Seton Hall School of Law from 1987 through 1990, earning a J.D. and admission into the New Jersey State Bar. Shortly after, he began working for various law firms until2002, when he became a solo practitioner in the Township of West New York.

Since that time, he has dedicated his practice to serving the community with honesty, integrity, and hard work. His practice was founded with the main purpose of helping those who face crisis and are in need of a personal injury lawyer in Rutherford, NJ, who sticks by their side.

Mr. Gonzalez focuses on a range of personal injury cases, including but not limited to.

  • Auto Accidents
  • Truck Accidents
  • Car Accidents
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Slip-and-Fall Accidents
  • Workers' Compensation Cases
  • DUI Cases
  • Municipal Court Cases

If you're looking for a fearless attorney to fully represent you and to fight the good fight on your behalf, look no further than the William Gonzalez Law Group. Now that you're up-to-date on William Gonzalez's background and accomplishments, let's dig a little deeper into the nuances of personal injury law and the areas of law in which he focuses.

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in New Jersey

While there are many different types of personal injury cases in New Jersey, some are more common than others - especially those that involve motor vehicles and driving under the influence. Some of the most common types of personal injury cases that William Gonzalez helps clients overcome include.

Car-Accidents

Did you know that driver error is the leading cause of car accidents in New Jersey? The truth is that negligent drivers don't pay attention. They also don't adhere to traffic laws or use the right safety precautions. They often cause serious injuries by.

  • Driving Too Fast
  • Talking or Texting While Driving
  • Driving Under the Influence
  • Making Improper Lane Changes
  • Running Stop Signs and Red Lights
  • Rear-Ending Other Drivers

If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by someone else's negligence, it is important to have a personal injury attorney in Rutherford, NJ, whom you can rely on. Your lawyer will help protect your rights and fight for the maximum compensation possible according to local laws. Your car accident attorney will also collaborate with specialists such as investigators and accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of your injury and establish who is responsible for any damages.

 William Gonzalez Law Rutherford, NJ

There are more than eleven million trucks that operate daily across the United States, with drivers who work long hours and carry sensitive materials. In 2016, there were over 470,000 large truck and semi accidents, with human error accounting for 90% of those accidents. Truck accidents can cause injuries in several ways, such as if a truck carrying hazardous materials explodes or spills its contents, causing damage to surrounding drivers and property. Commercial trucks can also jackknife or lose control of their steering wheel, which can result in injuries to the driver or others involved in the accident.

Due to the massive size of semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles, accidents involving these vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries. If you have been injured due to a negligent truck driver who was speeding, distracted, impaired, or whose vehicle was poorly maintained, it's time to hire a trucks accident lawyer. Doing so quickly after your accident will help protect your rights against insurers and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

 Auto Accidents Rutherford, NJ

If you ride a motorcycle in New Jersey, you are at a higher risk of dying in an accident compared to other drivers. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are on the rise. The good news? William Gonzalez is highly skilled when it comes to representing motorcycle accident clients and the injuries they sustain, including.

  • Injury from negligent drivers who are reckless, distracted, or are involved in blind-spot wrecks
  • Injury due to serious road defects such as unsafe intersections, potholes, and more

If you were recently involved in a motorcycle accident because of another party's negligence, you can count on William Gonzalez as your advocate. It all starts with an initial consultation with a motorcycle injury attorney who truly understands New Jersey injury law.

 Truck Accidents Rutherford, NJ

If you have been injured while working, it can be a painful, confusing, and emotional experience. It can also be financially devastating for you and your family. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and seek the guidance of a qualified workers' compensation lawyer in New Jersey. The William Gonzalez Law Group has been successfully assisting injured workers for years. Mr. Gonzalez's goal is to get the full compensation you need to cover your medical bills and take care of your family while you recover. If you've suffered an injury while on the job that resulted in lost wages or ongoing pain and suffering, it's time to fight for financial compensation.

 Car Accidents Rutherford, NJ

Injuries resulting from trips, slips, and falls can be severe and may include fractures, brain trauma, neck, and back injuries, among others. Recovering from a serious fall can take months, and the victim may experience lifelong health issues and incur substantial medical bills.

However, in New Jersey, property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their property in a safe manner. If someone gets injured on their premises or property due to their negligence, the owner can be held liable. The victim has the right to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for the cost of medical treatment, lost income, and pain and suffering caused by the injuries.

Some of the most common contributors to slip-and-fall accidents in New Jersey include.

  • Poor Lighting
  • Narrow Stairs
  • Wet Floors
  • Missing Handrails
  • Uneven Flooring
  • Defective Sidewalks

 Motorcycle Accidents Rutherford, NJ

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a drunk driving accident, a personal injury lawyer in Rutherford, NJ, can provide assistance. Despite decades-long efforts by civic organizations to curb drunk driving, it remains a problem throughout the United States, including in New Jersey, which has strict DUI laws and enforcement.

William Gonzalez believes that prosecuting drunk driving accidents not only helps clients recover compensation for their injuries but also serves as a warning to others who may consider driving under the influence.

What are Personal Injuries in New Jersey?

When an accident, incident, or illness causes you physical injury or emotional pain and suffering, it is referred to as personal injury. For example, suppose you are involved in a car accident and experience a traumatic brain injury. In that case, you have the right to seek compensation for the expenses related to treating and recovering from your physical injuries. You're also entitled to financial compensation for the emotional distress you may have suffered as a result of the injury.

There are three general terms you should be familiar with as it relates to personal injury law in New Jersey:

  • Pain and Suffering
  • Bodily Harm
  • Emotional Distress

Pain and Suffering in New Jersey

Experiencing pain and suffering is not always limited to physical injuries. It can also affect one's emotional well-being, which may require the help of a mental health professional to properly document. Consulting with a mental health professional can help determine the extent of any potential psychological issues that may have arisen from your incident.

To provide accurate documentation of your emotional pain and suffering, it is important to record how your daily activities have been impacted and how you may no longer be able to participate in activities that you once enjoyed. This might include difficulties in communication or the inability to enjoy outings that were once pleasurable.

Bodily Harm in New Jersey

When someone experiences physical injury as a result of an accident, such as a car accident, they may sue for compensation for the harm done to their body. This compensation can help cover the costs of medical bills, surgeries, physical therapy, home care equipment, or any other expenses needed to aid in their recovery from the injury.

Emotional Distress in New Jersey

Emotional distress can be difficult to prove, especially when it involves defamation of character or threats to one's physical safety. It's important to understand, however, that emotional distress is valid. You have the right to seek compensation for any fear or trauma you have experienced and should not hesitate to fight for what you deserve.

If you have suffered a serious injury due to an accident, it's time to protect yourself and your family with the help of a personal injury attorney in Rutherford, NJ. Unlike your lawyer, the insurance companies involved in your personal injury case are not on your side and are known for presenting offers that don't fairly compensate you for your losses.

How Negligence Affects Your Personal Injury Case in New Jersey

In New Jersey, determining who is legally responsible for an accident usually involves assessing the negligence of the person at fault. Proving negligence or negligent acts as the cause of serious injuries and damages can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case. While some accidents are just that - accidents - in other cases, such as drunk driving car accidents, it is clear that the act of criminal negligence caused the accident, and the person responsible should be held liable for the damages.

According to New Jersey law, there are four elements that must be covered when trying to prove negligence in personal injury cases. Those elements include the following.

Personal Injury Attorney Rutherford, NJ

In New Jersey, determining who is legally responsible for an accident usually involves assessing the negligence of the person at fault. Proving negligence or negligent acts as the cause of serious injuries and damages can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case. While some accidents are just that - accidents - in other cases, such as drunk driving car accidents, it is clear that the act of criminal negligence caused the accident, and the person responsible should be held liable for the damages.

Legal Duty

According to legal duty, the defendant has a responsibility to ensure the safety of the victim and prevent harm. In New Jersey, drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely in regard to other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Businesses are legally obliged to maintain their premises in a safe manner, ensuring there are no hazards such as ice, snow, or slippery floors.

Breach of Duty

To prove that the defendant is responsible for an accident, it must be shown that they behaved in a way that they knew could cause harm to others. Additionally, it must be demonstrated that a reasonable person in the same situation would have acted differently. For instance, it is common knowledge that driving a car, truck, or motorcycle under the influence can lead to an accident.

Causation

One of the biggest reasons to hire a personal injury lawyer in Rutherford, NJ, is so they can prove that your injuries are a direct result of the other party's breach of duty. This means that you need to demonstrate that your injuries occurred due to the defendant's actions. To do so, it is recommended that you seek medical attention from a physician who can document your injuries and confirm that they were caused or worsened by the defendant's negligence. It is crucial to document your injuries with a doctor, as it can be difficult to obtain compensation for injuries that were not properly documented.

Damages

When filing a claim, you must show proof of loss, which may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering compensation.

William Gonzalez Law Pro Tip

If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, you should act fast to file a claim and hire a lawyer. In New Jersey, you only have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit or claim. If you fail to file a claim within the time frame set by the statute of limitations, you will lose your opportunity to do so. In most cases, if you attempt to file a claim after the two-year deadline, the defendant will file a motion to dismiss. There are very few exceptions where a personal injury claim may be filed beyond the two-year mark.

A Personal Injury Attorney in Rutherford, NJ, You Can Count On

The William Gonzalez Law Group specializes in helping you get back on track after a setback. With decades of experience in personal injury law, Mr. Gonzalez can assist you in cases such as car crashes, truck accidents, slip and fall incidents, motorcycle accidents, DUI accidents, workers' compensation cases, and more.

When you are unable to work, have mounting bills and medical expenses, and your quality of life is affected, you need a strong and reliable advocate on your side, and William Gonzalez is the man to call for help. Whether you need assistance with a complex personal injury case or need trustworthy, easy-to-understand legal advice, contact the William Gonzalez Law Group today.

 William Gonzalez Law Rutherford, NJ

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Latest News in Rutherford, NJ

Barstool’s Dave Portnoy just reviewed three NJ pizzerias

It’s always fun when Barstool Sports’ Dave Portnoy comes to the Garden State to judge our pizza with his One Bite reviews.Come on, let's be honest, WE know we have the best pizza, but it’s all the more satisfying when people across the internet get to hear about it.Portnoy was recently in New Jersey judging several pizza places, take a look to see if any of them were one of your faves.Casano's Pizza ParlorRutherford, NJHe notes the cool vibes of the pizza parlor, built to look like the...

It’s always fun when Barstool Sports’ Dave Portnoy comes to the Garden State to judge our pizza with his One Bite reviews.

Come on, let's be honest, WE know we have the best pizza, but it’s all the more satisfying when people across the internet get to hear about it.

Portnoy was recently in New Jersey judging several pizza places, take a look to see if any of them were one of your faves.

Casano's Pizza ParlorRutherford, NJ

He notes the cool vibes of the pizza parlor, built to look like the 1970s.

(Based on the video, they nailed it, I swear my grandmother had the same stained glass lighting fixture! Anyway…)

Portnoy went with New Haven style, praising the undercarriage even though the middle of the pie was it was “soupy.”

I do love New Haven type pizza.

Portnoy also sampled the round pie, saying the ever important undercarriage was very similar to the New Haven style.

It’s a little soupy…. The crisp is great, I just don’t know I can go 8.1 on a napkin pizza.

You can try Casano’s Pizza Parlor at 8 Highland Cross, Rutherford, NJ.

Vinnie's Pizzeria & RestaurantBloomfield, NJ

Continuing his Garden State tour, El Presidente visits Vinnie’s.

Portnoy was not impressed from the start, pointing out that when the person serving him doesn’t recognize him, he’s not always given the best they can make.

Well that looks like a basic bitch pizza, don’t it?

While he was a fan of the texture, the cheese had a “weird tang.”

Vinnie’s pizza is located at 414 Broad St. Bloomfield, NJ.

Belgiovine's PizzaMontclair, NJ

What seemed to delight Dave is that it was a family-run joint, which is always a good sign when it comes to Italian food.

Though what bothered him was not being recognized by the younger patrons, if you watch the video you’ll see that was later rectified.

His simple review of the bar pie he sampled: GOOD!

Try a slice for yourself by visiting Belgiovine’s Pizza at 712 Bloomfield Ave.

Consider yourself a New Jersey pizza connoisseur? See if you agree with some of Dave Portnoy’s previous pizza scores.

Here's a taste of the NJ pizza joints Dave Portnoy has reviewed

Dave Portnoy, commonly known as El Presidente, is the founder of Barstool Sports. Somewhere along the way, he decided to start reviewing local pizzerias, and the concept took off. This isn't the entire list, but it's a small sample to get you started.

Gallery Credit: Joe Votruba

8 of the best pizza places in Central Jersey

Gallery Credit: Kyle Clark

Foods sold in NJ grocery stores that never expire

Plus others that'll last up to a year or more if stored properly.

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5's Kylie Moore. Any opinions expressed are Kylie's own. You can follow Kylie on Instagram.Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

Autism Jokes: Rutherford - Comedy for a Cause!

Thu, Feb 27, 2025 at 6:00 PMThe 18th Amendment, 19 Union Ave, Rutherford, NJ, 07070Laugh for a Cause! The Autism Jokes Comedy Show Comes to Rutherford, NJ – February 27!By popular demand, the Autism Jokes Comedy Show is coming to New Jersey! After the huge success of our two NYC events this past Fall—including one as part of the NY Comedy Festival—we&...

Thu, Feb 27, 2025 at 6:00 PM
The 18th Amendment, 19 Union Ave, Rutherford, NJ, 07070

Laugh for a Cause! The Autism Jokes Comedy Show Comes to Rutherford, NJ – February 27!

By popular demand, the Autism Jokes Comedy Show is coming to New Jersey! After the huge success of our two NYC events this past Fall—including one as part of the NY Comedy Festival—we’re bringing the show to 18th Amendment in Rutherford, NJ, on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

This event is proudly presented in collaboration with the Autism Jokes Foundation and the Autism Innovation Community Foundation. Together, we’re bringing an incredible night of laughter, connection, and community support to NJ!

This isn’t just any comedy show—it’s a celebration of neurodivergent talent, community, and connection. The show features professional comedians who are neurodivergent or have a loved one who is, sharing their incredible humor and unique perspectives.

Your Lineup of Laughter:

Joe Bronzi

Steve Cohen

Tommy Hilcken

James Mac

Laura Merli

Daniel Barboza

BYOB Beer & Wine! Pizza, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase—or bring your own snacks! Tickets are LIMITED and SELLING FAST!

Secure yours now: www.givebutter.com/AutismJokesNJ25

Can’t attend? You can STILL make a difference! Donate here: www.givebutter.com/AutismJokesNJ25

Why This Matters

All proceeds go directly to supporting individuals in the autistic community, providing access to vital therapies, programs, and services.

Every laugh, every ticket, every donation helps!

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors, Event Partners, & Supporters!

Silver Sponsor: Valley Bank

Bronze Sponsors:

Inserra Supermarkets ShopRite

Emerson Chamber of Commerce

Pizza provided by: Ferazzoli's Italian Kitchen

Photography by: Melissa Calrow Photography (@me_photography6)

Financial Advice for Perfectly Imperfect Families

The house was packed at our NYC events, and this show is expected to sell out.

Don’t wait! Grab your tickets today!

Get tickets now: www.givebutter.com/AutismJokesNJ25

Barstool Pizza Review - Casano's Pizza Parlor (Rutherford, NJ)

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What does 2025 hold for NJ as preparations for 2026 FIFA World Cup begin in earnest?

4-minute readNorthJersey.comThe biggest sporting event on the planet is coming to MetLife Stadium in just 18 months, and since planning has been underway for years, 2025 marks what is essentially the home stretch of ...

4-minute read

NorthJersey.com

The biggest sporting event on the planet is coming to MetLife Stadium in just 18 months, and since planning has been underway for years, 2025 marks what is essentially the home stretch of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

That may seem like light at the end of the tunnel — especially with growing fan involvement in the new year — but it’s crunch time for those who have worked for nearly a decade to bring the tournament to fruition.

As far as the fun stuff is concerned, the New York/New Jersey Host Committee — the legal name for the group responsible for organizing the event at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford — confirmed that 2025 will see the announcement of what teams will be playing their group-round games here in New Jersey, as well as other opportunities for fans to start getting involved.

The host committee, led by co-hosts Lauren LaRusso and Bruce Revman, said there will be plenty of excitement on the road to 2026, with a lineup of events and experiences to let fans connect with the sport in 2025.

Later in 2025, there will be information available about how to sign up as a volunteer, and the committee will hold “vibrant soccer-themed celebrations, community programs and sponsor activations” to showcase the diversity and passion that make New York and New Jersey the perfect host for this global event.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Tickets will go on sale in the fall, and in December there will be a draw to find out which teams will be playing group-stage games in each of the host cities throughout North America, including the matches at MetLife.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer worried about security

But while the tournament is certainly among the biggest spectacles in sports, it’s not all fun and games for those bringing it to life.

Rigorous planning — and a lot of money — is needed to make sure the stadium meets the FIFA requirements and that fans from the world are safe while attending.

When it comes to security, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-Wyckoff, wants the federal government to foot the bill. His legislation would allocate $625 million for World Cup security to host cities and law enforcement as part of the upcoming Homeland Security appropriations package. The money would be used to increase policing, fire and medical services, and other security measures.

Gottheimer said undetectable firearms are a concern when tourists from around the world come to the region in 2026.

“This is a national event in the United States, the FIFA World Cup, just like the Super Bowl is, and it should get that level attention and investment from the federal government,” he said. “We should protect not only New Jersey and New York but all of our guests and the players.”

The congressman said this should be designated a Tier 1 event, which “triggers certain reinforcement support and coordination.”

He noted that the breached barricades at the COPA America final in Miami earlier this year, which was “not a terror threat, just exuberant fans,” showed that special attention should be paid to making sure everyone is safe.

Gottheimer is running in the 2025 Democratic gubernatorial primary, and the World Cup will happen just six months into the first year of the next governor’s term, which is important for whoever takes office, because New Jersey partnered with New York City in a joint bid to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in East Rutherford. The stadium will host eight matches, including the final, during a monthlong stretch in the summer of 2026.

The host city obligations are the responsibility of both New Jersey and New York City, and officials have previously said costs would be split with the city. There is still no formal agreement in place and no official estimate of what bringing the tournament to the state will cost.

“We have to make sure we don’t get hosed and that we fight for every nickel for security and transit for the region, for Jersey and for the region,” Gottheimer said. “And we have to be vigilant on every front to make sure New York pays what it should pay. They have a pattern these days of sticking it to us.”

More:NJSEA to spend $33M on pedestrian bridge at MetLife Stadium for 2026 FIFA World Cup

How much has the World Cup cost NJ so far?

But New Jersey is on the hook for tens of millions of dollars already, and much of the work is still in progress.

There are a handful of projects at the sports complex that are expected to be done next year. Phase 2 of the work to expand the playing surface needs to be completed. That includes removing seats and replacing them with retractable ones so that the field space is there for the tournament without affecting the seating for Jets and Giants games next season.

The state spent $5,375,000 of the remaining American Rescue Plan funding through the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority to buy trucks and equipment needed to maintain the property in and around the stadium "in preparation for upcoming large-scale events, including FIFA World Cup 2026.”

The NJSEA also spent $10 million of ARP money and a $25 million grant through the state's Transportation Department for planning and work on the second pedestrian bridge across Route 120 to connect the stadium to the American Dream retail and entertainment complex.

The bridge will be built "immediately to the north of the existing pedestrian bridge" crossing Route 120, to connect Meadowlands Parking Lot C and American Dream Parking Garage A, in an effort to increase access to the stadium because of concerns that the existing pedestrian bridge can't meet the demand of pedestrians expected during the tournament in 2026.

The pedestrian bridge is not to be confused with the so-called "transitway" being installed to help move fans from the Secaucus Junction train station to MetLife Stadium. That is actually a new roadway — a dedicated route for buses that will shuttle fans.

The cost of the project has not been made public yet, but the contract includes terminal upgrades at the Secaucus transfer station to handle additional bus loads, construction of a bus terminal at MetLife Stadium "capable of handling the doubling of current rail ridership capacity" and adding roadway and signal priority in between.

NJ Transit has touted its success in recent years, noting that nearly 80,000 people used the service during three Taylor Swift concerts last year, but the nightmare situations after the 2014 Super Bowl and Wrestlemania in 2019 are still front of mind for many riders.

The current Meadowlands train line can carry about 10,000 people an hour, but NJ Transit needs the ability to move more than double that in an hour.

Another $13 million in state money is being used for additional design work, field construction and pitch maintenance equipment and services. Specifically, the NJSEA is buying two grass playing surfaces, one of which will be a backup, to meet the FIFA requirements.

That $13 million is part of the $30 million that was appropriated to the authority for "International Events, Improvements and Attraction" in the fiscal year 2025 budget.

The state provided $37.5 million to the authority in fiscal years 2023 and 2024. Another $7.5 million has been given to the host committee as a revolving loan for operational expenses. This is expected to be repaid through fundraising efforts by the end of 2026.

And $15 million was sent to the authority from the American Rescue Plan funding the state received in fiscal year 2022.

The state has also paid $35 million for NJ Transit to develop designs for expanding its transit system to serve the venue.

What to know:NJ is hosting another FIFA event: the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

Test run in 2025

A true test for all those involved will come in July 2025 as the Club World Cup takes place at MetLife. That tournament features club teams — professional teams from leagues around the world — as opposed to national teams.

There will be nine matches, including two semifinals and the final, in East Rutherford. SE Palmeiras, FC Porto, Fluminense FC, Borussia Dortmund, Al Ahly FC and Ulsan HD will play their group-stage games at MetLife.

Then the knockout rounds begin, culminating in the final on July 13, 2025.

Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: sobko@northjersey.com

This Cozy NJ Restaurant Named Most Romantic in America

Valentine's Day isn't that far away. Did you make plans yet?If you're looking to dine at a romantic place with your love, there's a great spot in the Garden State.Matisse 167 is in Rutherford and they say romantic evenings are their specialty.You'd better secure a reservation now. It's a hot spot.Why?Because it's been named the Most Romantic Restaurant in New Jersey by Food & ...

Valentine's Day isn't that far away. Did you make plans yet?

If you're looking to dine at a romantic place with your love, there's a great spot in the Garden State.

Matisse 167 is in Rutherford and they say romantic evenings are their specialty.

You'd better secure a reservation now. It's a hot spot.

Why?

Because it's been named the Most Romantic Restaurant in New Jersey by Food & Wine.

Seems everything about this charming restaurant screams a wonderful evening.

Matisse 167 is known for its cozy and intimate vibe.

The dining room features crisp white linens, soft candlelight, and an enchanting mix of traditional romance with a unique twist, the article says.

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The décor is Moroccan-inspired and sets the scene for a night to remember with brass lanterns, golden-hued walls, and expertly carved wood paintings bringing a touch of exotic elegance to the space.

But the romance doesn’t stop inside.

Now, you can experience these adorable outdoor igloos in the restaurant's garden.

You'll stay warm & cozy while enjoying cocktails and your meal.

Isn't it so cute?

When the weather is warmer and nice, the outdoor garden is stunning.

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet, peaceful meal while surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful flowers, romantic indeed.

You don't have to wait to celebrate Valentine’s Day. It's a great place for a date night or any special occasion.

Matisse 167 offers the perfect combination of great food and a magical atmosphere.

Don’t forget to make your reservation ahead of time, as this local gem fills up fast, especially around the holidays and special occasions.

READ MORE: This is NJ's Most Irresistible Italian Restaurant

It’s a night you won’t soon forget.

Matisse 167 is located at 167 Park Avenue in Rutherford, NJ.

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