We errantly posted Chef-Kevin Kohler when the owner was Chef Kevin Portscher
End of an Era: Ridgewood’s Iconic Village Green Restaurant Announces Sudden Closing
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Ridgewood is losing one of its most beloved culinary landmarks. After nearly four decades of fine dining and community milestones, the Village Green Restaurant has officially announced it will be closing its doors this June.
The news comes as a shock to loyal patrons who have frequented the establishment since it first opened its doors in 1989. For the past 15 years, Chef and Owner Kevin Portscher has stood at the helm, transforming the space into a destination for celebrated cuisine and intimate gatherings. The current chef/owner Kevin Portscher took over the restaurant in 2011.
The Reason Behind the Closure
The decision to close was not one made by choice, but by circumstance. In a heartfelt message to the community, Chef Kevin revealed that the building was recently sold to a new landlord.
“Despite our best efforts, we were unable to come to a new agreement,” Kohler shared. “Unfortunately, everything happened very quickly, and we were not left with much time to prepare or properly say goodbye.”
The sudden nature of the real estate transition has left the staff and ownership with a narrow window to wind down operations, marking a poignant end to a storied chapter in New Jersey’s dining scene.
A Legacy of Community and Craft
Since taking ownership 15 years ago, Chef Kevin Portscher has maintained the Village Green’s reputation as a “hidden gem.” Known for its seasonal menus and impeccable service, the restaurant became a backdrop for countless anniversaries, engagements, and family celebrations.
In their farewell statement, the team expressed immense gratitude:
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To the Loyal Customers: “Thank you for supporting us through the years, celebrating your special moments with us, and allowing us to serve this community we love so much.”
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To the Ridgewood Community: “The memories, friendships, and support you’ve given us will never be forgotten.”
How to Say Goodbye: The Final Service
For those looking to enjoy one last meal or share a final word with the staff, time is of the essence.
Village Green Restaurant’s last day of service will be Saturday, June 6th.
The restaurant is expected to be fully booked as fans of Portscher’s cooking rush to experience the tasting menus one final time. If you have been a part of the Village Green story over the last 37 years, the staff encourages you to stop by during this final stretch to say goodbye.
FAQ: Village Green Closing Details
Why is Village Green Restaurant closing? The building was recently sold to a new landlord, and the restaurant was unable to reach a new lease agreement.
When is the last day to eat at Village Green? The final service will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Is Chef Kevin Portscher opening a new restaurant? While this chapter is coming to an end, there have been no official announcements regarding a new location or future projects yet. Stay tuned for updates from the staff.
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Kevin Kohler was the owner and chef of Cafe Pinache in Ramsey. He died in 2021. Are you sure this owner has the exact same name?
LANDORDS and DEVELOPERS
Need I say any more. They don’t want the small business or retail shop because they can’t afford their high rent prices. This leaves us with restaurants, services or banks and therefore what I like to call a one and done CBD experience. If the free retail stores, none are open late when we have night time dining outdoors. This makes it not a walking town.
Oh boo hoo. If you were good at business, you wouldn’t be small. No one wants to hear it but “small” businesses are, in fact, a horrible mismanagement of resources and a total waste of capital.
Our favorite place to go for special dinners. Will be greatly missed. I agree with previous poster re: landlords; it all comes down to personal
profit, community be damned.
Chic-Fil-a fills the void. Let’s see what comes to this spot.
To: Anonymous Oh boo hoo,
You clearly do not understand Ridgewood, a town where people from a large surrounding area come to shop and eat in an old, pretty town. I can only hope that your attitude sits on vacant properties where you have to lose tax money due to your greed…business
Osprey, if people come to shop and eat in Ridgewood why are there so many empty storefronts sitting next to one redundant barbershop after another? Do you ever actually step foot into pretty little downtown?
Also, here’s a tip for you: vacant properties are not necessarily losing money. (Figure it out.) So, if anyone is demonstrating a lack of understanding it’s you. But that’s OK. It’s never too late to educate yourself.