the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, tucked away on Oak Street in downtown Ridgewood, Lula isn’t just a stylish BYOB eatery—it’s a deeply personal project for Chef and Owner Conor Browne. Named after his daughter’s nickname, Lula reflects Browne’s passion for food, community, and creating memorable dining experiences rooted in New American and Mediterranean flavors.
A Ridgewood Native Bringing Flavor Home
Conor Browne, a Ridgewood native, never imagined opening a restaurant in his hometown. “I always wanted to open a restaurant but never thought it would be in Ridgewood,” he shares. But when the space at 28 Oak Street opened up, he jumped at the chance.
Lula blends a sophisticated West Village aesthetic with Ridgewood charm. With clean lines, minimalistic decor, and cozy vibes, the intimate space seats 54 guests inside and 18 outdoors.
Seasonal, Scratch-Made New American Cuisine
At Lula, the menu is seasonally driven and crafted entirely in-house by a dedicated kitchen team of just three. “We’ve found a niche for ourselves,” says Conor. “Our food is elevated, and we focus time and energy on guest experience.”
Some standout dishes include:
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Focaccia: A rotating seasonal favorite—served in spring with whipped herb butter and sea salt.
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Whipped Burrata: Layered with strawberry agrodolce, Marcona almonds, spring lettuce, and vincotto.
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Crudo Selections: Featuring ultra-fresh, fishmonger-sourced cod, halibut, swordfish, or monkfish, each paired with seasonal ingredients.
Conor emphasizes lighter fare that delights the palate without leaving diners overstuffed. “You should feel comfortable when you leave,” he explains.
Sweet Endings to Remember
Lula’s lemon tart is the most popular dessert—and a personal favorite of the chef. “It smells like a campfire,” Conor says, highlighting its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
Other dessert offerings include:
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Classic Chocolate Mousse
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Dutch Baby Pancake with whipped cream and seasonal berries
Meet the Chef: Conor Browne
Before opening Lula, Conor Browne honed his skills at acclaimed regional restaurants such as:
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Jams (New York City)
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Turtle + The Wolf (Montclair)
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Felina (Ridgewood)
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St. Eve’s (Ho-Ho-Kus)
He now lives in Waldwick with his wife and two children, and is proud to serve the town he grew up in.
Visit Lula in Ridgewood
If you’re looking for a refined yet approachable culinary experience, Lula at 28 Oak Street, Ridgewood, NJ should be your next dining destination. Be sure to follow them online or stop by to experience New American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist—all crafted with heart, heritage, and hospitality.
