Butterfish Sushi Elevates Bergen County Dining with High-End Japanese Cuisine

Rutherford, New Jersey, has become home to one of the region’s most talked-about culinary destinations with the opening of Butterfish Sushi, a restaurant that has quickly earned a reputation for delivering a world-class sushi experience. Since opening in December 2024, Butterfish has drawn attention not only from local diners but also from sushi enthusiasts across Bergen County seeking a refined, high-end Japanese dining experience.

At the helm of Butterfish is Chef Jeffry Undiarto, whose culinary pedigree includes experience at the acclaimed two-Michelin-star restaurant n/naka in Los Angeles. Chef Undiarto’s approach to sushi emphasizes the natural flavors of premium fish, allowing the quality of the ingredients to speak for themselves rather than relying on heavy sauces or excessive garnishes. This commitment to purity and precision has earned Butterfish comparisons to Michelin-star establishments, making it a standout in the New Jersey sushi scene.

The restaurant’s offerings highlight both versatility and culinary craftsmanship. Guests can opt for the omakase-style tasting menu, a multi-course experience that showcases seasonal fish and specialty preparations, or choose from an a la carte menu featuring items such as salmon burrata, white truffle scallop carpaccio, and A5 Wagyu nigiri. Each dish reflects meticulous attention to detail, from knife cuts to presentation, and is crafted to provide a memorable dining experience that lingers beyond the meal.

Butterfish’s focus on quality starts at the source. Fish is flown in daily from global markets, including Japan and Boston, ensuring a freshness that diners can taste in every bite. The restaurant’s small, intimate setting reinforces the focus on precision and exclusivity, allowing guests to fully appreciate the artistry behind each plate.

The ambiance of Butterfish is deliberately minimalist, designed to create a serene environment where the food remains the center of attention. The restaurant operates as a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) establishment, offering guests the opportunity to pair their meal with a preferred wine, sake, or cocktail. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Butterfish also provides a curated selection of handcrafted mocktails.

Reservations are strongly recommended due to the restaurant’s limited seating and growing popularity, and walk-ins are seldom accommodated. This exclusivity only adds to Butterfish’s allure, positioning it as a destination for special occasions, intimate dinners, and culinary exploration.

Butterfish Sushi represents a growing trend in New Jersey’s dining scene, where local restaurants are blending authentic international techniques with modern presentation and locally sourced or specially imported ingredients. Its success underscores the increasing appetite for high-quality, immersive dining experiences in Bergen County and across the state.

For diners looking to explore more of New Jersey’s exceptional food scene, including innovative restaurants, unique dining concepts, and culinary hotspots, the restaurants section on Explore New Jersey provides guides, reviews, and updates on the state’s top destinations.

Whether seeking an unforgettable omakase experience or carefully crafted a la carte dishes, Butterfish Sushi delivers a sophisticated, high-end dining experience that has firmly established itself among New Jersey’s elite culinary offerings.