Dobbs Ferry residents and fans of Cedar Street Grill are bidding farewell to a local favorite as the family-friendly tavern has announced its closure after six years of service. The restaurant, known for its comforting menu and welcoming atmosphere, officially ceased operations at the start of the new year, leaving many in the river towns area feeling nostalgic for their beloved dining spot.
Cedar Street Grill had become a staple in the Dobbs Ferry dining scene since its inception in 2011. Owned and operated by chef Matt Kay, along with his brother Joe and mother Cathy in its initial years, the grill quickly garnered a loyal following for its approachable menu centered around classic comfort food. The voicemail message confirming the closure, stating “As of January 1st, 2018, we will be closing our doors,” initially sowed confusion amongst patrons attempting to make post-holiday reservations, signaling the abrupt end of an era for Cedar Street Grill.
Exterior view of Cedar Street Grill restaurant in Dobbs Ferry, New York, showcasing its facade.
Matt Kay, in a statement to The Journal News/lohud, clarified that while the closure is indeed happening, it’s part of a strategic move to sell the business. “We are selling the restaurant and we are in contract to close the deal this week,” Kay explained, indicating the decision came after careful consideration. While refraining from disclosing further details until the sale is finalized, Kay shared, “It’s been a great experience for us running the Cedar Street Grill but, frankly, this is just the best choice for our family.” This suggests a bittersweet departure, recognizing both the positive memories and the necessity for change.
The journey of Cedar Street Grill has seen some evolution over the years. Initially launched as a family venture, with Matt Kay at the helm as chef, brother Joe managing operations, and mother Cathy as hostess, the restaurant became fully led by Matt Kay in 2016. Throughout its run, Cedar Street Grill’s menu consistently highlighted comforting, Southern-inspired dishes. Patrons enjoyed favorites like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, tempting pulled pork sliders, and flavorful barbecue chicken wings.
In a bid to streamline operations after his family members stepped back, Chef Kay briefly entrusted kitchen responsibilities to chef de cuisine Justin Ortiz. Ortiz, bringing experience from the Michelin-starred The Breslin in Manhattan, introduced a more globally influenced and slightly upscale menu. This transformation, featuring dishes like dukkah-spiced carrots, gruyere-and-fennel popovers, and bone marrow, marked a shift in Cedar Street Grill’s culinary direction for a short period between September and November. However, by December, Kay returned to his familiar kitchen role, bringing back beloved original menu items such as his signature fried chicken and “angry” cauliflower, signaling a return to the restaurant’s comfort food roots.
Kay cited a combination of factors leading to the decision to sell, including the challenges of managing all aspects of the business after his family’s departure and external factors like the Ardsley bridge closure impacting local business traffic. “It simply got too overwhelming with my family stepping away, trying to cover all aspects of the business,” Kay stated. “The Ardsley bridge closure affected business and there were other challenges. It just came to the point where we decided it was time to move on and we were presented with a deal that was too good to refuse.”
News of Cedar Street Grill’s closure has resonated deeply within the Dobbs Ferry community, with many expressing their sadness on local online forums. Long-time customers fondly recalled first dates, special occasion dinners, and regular family meals spent at the tavern, underscoring its role as a cherished community gathering place.
For those holding Cedar Street Grill gift certificates, particularly those promoted as recently as December 18th on Facebook, there is reassurance. Matt Kay has confirmed that gift certificates will be honored. Guests who purchased gift certificates within the six months preceding January 1st are encouraged to contact Kay directly at [email protected] to arrange reimbursement, demonstrating a commitment to customer fairness even as the restaurant closes its doors.
As Cedar Street Grill concludes its chapter in Dobbs Ferry, the community reflects on the memories created within its walls and anticipates what might emerge in its place. The closure marks the end of a local dining institution, leaving a void in the village’s restaurant landscape.
