ABOUT US

Our Story Begins with Culinary Vision

F1RST is more than a restaurant—it’s a creative expression of fine dining, rooted in the heart of Hawthorne, NJ. Founded by Chef Adam Weiss, a celebrated culinary innovator, F1RST was built with one goal in mind: to create exceptional dining experiences that feel both personal and unforgettable.



As a family-owned American restaurant, F1RST brings a balance of warmth and professionalism to every detail—from the seasonal menu to the contemporary ambiance. The restaurant is a BYOB establishment and offers guests a modern, welcoming space to enjoy elevated cuisine in an approachable environment.

Our Mission at F1RST

We are committed to delivering a culinary experience that honors seasonality, creativity, and guest connection. Every dish on our menu is designed to surprise, comfort, and inspire—from first bite to final course.


Rather than following trends, F1RST focuses on evolving thoughtfully. Our seasonal menu adapts throughout the year, allowing guests to return for something familiar yet entirely new each time. Our intimate setting and indoor seating foster a relaxed yet refined environment, perfect for date nights, special occasions, and elevated casual dining.


As a BYOB fine dining restaurant, we also invite our guests to bring their favorite wine or beverage to pair with the menu, making each visit uniquely personal.

About Chef Adam Weiss

Culinary Experience and Awards

Chef Adam Weiss has spent over two decades building a reputation as one of New Jersey’s premier chefs. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, he began his career in family kitchens, inspired by his grandmother’s and mother’s passion for cooking.

Weiss worked his way up from line cook to Executive Chef at several of North Jersey’s most well-known establishments, including Esty Street in Park Ridge, Due Restaurant in Ridgewood, and Stone & Rail in Glen Rock. Over the years, he has earned:


  • Two-time winner of Ultimate Chef NJ competition
  • Multiple 3-star reviews from New Jersey Monthly and The Bergen Record
  • Accolades for innovation in New American and eclectic American cuisine
  • Recognition for transforming seasonal ingredients into signature fine dining dishes

Chef Weiss's food is known for its balance of creative flavor combinations, beautiful plating, and deep respect for ingredient quality.

A man in an apron is standing in front of a wall that says chef adam

Our Place in the Hawthorne Community

Located on the corner of Lincoln and Loretto Avenues, F1RST has become a sought-after Hawthorne NJ restaurant known for its attention to detail, artistic food, and warm service. From local residents to diners traveling from across North Jersey, our guests return again and again for the consistency, creativity, and hospitality that define the F1RST experience.

We are proud to be a part of this community and are excited to continue growing alongside it.

A large dining room with tables and chairs set for dinner

Plan Your Visit to F1RST

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing what makes F1RST one of New Jersey’s top New American cuisine destinations.