Our Approach


Papillon 25, the brainchild of owners Albert and Yanick Ranieri, towers as the area’s premier restaurant and martini bar.
The ambience is a welcome oasis for the senses. The restaurant color scheme stimulates the appetite for the culinary delights of Executive Chef Yanick Ranieri. A butterfly insignia, crafted by architects Sussna and Matz of Princeton, floats above the martini bar illuminating the various hues of cocktails offered.
The martini bar also boasts a menu of more than 50 martinis and a wonderful selection of wines. This extensive offering complements Yanick’s uniquely exotic cuisine and adds to the air of elegance, grace and nostalgia reminiscent of the supper clubs of the ’40s and ’50s.
Come join us in our new romantic cote d-azur lounge and visit our spectacular wine cellar. Both available for private gatherings and celebrations.
Starting October 4th, every Thursday, live jazz. Enjoy cocktails, dinner and a great night of music.
Since opening in November 2003, Papillon 25 has drawn a loyal following and set a new standard for dining with its unerring sense of style and panache.

Reviews and Awards

  • Papillon 25 spreads its wings in South Orange

    Panache is not a word to be cast about frivolously. It’s rare to find something that truly fits the definition, something stylishly confident, with real flair and verve.
    by Teresa Politano/For The Star-Ledger

    View article

  • From the New York Times “…Stylish, stunning room with intimacy and grandeur”. The Times continues “The Cajun chicken brochettes were juicy and full flavored. … Tuna sashimi, with a seared peppery crust, was a fine specimen…” “The real desserts … were especially moist, cinnamon scented brioche bread pudding…” Our cuisine is an infusion of French, Italian, and American cuisine. Award winning and Master Chef Yanick Ranieri, has created an array of unique sauces, and gourmet dishes for your dining pleasure. More than 70 martinis and over 500 wines are offered to compliment any dining experience. On and off premises custom catering.

  • The Star Ledger

    A fusion of French, Italian, American, Asian, Caribbean and New Orleans cuisine, with a few soul food touches, offers something for a wide range of tastes and pocketbooks.
    By Cody Kendall

  • Dining Out

    It’s love at First Bite
    South Orange’s Papillon 25
    By Grace Russell, A Real Crowd pleaser.

  • Suburban Essex Magazine - 2005

    “Adding it’s presence to the dining renanissance taking place in South Orange, Papillon 25 shines as one of the most upscale and popular village newcomers.”

  • Ca Cao Noel

    Choculat de Courverture
    Papillon 25
    Best Dessert
    The Art of Chocolate
    2006

  • North Essex Chamber of Commerce

    Taste of Essex 2006
    Awarded Best Overall

  • Lions International

    “Great Chefs Night”
    Papillon 25
    Best Appetizer
    April 24, 2006