As temps chill and holiday dining beckons, we have compiled an extensive guide to New Jersey’s most buzzed-about culinary wizards and dining establishments
by Laura D.C. Kolnoski
Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails
Offering a “modern twist on American cuisine influenced by international fare” with expansive views of the bay from its perch next to the bridge to Seaside Heights. Executive Chef Matteo DeMarco and Chef de Cuisine Adam S. Bergman create outstanding entrees featuring fresh fish, meat, and succulent vegetables. Banquet facilities available. 3410 Route 37, Toms River, 732.270.1180. aquablurestaurant.com
A Toute Heure
The term means a “short period of time” or “in a moment.” In this French bistro’s case, it refers to a daily menu highlighting specials by Chef Andrea Carbine, who owns the eatery with her ‘husband Jim. Andrea is a graduate of the FrenchCulinary Institute and a two-time James Beard nominee. Seasonal produce, and fresh meat and fish from the local area star here. The couple also own the nearby 100 Steps Supper Club. 232 Centennial Avenue, Cranford, 908.276.6600. atouteheure.com
American Cut Steakhouse
Newly appointed chef Anthony Russo has added Italian favorites, classic homemade dishes, and local favorites to American Cut’s traditional delectable menu. Russo’s famous meatballs have quickly become a favorite among diners. American Cut, signature certified black Angus beef from Pat LaFrieda meat purveyors is always a favorite choice. Also savor one of the delicious one of a kind desserts such as the sweet and salty cracker-Jack sundae. 495 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, 201.510.4460. americancutsteakhouse.com
American Hotel/Market
Yard Grille An American bistro-style restaurant and bar overseen in an historic New Orleans-style landmark in the heart of downtown Freehold, the
Monmouth County seat. Enjoy a drink in the Lobby Lounge before sampling the delightful American fare offered in a contemporary menu featuring lunch, dinner, late night tapas, and special events. 18 E. Main St., Freehold, 732.431.3220 americanhotelnj.com
Angelica’s Ristorante
A family-owned and operated “casual elegant” Italian eatery with a credo of excellence across from the beach with quaint outdoor dining in season. Completely rebuilt following Superstorm Sandy, it won a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence in 2015. Ray Lena, the Chef/Owner, creates Italian favorites with a fresh twist. 1070 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright, 732.842.2800. anjelicas.com
Asbury Ale House & Shore House
Asbury’s only sports bar features 50 beers on tap with a large number of Jersey brews. The imaginative, expanded pub-style menu by Head Chef Mike Solimando includes seafood pot pie, Southwestern corn cakes, and the Ale House Deviled Avocado, a bacon-wrapped avocado topped with egg salad.
531 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park, 732.455.3808. asburyalehouse.com
Blu Grotto
Executive Chef James Corona is an alum of famed chefs Mario Batali and David Bouley. Corona is lauded for tapping into Italian cuisine with a soulful yet minimalist approach, showcasing high-quality ingredients. Located at Monmouth Racetrack, this new gem boasts a windowed conservatory dining room, three outdoor decks, and an open air biergarten. Chef Corona shines with modern and classic adaptations of regional Italian favorites, handmade and imported pastas, fresh seafood, prime steak, and artisanal cocktails. 200 Port Au Peck Avenue, Oceanport, 732.571.7900. blugrottonj.com
BOTTAGRA
Chef-Owners Carlo Carbonaro and Robert Vicari’s uncomplicated modern Italian menu has been attracting food lovers since 2008 with a warm and comfortable atmosphere, southern- Italian spirit, and heartfelt cooking, including daily fresh specials. 80 Wagaraw Road, Hawthorne 973.423.4433. bottagra.com
BRIOSO
The three Di Maggio brothers, all chefs versed in innovative Italian dining Pietro, Calogero, and Raffaele—all from Torretta, Italy—own three locations of Brioso (which means “lively”): one in Staten Island and two in Marlboro: L’Antica Trattoria in the Willow Pointe Shopping Center, 184 Route 9 North, 732.617.1700, and the larger stand-alone Brioso, 448 Route 9 North, 732.617.1300. briosorestaurants.com
CAMPAGNOLA
New Jersey residents are eager to trek to Manhattan for this 30-plus year traditional country-style Italian dining mecca offering timeless authenticity and Old World Charm. Plates are meant to be shared and elbows meant to be touched in this traditional eatery. 1382 First Avenue, New York City, 212.861.1102. campagnola-nyc.com
CATCH
Chef Dominick Rizzo and his staff have created a next-level dining experience utilizing the finest and freshest ingredients coupled with exemplary service. The chef has worked and opened restaurants in Italy, New York City, and Florida, is a Culinary Institute of America graduate, and trained under celebrity Chefs Mario Batali, Daniel Boulud, and Gianni Scapin. Interpretations of classic seafood, coupled with signature style and all-around finesse, result in an exceptional dining scene in the heart of downtown Red Bank. 9 Broad Street, Red Bank, 732.268.8384. catchredbank.com
CHAR STEAKHOUSE
Known for 1,800°F ovens where meats are seared and caramelized daily, this two-location happening, hot duo of sleek eateries was launched in 2008 by Brooklyn brothers Matteo and Giuseppe Ingrao. Ten to 12 different cuts of meat are on the menu at all times. The bar scene is scintillating. 33 Broad St., Red Bank, 732.450.2427 & 777 U.S. Highway 202. 908.707.1777. charsteakhouse.com
CHEZ CATHERINE
Over 35 years of “Best Of” awards and fiercely loyal gourmands have made this charming restaurant a Garden State legend for French fare. Unassumingly tucked into ground floor of the Westfield Inn, it boasts an extensive wine cellar and graciously luxe interior. Chef de cuisine Klaus Kronsteiner is carrying on the revered traditions created by founder Catherine Alexandrou. 431 North Avenue, Westfield, 908.654.4011. chezcathering.com
CUBACAN
The menu is as colorful (and delicious!) as the décor in this vibrant Cuban restaurant and lounge on the boardwalk with a hip vibe, rustic-chic décor, and one of the best Happy Hours around. Authentic dishes are beautifully prepared, as are the distinctive specialty cocktails. 800 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, 732.774.3007. cubacanrestaurant.com
CUCHARAMAMA
Hailed for bringing Central and South American dishes to North Jersey, Chef/Owner Maricel Presilla, author of the 2012 Gran Cocina Latina cookbook, is renowned for creative tamales and stews. 233 Clinton Street, Hoboken, 201.420.1700, cucharamama.com
CUZIN’S CLAM BAR
Award winning Executive Chef Tony Macaroni helms this new, instantly popular seafood haven. The son of New York Italian restaurateurs, he has been the private chef for celebrities, actors, and musicians. After graduating from the New York Restaurant School in Manhattan, he traveled throughout Europe honing his skills. Chef Tony has competed on TV shows and appeared at the 2015 Annual New Jersey Wine and Food Festival. His extensive menu features a raw bar, Cuzin’s Clam Bar Favorites, pastas, and more. 130 Route 79 South, Marlboro, 732.780.CLAM (2526). bestclambar.com
DREW’S BAYSHORE BISTRO
There’s a reason Chef/Owner Drew Araneo is frequently in the news, and it’s not just how he rebounded from Superstorm Sandy. His New Orleans-inspired cuisine is legendary, as are his Voodoo Shrimp and loyal clientele. BYOB. 25 Church Street, Keyport,
732.739.9219. Facebook
ENOTECA URSINO
Located on the campus of Kean University and formerly known as Ursino, this eatery re-opened by the Terra Momo Restaurant Group in May with new Chef Scott Tolhurst at the helm. The farm-to-table, Italian-inspired menu also includes venison, duck, and seafood featuring organic produce grown at the adjacent Liberty Hall Farm. 1075 Morris Avenue, Union, 908.662.9080. enotecaursino.com
AMA RISTORANTE AT DRIFTWOOD BEACH CLUB
Oceanfront fine dining at its fi nest with a Tuscan-inspired menu from Executive Chef Chuck restaurant business at age 14. This 2015 Wine Spectator Award winner is a favorite for special events and memorable dinners. 1485 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright, 732.530.9760. amaristorante.com
AVENUE
St. Tropez-born Dominique Filoni, formerly of New York’s Four Seasons and Walt Disney World’s Grand Floridian, lends his 20-plus years of international experience to the noteworthy Mediterranean menu of this dining destination on the boardwalk at Pier Village. The ample outdoor wrap-around dining deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean beckons in season. 23 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch, 732.759.2900. leclubavenue.com
GAETANO’S
A recent change in ownership means an expanded menu and more contemporary ways to serve customers what they want, including brunch, half-pound chuck and brisket burgers, and an espresso station. Freshly made pastas Gaetano’s sells to area markets and pizzas remain on the
new owner Louis Andrianos’menu. 10 Wallace Street, Red Bank, 732.741.1321. gaetanosnj.com
GOTHAM
Eat socially and drink interestingly while enjoying the displayed artworks and speakeasy atmosphere at Red Bank’s most unique dining and nightlife spot. The menu of fresh takes on small plates, salads, fl atbreads, and more is meant to be shared, as are the good times rolling inside. 19 Broad Street, Red Bank, 732.268.8543. gothamredbank.com
CHEF/OWNER STEVEN BOTTA
This culinary titan helms three of Monmouth County’s most popular dining destinations. Brooklyn born Botta’s “secret recipes” include dishes inspired by all regions of Italy, French cuisine, and American favorites, including masterful interpretations of classic comfort foods. His slow-cooked “Sunday Sauce,” meatballs, and pastas are the stuff dreams are made of.
BRANDO’S CITI CUCINA
Located on a bustling corner in the heart of Asbury Park’s happening downtown district, the brick-walled warm ambiance here is complemented by exquisite service and Botta’s soulful Italian food, influenced by his mother’s recipes. 162 Main Street, Asbury Park, 732.774.2222. brandosnj.com
FROMAGERIE
Loyal fans of this revered and beloved restaurant, a Jersey Shore institution, are thrilled it reopened recently under Chef Botta’s mantle, infusing new life into this attractive dining destination. Familiar, yet fresh and updated with interior renovations and a spruced-up menu, it now features American and Continental cuisine with French and Italian influences, including caviar, foie gras, and escargot. Savor craft cocktails at two bars, each with its own ambiance. 26 Ridge Rd., Rumson. 732.852.2650. fromagerie.com
OSTERIA CUCINA RUSTICA
A well-appointed Tuscan atmosphere makes Osteria a welcoming spot for fresh Italian cuisine at its finest.(Osteria means “a place where the owner hosts his guests.”) Whether to enjoy Mom’s Sunday Sauce, the coveted private wine dining room, the wood-fired oven, or the exposed beams and 100-year- old reclaimed wooden floors, diners favor the unparalleled dining experience. 91 S. Main Street, Marlboro,732.577.8288. osterianj.com
GRISSINI
Italian, but different, in the very best way. From its extensive wine list to a vast selection of mouth-watering seafood choices, it’s easy to see why Grissini is a favorite choice for quality food afi cionados. 484 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, 201.568.3535. grissinirestaurant.com CHEF/OWNER STEVEN BOTTA This culinary titan helms three of Monmouth County’s most popular dining destinations. Brooklyn born Botta’s “secret recipes” include dishes inspired by all regions of Italy, French cuisine, and American favorites, including masterful interpretations of classic comfort foods. His slow-cooked “Sunday Sauce,” meatballs, and pastas are the stuff dreams are made of.
JOE LEONE’S
Italian specialties elevated, be they homemade breads, fresh mozzarella, delectable prepared foods, specialty retail items, daily specials, unique gifts, or catering. Two locations offer one exceptional gastronomic experience, demonstrating the desire to be extraordinary at the ordinary. 600 Route 35, Point Pleasant Beach, 732.701.0001 & 527 Washington Boulevard, 732.681.1036. joeleones.com
HALIFAX
The special touch of Chef Seadon Shouse, from Nova Scotia, can be seen throughout the menu of his new dining experiencen in the W Hotel. He sources fresh, sustainable ingredients from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. Diners are particularly enjoying his own hand-made salt, produced from Montauk waters and the vermouth he makes for the bar. 225 River Street, Hoboken, 210.253.2500. halifaxhoboken.com
IL CAPRICCIO
Chef Antonio Grande, a Calabria, Italy native who trained at culinary school in his home country and served in the Italian Navy, combines his talents and passion to procure and transform the finest, freshest ingredients, including free-range meats, wild line-caught fi sh, and home-grown vegetables. Homemade pastas add to the superior quality and rich tradition of every dish. 633 Route 10 East, Whippany, 973.884.0175. ilcapriccio.com
ILLIANO’S CAFÉ
This warm, welcoming and delicious BYOB dining experience, near Monmouth Mall and Monmouth Racetrack, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, is revered for its delicious pizza, dinners, private events and catering. One Corbett Way, Eatontown, 732.542.2520. illianoscafe.com
KNIFE AND FORK
Over 100 years old and situated in a high-profile space off the boardwalk, this perennial favorite is extolled for delivering fine food, class, and tradition. Its chalet-style exterior and remodeled interior continue making history. Boardwalk Empire fans will recall Nucky Johnson dined there. Don’t miss their famous Lobster Thermador by Executive Chef James Huntzinger, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America. The same family runs other top AC dining destinations Dock’s Oyster House and Harry’s Oyster Bar. 3600 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, 609.344.1133. knifeandforkinn.com
LA PASTERIA
Two locations, one stunning reputation for a culinary adventure in classic Italian comfort cuisine from the Angelo family. Fresh sauce and succulent ingredients offered in a wideranging menu. 30 Linden Place, Red Bank, 732.224.8699 & 327 Springfi eld Avenue, Summit, 908.522.9088. lapastaria.com
LATOUR
No listing of Top NJ chefs is complete without Executive Chef Anthony Bucco, who makes culinary magic at this special occasion dining experience at the Crystal Springs Resort in the scenic mountains of Sussex County. As vast and stunning as the scenery outside, Latour’s imaginative menu, exceptional service, and extensive wine list have become legendary. 1 Wild Turkey Way, 973.827.5996, Hamburg. crystalgolfresort.com
LIBERTY HOUSE
Combining metro chic with understated elegance, lavish grounds, handcrafted décor, and magnificent Manhattan views, Liberty House offers award-winning cuisine. The Landmark Hospitality property is acclaimed as a wedding and special occasion venue. Executive Chef Ken Trickilo uses ingredients fresh from local farms and New Jersey purveyors for all of his menus, from Sunday brunches to extravagant wedding receptions, as well as fresh vegetables and herbs from the Dancing Goat Farm, operated by Liberty House’s sister property, Stone House at Stirling Ridge. 76 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, 201.395.0300. libertyhouserestaurant.com
NICHOLAS
With four stars from the New York Times, a 29/30 Zagat rating in food and service, and recognition as one of Top 11 restaurants in the country by AOL, it’s no wonder Chef/owner Nicholas Harary, who owns the alluring palace of the palate with his wife Melissa, is a sought-after culinary expert.Known for impeccable service, an outstanding wine list, attention to detail, and imaginative seasonal menu offerings, Nicholas is the place for specialnights out. 160 Route 35 South, Red Bank, 732.345.9977. restaurantnicholas.com
BIRRAVINO
Son of the original owner “Big Vic,” Victor Rallo, Jr., has combined the Italian words for beer and wine to create this new incarnation of a Hip Town landmark, the former Basil T’s Brew Pub. Beers are still brewed in-house while the menu features casual Italian specialties including pizza and paninis. The younger Rallo also hosts the syndicated cable television show, Eat! Drink! Italy! 183 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank, 732.842.5990. birravino.com
LORENA’S
The combo of Chef Humberto Campos Jr. and his coowner wife Lorena have created a 12-year institution that Open Table diners named One of the 100 Best Restaurants in America in 2015. Haute cuisine here is deeply rooted in French technique and inspired by the seasons. As an alumnus of the Culinary Institute of America, Campos sources the seasonal bounty of local and organic farms throughout the state. 168 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood 973-763-4460. restaurantlorena.com
MARITIME PARC
Playing off expansive Hudson River and Statue of Liberty views and a Liberty State Park location, Chef/Owner Chris Siversen elevates seafood to new heights; meat, vegetables, and desserts, too! 84 Audrey Zapp Drive, 201.413.0050, Jersey City. maritimeparc.com
MOLLY PITCHER INN
The sophisticated dining room with panoramic views of the Navesink River has long been revered for its palatial atmosphere and sumptuous upscale menu, served with fl air. The adjacent International Bar is a striking mahogany gathering place. The site of many memorable special events and holiday celebrations, it’s a Garden State must-experience. 88 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank, 732.858.5502. themollypitcher.com
NINETY ACRES CULINARY CENTER AT NATIRAR
A consortium of chefs, led by the inventive David C. Felton helm the “Table at the Farm” at this one-ofa-kind property located in the lushSomerset County hills, once owned by the King of Morocco. Menus feature locally-sourced ingredients, many grown at Natirar’s 15-acre sustainable farm, and its array of seafood is pulled humanely from local waters and sizzled to order; embellished with homegrown garnishes. The wine list boasts over 1,200 selections. Whether for an intimate meal, special occasion, or banquet events, there’s nothing quite like Natirar (or “Raritan” spelled backward). 2 Main Street, Peapack-Gladstone, 908.901.9500. natirar.com
O BISTRO FRANCIAS
Brunch stars at this new incarnation of the former Red Bank Pizza in the borough’s Arts & Antiques District. Chef Marc Fontaine (former owner of the restaurant Bienvenue), along with Thierry (owner of Chez Lucienne in New York City), and Frederic (from Le Bernardin and La Goulue in NYC) have teamed to form O Bistro Francais, with a space renovated into a modern Parisian Bistro atmosphere. French dishes, along with seasonal specials, include escargot, foie gras, quiches, crepes, tarts, and Coquille St. Jacques. 15 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank, 732.852.2705. obistrofrancais.com
OLD HOMESTEAD STEAKHOUSE
Located inside Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, this outpost of Manhattan’s legendary Old Homestead Steak House (established in 1868) is presided over by brothers Greg and Marc Sherry. Opened in 2003, it features a warm wood ambiance enhanced by soft fabrics. The signature dish is the 34-ounce Gotham Rib Steak. 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, 609.317.1000. theborgata.com
LIVOTI’S OLD WORLD MARKET
Owner John Livoti, born in Bensonhurst, worked his way up in the grocery business before opening his own full-service gourmet market focused on homemade food. Each location has its own chef who creates more than 100 prepared entrees. One can linger long before the glass-encased fresh food options struggling to decide between fresh salads, pastas, Italian specialties, ever-changing main and side dish options, and our favorite: vegetable muffins, best enjoyed warm. 1077 Route 34, Aberdeen, 732.566.2500 & 160 Route 9, Marlboro Plaza, Englishtown. 848.444.9600. livotisoldworldmarket.com
OYSTER POINT HOTEL
Park your boat and whet your appetite at one of the shore’s chicest establishments. The Pearl Restaurant and Lounge, with its outside deck enclosed for inclement weather, features contemporary American cuisine with tastes of Asia and the American Southwest. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and light fare. Sister property to the Molly Pitcher Inn nearby. 46 Bodman Place, Red Bank, 732.639.5243. theoysterpointhotel.com
PATRIZIA’S
“Where Guests Become Family.” This well-appointed traditional family-style dining experience is located on Hip Town’s hippest block. The original opened in Brooklyn in 2009, and both have garnered acclaim for imaginative interpretations of traditional Neapolitan cuisine. Owners Giacomo Alaio and Lou Maschi give guests seasonally-inspired dishes, including homemade breads, cheeses, pastas, meats, seafood, wines, and desserts. 28 Broad Street, Red Bank, 732.741.5555. patriziasofbrooklyn.com
GREAT RESTAURANTS NJ
The innovative dining concepts and full service catering offered by Great Restaurants NJ has captured the imagination and ravenous appetites of the dining public. Each eatery offers its own completely different vibe, décor,and menu, but all get accolades. From the fun of Rosalita’s colorful authentic Mexican interior “The Metro’s” sophisticated cool and great sushi to Nonna’s family-style Italian delicacies, and the newest spot, Tre, with its industrial feel, large, heated patio, brick oven pizza, and skeeball machine, it’s always a yummy good time. Explore them all at greatrestaurantsnj.com.
NONNA’S 190 Route 9 North, Englishtown. 732.536.9050
ROSALITA’S 180 Route 9 North, Englishtown. 732.617.0099
METROPOLITAN CAFÉ 8 E. Main Street, (Route 537), 732.780.9400
TRE 611 Park Avenue (Route 33), Freehold, 732.751.4422
PATRICIA’S OF HOLMDEL
Eat well, laugh, often, and love more, especially the chef’s fine food at this family-style Italian restaurant located in the Holmdel Commons. Wood-fired pizza garners raves, as does the expertly prepared Italian specialties, including gluten-free pasta dishes. Catering and private parties available. 2132 Route 35, Holmdel, 732.275.0234. patriciasofholmdel.com
PAZZO
The name means “crazy,” as in crazy about great food, plenty of which is offered at this ample, attractive Tuscan-inspired space with a large bar and patio enclosed during colder months. Bustling with happy customers, it’s ideal for dates and families, and has its own garage! 141 W. Front Street, Red
Bank, 732.747.4551. pazzoredbank.com
PIG & PRINCE RESTAURANT AND GASTRO-LOUNGE
Michael Carrino is the chef and partner of Trois Cochons, operators of Pig & Prince, is considered a rising star in the culinary world, known for creating progressive French cuisine utilizing both classical and modern techniques with local, sustainable foods that give true meaning to the term “Jersey fresh.” He cures his own meats, frequents local farm markets, helps in the operation of a local greenhouse, and works with breeders in raising the livestock that appear on his menus. 1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, 973.233.1006. pigandprince.com
RYLAND INN
Executive Chef Christopher Albrecht, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and formerly of New York’s Gramercy Tavern, makes magic in this award-winning restaurant. Located in a 1796 structure, part of the highly regarded Landmark Hospitality Group, the inn makes farm-to-table, local, and sustainable ingredients shine. Menus change seasonally. 111 Old Highway 28, Whitehouse Station, 908.534.4011. rylandinnnj.com
SALT CREEK GRILLE
This classy, upscale yet casual favorite, overseen by Chef Robert Belt, is as renowned for its scratch-cooked food as it is for its Navesink River views. The American menu features meats grilled over hot mesquite embers, chef-cut seafood, and boutique vineyard wines. Other locations are in Princeton and California. Robert Belt. 4 Bingham Avenue, Rumson, 732.933.9272, & Princeton Forrestal Village, One Rockingham Row, Princeton, 609.419.4200. saltcreekgrille.com
SOUTH GATE MANOR
These “Caterers of Distinction” from the Marino family wow with an exquisitely renovated banquet facility and personalized service, enhanced by over 25 years of professional catering experience. 260 South Street, Freehold, 732.431.1500. southgatemanornj.com
STELLA MARINA BAR & RESTAURANT
Located on the boardwalk next to the iconic Casino, this bastion of fresh Italian dishes draws crowds year ‘round for casual dining and special occasions. Pizzas are crafted with fresh house-made dough and sauce. Homemade meatballs and gravy, seafood, and more are also on the menu. 800 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, 732.775.7776. stellamarinarestaurant.com
STONE HOUSE AT STIRLING RIDGE
From this rustic locale in the Watchung Mountains with its on-site Dancing Goat Farm, Executive Chef Jerry Villa creates his extensive versatile cuisines boasting seasonal offerings and robust flavors. Live music, special events, and the scenic Star Room Outdoor Patio and fire pit are irresistible. 50 Stirling Road, Warren, 908.754.1222. stonehouseatstirlingridge.com
TAKA
In its chic urban-meets- Asian new location amidst Asbury Park’s nightlife hub, highly respected Chef/Owner Takahiro Hirai of Japan, descended from a Samurai family, creates some of the state’s most luscious and beautiful dishes, complemented by seasonal craft cocktails and eye-catching décor. 660 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park. 732.775.1020. takaasbury.com
SICKLES MARKET
The country farm market standard is set by this bastion of country living, on an historic farm owned by the same family for generations. Always done up in holiday high style, the mouth-watering offerings here are legendary, whether from their expert kitchens or waiting in the fresh produce and food sections. With its Garden Center and Gift Shop filled with kitchen essentials, its no wonder the place draws crowds. 1 Harrison Avenue off Rumson Road, Little Silver, 732.741.9563. sicklesmarket.com
JOCKEY HOLLOW BAR & KITCHEN
The vision of Chef/Owner Chris Cannon has been spectacularly realized in the unparalleled space, the historic 1917 Vail Mansion that once served as the local jail. Fans enjoy the American menu and different experiences offered by the Vail Bar, Oyster and Wine Bar, the main dining room, outdoor patio in season, and basement Rathskeller private event space. Protégé’ chef Kevin Sippel’s rustic food, combined with handcrafted cocktails, make this star shine! 110 South Street, Morristown, 973.644.3180. jockeyhollowbarandkichen.com
THE BOAT HOUSE AT MERCER LAKE
Newly renovated in picturesque Mercer County Park, this Landmark Hospitality property is a highly-praised event space ideal for weddings, corporate meetings, charity and social events, and memorable parties. Crave Caterers executes specialized menus with luscious delicacies as beautiful as they are delicious. 334 S. Post Road, West Windsor, 866.683.3586. theboathouseatmercerlake.com
THE BROWNSTONE
Excellence is tradition at this idyllic, Craftsman style special occasion and banquet complex, entertaining discerning guests since 1947. Elegant ballrooms and beautifully manicured gardens set the stage for expertly prepared cuisine. 351 W. Broadway, Paterson 973.595.8582. thebrownstone.com
THE FROG & THE PEACH
Esteemed Chef/Owner Bruce Lefebvre, trained at the Culinary Institute of America, continues to thrill with his inventive spins on fine American cuisine at this venerable Central Jersey staple, opened in an historic industrial building in 1983. His ever-evolving menu features the state’s top agriculture and fishery offerings. 29 Dennis Street, New Brunswick, 732.846.3216. frogandpeach.com
THE GRAMERCY AT LAKESIDE MANOR
Conveniently located near Raritan Bay and next to a scenic lake, this premier wedding and social “boutique” brings culinary artistry and stylish design to every affair, large, small, and in between; indoors or out. 410 Highway 36, Hazlet 732.739.2700. thegramercynj.com
THE SADDLE RIVER INN
Chef Jamie Knott, a graduate of the New York Restaurant School, presides over this romantic BYOB set inside an elegantly restored 1800s barn serving upscale Continental cuisine and desserts. Chef Knott changes his menu twice seasonally, utilizing ingredients at the peak of their freshness. 2 Barnstable Court, Saddle River, 201.825.4016. saddleriverinn.com
SIRENA RISTORANTE
Award-winning Chef Kenneth Mansfield, who studied at the Atlantic City Academy of Culinary Arts, got his start in Oahu, Hawaii. His fine Italian dining options on the boardwalk at the upscale Pier Village include regional Italian specialties, fresh seafood, and more. 27 Ocean Drive, Long Branch, 732.222.1119.sirenareistorante.com
THE VENETIAN
The epitome for elegant weddings and special events, the grand and stately Venetian makes dreams reality with its regal décor, sparkling chandeliers, and amazingly artistic culinary creations. The music that opens the website says it all, as do all who have experienced an event
there. The off-premise catering is equally impressive. 546 River Drive, Garfi eld, 973.546.2250. venetiannj.com
TRUMP NATIONAL GOLF COURSE The opulent 75,000-square-foot clubhouse with its Grand Ballroom sets the stage for weddings, private parties, and special events with sweeping views of one of New Jersey’s most beautiful countrysides. Formal and casual dining options include an outdoor patio with full bar, grill, and fire pit. Route 34, Colts Neck, 732.696.9000. trumpcoltsneck.com
TUSCANY
This Italian market and specialty food emporium offers Tuscan cuisine in dishes meticulously chosen and assembled to complement and accentuate one another. Produce, a butcher, deli, and bakery can be found at both locations. 130 South Main Street, Marlboro, 732.308.1118 & 285 Gordons Corner Road, Manalapan, 732.972.2500. tuscanycateringnj.com
UNDICI
Replete with ancient stone, wood, tile, and plaster, Undici is a faithful recreation of a Tuscan farmhouse. Patrons enjoy one of the largest selections of Italian wines in New Jersey, garnering a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence four years in a row. 11 W. River Road, Rumson 732.842.3880. undicirestaurant.com VERJUS Classic dishes done to perfection is the hallmark of Chef/ Owner Charles Tutino, who honed his craft at New York’s La Cote Basque. Tutino’s wife, Jane, is the gracious hostess as guests flock in for international fare, including Irish and German dishes. 1790 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood, 973.378.8990. verjusrestaurant.com
WOLFGANG’S STEAKHOUSE
After opening successful locations in New York, California, Florida, Hawaii, and Asia, owner Wolfgang Zwiener brought his 40 years of experience to New Jersey. Formerly headwaiter at the legendary Peter Luger Steak House, Zwiener has managed to
improve on the exceptional in this food lover’s paradise. 119 W. Main Street, Somerville, 908.541.0344. wolfgangssteakhouse.net
ZEPPOLI
Lifelong restaurateur, French Culinary Institute graduate, and now Chef/Owner of Zeppoli, Joseph Baldino grew up in his family’s Philadelphia eatery. His Zeppoli, opened in 2011, is a celebrated romantic and very intimate 35-seat BYOB serving classic yet simple Italian cuisine
with a strong focus on Sicilian. Our appetizer fave these days is the Gamberetti e Fagioli: whole shrimp sauteed with garlic, parsley, lemon and chili served over cannellini beans. An entree? Ours is Coniglio Pizzaiola—stewed rabbit with tomato and fresh oregano with rosemary and oven roasted potatoes Stupendo! 618 W. Collings Avenue, Collingswoosd, 856.854.2670. zeppolirestaurant.com