Zeroing in on the picks of the state…one plate at a time

by Marisa Procopio

Taka, Asbury Park Jun-San Roll
Chef Taka has been in Asbury Park for 16 years, and his spot on Cookman Avenue hops all summer long. The chef’s tuna avocado roll, topped with salmon, yellowtail, and scallion crunch and a caramelized soy sauce and spicy mayo, is a customer favorite. takaasbury.com

Nonna’s Citi Cucina, Englishtown Chicken Principess a
Nonna’s owners created this casual spot based on memories of belly-busting Sunday dinners at their grandmother’s in Brooklyn. The chicken dish is a true princess—a beauty layered with eggplant, tomato, and mozzarella, with a tomato pesto demi-glace. nonnasnj.net

Sirena, Long Branch Pasta Bolognese
Probably the shore’s best Bolognese sauce, tossed with delicate, tender noodles— the only thing that could ably gild this lily is the spectacular ocean view. Sit on the outdoor terrace for a breeze and pretend it’s the Mediterranean (it won’t be a leap). sirenaristorante.com

Bottagra, Hawthorne Pignoli-Encrusted Salmon
Since 2008, this relaxing venue has focused on bringing the cuisine of Northern Italy to northern New Jersey. The salmon, served with wild mushroom polenta, sautéed spinach, and a truffle emulsion, is a rich treat any time of year. bottagra.com

The Frog and The Peach, New Brunswick
Prosc iutto-Wrapped Griggstown Chicken
This Zagat-rated restaurant has been walking the walk since 1983. Its tender Griggstown chicken gets dressed up with porcini mushrooms, peas, green garlic potato puree, and a white balsamic truffle vinaigrette that adds an acidic kick. frogandpeach.com

The Urban Plum, Secaucus Urban Jack Daniel’s Burger
You’re starving. Why mess around? This is the burger, stacked high with Jack Daniel’s barbecue sauce, melted pepper jack cheese, sautéed onions, and mushrooms, with fries on the side. Choose one of the house’s 50 beers as a worthy companion. 201.520.0574