Page 12 ⋆ Jersey Bites

Celebrate National Barbecue Month with These Jersey Shore Barbecue Joints

JerseyBites

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May 10, 2024

Celebrate National Barbecue Month with These Jersey Shore Barbecue Joints

The Jersey Shore is home to several authentic, Southern-style barbecue spots that definitely bring the heat. May is National Barbecue Month, so dig in and celebrate at one of these favorite Jersey Shore spots. And check out a few beyond-the-shore options at the end of the list too!

At the Shore

Jersey Shore BBQ, National BBQ Month, Jersey Bites — Giving Jersey Shore BBQ a try

Jersey Shore BBQ, Point Pleasant Beach

It started out as a catering company but Jersey Shore BBQ quickly expanded into the restaurant business. Its fall-off-the-bone, Texas-style barbecue is seasoned, then slow-smoked for hours in a pit lit with local hardwoods. Owner Douglas Walsh spent years in Texas mastering his talent and thankfully brought it to our plates at the Jersey Shore. Indulge in their signature baby back or St. Louis pork ribs, plus a variety of other barbecue options like brisket, pulled pork, and chicken—try their slow-smoked meats on one of their tasty sandwiches, too. The restaurant also has a location in East Brunswick.

Jersey Shore BBQ
710 Arnold Avenue
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Local Smoke, National BBQ Month, Jersey Bites — Local Smoke

Local Smoke, Red Bank and Sea Girt

The Local Smoke BBQ team has competed at barbecue events around the country and brought their knowledge to Local Smoke’s multiple restaurant locations. “We like to say that we bring the best of the rest of the country to New Jersey,” says owner Steve Raab. “A Texas-style brisket, a North Carolina-style pulled pork, and Midwestern-style rib—a St. Louis cut with a Kansas City rub.”

The restaurant slow-smokes its BBQ using sugar maple and cherry woods. Sample their best BBQ options with the Pig Out Platter, where you can try their brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and more. Local Smoke also offers unique barbecue options like slow-smoked hot dogs and “family to-go” barbecue packages for those who prefer to eat at home.

Local Smoke
244 West Front Street
Red Bank, NJ

2100 New Jersey Highway 35
Sea Girt, NJ

Back Bay BBQ, National BBQ Month, Jersey Bites — Back Bay BBQ

Back Bay BBQ, Somers Point

This seasonal spot is a favorite among both tourists and locals. This no-frills joint serves everything using plastic plates and cutlery and offers only the BBQ classics: ribs, pork, brisket, and chicken. Shrimp and scallop skewers are available too, plus a surprising pastrami option, but that’s it for main dishes.

Southern sides like baked beans, corn bread, and mac and cheese are also on the menu, but you won’t wish for anything more than the basics here. Everything is slow cooked, and the ribs practically fall off the bone before you can take a bite.

Back Bay BBQ (Opens for the season in May)
135 Somers Point-Longport Boulevard
Somers Point, NJ

Shore Points, National BBQ Month, Jersey Bites — Shore Points

Shore Points Coastal BBQ, Point Pleasant Beach

This spot prides itself on putting a shore spin on a classic barbecue joint. As if deciding what type of meat to order isn’t hard enough, Shore Points also mesmerizes with its eight sauce options. Enjoy barbecued meats, such as St. Louis ribs and pulled brisket, or choose something a little more outside the box, like their chicken-and-waffles sandwich with a side of citrus asiago fries. This place is open for breakfast too. So stop in and chow down on their delicious biscuits and gravy when you’re in the area.

Shore Points Coastal BBQ
816 Arnold Avenue
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

The Hickory Hog, National BBQ Month, Jersey Bites — The Hickory Hog

The Hickory Hog, Point Pleasant

You’ll get several types of ribs at the Hickory Hog, but they warn about the addictiveness of their Memphis Cajun dry rub rack. “We slow smoke all the ribs and meats with hickory, mesquite and apple wood in our state-of-the art smoker for hours,” says owner Maureen Cassidy, whose husband, Mike, has been cooking barbecue for more than 30 years. If you’re unsure of what to order, Cassidy says some other customer favorites are their baby back ribs, mesquite-smoked St. Louis ribs, and Carolina pulled pork. Top off your meal with a side of creamy mac and cheese or a baked potato, and you’ll definitely want to make another trip back.

The Hickory Hog
2310 Bridge Avenue
Point Pleasant, NJ

The Surfing Pig, North Wildwood

Check out this nautical-themed BBQ joint with water views! From pulled-pork sandwiches, BBQ platters, St. Louis-style ribs, and more, the Surfing Pig in North Wildwood is the perfect post-beach day stop. Sip on a margarita or frozen daiquiri and dig in! And be sure to check out their breakfast menu for some pre-beach day fuel with choices like steak and eggs, shrimp benedict, and classics like pancakes, waffles, and eggs your way!

The Surfing Pig
231 W 10th Avenue
North Wildwood, NJ

Monty’s BBQ, Atlantic Highlands

Come and get some authentic wood-smoked BBQ down the Jersey Shore, at Monty’s BBQ. Choose from their BBQ platters with your choice of meat, cornbread, coleslaw, and a pickle, a la carte meals, sandwiches, and of course delicious sides like mac and cheese and potato salad! Keep Monty’s in mind for your next catered event and order some of their pulled pork, beed ribs rack, brisket, and more, and make your next backyard BBQ truly memorable.

Monty’s BBQ
71 First Avenue
Atlantic Highlands, NJ

Smokey’s BBQ, Surf City

Want your summer barbecuing dreams to come true? Smokey’s BBQ takes pride in their product and offer an incredible variety of BBQ meals to fulfill the Jersey Shore summer experience! Whether you dine in, take to-go, or cater your next BBQ, their menu is choc-full of all of your BBQ favorites. Dig into their baby back ribs, pulled pork, chicken, or beef brisket sandwiches, combo platters, and more.

Smokey’s BBQ
1700 Long Beach Blvd
Surf City, NJ

Wild Honey Smokehouse & Tavern (also shown at top)

Wild Honey Smokehouse & Tavern, Atlantic City

“We set out to create a respite where friends can gather to enjoy the finer things in life: BBQ, bourbon, beer, and music,” says Wild Honey Smokehouse & Tavern. Their website urges patrons to belly up to the bar for happy hour, grab a table for lunch or dinner, or drop by for a night out with friends because “the beer’s always cold and the bourbon’s smooth!”

For breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks, Wild Honey Smokehouse & Tavern has it all! Dig into menu choices like their mac-and-cheese burger, shrimp and grits, Charlotte, NC-style pulled pork, their signature 12-hour smoked angus brisket, and much more!

Wild Honey Smokehouse & Tavern
2831 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ

Mutiny BBQ Company, Asbury Park

Dine indoors or outdoors in Asbury Park’s uptown neighborhood at Mutiny BBQ Company! Mutiny creates authentic small-batch BBQ in the Southern tradition. Their food incorporates flavors and methods of Texas, the Carolinas, Memphis, Kansas City, and Louisiana to “create a craft BBQ experience unlike any other.” Choose from the pulled pork, smoked fried wings, Texas-style sausage, and more. Top it off with a house-made pickles. Now that’s a perfect meal!

Mutiny BBQ Company
808 Fifth Ave.
Asbury Park, NJ

Smokie’s Craft BBQ, Bayville

When it comes to New Jersey BBQ, Smokies Craft BBQ means business. “At Smokies, you can expect mouth-watering barbecue meats – you’ll taste for yourself the tenderness and full-fledged flavor associated with fan favorites like the Pulled Pork Sandwich and fall-off-the-bone ribs”, says Smokies. Located on Atlantic City Boulevard in Bayville, check out their completely house-made BBQ menu with choices like Pork Belly Burnt Ends, Sliced Brisket Sandwich, Mac Stack & Cheese Burger, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich and much more!

Smokies Craft BBQ
333 Atlantic City Boulevard
Bayville, NJ

Beyond the Shore

These local favorites aren’t at the beach, but they’re worth a stop.

More Than Q, Lambertville

Pitmaster Matt Martin opened up Lambertville’s More Than Q in 2014. This BBQ joint serves Texas-style ‘cue in the form of ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and more. Plus, they’ve got all the fixins, including sides like burnt-ends baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and southern-style collard greens. The restaurant lives up to its name by offering flavorful, unconventional options, such as smoked chicken thighs with honey lime chili sauce or fried pickles served with homemade Cajun remoulade.

More Than Q
13 Klines Court
Lambertville, NJ

Henri's Hotts Barbeque, National BBQ Month, Jersey Bites — Henri’s Barbeque

Henri’s Barbeque, Folsom

This spot got its start in 2009 and has been serving up slow-smoked BBQ ever since. Enjoy Texas-style ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, or choose two meats with their combo platter option. Henri Hott’s also serves several chicken options (including Jerk and fried). Wings, sandwiches, and homemade sides complete the menu. Catering is also available.

Henri’s Hotts Barbeque
1003 Black Horse Pike
Folsom, NJ

—by Julia Mullaney

Sustainability and Seasonality: Ficus Blooms in Princeton, NJ

Ryan Gallagher

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May 6, 2024

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Sustainability and Seasonality: Ficus Blooms in Princeton, NJ

One look at the restaurant’s website or social media, and prospective customers will notice the Ficus tagline: “A place for Bon Vivant.”

Bon Vivant is a French term, and it refers to a sociable individual who has developed refined tastes, particularly in relation to food and drink, according to Merriam-Webster. Off the bat, it’s reminiscent of a foodie featured on shows like Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, or Action Bronson’s F*ck That’s Delicious.

The restaurant’s owner, Quinta Li, explained more about the unique experience she and her team are creating for customers. This Princeton, NJ, establishment—known as Ficus—is a light and cheerful restaurant rooted in sustainability. Ficus features a seasonal menu and provides quality food. The fine-casual restaurant is located on the top floor, and the cafe is on the first floor.

Ficus’s Food

“My favorite is the salmon farro salad,” Li said. “It’s our best-selling salad. The farro is mixed with radish, pear, fennel, parsley, mint, and orange. The warm salmon over the cold salad is very refreshing, especially with the citrus vinaigrette that we make in-house.”

Quinta Li discussed the dishes she was most excited for customers to try this spring.

“Our most popular sandwich since we launched it last year is our Blugogi bánh mì. It’s a Korean-style marinated rib-eye cooked to perfection. We serve it on a toasted ciabatta roll with mayo, pickled daikon radish, cucumber, carrots, and garnished with cilantro leaves.”

The food doesn’t seem to be rooted in any one school of thought or culture. Instead, the business owner suggested that the most important thing is providing quality, delicious food made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. To do this, she’s chosen to work with Chef Sam Lim, who recently crafted the spring menu.

Some of their spring menu highlights include duck à l’orange (Crescent Farms duck breast, carrot puree, strawberry marmalade, orange fennel salad) and spring scallops (day boat scallops, spinach risotto, asparagus, beurre blanc).

An Art-and-Sustainability-Influenced Restaurant

Intertwined are the restaurant’s food and concept. As a result, the menu and offerings change with the seasons, and ingredient availability.

“We are a community restaurant that focuses on sustainability,” said Li, who also shared that Ficus has committed to being a no-waste kitchen and is part of the Too Good to Go food waste program.

“Everything we use is recyclable and compostable,” she said. “We have local vegetables. Not only are we using compostable products, but our customers are eating in a sustainable way.”

“Another menu item is chimichurri steak,” she said. “It’s a popular dish that people are asking for, which we are bringing back for springtime. “It is served with shiitake mushrooms, which are a new addition from our previous version of the chimichurri steak.”

Quinta Li is a Chinese native and was born outside of Hong Kong. With her family, she moved to the United States at the age of 14. They settled in Princeton, NJ. From there Li went on to pursue an artist’s education, first in London and later at Columbia University. While Li studied art and education in college, she didn’t leave that behind when her passion for hospitality took center stage.

Back to the Beginning

“During COVID, I had to leave the city,” shared Quinta Li. “[I went] back to Princeton. There was an opportunity here and I opened Ficus in 2021. I was always passionate about food and eating different cuisines, and I love cooking. Growing up, my parents banned me from culinary school. My dad said, ‘No you can’t do that.’ He wanted me to study art.”

Today, Li’s art comes to life in the form of a restaurant, and a café. Customers benefit from the Ficus team’s creative mindset when they’re able to try top-notch fusion cuisine in a special setting.

“Some of the spring items we work with are asparagus, carrots, and zucchini,” said Li, “and lots of citrus, like orange and lemon for spring flavor. We get our meat and seafood from Vrola—it’s a local family-owned vendor with a very long history.”

What’s to Drink at Ficus?

Ficus is a BYOB restaurant however, they’ve teamed up with a local winery to offer wine by the bottle for guests.

“Old York Cellars is based 30 minutes from Ficus, and they’re an award-winning winery in NJ,” said Li. “I taste all their wines and choose the best for my guests. I think our wine selection is very good. We’ve got one fruity white wine and a red wine. The white riesling is very popular. The sparkling wine or fruity wine is made from local blueberries. It’s the most special and best from Old York Cellars. “We also have a new one called DMC. It is a blend of their merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet Franc, syrah, and chambourcin.”

Quality Tea from the Café at Ficus

When customers first walk into Ficus, they’ll find themselves inside the comfortable ground-floor café at the restaurant. Customers have the option to enjoy amazing beverages and delicious food made from quality ingredients whether they sit down for dinner in the upstairs restaurant or for a quick lunch in the café.

“The quality and unique flavor of the food we create brings the customers back,” explained Li. “The second floor is the upscale restaurant. We serve the same high-quality ingredients in the café as well—it’s very elegant for lunchtime.”

Li also shared that her family is in the tea business—bringing classic hot teas and boba tea to the table along with coffee and other café staples.

“We have very high-quality tea,” Li shared. “All the tea we serve is from my family. At Ficus, it’s always freshly brewed and not stored in the fridge for days. For us, if we have leftover tea we will water the plants with it. Most places do not have the quality tea that we have.”

An Inspiring Season

Spring is an exciting time for the Ficus team. The Nassau Street restaurant fills up with professors, faculty, students, locals, and others from Mercer County and beyond who want to have lunch, dinner, or a private catered event at Ficus.

Li describes her restaurant as fancy but fun, and especially beautiful during a time when the weather is warming up and the flowers are blooming in the Garden State.

Ficus
235 A Nassau Street
Princeton, NJ
609-917-2656

NJ Openings: Chicken Wings, Greek Salads, and a Comedy Club

Alexa Chavarria

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April 29, 2024

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NJ Openings: Chicken Wings, Greek Salads, and a Comedy Club

As spring enters full-bloom mode, so do new restaurants in New Jersey. Here are a few to add to your list of places to check out!

bb.q Chicken, Garfield

The popular Korean fried chicken chain bb.q Chicken has opened its latest location in Garfield. Offering all things K-Food, from a variety of wings in flavors ranging from honey garlic to spicy galbi to cheesling and Gangnam style, alongside additional menu items such as dumplings, bowls, and more.

bb.q Chicken
221 Palisade Avenue
Garfield

Bistro Cafe LDM, Bayville

Bayville welcomes LDM Bistro Cafe, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, order pancakes and omelets, while the lunch and dinner menu features dishes such as paninis, wraps, subs, pasta, pizza, steak, chicken with broccoli, and more.

Bistro Cafe LDM
340 Atlantic City Blvd
Bayville
848-226-6260

Cafe Corretto, Jersey City

Jersey City is a major hot spot in New Jersey’s culinary scene and it’s now home to Cafe Corretto as well. The space is the place to be for comedy, jazz, and other live entertainment. Guests can order drinks at the venue, and food from a menu based on offerings from Roman Nose, located right next door. The next comedy night is May 10, with tickets available on Eventbrite.

Cafe Corretto
123 Newark Avenue
Jersey City

Castle Rock Bar & Grill, West Orange

Indulge in steak, burgers, cocktails, and dessert at this recently opened West Orange restaurant! Check out Castle Rock Bar & Grill for good food and good vibes. Don’t miss karaoke nights and special promotions.

Castle Rock Bar & Grill
440 Main Street
West Orange, NJ
862-704-2009

Dan & Day’s Burger & Shakes, Montclair

If you are craving a juicy burger and a creamy milkshake, take a trip to the recently opened Dan & Day’s Burger & Shakes, in Montclair. Serving options from a build-your-own burger to specialties like a chipotle BBQ bacon cheeseburger and classic milkshakes like vanilla and cookie monster shakes, this new spot opened by a Montclair native is the perfect place to bring the family.

Dan & Day’s Burger & Shakes
598 Valley Road
Montclair, NJ
973-893-5805

Faubourg, Weehawken (coming this summer)

After making a name for itself in Montclair, Faubourg is planning on a second location, in Weehawken. Experience a taste of French cuisine with a modern twist, serving flavorful and fresh dishes including delicate pastries, gougère, tuna tartare and lime, and coq au vin. The Weehawken location will be on the ground floor of River House 11.

Faubourg (Weehawken)
1100 Avenue at Port Imperial (near Ferry Way)
Weehawken, NJ

Faubourg (Montclair)
544 Bloomfield Avenue
Montclair, NJ

La Bamba Grill 2, Boonton

Chilaquiles for breakfast, tacos for lunch, and Fajitas for dinner—that’s right, all at La Bamba in Boonton! The new restaurant, which opened in February, serves authentic Mexican flavors amidst colorful decor and a festive atmosphere. Plus enjoy agua frescas (cool waters), such as Jamaica, Tamarindo, and horchata, my favorite.

La Bamba Grill 2
905 Main Street
Boonton, NJ
973-265-4233

MM by Morimoto, Montclair

World-renowned Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto opened his latest venture in Montclair: mm by Morimoto. This upscale restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on Japanese-inspired dishes. From impeccably crafted nigiri, ramen bowls, sushi and sashimi, various premium proteins, and a full bar with handcrafted cocktails, every dish at mm by Morimoto is a work of art.

mm by Morimoto
193 Glenridge Avenue
Montclair, NJ

Taka Taka Street Greek, New Brunswick

Head to Taka Taka Street Greek in New Brunswick, a new Greek eatery. Enjoy classic gyros, salads, and other Mediterranean foods. A special dish to try here is the Greek chopped cheese sandwich, which features chopped beef and lamb gyros sautéed onions, lettuce, and ketchup, with velvety American cheese poured on top. You can also try the Taka Taco, a play on the beef and lamb gyro…in taco form, naturally.

Taka Taka Street Greek
367 George Street
New Brunswick, NJ
848-202-9861

Tonydoms, Summit

Looking for the best fried chicken in New Jersey? Check out the newly opened Tonydoms in Summit. Enjoy tender chicken, sandwiches, biscuits, wraps, mac and cheese, and sides like fries, of course. Don’t forget to try the delicious sweet tea brewed in-house and fresh-squeezed lemonade!

Tonydoms
529 Morris Avenue
Summit, NJ

Vibe BBQ, Newark

If you’re a BBQ fan, don’t miss Vibe BBQ in Newark. This barbecue joint blends traditional smoking techniques with new methods to craft delicious dishes such as smoked chicken wings and hot cauliflower bites, and sandwiches and burgers, including the pulled pork with pickled slaw and mustard BBQ, and the Texas toast smoked brisket sandwich with cheddar and onions. Plus, their full bar offers a collection of craft cocktails, local draft beer, and wines by the glass.

Vibe BBQ
56 Halsey Street
Newark
973-645-0007

Samara Mediterranean Grill, Toms River

Another Samara Grill has opened its doors in Ocean County, this time in Toms River. With its authentic flavors and warm hospitality, Samara transports New Jerseyans straight to the Mediterranean with its savory kebabs, rice dishes, and tangy dips.

Samara Grill
1401 NJ-37
Toms River, NJ
732-377-2626

Rani Restaurant Lounge and Bar, Hamilton

Translating to queen in Hindi, Rani is also the name of a recently opened Hamilton restaurant. And that’s exactly the treatment you’ll receive at the new Indian restaurant. Located in the Shoppes at Foxmoor, Rani serves a dining journey like none other. From the vibrant spices of the North to the coastal delicacies of the South, Rani’s menu celebrates the breadth and depth of Indian culinary traditions.

Rani Restaurant and Bar
1039 Washington Boulevard
Hamilton, NJ
609-245-8775

All Smiles at Grin Brewing

New Jersey Craft Beer

Peter Culos

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April 29, 2024

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Earlier this month, Grin Brewing, in downtown Keansburg, celebrated its first anniversary. The Garden State brewery is located in the spot that was previously home to Raritan Bay Brewing.

Cool without being pretentious, Grin Brewing fits right into the Bayshore vibe. The exposed brick, gleaming storefront brewhouse is hip, cozy, and rustic. The beer list features a solid lineup of traditional styles, including a rich copper altbier, a crisp pilsner, a very drinkable standard American IPA, and nine or so other non-pretentious beer styles.

The ground floor features a small tap room and bar tucked in behind the brew house. There’s a small courtyard out back, next to a side street where Crave Hot Dogs and Barbeque food truck was parked.

Friendly is the watchword here. While Grin has a locals/regulars vibe, the staff was more than friendly to everyone. When we expressed regret that the to-go refrigerator didn’t include four-packs of their Two Rowes IPA, which I had fallen in love with, one of the bartenders offered to make a couple up for us. From scratch. I mean he applied the stickers to the cans by hand, filled all eight up at the tap, sealed the tops and clicked them into the holders while we watched. Now, that’s service!

The Bayshore has gone through a bit of a renaissance over the past few years and Grin Brewing is certainly representative of that. When you stop in, don’t miss the bright, airy upstairs loft bar, which features several TVs and a street view of Keansburg. It has echoes of the neighborhood joints, which exemplified the region back in the day. And it’s sure to put a smile on your face.

Grin Brewing
32 Church Street
Keansburg, NJ
732-687-5525

Bayonne Food Truck Fest on Saturday, May 4

Events

JerseyBites

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April 25, 2024

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Bayonne Food Truck Fest on Saturday, May 4

Celebrating the City of Bayonne! The Bayonne Food Truck Fest takes place Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. (rain date May 5th).

The event will be held from 22nd to 24th Streets & Avenue E in Bayonne, NJ. Take in the community atmosphere, kids’ rides, live music, and beer garden.

Check out food from the best food trucks in Jersey as well as fun activities for the whole family. Hosted by the City of Bayonne, this event has no cover charge for entry. Bring the whole family for a day of food, music, and fun.

About the Event

The Bayonne Food Truck Fest is open to the entire community. Enjoy the day as you check out 30 food vendors, sand art, kids’ rides, a beer garden, and live music.

Admission is free for everyone.

Food Vendors

Angry Archie’s
Athens Delite
Bacon on a Stick
Carnival Concessions
Chavas
Cold Stone Creamery
Cousins Maine Lobster
Crepe Suzette
El Chilango
Flora Vegetarian
Hibachi Truck
House of Cupcakes
Jersey John’s House of Dog
Just Delicious Kettle Corn
La Rosa Chicken
Latin Bites
Little Sicilian
Ma and Pa’s Pina Coladas
Mactruck
Mao’s Bao
Mozzarepas
Savage Burgers
Shrimp Shack
Taste of Poland
Tbarks
The Steak Truck
Twisted Steaks
Yankee Doodle

Merchants

Fire Department
Liberty Coke
Momentum Solar
Monster Energy
Natural Works
Renewal By Anderson
Sundance
Taproot Organic
Toys
Twin Novelties
Urban Enterprise Zone
Village Cigar
Wyndham

Rides

Funster

When?

Saturday, May 4, 2024

12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Where?

From 22nd Street to 24th Street — Avenue E, inBayonne, NJ. The street will be closed down.

Music

Isn’t It Always
Ladies and Gentlemen

Admission

Admission to this event is free. It is open to the public.

Furry friends are welcome!

People of all ages are welcome!

(If it is an extremely hot day be careful of those puppy paws—event is on the street.)

Parking

Lots 6 and 7: 23rd and Church Lane
Lots 8 and 9: East 26th Street between Broadway and Avenue E
Barnabas Medical Center Parking Deck
24th Street and Delmonte
Public, metered parking

Teriyaki Madness Arrives in Rockaway, NJ

Restaurants

Ryan Gallagher

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April 16, 2024

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Teriyaki Madness Arrives in Rockaway, NJ

This is madness!

No, this is Teriyaki Madness.

Please, don’t kick this messenger down the well, Spartan. Hold up and listen to a tale about one specific taste profile that became the basis of an entire restaurant concept.

The Rockaway Town Plaza location of Teriyaki Madness opened in November 2023. Built around options prepared in a sweet, salty, and (sometimes) spicy glaze. And this fast-casual concept includes a mad dedication to quality ingredients.

On the Teriyaki Madness Menu

Bowls, bowls, and more bowls. As the manifesto for Teriyaki Madness reads: “It takes big bowls to make something this awesome!”

That something—for many customers—is the chicken teriyaki bowl.

“My favorite also happens to be the number-one selling dish,” said the Rockaway, NJ, Teriyaki Madness operating partner, Tony Santarelli.

“In the chicken teriyaki bowl, you have the choice of thigh or breast,” he said. “For me, thigh is more flavorful. And we make really good fried rice. So, you can get that bowl with fried rice. Sometimes I get a side of the ‘Mad Spicy’ sauce and that brings some thunder. I just stick the edge of my fork in it, and that quenches my need for heat.”

Santarelli is the operating partner of the Rockaway, NJ, Teriyaki Madness location. He’s so stoked on the Madness that he’s signed on for four more locations in the Garden State. Today, though, Santarelli is focused on pleasing the audience dining at his Rockaway Mall location.

Most commonly, meals at Teriyaki Madness go just like Santarelli suggested. If a customer orders a chicken teriyaki bowl, they might also grab a fountain soda, an appetizer—maybe an egg roll, potstickers, or crab rangoon—and perhaps even a chocolate cookie for the road.

When customers aren’t set on the chicken teriyaki bowl or the spicy chicken teriyaki bowl, they might be trying the orange chicken or the steak teriyaki.

“Your typical bowl is white or brown rice, a veggie mix that contains broccoli, zucchini, carrots, onions, cabbage, and then a protein like chicken,” explained Santarelli. “And the sauce changes things up a little bit. Plus, you can customize it with fried rice or noodles as base. Typically, people elect for a bowl and side, as well as a drink.”

Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Possibilities

The audience has grown as word has spread about the quick, healthy, made-to-order food at Teriyaki Madness. You can order takeout or delivery, or sit down to eat in the restaurant.

Customers looking for vegan, vegetarian, and/or gluten-free food choices will find options available at Teriyaki Madness. “It’s great for multiple audiences,” said Santarelli. “It was very appealing to us because the menu is slanted toward gluten free—which is something my wife and I seek when we go out dining as well. And there are options for no meat—we have tofu, and we have salmon.”

It’s All in the Prep

Endless rice and chicken bowls are what dreams are made of for so many health-conscious diners.

“I would say that the key thing for us in the franchise world is that our food comes out hot and made-to-order, and we prep every day,” said Santarelli, about the business’s operating habits.

“For example, the heads of cabbage and the broccoli are fresh. We slice fresh veggies all day, so they are ready for guests. Nothing is pre-cooked and held under a heat lamp. The first thing customers see is our grill section where we’re cooking proteins all day.”

From the Business Side

The Teriyaki Madness in Rockaway is the first of five new NJ locations to be managed by Santarelli, who has managed multiple Dunkin Donuts franchises.

Santarelli said he fell in love with the Teriyaki Madness concept because it was a step above fast food with the cook-to-order promise, and had dine-in and takeout options, while still offering quick service.

Teriyaki Madness differs from other concepts like Bubbakoos or Chipotle because “those brands are scoop and go, the food is pre-made and down the line customers are building the product, and the food is instant,” explained Santarelli.

“We’re doing fresh cooking at that exact moment,” he continued. “Customers sit and get a table, or get delivery and we bring it out, to-go, and bag it up. The differentiation there is we have customers that order fresh-cooked and assembled food—nothing has been there since 8 a.m. Even still, there’s an eight-minute speed-of-service expectation, and if you ordered ahead, it should be ready when you get here.”

There’s an App for That

Teriyaki Madness also provides ordering for curbside pickup through its app, what they call: “Mad Dash.” “It’s essentially drive thru without the drive thru,” said Santarelli. “Customers order ahead, we see on our iPad the progress of their vehicle coming, and we take the order to their car at the curb. Just download the app and select ‘curbside’ for the Mad Dash experience.”

It’s not just dine-in or takeout either. Teriyaki Madness also offers catering to office employees as well as residents in the area who need food for an off-premise event.

“We have a large office population here as well as medical reps and pharma employees, so we’ll do catered lunches or meetings,” said Santarelli. “The quality of the food speaks for itself. There are varieties so most people wouldn’t veto the food. And we don’t just dump it off on the counter, we take pride on setting it up with labels, utensils, plates, and such.”

It’s a Draw

Overall, Santarelli is betting that New Jersey residents are underserved when it comes to teriyaki-style food.

“I went in on Teriyaki Madness with a partner of mine, and we kind of joined forces because we loved the fresh-cooked food, the very small freezer space, the daily vegetable prep, and the cook-to-order model,” said Santarelli. “It’s a blend of sit down and quick serve where customers can get fresh food in a relatively short period of time. Plus, it’s a taste profile of the food we loved.”

Ultimately, Santarelli was sold on Teriyaki Madness when the food quality and taste met his expectations for how a franchise restaurant should operate. So, keep an eye out for more locations across the state.

Teriyaki Madness
395 Mount Hope Avenue, #600
Rockaway, NJ
973-891-1041

New Jersey Food & Wine Festival Returns May 3 to 5, 2024

Events
Wines

JerseyBites

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April 11, 2024

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New Jersey Food & Wine Festival Returns May 3 to 5, 2024

Hamburg, NJ – A celebration of the world’s best wines, spirits and top chefs from around the United States, the 12th New Jersey Wine & Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort takes place May 3 to 5.

Held at New Jersey’s premier culinary destination, Crystal Springs Resort, the weekend’s events are designed to allow food and wine connoisseurs to meet and mingle with the world’s finest chefs and winemakers. Created and overseen by Crystal Springs chief operating officer Robby Younes, the Festival has grown in stature over the past 10 years as a showcase for culinary talent with a who’s who of attending chefs including Thomas Keller, José Andrés, Daniel Boulud, David Bouley, David Kinch, and more.

This year, the Festival welcomes special guest Chef Tom Colicchio, a James Beard award-winning chef, head judge and executive producer of Bravo’s Top Chef and New Jersey native. “I’m born and raised in New Jersey and am always thrilled to be cooking back in my home state. I look forward to being at Crystal Springs Resort for the Festival this spring.”

The year’s Festival kicks off on Friday, May 3, with two celebratory dinners, preceded by the Champagne Reception and a brand new event, the Sunset Cabaret featuring live entertainment, multiple bars, and more. A Festival favorite dinner returns, “Top Chefs & Top Wines,” as a collaboration between Resort Executive Chef Aishling Stevens, the Restaurant Latour team, James Beard award winner Karen Akunowicz, two-time Top Chef finalist Sara Bradley and David Viana (Top Chef, Season 16). The Wine Cellar Dinner will feature a menu created by Chef Tom Colicchio paired with the rare, boutique wines of Eisele Vineyard.

Saturday, two exclusive wine-tasting events include 90+ wines with a tasting of highly rated wines that scored 90 points or more with wine educator Michael McNelis, and “Secrets of the Sommeliers & Cellar Tasting,” in the Crystal Springs Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning Wine Cellar, led by resort sommeliers.

Premium spirits tastings include “Tasting Double Golds” from Tasting Alliance, which showcases “Double Gold” winners from their San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and a tasting of Glenfiddich long-aged expressions from 18 to 26 years old!

At night, The Grand Tasting welcomes 35 restaurants and over 200 wines and spirits in the Crystal Springs Clubhouse, including two VIP areas. The Biosphere After Party is the blowout event of the Festival, letting guests, chefs, and winemakers dance the night away. Cinco de Mayo Sunday Brunch on Sunday, May 5, wraps up the festival.

Tickets for the 2024 New Jersey Wine & Food Festival are available at njwinefoodfest.com. Resort reservations can be made at 855-510-9695. Crystal Springs Resort is at 1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ.

2024 New Jersey Wine & Food Festival Schedule

Friday, May 3

7 p.m. Champagne Reception Guests meet the chefs while enjoying Champagne and hors d’oeuvres

(Included in Wine Cellar dinner)

8 p.m. Top Chefs & Top Wines Dinner with Chef Aishling Stevens, James Beard award winner Karen Akunowicz, Top Chef finalist Sara Bradley, and David Viana. ($295 plus tax and service)

8 p.m. Sunset Cabaret ($125 plus tax and service)

8 p.m. Wine Cellar Dinner ($750 includes Champagne Reception, tax and service additional)

Saturday May 4

11 a.m. Whiskey, Honey & Saving the Bees – enjoy a honey tasting while learning about Crystal Springs’ initiatives to provide habitat for our endangered honeybees, includes a taste of Tullamore Dew Honey and a dish from Restaurant Latour made with local honey ($30)

11 a.m. Trailblazing Culinary Women with James Beard award-winner Chef Karen Akunowicz, two-time Top Chef finalist Sara Bradley and Crystal Springs Resort Wine Director Susanne Wagner ($40 including Chef Akunowicz’s new cookbook Crave)

12 .p.m to 3 p.m. Marketplace Lunch highlighting seasonal creations and the best of New Jersey’s burgeoning wine scene

12 p.m. A Taste of Provence with Peyrassol Roses – taste roses from the oldest winery in Provence dating back to the 13th century ($40)

12 p.m. Return to the Wild with Ben Del Coro of Fossil Farms – tasting of game meats paired with wines from Sonoma California winery Arista ($35)

1 p.m. The World of Botanicals with Hendrick’s Gin – an interactive cocktail making glass with Hendrick’s Gin ($45)

1 p.m. Winemaking & Regenerative Farming with Eric Jensen – taste wines made by award-winning winemaker Eric Jensen of Booker Wines who works sustainably in harmony with nature to restore the environment for future generations ($50)

2 p.m. Expressions of Agave lets attendees delve into the world of Agave spirits beyond Tequila and Mezcal while making a margarita with their own salt blend ($45)

2 p.m. J. Lohr Paso Robles Experience – one of the pre-eminent wineries in the Paso Robles, CA, J. Lohr presents a tasting of its Bordeaux and Rhone-style wines led by winemaker Brenden Wood ($50)

2 p.m. Rum & Chocolate pairs Brugal 1888 with a selection of artisanal chocolates ($40)

3 p.m. 90+ Wines – A tasting of highly rated wines led by wine educator Michael McNelis ($90)

3 p.m. Under the Tuscan Sky – Taste Tuscan gems from Tenuta Sette Cieli with Ambrogio Ratti and enjoy bites from the Resort’s own Springs Bistro ($45)

3 p.m. Tasting Double Golds ($45) – Learn how spirits are rated while sampling “Double Gold” winners from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition & Singapore World Spirits Competition from Tasting Alliance

4 p.m. Secrets of the Sommeliers & Cellar Tasting led by Wine Director Susanne Wagner and the Restaurant Latour team, this tasting of wines from the wine cellar is a festival favorite ($125)

4 p.m. The Spirit of Aged Whisky with Glenfiddich features a tasting of ultra-aged whiskies including the 18 and 26 year old expressions ($90)

6:30/7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Grand Tasting is the Festival’s signature event featuring more than 200 wines from over 50 wineries and bites from 30 top restaurants ($175; VIP $350; VIP admission 6:30pm, General Admission 7 p.m.).

Highlights of The Grand Tasting:

Restaurant participants highlight New Jersey’s best including Lita, Ryland Inn, Heirloom at the St. Laurent, PastaRamen, Faubourg, Fiorentini, Uproot, Stirling Tavern, Char Steakhouse, South + Pine, Osteria Morini, Summit House, Blue Morel, Halifax, Andre’s, Bar Mutz, Crystal Tavern, Strickland’s Steakhouse, Essex County Country Club, Mike’s Pasta & Sandwich Shop, Rod’s Steakhouse, The Farm at Glenwood Manor, Black Sheep Bar & Provisions, 40 North Restaurant Group, and MM By Morimoto.
VIP Experience: two floors featuring restaurants, premium wines, Champagnes and spirits; highlights include Special Guest Chef David Burke; legendary chocolatier and pastry chef Jacques Torres; a “Double Golds” bar of award-winning artisanal spirits presented by Tasting Alliance; the return of The Orange Squirrel by chef Francesco Palmieri for one night only; Restaurant Latour; Terroir (NYC) and more
A wide range of wineries and Champagne houses from around the world

10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Biosphere After Party in the Biosphere tropical pool complex with multiple bars, DJ, buffets and more. ($195)

Sunday, May 5

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cinco de Mayo Sunday Brunch ($50)

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About Crystal Springs Resort

Located in Hamburg, Hardyston and Vernon, NJ, Crystal Springs Resort is the only four-season resort of its kind in the Tri-State Area. Comprised of two luxury hotels – Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Resort & Spa; six renowned public golf courses; four-star Restaurant Latour; a Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine cellar since 2006; two full-service spas ranked #19 in Spas of America’s Top 100 Spas; the state-of-the-art Minerals Sports Club; and multiple indoor and outdoor pools, including the distinctive Biosphere Pool Complex with an underground aquarium, tropical foliage and free form nature pools.

Proceeds benefit the Blind Ambition Coalition, whose mission is to promote a higher quality of life to individuals with disabilities by providing social networking opportunities and creating disability awareness, establishing a strong community of disabled and non-disabled support.

Jersey Shore Pizza War 2024 Recap: Who Has the Best Pizza at the Shore?

Fiona Sheridan

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April 9, 2024

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Jersey Shore Pizza War 2024 Recap: Who Has the Best Pizza at the Shore?

On April 8, 2024, the Garden State had a war at the shore—a pizza war, that is! Sixteen pizzerias across the Jersey Shore competed for the title of best pizza, and at the end of the night, a winner was crowned!

About War at the Shore

War at the Shore was created and hosted by Chef Umberto Turelli, chef and owner of Zi Marie’s Original Pizzeria Trattoria, in Toms River and cohost of What’s Cookin’ Jersey Shore, on Youtube. Throughout the year, Umberto and cohost Andrea Tarr reviewed and interviewed over 75 pizzerias, and Umberto chose his 16 favorites to be finalists in the pizza war.

From there, it was up to the judges and the audience to select their top three pizzas across the Jersey Shore. Each placement receives a trophy, and first place receives a perpetual trophy. The trophy will be engraved with the winner’s name, and in 2025 the top pizzeria will come back to defend their title. If they win for a second consecutive year, they get to keep their perpetual trophy for another year.

The event took place at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, in Toms River. In one room, the 16 pizzerias were set up, awaiting the judges. The main ballroom housed tables, a live band, the trophies, and food vendors, one of which was Ob-Co’s Donuts for any judges with a post-pizza sweet tooth.

The Judges

Pictured, from left: Chef Geoff Johnson, Johnny C the Pizza Guy, Chef Eddie Goldberg, Bill Spadea of 101.5, Chef and Pizza Wars founder Umberto Turelli, Chef David Burke, and Enzo Ferrante.

The panel of judges was made up of five chefs and pizza enthusiasts:

Chef Geoff Johnson
Johnny C the Pizza Guy
Chef Eddie Goldberg
Chef David Burke
Enzo Ferrante

Once the judging began, the panel went around the room tasting one slice from each finalist and marking down their thoughts.

The audience had a chance to vote as well. This was important, as audience participation counted for 40% of the final decision. Upon entry, each guest received a token to use for voting.

The Finalists

The finalists included the following pizzerias:

Manzano’s, Waretown
Frankie Fed’s, Freehold Township
Zoni’s Brooklyn Brick Coal Oven Pizzeria, Middletown
Tramonto’s Pizza, Ocean Township
Peel, Ocean Township (Oakhurst)
Slice House, Toms River
PaciDough’s, South Toms River
Joe Diano’s Tomato Pies, Point Pleasant Borough
Romeo’s Pizza, Freehold Township
Romeo’s Italian American, Freehold Township
Verace’s Pizza, Toms River
DeCaro’s Pizzeria & Italian Eatery, Brick
Capricci Pizzeria & Restaurant, Howell
Calabria Pizza & Italian Grill, Absecon
Red Star Pizza, Southampton
Filippo’s Pizzeria & Grill, Glassboro

While each finalist had their pizza to showcase—some with thin crust, some with thick crust—all had different recipes of their signature plain pies. Plain was required to allow for a level playing field.

Many finalists showcased their personalities with decorated stations backdrops, lights, signs, and other decor to make their tables shine. Romeo’s 33 Pizzeria gave out free zeppole to voters who supported them!

Once the judges tried their slices, I got to try samples from a few finalists. I really got a taste (literally) of all of the different pizza styles New Jersey has to offer. Whether you are into thick or thin crust, more cheese or more sauce, the Garden State has you covered.

Who Has the Best Pizza at the Shore?

And finally, the big winners!

Third place: Tramonto’s in Ocean Township
Second place: Verace’s Pizza in Toms River
Overall WINNER: Manzano’s in Waretown
Best Margherita Pie: Zoni’s Brooklyn Brick Coal Oven Pizzeria in Middletown!

If you are a pizza lover, get yourself to next year’s War at the Shore! It’s a fun night to support local business, taste amazing pizza, and maybe even find a new favorite of your own!

More on War at the Shore

Feeling Like a Kid Again: Friendly’s New Spring Menu

Fiona Sheridan

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April 1, 2024

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Feeling Like a Kid Again: Friendly’s New Spring Menu

The writer was invited to Friendly’s, and the meal was complimentary.

Before writing this article, I hadn’t stepped foot in a Friendly’s in years. I remember loving their ice cream as a kid. No summer party at my house was complete without a Friendly’s watermelon roll ice cream cake! and I can still remember those catchy “I Wanna Go to Friendly’s” commercials. Getting to visit the Toms River location to taste the new spring menu brought it all back.

A Brief History of Friendly’s

Founded almost 90 years ago, beloved ice cream manufacturer Friendly’s has humble beginnings. When Friendly’s first opened, it was a small, standalone ice cream shop in Springfield, Massachusetts. The founders were the Blake brothers, who were just 18 and 20 years old at the time.

At this point, the ice cream shop that we have come to know and love went solely by the name “Friendly.” In fact, it wasn’t until 1989 that the restaurant’s name changed to “Friendly’s.”

Friendly’s has quite a resume. It became a New England trendsetter by offering the take-home half gallon, and years later set the Guinness World Record for largest dessert party.

These days, Friendly’s has 100s of restaurants and famously packages 3,600 gallons of ice cream an hour across all locations…that’s a lot of ice cream!

Friendly’s Spring Menu

During my Toms River visit, the first item I tried was the Over the Rainbow Refresher: a blue raspberry lemonade topped with blue Jello, whipped cream, and rainbow candy. It’s delightfully sweet and bursting with flavor. Topped with an adorable candy topper, this drink sparks joy: it’s fun, colorful, and the perfect amount of sweet.

The first food item on the new spring menu is the turkey wrap: sliced turkey breast with mild cheddar, diced applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, diced tomato, and ranch dressing, wrapped in a flour tortilla. The wrap comes with a side of perfectly golden fries. The perfect pairing!

Next up: the shrimp po’boy! Made with fried shrimp and clam strips, lettuce, tomato, and fried onions on a grilled ciabatta roll, the best feature of this option is Friendly’s Signature Sauce. You’ll find it on both the sandwich and on the side, just waiting for someone to dip some fries into it.

Next for the new spring menu is the tuna melt: a lunch classic! This melt includes tuna salad, tomato, and melted American cheese on grilled sourdough bread. And, yes, it arrives with those delicious golden fries.

For lighter fare, try the strawberry salad. Made with spring mix tossed in balsamic vinaigrette and topped with walnuts, feta cheese crumbles, and fresh strawberries, you can add chicken or salmon for an extra boost of protein.

Wrapping Up with a Classic

After checking out the new menu items, I was thrilled to end with a true Friendly’s classic, the banana cream pie Fribble. If you’ve never had the pleasure, here’s the inside scoop: this memorable dessert is made with fresh banana and banana cream pie ice cream. It’s topped with caramel and crushed graham crackers. Dangerously tasty, this is perfect sweet treat for satisfying that sweet tooth.

Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or you’re itching to try something new, checking out your local Friendly’s is worth the trip.

NJ Restaurant Openings in Bloomfield, Cherry Hill, Paramus, and More

Alexa Chavarria

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March 30, 2024

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NJ Restaurant Openings in Bloomfield, Cherry Hill, Paramus, and More

The Garden State is hopping with new spots for salads, pizza, BBQ, and more. Take a look at the latest openings, then go grab a bite!

Bacchanal Junction, Bloomfield

Bloomfield just welcomed a new restaurant to its culinary scene with the grand opening of Bacchanal Junction. This Caribbean restaurant and bar serves Caribbean fusion, including jerk salmon and stewed kingfish with Creole sauce. But that’s not all—Bacchanal Junction also serves island-styled drinks like the Hibiscus Buccaneer, the Caribbean Kiss Pisco Sour, and more.

Bacchanal Junction
558 Arlington Avenue
Bloomfield, NJ
973-337-8671

Crunch Cafe, New Brunswick

Two ambitious siblings, both Rutgers students, recently opened Crunch Café in the Rutgers Hillel building in New Brunswick. What started as a project has quickly become a go-to spot for students and staff on campus. Crunch Cafe serves a variety of kosher and vegetarian options, including sandwiches, salads, mini cakes, milkshakes, and boba tea.

Crunch Cafe
70 College Avenue
New Brunswick, NJ

Embark Smoked Meats, Boonton

From experimenting with a smoker and mastering BBQ techniques to taking the leap and purchasing a food truck to now opening the doors to its first-ever restaurant, Embark Smoked Meats has arrived. A paradise for meat lovers, this Boonton business offers dishes including brisket, ribs, smoked sausage, burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. You’ll also find side options like loaded fries and mac and cheese.

Embark Smoked Meats
811 Main Street
Boonton, NJ
973-934-9263

FiNNBAR, Frenchtown

Earlier in the year, we teased the upcoming opening of FiNNBAR, in Frenchtown. And now they’re now open! Indulge in a seasonal, produce-driven, locally sourced meal featuring Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Start your culinary journey with appetizers like fried butternut squash with turmeric and yogurt sauce, or savor the crispy duck confit with cavolo nero, celery root purée, and sage salsa verde. And whatever you do, don’t miss out on the desserts!

FiNNBAR
7 Bridge Street
Frenchtown, NJ
908-465-0021

Livoti’s Old World Market, Brick

The popular Italian grocery store Livoti’s Old World Market, known for gourmet meats and other delicacies, has opened its first Ocean County, NJ, location. Here, you can explore Italian cheese, bread, and other imports. You can also order freshly prepared meals as a catering option.

Livoti’s Old World Market
1930 NJ-88 Suite 6
Brick Township, NJ
732-475-8110

Pinstripes, Paramus

Eat, drink, and bowl at the new Pinstripes, an Italian bistro and entertainment venue at Garden State Plaza. Stop in to find the ultimate combination of entertainment and bites. The menu features a variety of Italian pasta dishes, brick oven pizzas, a wide selection of cocktails, and more.

Pinstripes
1 Garden State Plaza Boulevard
Paramus, NJ
551-966-0420

Raising Cane’s, Cherry Hill

Another new Raising Cane’s location has opened in Cherry Hill. Now, locals can indulge in delicious Southern-style chicken paired with sides like coleslaw, Texas toast, and fries. Don’t miss out on the famous lemonade, which is such a hit that you can even buy a whole jug to enjoy at home.

Raising Cane’s
2014 Rte 70 W.
Cherry Hill, NJ
732-867-5604

Ryfe’s Bar, Moorestown

Moorestown Mall is now home to Ryfe Bar, a fresh eatery offering a variety of burgers, steaks, and seafood, plus a full-service bar stocked with custom cocktails. Stop in for a meal, order takeout, or make a reservation for the Chef’s Table Experience, which includes a welcome toast and five courses.

Ryfe’s Bar
400 NJ-38 Moorestown Mall
Moorestown, NJ
856-290-7933

Panko Pizza, Middletown

The masterminds behind NYC’s artichoke pizza and the creators of the mustard pie at Lions & Tigers & Squares have opened a new location in Middletown: Panko Pizza. Guests can order gourmet pies like the vodka Sicilian pie, hot oil pie, sausage butter, and onion pie.

Panko Pizza
1104 NJ-35
Middletown, NJ
848-225-3080

SQ Pizza, Montvale

Another exciting addition to the Garden State’s pizza scene is SQ Pizza, in Montvale. The pizzas are made with a high-hydration, long-rising, 72-hour dough using quality ingredients and non-GMO wheat flour imported from Italy. This process gives each pie its own distinct flavor. And for pizza lovers with gluten sensitivity, SQ Pizza offers options for everyone to enjoy.

SQ Pizza
200 Market Street, Suite 260
Montvale, NJ
201-414-5800

Turning Point, Oakhurst

Favored for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and brunch offerings, Turning Point has arrived in Ocean Township. Swing by for a delightful selection of pancakes, waffles, egg dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more. You can also book a private room for a party or event.

Turning Point
605 NJ-35
Oakhurst, NJ
732-788-3588

Pinnacle Catering: A New Brunch Experience in North Jersey

Alexa Chavarria

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March 26, 2024

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Pinnacle Catering: A New Brunch Experience in North Jersey

In the backstreets of Lodi, NJ, you’ll find Pinnacle Catering, an exquisite Black-owned banquet hall, known for hosting elegant weddings, lavish birthday parties, intimate baby and bridal showers, fundraisers, and school reunions. However, Pinnacle Catering is much more than a premier event venue; it recently ventured into offering an all-you-can-eat brunch experience, making it the new hot spot for Sunday brunches.

Since 2017, this family-run business, fueled by a passion for good food and delivering top-notch service, set out to create a space for special moments. Over time, the business became a waitlist-worthy destination.

Moving Forward

And as many businesses experienced, the pandemic added some bumps in Pinnacle’s road, which they continue to make their way back from. “We’re still standing strong and are excited for the future,” said Jayson Shaw, the bar and floor manager.

With shaking things up on the brain, the team at Pinnacle Catering was determined to shake things up this year. From brainstorming sessions among the group, Shaw and Joe Henley (the director of decor and events) sprouted an exciting idea: brunch. They wondered What can we do differently? And brunch was the answer.

From bottomless mimosas to all you can eat, the Pinnacle Catering brunch experience has it covered. It’s an ideal place to meet up with friends or to plan on for a family brunch on Mother’s Day. And with Southern, Italian, Caribbean, American, and Latin cuisines, there’s something for everyone.

My Visit

The buffet includes a lineup of fresh entrees, an omelet station, and my favorite, a waffle station with real, hot honey. And as if that wasn’t enough, I also found fresh-out-of-the-oven hot biscuits with butter.

The crowd’s favorites? Grits, ribs, and chicken and waffles. I absolutely loved the sweet yams! To add a little twist to my brunch, I tried the rum punch and the sangria. (Hot tip: Be sure to ask for their special mix of red and white sangria for double the fruitiness.) I tried the mix for the first time and was shocked other places have not jumped on the white-and-red sangria mix train. iIt is genius.

Next time you find yourself thinking banquet halls are just for events, think again. Pinnacle Catering is open for brunch every Sunday.

Pinnacle Catering
118 Arnot Street
Lodi, NJ
973-478-4800

Beneduce Vineyards: Cultivating Community, Quality, and Local Flavor

Wines

Marissa Muoio

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March 22, 2024

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Beneduce Vineyards: Cultivating Community, Quality, and Local Flavor

Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Beneduce Vineyards proudly embodies the enduring legacy of winemaking passion passed down through generations. In an exclusive interview, we delve into the roots of Mike Beneduce’s winemaking journey. He shares the unique story behind the vineyard, and his deep commitment to the local community.

From Roses to Grapes: A Family Legacy

Mike, the owner of Beneduce Vineyards, talks about his journey into winemaking and the ways it is deeply rooted in his family’s history. Growing up as home winemakers, the Beneduce family had a rich tradition of winemaking that spanned generations. Mike’s upbringing was infused with the essence of winemaking, with fond memories of crafting wine in the basement alongside his grandparents.

With Italian ancestry and a background in rose growing, the family settled in Madison, New Jersey. They built a prominent presence in the local agricultural scene. Mike’s father started the Great Swamp Greenhouses, laying the foundation for what would later become Beneduce Vineyards.

In 2000, the family purchased a 50-acre farm with the intention of expanding its production greenhouses. However, a desire to diversify their crops led them to explore the world of wine grapes. Mike, armed with a degree in viticulture and enology from Cornell University, embarked on the journey to transform their land into a vineyard. Today, Beneduce Vineyards boasts 27 acres of vineyards. The Beneduces produce wines exclusively from their estate-grown fruit, reflecting the unique character of its terroir.

A Unique Approach to Grape Varieties

Unlike many new wine regions that opt for well-known French grape varieties, Beneduce Vineyards took a different approach. Rooted in their identity as farmers, the Beneduce family focused on what would grow well in their region. Drawing inspiration from European wine-growing regions with similar climates and soils, they experimented with varieties from Austria, Northern France, and Northern Italy.

The result? A diverse selection of wines, with varieties like Blaufränkisch and pinot noir taking center stage. Mike’s experimental mindset extends to new plantings, including Italian varieties like Barbera and Dolcetto, reflecting a willingness to take calculated risks for the sake of innovation. Mike emphasizes the importance of crafting wines that resonate with the local terroir, a commitment evident in Beneduce’s 100% direct-to-consumer model.

Innovation and Experimentation: What’s Next

As Beneduce Vineyards celebrates its 14th harvest, the commitment to improvement continues. While focusing on the core portfolio, they’re not afraid to take calculated risks. In the coming year, a new vineyard, Alto Vineyard, presents an opportunity to experiment with varieties like Barbera and Dolcetto, pushing the boundaries of winemaking in the region.

Mike’s keen interest in Italian varieties stems from a desire to explore the vast genetic diversity of native grape varieties. By looking beyond the well-established French grapes, Beneduce Vineyards aims to carve out a unique identity and elevate New Jersey’s status in the emerging wine regions.

Cultivating Community Through Unique Events

Mike’s vision for the vineyard extended beyond crafting exceptional wines. It aimed to create a gathering place for locals, a hub of connectivity within the rural landscape of Hunterdon County. This commitment to community engagement is evident in Beneduce’s diverse array of events and programs.

From Locals Night to Trivia Night and even a book club, Beneduce offers many opportunities for people to come together over a glass of wine and make meaningful connections. Mike’s insight into the importance of these personal interactions underscores Beneduce’s role as more than just a winery. It’s a sanctuary for shared experiences and camaraderie.

The Art of Labeling: Reflecting Personality and Tradition

Behind every Beneduce Vineyards label lies a story. Mike’s wife, Corey, a creative director, played a pivotal role in the redesign, drawing inspiration from late 1800s farmers’ almanacs.

Inspired by Italian hand gestures, these labels mirror the vineyard’s ethos—approachable, lively, and authentic. With every sip and every glance at a label, Beneduce invites patrons to embark on a journey of discovery, both of the wine and the rich tapestry of its community. By infusing personality into their labels, Beneduce Vineyards aims to demystify wine, making it approachable and enjoyable for a broad audience.

The Classic Series labels pay homage to timeless agricultural wisdom, emphasizing the vintage as the focal point. In contrast, the playful Crafted Series labels draw inspiration from Italian hand gestures, tying each wine to a unique concept.

Local Flavor on Every Plate

Beneduce Vineyards doesn’t stop at wine. The team at Beneduce has extended their community-focused approach beyond its events to its culinary offerings. Embracing a hyperlocal ethos, the vineyard sources food from producers within a 50-mile radius, championing the bounty of Hunterdon County. This dedication to supporting local artisans and businesses not only enriches the tasting experience but also cultivates a sense of pride among visitors, knowing they’re partaking in a true celebration of their region’s heritage.

A Winery Rooted in Tradition and Community

Beneduce Vineyards stands as a beacon of innovation, tradition, and community spirit. From their roots in home winemaking to crafting distinctive wines and hosting unique events, Beneduce Vineyards is not just a winery. It’s a celebration of local identity and the shared love of good wine. As Mike Beneduce continues to push the boundaries of winemaking in New Jersey, Beneduce Vineyards remains a testament to the enduring legacy of family, community, and quality craftsmanship.

Beneduce Vineyards
1 Jeremiah Lane
Pittstown, NJ
908-996-3823