Page 126 ⋆ Jersey Bites

Cranford’s Dreyer Farms: Better Than Ever

MStavrou

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April 21, 2014

Cranford’s Dreyer Farms: Better Than Ever

If you’ve driven up Springfield Avenue in Cranford at all in the past few months then you’ve been sure to notice the changes happening at Dreyer Farms. The old structure was torn down and a beautiful new building stands in its place. I spoke with CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Director Dawn Salerno about the new building, and what new and exciting changes are coming to the farm.

One of the biggest improvements Dreyer Farms implemented was making the parking lot bigger. The once very small, gravel-covered parking lot is now much bigger, and allows drivers to come in one way and exit out the other. That’s a relief to anyone who had to circle the building numerous times in order to find a spot in the past. The building itself, though, is what really catches people’s eyes. The new farm has two floors with bathrooms, storage, and a staff room on the second floor. The bottom floor is much larger than the old structure, which allows Dreyer Farms to expand the products they carry. A bakery is going to be added, which will offer freshly baked apple cider donuts as well as pies.

Dreyer Farms is known locally for its CSA boxes, which many families in the area subscribe to. Salerno is hoping to hit 1,000 CSA subscriptions this year. She is constantly working to ensure their customers receive not only the best produce in their CSA boxes, but also other local products that enhance what’s already in the box. The farm is going to start offering milk from Green Market Dairy in Clifton. Green Market Dairy will also provide farm fresh eggs, artisan butter, and artisan yogurt. Members will have the option to add the products from Green Market Dairy to their weekly CSA boxes. Dawn did extensive research on the dairy, making sure that it was providing something that customers can’t get anywhere else.

Dreyer Farms also plans to partner with a number of local businesses including Savory Spice Shop (spices) and CoolVines (wine and beer) in Westfield, Breadsmith (pizza dough) in Cranford, and Casa di Trevi (fresh pasta) in Roselle Park. People love receiving the extras in their boxes, as they not only serve as a nice surprise but also complement the seasonal produce in the box.

The nursery at the farm is currently open and is filled with plants and flowers. The CSA program begins May 20, and will most likely kick off with radishes, spinach, greens, arugula, and herbs. It’s been a long winter, but soon enough customers will be picking up their CSA boxes at Dreyer Farms and the spring season will have officially begun.

Dreyer Farms
831 Springfield Ave.
Cranford
908-477-0105
Facebook.com/DreyerFarms

Michelle Stavrou, the Union County regional editor, grew up in Bergen County, then moved to Hoboken (after a stop over in Queens) before finally settling in Cranford where she lives with her husband and daughter. Michelle was amazed to discover all of the delicious food in the Cranford area, which she documents on her blog, What’s Cooking In (& Around) Cranford.

Union City High School Welcomes Chef Jet Tila

Sabrina Szteinbaum

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April 19, 2014

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Union City High School Welcomes Chef Jet Tila

Union City High School’s Gabriela Martinez’s “Omelet de Union City” earned her a visit from celebrity chef Jet Tila, who cooked the winning recipe with her in the school’s cafeteria earlier this month.

Gabriela Martinez, Jet Tila, Omelet de Union City — Gabriela Martinez presents her winning recipe, the “Omelet de Union City.”

The tenth grader recently won the “What’s Your Hometown Specialty?” contest, which was established in an effort to promote healthier meal options and educate students about nutrition. Chartwells School Dining Services partnered with Chef Jet Tila to host the contest, which encouraged students to film a five-minute segment of them cooking their favorite hometown meal.

Martha Franco, resident district manager at Chartwells School Dining Services, said Martinez’s omelet not only portrayed New Jersey’s diversity, but also included healthy ingredients. To get the full scoop on Martinez’s omelet, check out her video here.

Tila, who has appeared on Iron Chef and Cutthroat Kitchen, among many others, is currently working with The Compass Group (Chartwells’ parent company) to open a “fast-casual Pan-Asian concept” in school cafeterias around the country.

Photos provided by Chartwells School Dining Services.

Editorial Intern: Sabrina Szteinbaum is a sophomore at Rutgers University majoring in Journalism & Media Studies, but those are just the basics! She is a Jersey-born, city-loving foodie who can be found running around New York City in search of the best cupcake, cookie, or piece of cake to feature on her baking blog. Sabrina has been baking since age 12, and has been documenting her confections at The Sugarcoated Life since August 2012. At Rutgers, Sabrina works as a correspondent for The Daily Targum. Her love of journalism has landed her the roles of newscaster and assistant news director on WRSU, one of Rutgers’ radio stations.

Easter Wines Around the Garden State

JerseyBites

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April 18, 2014

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Alba Vineyards — Photo courtesy of Alba Vineyard

The Jersey Bites team checked in with some of the Garden State’s most prominent vineyards for their thoughts on Easter wines. Thanks to all who participated in gathering Easter wine picks from top New Jersey wineries!

Villa Milagro Vineyards
Audrey Cross Gambino
Dueña de la viña
“For me Easter is full of the first fragrant flowers of spring, pastel colors and mild and delicate appetizers that often start the Easter meal. Villa Milagro’s Rosita, a flowery and slightly sweet blush wine is a perfect match for these first mouthwatering bites. Delicate and subtle it nicely highlights the flavors of deviled eggs, soft cheeses and mild puffed pastry appetizers. For a savory leg of lamb that has been rubbed with dark herbs and baked to a crisp exterior that yields aromatic and salty slices, we serve Villa Milagro’s Incendio. A classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, this dark and delicious wine with hints of smoke explodes with complex layers of chocolate, prune jam, hazelnuts and blackberries.”

Unionville Vinyards
Easter celebrates the Resurrection and the Roman Catholic Church got it right when they lined up Easter on the Ecclesiastical calendar with northern hemispheric Springtime! There is new life everywhere. The emergence of crocus, daffodil, and tulip coincides with baby chicks, ducks and rabbits. The air warms, and the New Jersey table top replaces the hearty rich meals of winter with the beginning bounty of the Garden State. Ramps, fiddlehead ferns, asparagus, and morel mushrooms bring a collision of pleasantly fresh, bitter, and earthy flavors and aromas. It’s the right palate and the right time of year to quaff a vibrant refreshing Dry Riesling. Unionville has two wines that are ripe for Spring, as both our Dry Riesling and Eureka White Blend are herbaceous, floral, and refreshing with only a subtle hint of sweetness, and a lively acidity that leaves your mouth watering for the next bite of your delicious Spring dish.

Sharrott Winery
The traditional Easter dinner of ham with early Jersey-fresh vegetables pairs perfectly with Sharrott Winery Riesling. It’s a sweet, aromatic wine that is fermented at low temperatures to retain the wonderful fruit aromas and smooth finish. Or try Sharrott’s Dry Riesling with a touch of sweetness and a wonderful floral aroma. It’s crisp and clean on the palate. For those who prefer a dry wine, try our Vidal Blanc, fragrant and light-bodied with layers of citrus and pineapple for a tart mouth-watering finish.

Plagido’s Winery
The tasting room staff at Plagido’s Winery recommends Reverance, their benchmark semi-dry white wine with light citrus flavors and the essence of oak. It’s made with Plagido’s signature Marquis grape and pairs perfectly with Easter ham. For red wine lovers, try Plagido’s Cabernet/Merlot Blend, a beautiful, smooth Bordeaux-style blend full of ripe blackberry fruits with just a hint of spice. For a sweet treat with your milk chocolate Easter candy, try Concetta’s Casa Linga, an aromatic sweet red wine with a burst of flavor on the tongue and a mellow finish.

Bellview Winery
Matt Pino
“A great wine will make your Easter meal even better than it already is. While there are a number of wines to choose from, Jersey Devil White is a relatively versatile wine for any type of meal. Jersey Devil White will add just the right amount of sweetness to cut through the saltiness you might find in an Easter Ham. For the red drinkers, we recommend Solavita, a medium bodied red blend. This wine is more accessible than a heavier bodied wine, while still retaining the character you want from a complex dry red. To finish, we recommend Dandelion wine. How fitting to celebrate a new Spring than with our sweet and herbal dessert wine, made of 100% dandelions (best with Key Lime pie).”

Alba Vineyard
Tom Sharko
“Pinot Noir is the quintessential wine to pair with roasted lamb and ham. For white fans, we recommend our Dry Riesling or Gewurztraminer.”

Old York Cellars
Laurin Dorman
“We recommend our Dry Riesling with Easter dinner. This wine seems to work well with the various elements of the meal from ham to spring vegetables. While dry it has a lots of stone fruit flavors which keep it light, refreshing and versatile.”

Peep-tini: The Cutest Thing You’ll Ever Drink

JerseyBites

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April 17, 2014

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Peep-tini: The Cutest Thing You’ll Ever Drink

You know spring has arrived and Easter is quickly approaching once Peeps, those colorful sugary marshmallow confections, begin to appear. Kids go crazy for Peeps and now adults will, too! Bunny Peep-tinis will certainly please the grown-ups at your gathering this year. Flavored with vanilla and strawberry, they offer the perfect flavor combination for spring and Easter holiday celebrations.

Recipes and photo by Gwynn Galvin, culinary consultant and creator of Swirls of Flavor.

Peep-tinis

Ingredients:
corn syrup
yellow, purple and pink cake sparkles or sugars
yellow, purple and pink bunny Peeps
1 cup vanilla vodka
1/2 cup cran-strawberry juice, such as Ocean Spray

Directions:
1. Spread a thin layer of corn syrup on a paper plate. Sprinkle each color of cake sparkles or sugars on additional paper plates.
2. Dip rim of glass in corn syrup and then in one of the colors of sparkles or sugars.
3. Make a small cut in bottom of each bunny and place on rim of glass.
4. Combine vanilla vodka and juice. Pour into prepared glasses.

Makes 4 servings. For just a single serving combine 1/4 cup vanilla vodka and 2 tablespoons juice.

Gwynn Galvin, chef and blogger, is delighted to share her original recipes on Jersey Bites. Born and raised in Jersey and a lifetime resident of Bergen County, Gwynn is Jersey through and through! Having been in the culinary field for more than 20 years, you can say that Gwynn is definitely well seasoned. With over a decade as Test Kitchen Director for a nationally published magazine as well as working for major food corporations and being partner and chef of a family-owned cupcake shop, Gwynn is also the creator of her blog, Swirls of Flavor. Her award-winning recipes have been featured in national ad campaigns, cookbooks, magazines, social media and on the internet. If you’ve ever made a recipe that was on the package of a food product or in a magazine or cookbook, chances are you’ve already made one of her fabulously delicious recipes!

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Events

Sabrina Szteinbaum

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April 17, 2014

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Event details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm directly before heading out!

THIS WEEKEND:

April 17: The Shannon Rose hosts a night of great food and craft brews during the Ommegang Tap Takeover at 5 p.m. Brewery Ommegang, a leading Belgian-style craft brewery located in Cooperstown, NY, will be tapping kegs of Ommegang’s limited, Belgian-style seasonal and year-round releases at The Shannon Rose locations in Clifton, Ramsey and Woodbridge. Craft brews that will be available include Rare Vos, Hennepin and Abbey Ale. Call 732-636-6100 for more details.

Through April 18: Make your reservations for Bordentown’s Restaurant Week. Sample the fine eateries of Restaurant Row, all for a fixed price of $19.95 to $29.95. Click here for a list of participating restaurants and to make reservations.

April 19: Come to the Jack DiSalvo Charity Baseball Game at 2 p.m. to help raise money for a scholarship fund for New Jersey student athletes who demonstrate strong athletic abilities as well as academic excellence and are fueled by the motivation and determination to succeed. The game is open to the public and with a donation of any amount, participants will receive two free tickets with a meal voucher (suggested donation: $25). Celebrity Chef Anton Testino of Hell’s Kitchen will be preparing a special Ball Park Style menu and will also be at the game taking photos and signing autographs. Tickets can be purchased here. 160 Parmelee Ave, Hawthorne.

AND BEYOND:

April 22: Jenks Club in Point Pleasant hosts its annual red gravy competition, Boss of the Sauce, from 6 to 9 p.m. Restaurants from Ocean and Monmouth counties will be participating, and a portion of proceeds will go to Ocean County Hunger Relief. The cost is $10 per person at the door ($8 in advance). 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach.

April 22: To help celebrate Earth Day, A Toute Heure in Cranford will feature a three-course tasting menu dinner with a portion of the proceeds going to Chefs Collaborative and its programs supporting and promoting sustainability. The Earth Day menu will be designed based on the freshest seasonal ingredients available from local farmers. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling 908-276-6600. 232 Centennial Ave, Cranford.

April 22: A Toute Heure’s sister restaurant, 100 Steps Supper Club + Raw Bar, will hold an Earth Day Happy Hour featuring Cape May Salts oysters. Sample local favorites at the oyster bars, as well as mocktails and a selection of small plates. A portion of happy hour proceeds will benefit Chefs Collaborative. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling 908-276-6600. 215 Centennial Ave, Cranford.

April 22 and 23: Chefs Corey Heyer and Ryan Depersio swap kitchens to bring distinctive dining experiences to guests. Guest Chef Dinners will be hosted at Bernards Inn on April 22 and at Fascino on April 23. For more information and full menus, click here. The dinners begin at 7 p.m. and are priced at $75 per person, excluding wine and beverages, taxes and gratuities. Reservations can be made by calling The Bernards Inn at 908-766-0002 (27 Mine Brook Road, Bernardsville) or Fascino at 973-233-0350 (331 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair).

April 24: More than 150 restaurants in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley will be participating in Dining Out for Life, an annual event to support the fight against HIV/AIDS. One-third of the proceeds will be donated to the cause. Click here for a list of participating restaurants, and all you have to do is dine at your favorite one!

April 25 to May 4: Celebrate springtime at the shore during the Cape May Spring Festival. Events include the Cape May Wine Trail, the Chocolate Championship Tour & Tasting, and a Pork & Pints pig roast. Contact the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts at 609-884-5404 or check their website for the schedule of events.

April 28 to May 4: The Montclair Film Festival will open on the 28th at 7 p.m. with Chef, the new comedy directed by and starring Jon Favreau . In the film, Favreau changes pace from his blockbusters like Iron Man, portraying a chef who gets fired by his restaurant’s owner (Dustin Hoffman) after running afoul of an influential critic (Oliver Platt). Party ticket holders are invited to an Opening Night Reception after the screening to enjoy free-flowing drinks and food. The festival will host more than 90 films and special events. Ticket prices range from $25 to $125. Tickets can be purchased here.

April 30: Westminster Hotel and Strip House Restaurant have been named the 2014 Businesses of the Year by the Livingston Area Chamber of Commerce. An awards reception and dinner will take place on Wednesday at 6 p.m. for town notables, members of the Chamber of Commerce, fellow award winners and enthusiastic fans of good food and drink. The evening will showcase the establishment’s music, décor and special touches. With the purchase of an $80 ticket, attendees will receive a weekend overnight stay followed by morning brunch for two at Strip House ($200 value). To purchase tickets for the Awards Reception, call 732-992-4343 or visit the Livingston Chamber of Commerce website . 550 W Mt Pleasant Ave, Livingston.

April 30: Escape Chef and Owner, Bryan Gregg, will cohost a five-course wine-paired dinner with acclaimed Chef James Laird of Restaurant Serenade. Cost is $95 per person with 50 percent of the proceeds being donated to benefit cancer research and treatment in New Jersey. Menu, wines and details can be found on Facebook and reservations can be made at 973-744-0712. Escape Montclair, 345 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair.

May 2: The Grand Café in Morristown will host its Qupé Leap Wine Dinner at 7 p.m. The Grapeful Palate continues its popular wine dinner series with a five-course meal accompanied by Qupé wine, named one of the Top 100 Wineries in America. Courses include Chef Quang’s Spring Roll with Hoisin Sauce, Soft Shell Crab with Ramps and Beurre Blanc and Garlic Sausage with Warm Green Lentil Salad. Cost is $88 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For reservations call Walter at 973-540-9444. Click here for more information. 42 Washington St, Morristown.

May 6: A Toute Heure opens its doors earlier for guests to enjoy a “community hour” menu from Tuesday through Friday. This will include a special dinner menu which will include ATH’s burger. The restaurant will donate $1 from the sale of every burger to support community organizations. 232 Centennial Ave, Cranford.

May 10: Pay a visit to America’s Grow-a-Row’s Farm-to-Fork Fundraiser from 5 to 10:30 p.m. at the Life Camp in Pottersville. Former Governor Christine Todd Whitman will make an appearance as the guest speaker. This unique fundraiser features local food artisans, a farm-fresh dinner and fine auctions. To participate or attend, visit americasgrowarow.org. LifeCamp, 67 McCann Mill Road, Pottersville.

May 10: Unionville Vineyards’ Spring Wine Festival. Speakers tent will feature Jersey Bites’ own Deb Smith, mozzarella demonstrations from Fulper Family Farms, worldwide wine trivia, and career reflections from winemaker Cameron Stark. Bring chairs or a blanket, enjoy 90 acres of sprawling New Jersey farmland. Tickets include a wine tasting flight and Unionville logo wine glass. General admission: $20. Youth, 13-20 years old, and designated drivers: $10. 12 and under: free. Click here for tickets. Unionville Vineyards, 9 Rocktown Road, Ringoes. 908-788-0400.

May 10: Spirit of the Jerseys History Fair will take place at Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are partnering with I Run New Jersey to bring food trucks to the event, along with a 5k race in the morning. Participating food trucks include ahh! Le Cart, Chimney Cake Factor, Empanada Guy, Zinna’s Bistro and many more. Visitors will find a wide selection of foods from hot dogs to lobster to ice cream and cupcakes.

May 24 – 26: Food Trucks Showdown returns to Monmouth Park Racetrack, featuring 26 of the best trucks in the NJ-NY-PA area. The event begins at 11:30 a.m., and admission is $3, parking $4 and children under 12 enter for free. Join “Party Marty” from Rockin’ Country Thunder 107.1 on Saturday and then Sunday is Family Fun Day. Oceanport Avenue, Oceanport.

May 31: The Montclair Food & Wine Festival kicks off with a Grand Tasting at the Montclair Art Museum. Event tickets are $95 (general admission) from 7-9 p.m. VIP tickets are offered at $120 (6 p.m. early admission). The museum’s stunning galleries will be open to attendees for viewing. Approximately 30 restaurants from Montclair (and beyond) will be on hand with samples of choice bites. Tickets and details can be found here. Use promo code JerseyBites (case sensitive) for 10% off admission into any session!

Wines for Your Easter Basket

Peter Culos

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April 16, 2014

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Chef Spotlight: Anthony Pino of Anthony David’s

Veronique @ Food & Wine Chickie

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April 16, 2014

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Chef Spotlight: Anthony Pino of Anthony David’s

After graduating from Johnson & Wales University, Chef Anthony Pino immediately immersed himself in the New York food scene in the kitchen at BR Guest’s Park Avalon. He then moved on in the high-volume restaurant The Garage, in the East Village. There, Chef Pino began putting his training to work, blending Italian flavors with modern American and French sensibilities.

Chef Pino went on to cross the river, and open his own home catering business and Gourmet Shoppe in Hoboken. He quickly became the preferred provider of prepared foods in the area. From there, Chef Pino began offering brunch on weekends. When the café became a favorite for brunch, selling out virtually every weekend, Chef Pino decided to open a full-service restaurant: Anthony David’s.

Chef Pino also owns and operates BIN 14, Hoboken’s first and only wine bar (opened November 2008). Blending his signature Italian style with the small plates concept, the restaurant became an instant hit, and garnered an “Excellent” review from the New York Times.

JERSEY BITES: What is your earliest food memory?
CHEF PINO: A few things, but most prominent is growing up in an Italian family. You can’t beat Sunday gravy.

When did you realize you wanted to make cooking a career? Was there an “a-ha” moment?
I was 10 years old, thinking what was I going to do with the rest of my life. My mom said, “Make sure you have a trade where you use your hands as well as your mind.” Knowing that food had a focus, it had my name written all over it.

Any interesting stories about where and with whom you started cooking professionally?
I pushed my way into being a sous chef at Park Avalon, in New York City, in 1994. It was crazy there. So many covers! I was in for a huge surprise. NYC almost chewed me up. Almost!

What is your cooking style?
My style of cooking is primarily Italian-American, with influences of French techniques.

What is the greatest opportunity that has come from cooking?
I think a little differently. I strive to create opportunity. I push forward every day.

What is the most memorable meal you’ve had to date?
Wild boar and pappardelle with fresh porcini, Pecorino. A small place, Geve, in Chianti, Italy.

It’s your last day on earth, what would your final meal be?
Sicilian pizza from Riviera Pizzeria, Medford Lakes, New Jersey.

Antony David Pork Gravy. Photo Credit: Danny Chin. — Anthony David’s pork gravy. *Photo Credit: Danny Chin.*

What is the best advice you have to share with young folks interested in becoming chefs?
Patience! Just focus and the rest will come.

If you could choose to be any food item, what would it be?
My favorite: chanterelles.

What is the one “staple” food you always have in your cupboard at home?
Corn tortillas. We love tacos—the whole family does.

What is your beverage of choice?
A margarita with a little bit of heat, rocks, salt: tequila, Cointreau, lime, splash of club soda.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Burger and fries.

What New Jersey restaurant do you enjoy dining at, besides your own?
Other than my own, I love sushi at Robongi in Hoboken.

If you could have dinner with any three people, living, deceased or fictional, who would they be and why?
I love to laugh. It’s my release in life. I want to be with people who would get it. Liz Pino—my wife—then John Belushi and John Candy as his character from Summer Rental.

Are you working on any upcoming projects our readers would be interested in learning about?
We’ve recently launched Pino Hospitality—to gather Anthony David’s, Bin 14, AD Catering|Events under one umbrella. Our main focus is to pursue opportunities in new restaurants and catering venues in Jersey City and Hoboken. Our newest outpost is set to open late spring 2015. There’s something also in the works in Jersey City.

Anthony David’s Gourmet Specialties (also AD Catering and Events)
953 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ 201-222-8359

Anthony David’s
953 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ 201-222-8399

BIN 14
1314 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 201-963-WINE

Cheers,

Veronique Deblois, Food & Wine Chickie: Veronique is a food and wine writer based in Morris County. As the author of the popular blog, Food & Wine Chickie Insider, Veronique shares recipes, wine and restaurant reviews and insight into the travel industry of which she’s a 15-year veteran. Follow Veronique on Twitter or like her Facebook page.

Like a “Cake Boss”—Carlo’s Opens in Morristown

Deanna Quinones

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April 15, 2014

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Like a “Cake Boss”—Carlo’s Opens in Morristown

Come on, admit it. You’ve been to Hoboken and waited in line for at least an hour—or six—to step foot inside the Carlo’s City Hall Bake Shop made insanely famous on TLC’s popular show, Cake Boss. Or maybe you went but threw up your hands in exasperation, settling for an oversized Crumbs cupcake down the street (because you didn’t know about the awesome little delights over on Garden Street at Sweet, perhaps).

Well, here’s the good news: you can have your cake without the wait because Carlo’s now has several locations around New Jersey. The fifth, and largest, just celebrated its grand opening in Morristown last month. And once the ribbon-cutting crowd made off with their piles of classic string-tied cardboard boxes, toting sweet treasures to be shared at home, the spacious, welcoming shop began enjoying an easy flow of traffic without the Hoboken pileups.

Buddy Valastro at Carlo's Bakery in Morristown — Cake Boss Buddy Valastro

Buddy Valastro, the Cake Boss himself, was on hand for the opening and told Jersey Bites why he is so excited about this new location. “I know that sometimes there’s a misconception,” he explained. “People think we’re always too busy, that we can’t make a cake for someone, or that we’re going to be too expensive. But you can come in here and buy a $2 cupcake or you can buy a giant cake that could be thousands of dollars. It’s whatever you want. And it’s going to be quality; it’s going to be done right.”

“This is our biggest store yet, square-footage wise,” Valastro said. “We have an awesome party room in the back, where you can have your kid’s birthday party. We’ll also have cake decorating classes for adults, kids, beginners, experts. But what I love most about this store is that we have an open kitchen. I want people to know that we make stuff here fresh, in front of you. This is going to be the bakery that we’ve been to Hoboken for hundreds of years—we want to be that same bakery to Morristown.”

In addition to the party room, the new location also boasts a small seating area and generous floor space that sets it favorably apart from the cramped original storefront that attracts eager autograph seekers. But will stopping by the Morristown location give fans a chance to see Buddy or any of la famiglia in action behind the counter?

“I’ll probably be in here more often because it’s closer to my house,” Valastro laughs. “But, oh yeah, the family—everybody’s always around. This location’s going to be the easiest because we’re right around the area. We’re all Morris County residents.”

Valstro Family at Carlo's Morristown Opening — Familiar faces from the *Cake Boss* family, including Buddy’s sisters and wife, Lisa (second from left), attend the Morristown opening.

If you’re new to Carlo’s, you may not realize that the business is rooted in old-school Italian bakery standards. While the reality show focuses on the elaborate and sometimes mind-bending special order cakes resplendent with fondant and artful modeling chocolate creations, the bake shops offer glass cases filled with butter cookies, cannoli, Napoleons, sfogliatelle, crumb cake, pecan wedges, pignoli, biscotti, tiramisu, cheesecake, éclairs, cream puffs, and more. Whew! Asked what a visitor to Carlo’s should be sure not to miss, the Cake Boss replies before the question is even complete: “The lobster tail, hands down. The best!”

Similar to sfogliatelle, lobster tail is layered, flaky pastry shaped like a shell or cone. “The secret about the Lobster Tail,” Valastro says, “is that it was actually invented in America, not in Italy where the sfogliatelle was invented.” Though it is not unique to Carlo’s, Buddy has put his own special spin on the Lobster Tail, adding Bailey’s Irish Cream to its custard and whipped cream filling. “Just a touch of it,” he explains. “It’s not like you’re gonna get drunk from it – it’s just a splash. You’ve never eaten anything like it!”

Having sampled the Lobster Tail (and the cannoli, and the cream puff, and the mousse puff … hey, I’m just doing my job here!!), I can tell you Buddy’s not steering you wrong. Sink your teeth into the crispy-crunchy shell of a Lobster Tail, taste the sweet smooth cream inside, and you’ll instantly find your inner Italian emerging, no matter what nationality you are. You’ll have no choice but to smile and say fuggedaboudit if someone tries to reach for a bite.

But whichever treat becomes your favorite, what’s really sweet about Carlo’s Morristown shop is not having to wait in a long line to get another one as soon as you finish off the first.

In case you missed it on Facebook, Valastro gave Jersey Bites readers their very own shout-out. Watch it here!

Carlo’s Bakery Morristown
40 Market Street
Morristown
973-998-7771

Hours:
Mon/Tues/Wed: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday/Saturday: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Additional locations in Hoboken, Red Bank, Ridgewood, Westfield, Times Square/NYC.

Deanna Quinones is the Jersey Bites Regional Editor for Morris County. A freelance writer, blogger, and unrepentant chocolate addict, Deanna spent 20 years in the San Francisco Bay Area where life was good and the burritos even better. She recently returned to the Garden State and now resides in Morristown, where she and her Texas-born/Jersey-raised/California-found husband are raising two wild and wonderful kids. An experienced book marketer, award-winning greeting card writer, and entertainment writing dabbler, Deanna can be reached at [email protected]. (photo credit Pete Genovese/The Star-Ledger)

Café Matisse in Rutherford

Terry Krongold

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April 14, 2014

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A Work of Art in Rutherford (via The Cook’s Tour)

It had been a long time since I visited Café Matisse (like at least 10 years). Sometimes you become enamored of the shiny new “objet d’art” and forget about the old masters. So when I received an invitation to try their new a la carte menu, I…

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Cibo e Vino, Italian Tapas in Asbury Park

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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April 14, 2014

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Cibo e Vino, Italian Tapas in Asbury Park

Cibo e Vino enjoyed a quiet, soft opening in November in Asbury Park. Owners Karen and Jim DeGilio, are well known for their excellent restaurant Fish, next to which Cibo e Vino is cuddled right up on Madison Avenue in the historic Press Building. The DeGilios are also known for their popular restaurant Pinziminio Trattoria on Long Beach Island, which they recently closed in order to focus their attention more directly on Cibo.

Flight of Wine, Cibo e Vino — Flight of wine

A friend of mine recently clued me in to this tapas-style Italian restaurant and after hearing his description, I had to make the trip. As is my M.O., we showed up at about five o’clock. I try to get the natural light for pictures if I can. (And, I’m also an old fart—who am I kidding?) At 5 p.m., the restaurant had a few tables occupied and a very large and boisterous party of about 20 right in front. They seemed to be having a fabulous time.

Diana, the manager, was also hosting at that time, so we got to talk with her. I asked her “Why the tapas style?” and she explained: “More and more people are finding tapas style eating to be appealing for a number of reasons. It’s a more communal, fun and interesting way to eat as you get to taste a number of items in small portions.” I tend to agree. I’m a grazer. I love to sample little bites of different dishes. And that was exactly what I set out to do at Cibo e Vino.

Our first order of business was ordering drinks. The bartender explained that their wine selection is strictly Italian and talked to my beer man about their craft beer selection, which is a selection of local brews and eclectic Italian regionals. Since I have quite a primitive pallet when it comes to Italian wines, I told the bartender I’m a white wine drinker and I prefer chardonnay (don’t judge.) He offered three options and suggested a flight of wine. (How fun Mr. Bartender, and yes, I will.)

"Carton of Milk"... in a glass — “Carton of Milk”… in a glass

Peter (@JerseyBitesBeer) ordered Carton Brewing’s “Carton of Milk” on draft to start the evening off. He later tried one of their imported beers, Baladin Birra Lurisia Otto, and in his beer-geeky way, described it to me as having “a smooth, creamy texture with some dried fruit in the nose. A malt forward with a hint of wood. Great to accompany a wide range of food.” Just for the record, I hear “blah, blah, bladdie, blah, blah” when he talks like this, but I know some of you speak his language. Cibo e Vino also makes Lemoncello and Orangecello in house and they offer a number of cocktails using liqours imported from Italy.

My stomach was growling, so we immediately dove into the menu. Going for the quickest thing possible, we started with a simple bruschetta. There were three styles to choose from but when I see goat cheese on anything, it’s a sure bet I will be having it. The roasted mushroom with fig and goat cheese ricotta was the winner. Just two slices to a plate, but it quieted the rumbling beast and allowed me to focus on the next plate. I think the bruschetta is a nice way to enjoy your drink and nibble. And I love figs, so it was a double win for me.

Gnocchi di ricotta with lamb ragu, sundried tomatoes and mint

It didn’t take long before we were perusing the menu for our next bite. Peter spotted the gnocchi di ricotta with lamb ragu, sundried tomatoes and mint. The bartender made sure that we knew that the gnocchi is a ricotta gnocchi, so lighter than the traditional. Sounded good to us and it did not disappoint. As light as he said it was, it was very filling for two people, but we managed. The lamb was perfectly cooked, and our plate was, for all intents and purposes, licked clean. We didn’t exactly lick it—we’re not animals—but you get the picture. (At home is a different story. Once again, don’t judge.)

Caesar Salad with Ciabatta Croutons and Aged Gouda - Cibo e Vino — Caesar salad with ciabatta croutons and aged gouda

Next up, we felt the need to bring some veggies into this game plan. On the bartender’s recommendation we ordered the Caesar salad with ciabatta croutons and aged gouda. I am here to testify that this was the best Caesar salad I have ever had. Yep, I said it. The gouda really makes it different and simply delicious. Try it and tell me what you think.

As we were looking through the vast menu, I needed some guidance from Diana. So I asked her, “What’s Cibo e Vino’s signature dish?”

She thought for a moment and said, “Well, I can’t say it’s our signature dish, but our customers actually have said they dream about the chicken and sausage gorgonzola with onions, garlic and penne pasta.” OK then, that’s the direction in which we headed, even with her disclaimer that “it’s a heavy dish.”

Chicken and Sausage Gorgonzola with onions, garlic and penne pasta - Cibo e Vino — Chicken and sausage gorgonzola with onions, garlic and penne pasta

As promised, it was heavy. If you’ve ever cooked with gorgonzola, you know it can take over a dish easily. I liked this dish, but immediately felt the need for my taste buds to lighten it up. That’s the beauty of a tapas-style restaurant. I hurried in an order of the roasted cauliflower. And the two made a beautiful marriage.

roasted cauliflower — Roasted cauliflower

Cibo e Vino’s mission is “to popularize small plate eating by serving an interesting and delicious variety of Italian dishes.” I can say that Executive Chef Dave Syminiuk and his team are on the right track. There were so many plates that were calling my name, but alas, I have but one stomach. On my next visit, I will have to sample the pizza which looked amazing and the crab fettuccine. And I am definitely having that Caesar Salad again.

Cibo e Vino
603 Mattison Avenue
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
732-576-2200

Launched in 2007, jerseybites.com began as a home for Deborah’s growing collection of recipes, but soon grew into a hub for food news in the Garden State. In addition to her duties on JerseyBites, Deborah is the owner of Foxtrot Media, a full service digital marketing company that specializes in content development, social media marketing and search engine optimization. She is also a highly sought after speaker on the topic of restaurant marketing, social media and blogging. You can learn more about her services and marketing through social media on her blog www.DeborahLSmith.com.

Recipe: Chef Chauhan’s Malai Chicken Sliders

Karin Nastawa Ruffini

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April 11, 2014

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Recipe: Chef Chauhan’s Malai Chicken Sliders

At the recent Giants of Generosity Food & Wine Celebrity showcase, held in early March, Chopped judge and chef Maneet Chauhan headlined the celebrity showcase. She entertained the crowd with her culinary history, which started in her homeland of India, and her colorful descriptions of the tastes that inspired her latest cookbook Flavors Of My World.

An exclusive for celebrity showcase attendees, Chauhan shared not only a delicious taste of her Malai chicken sliders, she also shared the recipe so these not-to-be-missed sliders could be recreated at home. For adventurous cooks who want to add a little spice to their sliders, check out Chauhan’s incredible recipe. Speaking from experience, the mango mustard is a keeper to top all kinds of dishes.

[tasty-recipe id=”44697″]

More Information On Maneet Chauhan:

Website
Facebook
Twitter

For Karin Nastawa’s recap of the full event, click here.

Karin Nastawa grew up in the great Garden State, leaving only briefly to attend college in Philadelphia, where she developed a love for all things cheese steaks. She has lived in Hoboken for over nine years, taking in the incredible dining scenes on both sides of the river and has a particular affinity for staking out interesting BYO establishments in Hudson County. She is the founder and owner of VinEatsi, a boutique wine & food digital marketing agency and has also studied wine and spirits extensively, receiving her advanced degree from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET). Along with running VinEatsi, she is an avid cook and food enthusiast and writes about her wine & food adventures in the VinEatsi blog. She dreams of having a chef’s kitchen and a state-of-the-art wine cellar filled with Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and Left Bank Bordeaux… someday.

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Events

JerseyBites

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April 10, 2014

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Event details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm directly before heading out!

THIS WEEKEND:

Through April 14: Enjoy three-course meals at many Jersey Shore restaurants during Jersey Shore Restaurant Week. Prices will be fixed at $20.14 or $30.14 per person. Click here for a list of participating restaurants.

April 11: Rahway Arts District’s Rahway Taste of Spring will take place from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Rahway Recreation Center. For $30 in advance and $40 at the door, guests will enjoy more than 60 gourmet food, wine and beer vendors, plus live entertainment, music, art, and more. All proceeds go to the Rahway Arts District. Click here for a list of participating restaurants. 275 East Milton Ave, Rahway.

April 12: Jersey Shore Restaurant Week hosts Burgers, Bloodies & Brews from 12 to 4 p.m. This event will take place at Harpoon Willy’s and no tickets are necessary. Call (732) 223-8880 with any questions. 2655 River Rd, Manasquan.

April 12: For $50 guests can enjoy a screening of Tampopo in addition to a Sake and wine/beer tasting with starters. Doors will open at 5 p.m. and the screening will start at 6. For tickets, call 856-453-8130 or 973-864-4001. Little Mama’s Cafe, 20 West Commerce Street, Bridgeton.

April 13: The State Theatre in New Brunswick is screening Hey Bartender, a documentary focusing on the role of the bartender and the cocktail in American culture. Local bars such as Stage Left and The Frog and the Peach will take part in the event, competing in a cocktail competition judged by the director of the documentary, Doug Tirola, among other distinguished judges. The competition, beginning at 3 p.m., will segue into the movie from 4:30 to 6:15. For $25, guests (21+) will have access to the competition and the movie, and will have the opportunity to sample four William Grant & Sons specialty Hey Bartender cocktails during the movie. Admission to just the movie is $10. Tickets can be purchased here. 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick.

April 13 to 18: Make your reservations for Bordentown’s Restaurant Week. Sample the fine eateries of Restaurant Row, all for a fixed price of $19.95 to $29.95. Click here for a list of participating restaurants and to make reservations.

AND BEYOND:

April 19: Come to the Jack DiSalvo Charity Baseball Game at 2 p.m. to help raise money for a scholarship fund for New Jersey student athletes who demonstrate strong athletic abilities as well as academic excellence and are fueled by the motivation and determination to succeed. The game is open to the public and with a donation of any amount, participants will receive two free tickets with a meal voucher (Suggested Donation: $25). Celebrity Chef Anton Testino of Hell’s Kitchen will be preparing a special Ball Park Style menu and will also be at the game taking photos and signing autographs. Tickets can be purchased here. 160 Parmelee Ave, Hawthorne.

April 22: Jenks Club in Point Pleasant hosts its annual red gravy competition, Boss of the Sauce from 6 to 9 p.m. Restaurants from Ocean and Monmouth counties will be participating, and a portion of proceeds will go to Ocean County Hunger Relief. The cost is $10 a person at the door ($8 in advance). 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach.

April 24: More than 150 restaurants in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley will be participating in Dining Out for Life, an annual event to support the fight against HIV/AIDS. One-third of the proceeds will be donated to the cause. Click here for a list of participating restaurants, and all you have to do is dine at your favorite one!

April 25 to May 4: Celebrate springtime at the shore during the Cape May Spring Festival. Events include the Cape May Wine Trail, the Chocolate Championship Tour & Tasting, and a pork & Pints pig roast. Contact the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts at 609-884-5404 or check their website for the schedule of events.

April 30: Escape Chef and Owner, Bryan Gregg, will cohost a five-course wine-paired dinner with acclaimed Chef James Laird of Restaurant Serenade. Cost is $95 per person with 50 percent of the proceeds being donated to benefit cancer research and treatment in New Jersey. Menu, wines and details can be found at www.facebook.com/escapemontclair and reservations can be made by calling 973-744-0712. 345 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair.

May 10: Pay a visit to America’s Grow-a-Row’s Farm-to-Fork Fundraiser from 5 to 10:30 p.m. at the Life Camp in Pottersville. Former Governor Christine Todd Whitman will make an appearance as the guest speaker. This unique fundraiser features local food artisans, a farm-fresh dinner and fine auctions. To participate or attend, visit americasgrowarow.org. LifeCamp, 67 McCann Mill Road, Pottersville.

May 10: Unionville Vineyards’ Spring Wine Festival. Speakers tent will feature Jersey Bites’ own Deb Smith, mozarella demonstrations from Fulper Family Farms, worldwide wine trivia, and career reflections from winemaker Cameron Stark. Bring chairs or a blanket, enjoy 90 acres of sprawling New Jersey farmland. Tickets include a wine tasting flight and Unionville logo wine glass. General admission: $20. Youth, 13-20 years old, and designated drivers: $10. 12 and under: free. Click here for tickets. Unionville Vineyards, 9 Rocktown Road, Ringoes. 908-788-0400.

May 31: The Montclair Food & Wine Festival kicks off with a Grand Tasting at the Montclair Art Museum. Event tickets are $95 (general admission) from 7-9 p.m. VIP tickets are offered at $120 (6 p.m. early admission). The museum’s stunning galleries will be open to attendees for viewing. Approximately 30 restaurants from Montclair (and beyond) will be on hand with samples of choice bites. Tickets and details can be found here.

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