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!
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!
It’s been a long, challenging winter but finally, Easter is on its way. As with any religious holiday, it comes with tradition. Some traditions don’t seem to make any sense. A bunny? The bunny has been hopping into Easter since the thirteenth century as a symbol of Eostra, the Teutonic goddess of spring and fertility. Fertility. Ah, now that makes sense. No, rabbits don’t lay eggs, but the egg is a symbol of rebirth which is, after all, the religious theme of the holiday.
Easter has its culinary traditions, too. There are certain foods that you’re bound to encounter on Easter so, aside from eggs and chocolate bunnies, you are going to want to leave room for some wine in your Easter basket. Let’s take a look at some typical Easter fare and the wines that go with them.
Brunch is a popular way to observe the Easter holiday and you want something light, fresh and crisp which will cozy up to eggs, smoked salmon or whatever else is on the menu. A mimosa, right? Come on, you can get more creative with your brunch bubbly than that! Prosecco would fit the bill nicely but leave the OJ out, please. Produced in northeastern Italy (Veneto and Friuli-Venezia), these sparkling white wines get their bubbles from the Charmat method of a secondary fermentation of the base wine. Prosecco’s floral notes and fruity character fit hand-and-glove with brunch. We recommend Astoria Prosecco NV – Veneto, Italy ($12.99 at AC Bottle Shop).
As you move on to dinner, the odds are good that one of two meats will be the center piece of the meal. Lamb, a religious symbol of sacrifice, is one. It has a strong flavor that, like fortune, favors the bold. Aramis Shiraz & Cabernet Sauvignon ‘2008 from McLaren Vale, AUS ($15.99 at AC Bottle Shop) has a full bodied palate with notes of pepper, blackberry and oak. Shiraz and lamb go together like Easter and, well, bunnies.
If lamb isn’t on the menu, then ham probably is. With ham, you’ll want to go in the opposite direction. Keep it light so that it doesn’t run over the main attraction. Riesling is a good choice for ham—and New Zealand Riesling is an even better choice! Yes, New Zealand Riesling. Giesen Riesling ’11 from Marlborough, NZ($12.99 at AC Bottle Shop) will present lime and green apple in the nose and continue with the fruit theme through to the tart, mineral finish. Ham never had it so good!
Finally, there’s going to be chocolate. At the very least, you know you’ll be sneaking a chunk of your kid’s chocolate bunny. Here’s a secret: pairing wine and chocolate is not easy. Some even say it’s impossible. Clearly this is no time to fool around so go straight to the port. Our choice is Rainha Santa Tawny Porto NV – Porto, Portugal ($10.99 at AC Bottle Shop). Since most of your chocolate bunnies are milk chocolate, the lighter and more graceful tawny port is a good option. Rainha Santa Tawny Port is aged less than three years so it does bring a little more sweetness than most tawny’s, which are usually aged for five or more years, and will melt in your mouth just like that hollow milk chocolate bunny.
Now all you have to do is remember where the Easter bunny hid that last plastic pastel egg.
Or you could pour another glass of wine. It’s up to you.
Paul Tonacci is Managing Partner of the Atlantic City Bottle Company, a seasonal menu, small plate restaurant helmed by Chef Kevin Cronin, and packaged goods store specializing in wine, whiskey, craft beer, Specialty Spirits Store – Taste In or Take Home. Voted Atlantic City’s Best Restaurant by Trip Advisor. Check them out on Facebook and Twitter.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.”
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)
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…
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
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
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
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
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 cauliflowerPizza
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.
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.
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.
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.
Anthony Pucciarello lives in West Caldwell, a short drive from Cielo, his restaurant in Fairfield. A CIA graduate, Chef Pucciarello also holds a BS in Hotel/Restaurant Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University. After serving as sous chef for Tropicana Resort in Las Vegas, Chef Pucciarello returned to the east coast, where he worked at several top Manhattan restaurants. He returned to New Jersey, and made a name for himself working as executive chef at Papillion in Nutley and Luce in Caldwell before opening Cielo in 2012. We shined our Chef Spotlight on him for the inside story.
JERSEY BITES: What is your earliest food memory? CHEF PUCCIARELLO: It is so cliché for an Italian to say this, but I come from a large family and my grandma’s house in the basement with homemade sopressata hanging everywhere, her making pasta by hand and my grandfather’s wine barrels scattered all over the place.
When did you realize you wanted to make cooking a career? Was there an “a-ha” moment? I lived on a dead-end street in Belleville and my house was always the house that my friends came to, especially on Saturdays. When I was nine, I started by making omelets for all my friends, under my mom’s supervision, of course! I was good at it, so it grew from there. At 10 years old, I started making pizza boxes at a local pizza place for $10 a week and I knew from that point on it was in my blood.
Any interesting stories about where and with whom you started cooking professionally? I was 17 years old eating an Italian hot dog at my friend’s place in Belleville and there was a restaurant next door. The owner walked [up to us] and said, “my cook just walked out. Does anyone here know how to cook?” I said, “I do!” And the rest is history.
What is your cooking style?Northern Italian, comfort food with a twist
What is the most memorable meal you’ve had, what did you eat and where was it? On the Amalfi Coast, I asked the concierge where the locals eat. He sent me to this woman’s house. We sat under a lemon tree and she cooked for me. One thing was better than the next. I remember taking a moment afterward and saying, “If God took me right now, I would have no regrets.” It was a perfect moment.
If today were your last day on earth, what would your final meal be? A veal cutlet sandwich on toasted panelle with long hot Italian peppers, homemade mozzarella, and prosciutto di Parma.
What is the best advice you have to share with young folks interested in becoming chefs? Be passionate, respect the ingredients, work hard and love what you do.
If you could choose to be any food item, what would it be? A Jersey tomato. It is so versatile.
What is the one staple food you always have in your cupboard at home? It’s hard to choose just one: garlic, olive oil, a pound of pasta. I could do wonders with them.
What is your beverage of choice? Hands down, Chopin martini—very dry, three olives, straight up.
What is your favorite comfort food? A big bowl of manestra and beans with neck bones, sausage, pepperoni with crusty bread for sopping up.
What New Jersey restaurant do you enjoy dining at, besides your own? LuNello in Cedar Grove.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living, deceased or fictional, who would they be and why? My Dad, who passed away four years ago. He would be so proud of me accomplishing my goal, which was opening my own restaurant. We enjoyed each other’s company with good food and drink. Mickey Mantle, who loved to party. I would have loved to hang with him just one night and go to a Yankee game the next day. And Jesus, because the fish would always be fresh and we would never run out of bread and wine!
Are you working on any upcoming projects our readers would be interested in learning about? We’ve just launched our new casual Tavern menu, a new cocktail program, and updated our bar menu. We have a gorgeous outdoor patio with a waterfall that will be opening soon for the season. And we have a great dining deal for folks hankering for a taste of the truly traditional: Cielo’s Sunday Gravy Supper. Served 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., diners can savor a glass of house wine, salad, meatballs, housemade sausage and pasta with Grandma’s Gravy for $21.95.
Cielo Restaurant 168 Passaic Avenue Fairfield 973-808-1414 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.
Celebrate National Empanada Day at Pollo Campero this Tuesday, April 8, with free handmade empanadas!
The Latin chicken restaurant chain is also celebrating its 43rd birthday by inviting guests to its five locations in New Jersey from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. to enjoy one of Latin America’s most popular dishes.
The following is a listing of all Pollo Camperos around the state:
25 South Broad St., Elizabeth
301 Main St., Paterson
301 E. Front St., Plainfield
508 Hamilton Ave., Trenton
6425 Bergenline Ave., West New York
Put down your apron and put on your Easter bonnet (or don’t) and make a reservation! Here’s a sampling of Easter brunches and dinners happening around the Garden State. Easter 2014 is Sunday, April 20.
Absecon The Historic Smithville Inn will have an Easter buffet with seatings at 10 a.m., noon, 3 and 5:30 p.m. Price is $33.50 for all seatings and the menu will include waffle, omelet, carving and pasta stations as well as a mashed potato bar. Call (609) 652-7777 for reservations. 1 N. New York Rd., Absecon.
Beach Haven The Gables 11:30 am – 7:00 pm for a special holiday menu featuring 4 courses, with choice of entrée and a fabulous holiday dessert table $55 per person / View The Menu Here Children’s Menu Available Reservations Suggested / (609) 492-3553 & Messages will be returned as promptly as possible .
Bernardsville The Bernard’s Inn will have its Easter buffet from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will include Parmesan and herb-crusted chicken, Atlantic halibut, a carving station, seafood display and much more. Dessert includes an ice cream sundae bar. Prices range from $15 for children 2 to 5, $35 for children 6 to 12 and $62 for adults. Take a look at the full menu here. Call (908) 766-0002 for reservations. 27 Mine Brook Rd., Bernardsville.
Carlstadt Terre à Terre will have a standard a la carte brunch menu on Easter Sunday with specials. Brunch runs from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call (201) 507-0500 for reservations. 312 Hackensack St., Carlstadt.
Chatham Serenade is having Easter brunch from 11:30 to 3. For $69 per person and $35 for children under 10, guests will have access to three courses with tons of options. The full menu can be found here. Call (973) 701-0303 for reservations. 6 Roosevelt Ave., Chatham.
Deptford Township Filomena Lakeview’s Easter dinner will run from 1 to 7 p.m. and they will be serving their holiday menu. Call (856) 228-4235 for reservations. 1738 Cooper St., Deptford Township.
Edgewater HAVEN Riverfront Restaurant and Bar will have their Easter Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The brunch is $40 per person or $50 with the choice of two mimosas, bellinis or Bloody Marys. The brunch will include more than a dozen selections, including Eggs Benedict, Brioche French toast with banana caramel and a carving station, raw bar and dessert station. Call (201) 943-1900 for reservations. 45 River Rd, Edgewater.
Edgewater and Marlton Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar brings back its annual three-course Easter Sunday brunch, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests are invited to enjoy classic brunch favorites for $39.95 per guest ($18.95 for ages 12 and under). In addition, each party will receive a $25 dining card valid for a future visit. Edgewater: (201) 313-9463, 90 The Promenade. Marlton: (856) 988-1351, 500 Route 73 North.
Egg Harbor Township Renault Winery has three dining options this Easter Sunday, with the first being from 1 to 6 p.m. at Joseph’s Restaurant. That menu will include fresh seafood, hand-trimmed steaks, veal, lamb and Italian pasta. Entrees start at $16. The Renault Special Three Course Easter Dinner, also from 1 to 6, will feature entrees like filet mignon, chicken, lamb and much more. Entrees start at $35. Lastly, the Renault Grand Ballroom Buffet will run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will be a cruise-ship style buffet with seafood, crepes and a carving station. This option costs $31.95 for adults and $14.95 for children. Call (609) 965-2111 for reservations. 72 Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor Township.
Fairfield Cielo Easter Sunday menu will include mussels, rice balls, filet mignon, meatballs and other signature dishes. Entrees will be served with whipped potatoes and vegetable du jour. Homemade pasta dishes will include Orecchiette with caramelized cauliflower, sweet sausage and northern white beans and olive oil. Seatings take place at 1, 3 and 5:30. Call (973) 808-1414 for reservations. 168 Passaic Ave., Fairfield.
Hamburg Crystal Springs Resort will have four different brunch options and two dinner options. Brunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Prices and menus for all of their packages can be found here. Call (855) 977-6473. 1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg.
Hampton The Grand Colonial’s Easter buffet will run from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include a continental breakfast buffet along with a hot buffet, carving station and chocolate fountain for dessert. Prices range from $26.95 for children 5 to 12, $38.95 for seniors and $42.95 for adults. Call (908) 735-7889 for reservations. 86 New Jersey 173, Hampton.
Hoboken Amanda’s Restaurant will have an Easter buffet from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. which will be $34 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Their Easter dinner will run from 3:30 to 6 p.m., and will feature entrees such as grilled salmon with spinach puree, roasted leg of lamb with mint-currant infused cous cous, and much more. Dinner is $49 per person. Both events are half-price for children. Call (201) 798-0101 for reservations. 908 Washington St., Hoboken.
Kenilworth Red Knot at Galloping Hill’s Easter brunch will feature traditional favorites including Eggs Benedict and stuffed French toast along with La Caja China roasted Leg of Lamb and Turkey. The brunch is $33 per person and $15 for children 12 and under, plus tax and gratuity. Call (908) 241-2211 for reservations. 3 Golf Dr., Kenilworth.
Jersey City Maritime Parc’s Easter Sunday hours are from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. They brunch will feature an assortment of sweet and savory options from buttermilk pancakes to homemade granola to natural, grass-fed steak and eggs, burgers, salads and lobster mac ‘n cheese. Call (201) 413-0050 for reservations. 84 Audrey Zapp Dr., Jersey City.
Montclair Escape Montclair is hosting a 3-course Easter brunch complete with French toast, foie gras, BBQ and friend chicken, omelets and more. The restaurant will open its’ door at 11 a.m. and close at 3 p.m. with the last reservation taken at 2:30. Brunch is $28 per person. Call (973) 744-0712 for reservations. 345 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair.
Morristown Blue Morel’s 3 course, prixe fixe menu, will include spring-inspired dishes like whole lobster Cobb salad and free range lamb sirloin. Signature dishes like their chili-cinnamon glazed Chilean sea bass, will be served. The meal will run from noon to 9 p.m., and will be $59 for adults and $29 for children under 11. Call (973) 451-2619 for reservations. 2 Whippany Rd., Morristown.
New Brunswick The Frog and the Peach will have their Easter dinner from noon to 7 p.m., with a menu including lobster bisque, pastrami cured salmon, mahi mahi, Colorado lamb loin and much more. The three-course, prixe fixe menu is $65 per person and $16 for children 12 and under. Call (732) 846-3216 for reservations. 29 Dennis St., New Brunswick.
Lamb at Chakra
Paramus Chakra Restaurant is celebrating Easter with a three-course prixe-fixe menu for $34 per person. The menu will include Maibock pork tenderloin, smoked lamb, and for dessert, warm chocolate brioche bread pudding and carrot-walnut cake. They will be open from noon to 5 p.m. Call (201) 556-1530. 144 W State Route 4, Paramus.
Princeton Agricola will host their Easter brunch/dinner from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their menu will include lemon meringue pie and raspberry Linzer torte for dessert. Cost is $35 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Call (609) 921-2798 for reservations.11 Witherspoon St., Princeton.
Vineland Merighi’s Savoy Inn will have their Easter dinner buffet from noon to 6 p.m. The event will include an antipasta and salad bar, carving station, Italian pasta station and more. Adults are $26.95 and children 3 and under are free. A children’s buffet for ages 10 and under is available for $13.95. Call (856) 691-8051 for reservations. 4940 Landis Ave., Vineland.
Vorhees The Mansion on Main Street will hold their Easter brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include the Mansion’s famous French toast, a variety of fresh pasta and assorted seafood, along with an Easter egg hunt and photos with the Easter bunny. Brunch is $38.95 for adults, $35.95 for senior citizens and $12.95 for children ages 4 to 10, plus tax and gratuity. Call (856) 751-1717 for reservations. 3000 Main St., Voorhees.
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!
May 31: 
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, 
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.
Carlo’s Bakery Morristown
hich started in her homeland of India, and her colorful descriptions of the tastes that inspired her latest cookbook Flavors Of My World.
Northern Italian, comfort food with a twist
