Name: Sautéed Soft Shell Crabs
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 4 soft shell crabs, cleaned; 2 lemons; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup flour; 1 to 2 tbsp capers; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp olive oil

Schlotzsky’s Englewood: A Lifelong Dream

HeidiR

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June 18, 2013

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Schlotzsky’s Englewood: A Lifelong Dream

Lea Dalleggio didn’t want to be a movie star or president of the United States when she grew up. All she wanted to be was an owner of a casual dining chain called Schlotzsky’s. As a child, Lea would travel from her home in Monmouth County, New Jersey to spend summers with her grandmother in Houston, Texas. She started eating at Schlotzsky’s when she was five years old and for two decades begged her father to open a restaurant in the Garden State. Upon her completion of undergraduate and MBA programs at Rutgers University, the 25 year old finally got her wish. Her father, Anthony Dalleggio, bought the New Jersey franchise rights to Schlotzsky’s as an investment for his family and Lea was soon on her way to running not only her first business, but New Jersey’s first Schlotzsky’s. Dalleggio and her family plan to open an additional 16 locations in the Garden State over the next five years.

“As a child, I loved the freshly baked buns, the smell of the restaurant, the bright colors and the delicious sandwiches and salads,” said Lea Dalleggio, Englewood Schlotzsky’s franchise co-owner. “Schlotzsky’s signature sandwich The Original®, a play on the New Orleans muffaletta with soft bread encasing tender meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomato and chopped olives, was something I dreamed about as a kid when I wasn’t in Texas. My goal was to bring this distinctive sandwich on bread baked from scratch, salad and soup restaurant concept to the Garden State where I could get my year-round fix while providing the community with a completely new dining option that would be as attractive to kids as it would be adults. We have fans driving to Englewood from Virginia to enjoy our sandwiches. That’s how much of a following the brand has. People stockpile our potato chips, which are made exclusively for Schlotzsky’s and come in nine varieties, to complement all our sandwiches.”

Located in the Englewood ShopRite Plaza at 39 Nathaniel Place, the casual dining eatery is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM – 8:30 PM, Saturday from 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM and Sunday from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The restaurant also offers Cinnabon cinnamon rolls and self-serve Carvel ice cream. The restaurant serves Jersey Roasters Coffee, a blend produced in the Garden State, and will soon offer yogurt and fruit salad breakfast selections. The location has bold, bright colors, making it a good venue for birthday parties and sports team league gatherings. The restaurant offers catering in the region with minimum orders of $30. For more information, call (201) 608-5422 or visit www.schlotzskys.com.

Heidi Raker Goldstein is our Bergen county regional editor. A locavore, cooking enthusiast, publicist and mother of three junior gourmands. Heidi is equally comfy in greasy spoons and high-end restaurants. When not visiting local farmers markets and farm stands in Bergen and Rockland counties, this New England native, former Manhattanite and Bergen county resident is busy running her PR and green marketing agency, Raker Goldstein & Co., buying food, planning menus, cooking food, writing about food or simply eating. Heidi also writes at Redhead With A Fork, a life|style blog. To reach Heidi, email her at [email protected].

Red Knot at Galloping Hill in Kenilworth

Union County

MStavrou

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June 17, 2013

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Red Knot at Galloping Hill in Kenilworth

Too often the words “banquet facility” conjure up visions of overcooked steak, mushy vegetables and uninspired cuisine. However, the new Red Knot restaurant at Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth aims to change perceptions with a menu focused on the craft of cooking, as well as locally sourced ingredients.

Photo by Christopher M. Bossio

The 46,000 square foot complex is overseen by Executive Chef Ralph Romano and his sous chefs. The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill banquet facility holds up to 300 people and overlooks the golf course, while the gastropub on the ground floor seats 50 people indoors and 50 outdoors. Chef Romano previously helped open the Barclays Center in Brooklyn but returned to his New Jersey roots when he was offered the chance to work with Food and Beverage director Richard Spaulding, formerly of 90 Acres and Ursino. Chef Romano’s menu is based around local and seasonal ingredients and he makes an effort to work with local food purveyors whenever possible. As he put it, Union County has its very own “culinary corridor,” which allows him to purchase quality goods only a short distance from the restaurant. The companies he works with include Dreyer Farms in Cranford, Savory Spice Shop in Westfield, Valley Shepherd Creamery in Long Valley, and Palermo’s Bakery in Ridgefield Park. The local emphasis applies to the beverages as well, with Brooklyn Brewery and Cricket Hill pouring their beers at the facility, while Climax Brewing is producing a Galloping Hill Lager. Red Knot is also working with 2 Chicks with Chocolate, located in South River and Metuchen, which offers up handmade and hand-painted chocolate truffles for favors.

Red Knot opened in late May and offered a tasting for the media and customers. The tasting provided a look at how the menu differs from that of a typical banquet facility, as the samples included tamarind crusted scallops with polenta, sliced duck, grilled shrimp with quinoa, and pea soup served in shot glasses. The gastropub will offer up more familiar fare, such as a steakhouse burgers, handcut fries, and soups made from scratch. Each dish aims to represent Chef Romano’s emphasis on the “craft of cooking.” As the golf course is open to the public, anyone can dine at the gastropub and enjoy not only the beautiful views of the golf course, but also the delicious dishes cooked up by Chef Romano and his crew.

Red Knot at Galloping Hill
3 Golf Drive
Kenilworth, NJ
(908) 686-1556

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.

Nourish: Cookbook Review & Giveaway

Melissa Beveridge

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June 17, 2013

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Nourish (Enter to Win a Free Digital Copy of Nourish by leaving a comment below this post. Enter by Thursday, 11:59pm. We’ll be giving away 3 copies Friday, June 21st.)

Last week I found out about a brand new cookbook, Nourish, which was written by two New Jersey health coaches. As soon as I started flipping through the pages I knew I had to try one of the recipes. I went for the chickpea burger with avocado mash which was delicious! After that experience, I decided I wanted to learn more and see just how these two locals were able to manage writing a cookbook with such interesting recipes.

“Mom text message!” comes a voice from what sounds like a purse. Debbie just starts laughing, “That’s mine!” She goes on to explain that her daughter recorded that text message signal for her. I think to myself, these women are just as interesting and unique as the recipes in their cookbook.

Local friends and integrative nutrition counselors, Wendy Bright-Fallon of Renew Wellness in Red Bank and Debbie Peterson of 180 Health in Little Silver, met a few years ago and “instantly clicked.” They both shared a common interest in eating healthy and cooking most of their meals, but it wasn’t until they started going over all of their of recipes that they decided to actually put together their own cookbook.

In the fall of 2011, Wendy and Debbie debuted their first cookbook, Taste, an online version featuring 25 recipes. They received such positive feedback that they decided to go the extra mile and put together a full cookbook – this time in print.

Collaborating with the Local Community

Developing their first printed cookbook, Nourish, which debuted in early 2013, was an act of love. Not only do they enjoy cooking and experimenting with foods, but they also knew that a lot of their friends were really getting their hands dirty in the kitchen. With their clients, friends, and families in mind, they started going through their recipe files with the hope of piecing together a cookbook featuring healthy and unique recipes that they all would enjoy.

Wendy and Debbie went back to their files upon files of recipes. Not only did they want to include their favorites, but they also decided to bring in recipes from community chefs and cooks who shared their feelings on preparing and enjoying simple, healthy food. They contacted chefs at Good Karma in Red Bank, Casey Pesce of d’jeet in Shrewsbury, and Marilyn Schlossbach of Langosta Lounge. Skimming through Nourish you’ll also see recipes from Sunshine Kate, Purple Dragon, and Chris Jolly of Live Jolly Foods. They even feature a few recipes from clients and their children (one is just 10 years old!)

All of the recipes featured in Nourish had to meet certain guidelines and most importantly they had to be simple, healthy, and delicious.

“We wanted healthy food that’s simple to make. This is how we operate. We’re not gourmet chefs. If the readers wouldn’t make it, then we weren’t including it,” said Debbie.

Nourish features 140 recipes from 50 creative cooks (95% of which are gluten-free or gluten-free optional), with the goal of bringing back the pleasure of eating simple and delicious food that even kids can make. Stand out recipes include Harmonizing Hijiki Salad, Tomato Risotto with Spinach and Asparagus, Bison Meatballs, 5 Minute Peanut Sauce, and Banana-Mango Nice Cream.

During their personal cooking tour through Nourish, Wendy and Debbie came across ingredients that they had never heard of such as sambal. And now that they’ve tried it, they’re not going back!

“There are unique recipes that include ingredients like seaweed, but there’s also kale which is a household name. Nourish gives people the option to explore new ingredients and it’s all about getting people back in the kitchen. Food is healthier when we cook it ourselves,” said Wendy.

Extra Information In Nourish

Not only does Nourish have 140 recipes that will keep you cooking all year long, but it also provides some information about what Wendy and Debbie feel is “good stuff to know.” Nourish’s first chapter is dedicated to educating their readers about the differences between common food buzzwords such as GMOs, organic meat, gluten, soy, and sweeteners.

“These ingredients are in the recipes. We felt we had to clarify for our readers and give them the facts so they could decide for themselves,” said Debbie.

Wendy and Debbie have been bitten by the cookbook writing bug and are already working on their third cookbook, Seasoned, which is scheduled to debut in 2014.

If you’re looking to eat healthier and want some simple yet delicious and unique recipes, you can purchase Nourish on their website www.renewhealthbooks.com.

Melissa Beveridge is a freelance journalist and editor, focusing on great food, healthy living, and wellness. Her passion for eating and living well embodies her writing. A lover of all things Jersey, she is also an avid traveler, always looking to discover those hidden culinary gems everywhere she goes. Her musings can be found on her blog mbeewell.wordpress.com. – See more at: http://www.jerseybites.com/the-team/#sthash.Ezf9Okgz.dpuf

It’s Soft Shell Crab Time, You Better Hurry!

Recipes

JerseyBites

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June 15, 2013

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It’s Soft Shell Crab Time, You Better Hurry!

It’s that time of year again! Usually from May to September in New Jersey, and it has to be just the right time to get them. Soft Shell Crabs are found up and down the coast from New Jersey to Florida on the East Coast as well as the Gulf.

Most Soft Shells come from the Chesapeake Bay area. They are really blue crabs that have recently shed their shells to grow bigger. It happens around 20 times in their lifetime to allow for their growth. Who knew? I am glad they do because this allows us to enjoy their tender, sweet meat in a delicious, edible, soft shell.

There are many ways to prepare soft shell crabs: in sandwiches, salads, sautéed, deep fried, breaded, floured, you name it, it has been done.

I remember eating my first soft-shell crab when I was 12 years old. I was already a seafood lover, from clams and mussels to shrimp, lobster, and crab, but this was different. You could eat the shell! As a kid, I thought that was pretty cool, still do.

Once you taste them there is no turning back, you will be hooked. Pardon the pun. My favorite recipe is simple and quick. Nothing fancy, but full of flavor. This recipe for Sautéed Soft Shell Crabs is a family favorite and makes a great dinner party dish, both easy and elegant. Just add some parsley rice, grilled asparagus, and a tossed salad; this dish will become a go-to for your next get-together. A nice light white wine and some candles on the deck and it’s a party!

Sautéed Soft Shell Crabs

Ingredients

4 soft shell crabs, cleaned
2 lemons
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup flour
1 to 2 tbsp capers
1 tbsp chopped parsley
garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Season crabs with salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste.
Dredge the crabs in the flour.
In large frying pan add butter and oil and heat on medium till hot and add crabs.
cook for 3 minutes both sides till lightly golden and crabs turn red.
Remove and place in platter.
Lower heat to medium low and add wine, lemon juice, capers and half the parsley and reduce for 3 to 5 minutes.
Pour over crabs and sprinkle remaining parsley.
Enjoy immediately.

Michele Errichett i is from South Jersey born and fed. She comes from an Italian family where they eat, live, and breathe FOOD. Michele was cooking and eating under her grandmom’s feet every Sunday for “gravy” and at home with her mother (a Medigan or American) during the week. Nowadays, she cooks for her two sons, husband, and father most days of the week. She takes “Girl Road Trips” with her friends at least once a month that always culminate with you guessed it, FOOD. She hopes fresh, local, organic, and free range will become the norm. Michele is searching Atlantic County for everything that has anything to do with good food and she’s taking you along for the ride.

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Events

Marina Kennedy

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June 15, 2013

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Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

June 15: Six Flags Great Adventure hosts their second annual Craft Beer Festival Saturday, June 15 with samplings from local breweries, an all-you-can-eat meal and special comedy show featuring Don Jamieson at 8pm in Showcase Theater! Sample award-winning beers, enjoy live entertainment and participate in the Best of NJ show brewery awards! General Information

NO-ONE UNDER 21 PERMITTED INTO FESTIVAL AREA
Festival takes place in the Catered Picnic Grove at Six Flags Great Adventure
General session:4:30 – 8:00pm
Season Passholder Early Entry 4:00 – 4:30pm
Theme park admission requires a separate entry ticket – Theme park operating hours are 10:30am- 9:00pm
Outside alcohol is not permitted
Pets are not permitted (excluding service animals)
Six Flags offers picnic table seating for over 1000 guests – blankets, chairs, pop-up tents and large beach umbrellas are not permitted Click for Tickets and more info

NJ Beer & Food Festival takes place at Crystal Springs June 14-15. This weekend-long celebration of craft beers also coincides with Father’s Day June 16 making it the perfect destination with something for everyone: beer lovers, golfers and families, with two top US ranked spas and the Biosphere indoor/outdoor pool complex as well. The two days of beer fest events include the “NJ Chefs & Brews” walk-around reception on Friday 6/14 (8-11pm, $95), with six chefs serving food paired with six New Jersey and New York beers. Participating chefs include Timothy Fischer and pastry chef John Sauchelli of Crystal Springs, Mike Carrino of Pig & Prince Restaurant & Gastrolounge (Montclair), John Halligan of Park Steakhouse (Park Ridge), Carlo Carbonara of Bottagra (Hawthorne) and Eric Levine of Morris Tap & Grill (Randolph). On Saturday 6/15, the ” Beer and BBQ Fest” tasting event gives attendees the opportunity to try 135 beers from 50 breweries including many craft brews from New York and New Jersey paired with delicious barbeque in a picturesque outdoor setting (3pm-7pm, $75 early bird, $85 after June 1st).

Also on Saturday 6/15 starting at 9am golfers will have the chance to participate in the “Brews & Birdies” golf tournament on the resort’s award-winning Wild Turkey and Ballyowen courses. Tastings of craft beers will be available on six holes of the course ($195 for golf and beer tastings). Other activities include a free outdoor grilling class Sat. 6/15 10-11am by Crystal Springs chefs in the resort’s lovely Chef’s Garden and free daily tours of the wine cellar, which is the deepest, most extensive collection in the Northeast US situated in over an acre of underground space and featuring some of the most prized bottles, rare vintages and perfect score 100-point wines.

All weekend, the resort’s two main restaurants, Crystal Tavern and Restaurant Latour, will each be serving special tasting menus paired with craft beers. Crystal Tavern features a three-course “Highlands” menu while Restaurant Latour offers an eight-course tasting menu in addition to a three-course prix-fixe and a five-course vegetarian Garden Menu.

On Sunday 6/16, the beer festival will wrap up with a special Father’s Day Lunch 12-4pm in the Chef’s Garden, a beautiful outdoor restaurant surrounded by a lush garden full of herbs and vegetables used in the resort’s restaurants. Three chefs will each prepare a course that will be paired with a different craft beer ($70 inclusive of food and unlimited beer; lunch menus sans beer will be offered to those under 21).

Reservations for all events can be made at www.njbeerfestival.com or by calling 973-827-5996 x 3.

June 22nd & 23rd: The summer will uncork in grand style when 18 of New Jersey’s finest wineries join together for the “Washington Lake Park Wine Festival” on June 22 – 23 from 12 noon – 5 pm each day. Produced by GPS, Inc. this weekend of great New Jersey wine, local culinary treats, fabulous live music, hand-made artisan crafts and kids activities is the right way to “sip into summer.” Live performances by The Gas House Gorillas on Saturday and The Funktion on Sunday. Tickets for the “Washington Lake Park Wine Festival” can be purchased in advance at a discounted rate of $15 and at the gate for $20. Spectators and those under 21 are free. Paid admission includes wine tasting of more than 300 NJ wines and a souvenir wine glass. Eats and treats are available to purchase and are not included in the paid admission. Washington Lake Park
647 Hurffville Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 609-758-5400 Website

June 23rd: Holmdel: Italian Food Festival 11am – 7pm, Dearborn Market’s first-ever Italian Food Festival will take place tented outside in the garden center. Enjoy delicious, Italian-American cuisine like homemade sausage, peppers & onions, porchetta, cured meats, cheeses, gelato, cannoli, zeppoles, and samplings from some of our favorite Italian Specialty vendors. Enjoy good food & family fun with live music, face painting and pony rides. More information is available by calling 732.264.0256, or online at www.dearbornmarket.com

June 26th: Brooklyn Brewery Beer Dinner… Brooklyn all the way!! Morris Tap & Grill. Menu: Welcome Beer, Brooklyn Weiss | 1st Course Sheepshead Bay Spicy Clam Strips with Garlic Foam, Bacon and Corn &
Brooklyn Summer Ale | 2nd Course Lundy’s Crab stuffed Shrimp with Sugar Snap Peas, Butter Lobster Meat on Sweet Pea Risotto & Brooklyn Scorcher | 3rd Course Bay Ridge Prosciutto and Burrata Pizza Roll with
Arugula Salad and Fennel, & Brooklyn Sorachi Ale | 4th Course Five Spice Rubbed Pork Loin and Coney Island Waffle Style Chips & Brooklyn Blast | Dessert The Brooklyn Bridge (surprise) with Brooklyn Monster Ale
$65 exc. tax & tip email to [email protected] to register with your credit card information.

June 29 and 30th: Sangria Sampler Wine Trail There is nothing like a tall, cool glass of Sangria on a hot, sweltering summer day. Travel the Vintage North Jersey wine trail to experience a wide range of mouth watering sangrias. From tropical white wine sangrias to deep fruity sangrias, you will learn a wide range of Sangria styles that you can make for your next summer party. Vintage North Jersey wineries located in Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon and Mercer counties will blend up their best Sangria recipes for you to sample. They will also offer recipes to help you mix your own at home. It’s a Sangria sipping adventure along the Vintage North Jersey wine trail. For more information: http://www.vintagenorthjersey.com/wine-trails/sangria-challenge-wine-trail/

July 12 – 14 New Jersey State Barbecue Championship℠. Free Admission. North Wildwood.The New Jersey State Barbecue Championship℠ is a three-day open-air festival featuring championship barbecue competition; live cooking demonstrations, special displays, and food and beverage vendors to satisfy every taste and appetite. http://www.njbbq.com/

July 20: NJ State Crab Festival Ice House Restaurant, 4415 Park Blvd., Wildwood. 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. “Crabby” fun for all ages! Blue Claw crabs! Beer Garden, “must try” crabby bloody mary! Vendors and exciting things for the kids including a crab race at 6 p.m. Live outdoor entertainment all day. 609.522.0033 or http://www.IceHouseWildwood.com

July 25 – 28: Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival. Headlining talents include: Robert Irvine, Rocco Dispirito and The Neely’s. Join us this summer at the Atlantic City shore for four days of fabulous foods, winning wines and celebrity chefs at the 2013 Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival. View Food & Wine Event Schedule

This Years Celebrity Appearances Purchase and Event Package

Favorite Recipes for Strawberry Season

JMalme

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June 14, 2013

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Strawberry season is in full swing, and boy, do the Jersey Biters know how to enjoy their strawberries! Here are a few recipes to tempt your taste buds…

Cardamom Biscuits with Strawberry Jam – Jennifer Malme, Cumberland County

Cardamom Biscuits – (Makes 20 to 24)

Ingredients:

2 cups flour
1 T baking powder
1 T sugar
½ tsp ground cardamom
¼ tsp salt
½ cup melted butter
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, ground cardamom, and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.

3. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto a greased cookie sheet (I use a Silpat silicone mat). Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Strawberry Refrigerator Jam – Makes 3 cups

Ingredients: 1 quart fresh local strawberries, ¾ cup sugar

Directions: Wash, hull, and chop strawberries. Place in a saucepan with sugar and mash with a wooden spoon. Heat over medium heat until mixture starts to bubble. Stir. Continue to cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Jam should keep for 2 weeks (if you don’t eat it all first).

Recipe used with permission from Down-Home South Jersey.

BOA 405 Cocktail – Veronique Deblois, Morris County

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle 2 ripe strawberries with ½ ounce simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water boiled then cooled) into a puree.

2. Add 1 ½ ounces Vodka (I use Ketel One), ½ ounce lemon juice, a splash of Balsamic vinegar and enough ice to fill the shaker to ¾ full.

3. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds then pour the strained shaker contents into a martini glass and top with a pinch of freshly-cracked black pepper and a ripe strawberry.

Strawberry and Tomato Salsa – Michele Errichetti, Atlantic County

Ingredients:

1 pint of strawberries, quartered
1 pint of grape or cherry tomatoes, quartered
½ cup of red onions, chopped
1 tbsp. chopped and seeded jalepenos
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp. chopped mint
2 tbsp. chopped cilantro
1 tbsp. lime juice
1 tsp. lime zest
1 tsp. sea salt

Directions:

1. Combine strawberries, tomatoes, mint, cilantro, onions, jalapenos and lime zest in bowl and set aside.

2. Combine lime juice, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and whisk. Pour over strawberry mixture and toss gently till coated. Refrigerate for ½ hour. Serve with tortilla chips or on top of grilled skirt steak or grilled skirt steak tacos for a refreshing change to regular salsa.

Strawberry-Kiwi Granita Shooter – Linda Arceo, Gloucester County

Giggles, Gobbles and Gulps. Linda can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.

Serves 10

Prep Time 5 min Cook Time 1 hr

Ingredients

2 whole kiwi, peeled and halved
12 ripe strawberries (10 for recipe and 2 for garnish)
2 tablespoons of orange juice
10 teaspoons of tequila (optional)

Instructions

Place kiwis, 10 strawberries and orange juice into the blender. Blend until smooth. Pour mixture into shallow glass and place in freezer. Every 20 minutes, scrape mixture in pan until frozen crystals appear and the granita takes on a slushy consistency. Spoon mixture into shooter glass and drizzle with 1 teaspoon of tequila (if using). Complete the same process for the remaining 9 shooter glasses. Slice reserved strawberries and place on shooter glass for garnish.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp – Hillary Irwin MS RD

simplybeautifulmom.com Hillary can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest

Filling:

1 pound strawberries, hulled and quartered
1 pound rhubarb (about 4-5 stalks), cut into 1/2-inch pieces (if the stalks are thick, cut them in half lengthwise first)
1/3 cup honey
2 tablespoons arrowroot starch (or 3 tablespoons whole wheat pastry flour)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

2/3 cup old-fashioned oats
1/3 cup white whole wheat pastry flour (or regular whole wheat flour/flour of choice)
1/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Mix strawberries, rhubarb, honey, arrowroot (or flour) and vanilla extract together in a 9×9 inch oven safe dish.

3. In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the oats, flour, brown sugar and salt. Mix in the melted butter. Stir until all of the flour is incorporated and the mixture is moistened throughout. Spread over the fruit; use your fingers to evenly distribute the mixture.

4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling around the edges and the top is turning lightly golden. Let the crisp rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Serve with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How do you enjoy your Jersey Fresh strawberries? Tell us in the comments below.

Kind Burger Gets NFCA’s Great Kitchen Seal of Approval

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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June 13, 2013

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Kind Burger Gets NFCA’s Great Kitchen Seal of Approval

Kind Burger announced the relocation and grand opening of their new River Road, Fair Haven restaurant. Opened in July of 2012, Kind Burger, a healthier burger “joint” had the promise of high foot-traffic on Ocean Avenue in Sea Bright, unfortunately, this great locale was short-lived. Raging Hurricane Sandy floodwaters inundated the brand new storefront destroying everything in it. The Cafaro’s, Anthony and Yvette, husband and wife owners, were anxious to reopen but forced to relocate further inland and found a new home in the former Le Fandy location.

Kind Burger brings high quality gourmet burgers, dogs and fries with gluten free, dairy free, nut free and worry free options to its guests.

On the menu:

Black Angus beef burger, American Kobe beef burger, turkey burger, lamb burger and marinated Portobello mushroom. Kind beef burgers, unless specified organic, are natural. Kind Burger uses 80/20 high quality ground chuck. All burgers are available on your choice of a potato roll, whole-wheat roll, gluten free roll or a lettuce wrap.

“Our burgers are never frozen. The quality beef is cooked on a Keating chrome top griddle in our opinion produces a great tasting burger. We also fry in Canola oil, therefore able to accommodate customers with peanut allergies,” states Cafaro.

There is no worry for cross- contamination cooking. Automatic fryers deliver a consistent product. Love fries? Choose between white crinkle cut, and sweet potato fries. Don’t care for a burger, they also offer three types of Hot Dogs – All beef Sabrette, Organic Turkey dog and Black Angus Dog. The turkey hot dogs are organic & also available are Bell & Evans hormone free, gluten free chicken tenders. Kind Burger will also offer organic specials.

The owners’ daughter suffers from a gluten allergy. After her diagnosis, they immediately started cooking gluten free foods and were eager to help the gluten-free community

Kind Burger is the proud recipient of the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) GREAT Kitchen seal of approval. As a GREAT Kitchen, Kind Burger is serving “gluten-free” with proper training and knowledge to be a gluten free, worry free establishment. You can also find Kind Burger on “Find Me Gluten Free” website and app, Kindburgers.com and Facebook.

Kind Burger

609 River Road

Fair Haven, New Jersey 07704

Morris Tap & Grill Brooklyn Brewery Beer Dinner

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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June 12, 2013

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Since 1988, Brooklyn Brewery has brewed an award-winning roster of year-round, seasonal and specialty beers that have gained the Brewery notoriety as one of the top craft beer producers in the world. On June 26th, Morris Tap & Grill in Randolph, New Jersey will host an epic 5 course meal with variety of creative Brooklyn Brewery classics. Check the menu below. To register email [email protected]m.

Menu:

Welcome Beer
Brooklyn Weiss

1st Course
Sheepshead Bay Spicy Clam Strips with Garlic Foam,
Bacon and Corn
Brooklyn Summer Ale

2nd Course
Lundy’s Crab stuffed Shrimp with Sugar Snap Peas,
Butter Lobster Meat on Sweet Pea Risotto
Brooklyn Scorcher

3rd Course
Bay Ridge Prosciutto and Burrata Pizza Roll with
Arugula Salad and Fennel
Brooklyn Sorachi Ale

4th Course
Five Spice Rubbed Pork Loin and
Coney Island Waffle Style Chips
Brooklyn Blast

Dessert
The Brooklyn Bridge (surprise)
Brooklyn Monster Ale

$65 per person, excludes tax & tip
email to [email protected]m to register with your credit card information.

Morris Tap & Grill

500 Route 10 West, Randolph, New Jersey 07869

New Jersey Al Fresco Dining Guide

Veronique @ Food & Wine Chickie

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June 11, 2013

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Down to the Bone - Photo by Veronique Deblois — Down to the Bone – Photo by Veronique Deblois

Father’s Day comes at the perfect time for some Al Fresco dining, and we all know that outdoors is Dad’s favorite place to be (next to the BarcaLounger). We’ve got some suggestions from Hudson County to Atlantic County, and our favorite places in between.

Bin 14, Hudson County

Escape to the shady, secluded backyard at Bin 14, Hoboken’s first and only wine bar. Savor Chef Anthony Pino’s modern Italian tapas and sip one of 80 wines by the glass or an artisanal cocktail.

1314 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ. http://bin14.com 201.963.WINE

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Central Kitchen, Bergen County

Outdoor seating for 40 on two glassed-in patios (one with its own bar!). Bergen County diners can people-watch while enjoying the restaurant’s Contemporary New American cuisine with an Italian twist.

717 East Palisade Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ. http://www.centralkitchennj.com/ 201.503.0104

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Courtyard Grill at The Madison, Burlington County

The outdoor bar and barbecue grill is featuring a new casual, economical menu featuring hot dogs and hamburgers, sausage and salads. Gorgeous setting conveys a rustic elegance; brick courtyard with an oversized fieldstone fireplace; wrought iron umbrella tables arranged on on the bluestone patio; bar crafted from timber and stone with black louver accents.

Tuesday – Sunday starting at 4:00 p.m. (weather permitting) Closed Mondays, Happy Hour daily 4pm-6pm, Entertainment Friday and Saturday night

33 Lafayette St Riverside, NJ 08075 (856) 764-4444 http://www.cafemadison.com/courtyard.php

Down to the Bone Barbecue, Sussex County

Located on beautiful Lake Lackawanna in Byram, Sussex County NJ, we’ve got all of your classic BBQ faves: ribs, fried chicken, wings, po’boys and platters

172 Lackawana Drive, Byram, NJ. http://down-to-the-bone.com 973-347-BONE

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Maritime Parc, Hudson County

Damaged during Superstorm Sandy, Maritime Parc’s outdoor bar has been completely rebuilt. Overlooking Liberty Marina, the Hudson River, and the glorious Manhattan skyline, the restaurant’s al fresco space seats 60 for à la carte dining, 30 in the bar area. Also available for private cocktail parties or dinners for 100-200 guests on Monday and Tuesday.

84 Audrey Zapp Drive, Liberty State Park – Jersey City, NJ 07305. www.maritimeparc.com 201.413.0050

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Pilsener Haus & Biergarten, Hudson County

Pilsener Haus & Biergarten brings the old-world biergarten tradition to life. Meet old and new friends at sunny communal tables with frosty mugs of premium draft and bottled craft beers and sizzling sausages from the grill.

15th St., btw Adams & Grand, Hoboken, NJ. http://pilsenerhaus.com 201.683.5465

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Porta Park, part of Porta the restaurant in Asbury Park

Porta, Monmouth County

Porta in Asbury Park takes their outside dining so seriously, they’ve dubbed it “Porta Park.” Porta is a place to go for inventive pizza and pasta, very healthy and delicious salads and lot’s of fun: live bands, bocce ball, picnic table dining inside and out, and so much more.

911 Kingsley Street, Asbury Park, NJ. http://www.pizzaporta.com

Red Knot at Galloping Hill, Union County

This Contemporary American gastropub features a grand covered slate terrace that seats 50 and overlooks panoramic views of the challenging 271- acre municipal course known as “the home of public golf in New Jersey”. The new restaurant showcases the Garden State’s bounty of fresh farm produce, Jersey shore day boat catch, specialty meats, fine chocolates, cheeses and beer.

3 Golf Drive, Kenilworth, NJ 07033. http://www.gallopinghillgolfcourse.com/Red-Knot-Restaurant 908.686.1556

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Sam Mickail’s CUT Steak House, Essex County

On June 4th, Sam Mickail’s CUT Steak House will launch its After Work Patio Party on the 5,000 square-foot patio. Think cool drinks + small bites in one of the dozen Miami-style cabanas, surrounded by palm trees with great contemporary sounds in the air. The Patio will be open Tuesday-Friday 5.00-7.00 pm.

466 Prospect Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052. www.cutsteakhousenj.com 973.474.9896

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Samba Montclair, Essex County

Score one of the few marble-top bistro tables outside Ilson Goncalves’ Brazilian restaurant for an even more charming experience than you’d have indoors. Nighttime features twinkling white lights, candles and truly authentic homestyle Brazilian cuisine.

7 Park Street, Montclair, NJ 07042. www.montclairsamba.com 973-744-6764

Submitted by Veronique Deblois

Ventura’s Greenhouse, Atlantic County

This Margate beachside mainstay jumps in the spring and summer with their large tiki deck and raw bar offerings, along with tons of other great bar offerings like juicy burgers and fries and all the rest. The place to see and be seen in the heart of the summer. Enjoy your favorite libation as well, right next to famous Lucy The Elephant the iconic mascot, larger than life NJ attraction which was designed to be a hotel where you could look out the pachyderms’ “arse” through a window in your room! What more could you ask for?! Check for times and dates of opening due to weather and season.

106 S. Benson Ave., Margate, 609-822-0140, [email protected]

The Boondocks Fishery Red Bank, Monmouth County

Be sure to visit Kelly at The Boondocks this summer as she reopens after being washed out by Hurricane Sandy. Currently in the process of renovations, The Boondocks is expected to be open this summer. Diners will enjoy fresh lobster while sitting outside on the deck overlooking Marine Park and the Shrewsbury River. Bring your favorite bottle of wine or six pack of beer and make it an evening with friends! Find them on Facebook for opening dates.

1 Marine Park, Red Bank, 732-747-7177

Submitted by Melissa Beveridge

Nektar Naturals coming to Kings Food Market

Food News

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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June 10, 2013

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Nektar Naturals coming to Kings Food Market

Sponsored Content by Nektar Naturals

When Freehold native, Jeremy Edelman, was working in marketing for the NBA in Manhattan, he kept running into a sticky situation on an all too regular basis. As an avid tea drinker who prefers honey to sugar, he was frustrated by the mess that always came when trying to fish out the traditional honey packets from the gummy jar at his local coffee shop. “To me the solution was simple – develop an easy to use, no-sticky-mess version of traditional honey and have fun while doing so.” Jeremy explained.

Fast forward 3 years and Nektar Honey Crystals can be found in over 1500 locations, and was even spotlighted in Everyday with Rachel Ray magazine as one of their “brand new buys to shake up the grocery list.”

This all natural granulated honey product is made using 100% all natural grade A domestically sourced honey. “Consumer reaction has been phenomenal. There seems to be the “ah ha!” moment when people realize that this is honey without the sticky mess. They begin instantly brainstorming on new and unique places they can use Nektar Honey Crystals – on peanut butter sandwiches, salads, drinks, etc.” Jeremy added.

Nektar Naturals will be at Kings Food Markets between June 14th and 16th demoing their signature 40 packet box of Nektar Honey Crystals. Please check with your local Kings Food Markets below for times and details.

6/14: Morristown, Midland Park, Garden City (NY), Gillette

6/15: Verona, Short Hills, Garwood, Hillsdale, Old Greenwich (CT)

6/16: Boonton

Please visit www.nektarnaturals.com for additional locations, tasty recipes and other information. Also like them on Facebook at NektarNaturals

Fine Dine on a Dime in Bergen County

Bergen County

Lisa Pisano

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June 7, 2013

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Bergen County foodies will tell you that there is no shortage of fantastic fine dining establishments in the area. And while the food, service and experience is often worth the hefty check that comes along with enjoying these extravagant meals, there are some hidden gems worth noting that allow for a taste of gourmet without putting a hole in the wallet. Here are a few ways to take advantage of fine dining in Bergen on a budget:

The Early Dining Menu

Banish any preconceived notions you might have about “Early Bird Specials” and use this as an opportunity to try out a restaurant you may not have the chance to get into either due to lack of a weekend reservation, or if the listed prices seem a little too steep. Early menus can also be a lovely prelude to a night on the town.

One restaurant that seems to have the Early Dining Menu formula down is the Ivy Inn in Hasbrouck Heights. This cozy, romantic bar and restaurant offers what they call “The Best Dining Value in Bergen County” – a three-course gourmet dinner for $15.99 per person during limited hours all week long. They also offer a wine special, with bottles priced at $15.99. The menu can be a bit limiting (there are just five entrees to select from) but there is no arguing the price/value equation and the overall charm and ambience of the restaurant setting.

Ivy Inn
268 Terrace Avenue
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604
(201) 393-7699
http://www.ivyinn.com

The Prix-Fixe Menu

A distant cousin to the Early Dining Menu, a Prix-Fixe Menu is a great way to sample some of a restaurant’s signature dishes, often at considerable discount from the otherwise listed a la carte prices.

Perhaps the best kept secret in Bergen County is the “Taste of Latour” Prix-Fixe Menu offered most weeknights and on Sundays throughout all of dinner service at Latour in Ridgewood. This four-course menu shines, with ample selections to choose from and at the stunningly low price of $39.95 per person – which also includes dessert and American coffee or tea. Start with the Fallen French Cheese Soufflé, followed by the decadent Traditional Lobster Bisque soup before diving into the Pan-Seared Florida Grouper. And do not miss the Profiteroles & Ice Cream with Warm Chocolate Sauce for dessert. The pièce de résistance? It’s BYOB so not only do you save further on your dining experience, but you can also bring your favorite bottle of bubbly or Bordeaux along for enjoyment.

Latour
6 E. Ridgewood Avenue
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
(201) 445-5056
http://latourridgewood.com

The Tavern Menu

Also known as the “Bar Menu,” checking out the Tavern Menu at key Bergen County hotspots is a terrific way to enjoy a quality, gourmet experience in a more low key environment and at a lower price point.

Check out the “Bar Bites” menus at tony steakhouses like Morton’s The Steakhouse in Hackensack or The Capital Grille in Paramus. (Hot tip: The Capital Grille offers free valet parking for diners – no need to circle the Garden State Plaza parking lot!) You’ll find Tenderloin Sandwiches, Truffle Fries and Lollipop Lambchops for around $20 or less at The Capital Grille –half the price of an entrée in the dining room. While at Morton’s, if you time it right, you can enjoy Filet Mignon, Iceberg Wedge Bites and Crab Cakes for $7 on their “Bar Bites” menu during key “power hours” of 5-6:30pm and from 9pm-close. Outside of these hours, the same menu is still modestly priced at under $20 for tastes of what’s offered on their pricier dining room menu.

If you’re looking to dine outside of a chain establishment – or just dine outside — don’t miss the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern in Ho-Ho-Kus, where fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced fare can be enjoyed in their quaint and casual open-air bluestone patio, or inside the rustic Tavern. Their Bistro-Menu is offered all-day long, including moderately priced salads and entrees including their much talked about Tavern Burger.

Morton’s The Steakhouse
The Shops at Riverside
One Riverside Square
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 487-1303
http://www.mortons.com

The Capital Grille
1 Garden State Plaza
Paramus, NJ 07652
(201) 845-7040
https://www.thecapitalgrille.com

The Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern
1 E. Franklin Turnpike
Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423
(201) 445-4155
http://hohokusinn.com

Tell us about your experiences with any of the abovementioned establishments, or share how you fine dine on a dime in Bergen County in the comments section below.

Happy Eating!

Lisa Pisano is a Bergen-county based lifestyle blogger, PR/Social Media consultant and content director. Her love and appreciation of food began at an early age, in the kitchen of her Italian-American home, and then extended to a fascination and enjoyment of all things foodie as an adult. Food is very much a central part of Lisa’s personal life — from partaking in culinary vacations and walking tours to dining throughout the NY/NJ Metro Area and developing original recipes. Professionally, she’s worked as the first in-house PR Manager of Manhattan’s Institute of Culinary Education and has provided consulting and content creation to food websites and restaurants. Lisa brings her passion for food, fashion, family and pop culture to life through her blog,mom a la mode. Follow Lisa on Twitter @momalamode and onFacebook.com/momalamode.

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Events

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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June 6, 2013

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THIS WEEKEND…

JUNE 2nd-9th: Cape May: Cape May Restaurant Week. Known for its variety of fine dining experiences, from casual sit-down to formal dining, Cape May, NJ will showcase its best restaurants for the eight-day event, with restaurants offering fixed prices that make our culinary adventure both affordable and tempting. cmrestaurantweek.com

JUNE 6th: Holmdel: Italian Essentials: Wine & Entertaining with Victor Rallo

Dearborn Market is thrilled to include an evening with Victor Rallo in their new series of Home & Garden Workshops for the months of May and June. “Italian Essentials: Wine & Entertaining with Victor Rallo” will take place on Thursday, June 6th from 7pm- 9pm in their garden center. To coincide with the launch of a new book, restaurateur, wine connoisseur, and television personality Vic Rallo, along with his co-author, Anthony Verdoni, will discuss their favorite Italian Wines and how best to enjoy and entertain with them. Guests will sample rosé, white, & red wines, an assortment of authentic Dearborn antipasti & cheeses, and purchase their brand new book, 21 Wines. Beautiful Italian Specialty baskets will be raffled throughout the evening.

The cost of the evening is $20 and space is limited, so guests are encouraged to purchase spots by calling 732.264.0256 or online at www.dearbornmarket.com. Copies of Vic and Anthony’s new book, 21 Wines ($45), will be available for purchase at Dearborn prior to and during the event. To purchase tickets, click here.

JUNE 7th: Morristown: Five Course Tasting Dinner at The Artist Baker

A five course tasting menu of locally sourced foods will be prepared by Chef Andrea Lekberg at her boutique bakery located in downtown Morristown to raise funds for Slow Food Northern New Jersey‘s School Vegetable Garden Program. Gary Tonucci, the chapter’s wine enthusiast, has selected the New Jersey wines to pair with each course. Gary will provide information about the wines being served and viniculture in the state.

Please note that both vegetarian and vegan options will be available upon request. Tickets are $80 for Slow Food Members and $85 for non-members. Please book soon as space is limited by purchasing tickets online.

JUNE 7th-9th: Belmar: 27th Annual Belmar Seafood Festival

Visit Belmar for all things seafood during the New Jersey Seafood Festival June 7th 4-8pm, June 8th 11am-8pm and June 9th 11am-6pm. Held at Silver Lake Park, 5th & Ocean Ave, there are tents from top NJ restaurants, a beer and wine garden, children’s activities and live music. Click for more information.

JUNE 8th: Allendale: Nosher-Rye Deli Fundraiser

Nosher-Rye, the New York-Style deli, will be hosting a series of Borscht Belt comedy and trivia nights to be hosted by stand-up comic Esther Goodhart, a.k.a. Oriental Beauty. The series will kick off on Saturday, June 8^th at the 51 West Allendale Ave. eatery with two shows: 6-8PM and 9-11PM.

Patrons pay $20 as a cover and may choose from a price fixe menu ranging from $15.95-$17.95 for three courses. Nosher-Rye’s over-stuffed sandwiches have a cult-like following among deli enthusiasts who clamor for their house-prepared pastrami, corned beef and chopped live,r and other traditional kosher-style favorites. Goodhart promises to have guests laughing “their tuchases off” with her schtick (she’s a Korean who converted to Judaism, and her humor blends Asian and Jewish/Yiddish flavor) to salute Catskill’s greatest comics. The event will raise funds for Pascack Valley Meals on Wheels. Reservations are required: 201-784-1818.

June 8th and 9th Stone Harbor Seafood Festival. Saturday Noon to 8pm. Sunday Noon to 6pm. The best in Stone Harbor Seafood from local restaurants. Enjoy the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce Beer Garden, a Clam pitching tourney, children’s activities, crafts, and boats and jetskis on display.

JUNE 8th: Asbury Park: Asbury Park Blues & Brews Festival. 12-8pm. Enjoy six great bands, a beer garden, vendors, crafters, art and above all, Music! Click for more information.

Jersey Shore Wine Festival:Saturday and Sunday at FirstEnergy Park

June 8th and 9th: Lakewood BlueClaws 3rd annual Jersey Shore Wine Festival

at FirstEnergy Park. The festival celebrates New Jersey wines and the many varietals produced in the area. In addition to wine tasting, the festival features live musical entertainment, crafters, vendors, and food. The event runs each day from 12 noon to 5 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the gate for adults 21 years and older. A two-day ticket option is also available for $25. Those under 21 years of age or designated drivers are free.
For more information, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

AND BEYOND…..

June 15: Six Flags Great Adventure hosts their second annual Craft Beer Festival Saturday, June 15 with samplings from local breweries, an all-you-can-eat meal and special comedy show featuring Don Jamieson at 8pm in Showcase Theater! Sample award-winning beers, enjoy live entertainment and participate in the Best of NJ show brewery awards! General Information

NO-ONE UNDER 21 PERMITTED INTO FESTIVAL AREA
Festival takes place in the Catered Picnic Grove at Six Flags Great Adventure
General session:4:30 – 8:00pm
Season Passholder Early Entry 4:00 – 4:30pm
Theme park admission requires a separate entry ticket – Theme park operating hours are 10:30am- 9:00pm
Outside alcohol is not permitted
Pets are not permitted (excluding service animals)
Six Flags offers picnic table seating for over 1000 guests – blankets, chairs, pop-up tents and large beach umbrellas are not permitted Click for Tickets and more info

NJ Beer & Food Festival takes place at Crystal Springs June 14-15. This weekend-long celebration of craft beers also coincides with Father’s Day June 16 making it the perfect destination with something for everyone: beer lovers, golfers and families, with two top US ranked spas and the Biosphere indoor/outdoor pool complex as well. The two days of beer fest events include the “NJ Chefs & Brews” walk-around reception on Friday 6/14 (8-11pm, $95), with six chefs serving food paired with six New Jersey and New York beers. Participating chefs include Timothy Fischer and pastry chef John Sauchelli of Crystal Springs, Mike Carrino of Pig & Prince Restaurant & Gastrolounge (Montclair), John Halligan of Park Steakhouse (Park Ridge), Carlo Carbonara of Bottagra (Hawthorne) and Eric Levine of Morris Tap & Grill (Randolph). On Saturday 6/15, the ” Beer and BBQ Fest” tasting event gives attendees the opportunity to try 135 beers from 50 breweries including many craft brews from New York and New Jersey paired with delicious barbeque in a picturesque outdoor setting (3pm-7pm, $75 early bird, $85 after June 1st).

Also on Saturday 6/15 starting at 9am golfers will have the chance to participate in the “Brews & Birdies” golf tournament on the resort’s award-winning Wild Turkey and Ballyowen courses. Tastings of craft beers will be available on six holes of the course ($195 for golf and beer tastings). Other activities include a free outdoor grilling class Sat. 6/15 10-11am by Crystal Springs chefs in the resort’s lovely Chef’s Garden and free daily tours of the wine cellar, which is the deepest, most extensive collection in the Northeast US situated in over an acre of underground space and featuring some of the most prized bottles, rare vintages and perfect score 100-point wines.

All weekend, the resort’s two main restaurants, Crystal Tavern and Restaurant Latour, will each be serving special tasting menus paired with craft beers. Crystal Tavern features a three-course “Highlands” menu while Restaurant Latour offers an eight-course tasting menu in addition to a three-course prix-fixe and a five-course vegetarian Garden Menu.

On Sunday 6/16, the beer festival will wrap up with a special Father’s Day Lunch 12-4pm in the Chef’s Garden, a beautiful outdoor restaurant surrounded by a lush garden full of herbs and vegetables used in the resort’s restaurants. Three chefs will each prepare a course that will be paired with a different craft beer ($70 inclusive of food and unlimited beer; lunch menus sans beer will be offered to those under 21).

Reservations for all events can be made at www.njbeerfestival.com or by calling 973-827-5996 x 3.

June 23rd: Holmdel: Italian Food Festival 11am – 7pm, Dearborn Market’s first-ever Italian Food Festival will take place tented outside in the garden center. Enjoy delicious, Italian-American cuisine like homemade sausage, peppers & onions, porchetta, cured meats, cheeses, gelato, cannoli, zeppoles, and samplings from some of our favorite Italian Specialty vendors. Enjoy good food & family fun with live music, face painting and pony rides. More information is available by calling 732.264.0256, or online at www.dearbornmarket.com

June 26th: Brooklyn Brewery Beer Dinner… Brooklyn all the way!! Morris Tap & Grill. Menu: Welcome Beer, Brooklyn Weiss | 1st Course Sheepshead Bay Spicy Clam Strips with Garlic Foam, Bacon and Corn &
Brooklyn Summer Ale | 2nd Course Lundy’s Crab stuffed Shrimp with Sugar Snap Peas, Butter Lobster Meat on Sweet Pea Risotto & Brooklyn Scorcher | 3rd Course Bay Ridge Prosciutto and Burrata Pizza Roll with
Arugula Salad and Fennel, & Brooklyn Sorachi Ale | 4th Course Five Spice Rubbed Pork Loin and Coney Island Waffle Style Chips & Brooklyn Blast | Dessert The Brooklyn Bridge (surprise) with Brooklyn Monster Ale
$65 exc. tax & tip email to [email protected]m to register with your credit card information.

June 29 and 30th: Sangria Sampler Wine Trail There is nothing like a tall, cool glass of Sangria on a hot, sweltering summer day. Travel the Vintage North Jersey wine trail to experience a wide range of mouth watering sangrias. From tropical white wine sangrias to deep fruity sangrias, you will learn a wide range of Sangria styles that you can make for your next summer party. Vintage North Jersey wineries located in Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon and Mercer counties will blend up their best Sangria recipes for you to sample. They will also offer recipes to help you mix your own at home. It’s a Sangria sipping adventure along the Vintage North Jersey wine trial. For more information: http://www.vintagenorthjersey.com/wine-trails/sangria-challenge-wine-trail/

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Kind Burger Gets NFCA’s Great Kitchen Seal of Approval

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Nektar Naturals coming to Kings Food Market

Fine Dine on a Dime in Bergen County

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

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