Compassion Café, now in its second year of residency on Long Beach Island, is a café on a mission. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Compassion Café provides meaningful employment and job training for older teens and adults with disabilities. It was truly an honor for me to speak to the café’s founder, Sue Sharkey, and to learn more about the café and its positive impact.
More Than a Café
Each season, Compassion Café sets up shop in “borrowed” space. The unique nonprofit, founded by Sue Sharkey, is currently set up in the beautiful Sea Shell Resort in Beach Haven.
Compassion Café is committed to hiring everyone who applies. This season they have a paid staff of about 70 members and a volunteer base of about 100. The Café is also willing to work with the staff on scheduling. Each member can have up to 10 hours of work per week, based on their availability. Volunteers usually come in once a week.
Providing valuable work to the special needs community not only produces a paycheck, but also imparts a feeling of independence, self-confidence and work skills that can be applied to other jobs. This season there are many returning employees as well as a couple of staff members who have used their customer service skills to obtain employment in addition to their café hours.
Dine In or Take Out
Seasonally, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 11 a.m., Monday through Thursday, customers can dine in or pick up some grab-and-go hot or iced coffee, tea, and light fare such as bagels, pastries, fruit, yogurt, and carrot cake. The staff also makes items for a dog menu, so bring your pup!
Time to Shine
In this world of rushing around, patrons of the café are there for the experience: hope and possibility. In a calm atmosphere, customers are happy to watch the staff learn, grow more confident, and shine as they take orders, pack to-go bags, hand out menus, and tidy up.
Get Involved
Donations to Compassion Café are the fuel that keep the team’s mission alive. Donations provide the Café with everything needed to operate including food, aprons, sanitation, advertising, menus, and more. The majority of donations go directly to funding payroll for the staff.
If you would like more information about employment or volunteer opportunities please email: [email protected].
Compassionate Café 2022 Season
10 S Atlantic Ave
Beach Haven, NJ 08008 Website
Having finally seen Spider-Man: No Way Home, I can confirm that the saying, “not all heroes wear capes,” is true. Not once during the movie did I see Peter Parker’s alter ego swinging around town with a cape waving in the wind. Still, I think the saying is probably meant to be taken less literally than that.
It’s true, real heroes don’t need to be seven-foot-tall gods or wear metal cuffs to ward off enemies. They can be individuals just like you and me. And now, thanks to New Jersey’s first food rescue charity, founded in 1999, Table to Table, it’s never been easier to “be a hero.”
The organization’sI-Rescue app, recently expanded its reach. It now connects volunteers in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Passaic Counties to recipient agencies such as food pantries and shelters that feed communities in need. Developed through a partnership between Table to Table, Bergen County and the Russell Berrie Foundation, the app first launched about a year ago.
Who, What, Where
Table to Table has helped feed economically disadvantaged families throughout Essex, Hudson, Bergen, and Passaic Counties. What started out as a group of passionate volunteers with a donated van in 1999, has progressed into something quite magnificent.
Today, Table to Table has a fleet of seven refrigerated trucks that pick up fresh food from over 200 donor restaurants and grocery stores. To date, they have delivered over 227 million meals through their network of centralized distribution hubs in Newark, Bayonne, Jersey City, and Paterson.
How Can I Help?
Somewhere on your phone, maybe between your Instagram and Uber apps, you can download Table to Table’s I-Rescue app and immediately start making a difference. It’s easy to register as a volunteer and begin claiming rescued food at designated times that fit your schedule. And just like that, your comic book origin will begin.
“Our I-Rescue app has rescued and delivered more than 129,000 pounds of fresh food to hungry New Jerseyans,” said Julie Kinner, VP of operations. Kinner stresses that this form of volunteering requires minimal direct contact, which helps to reduce Covid fears.
If you don’t have a vehicle, you can still offer support. You can hold your own fundraiser or donate your time at a future event. And you can always donate financially or become a food donor.
Upcoming Fundraising Events
Follow Table to Table’s Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on important upcoming events. Mark your calendar for the following events in particular:
Monday, June 13, 2022
7th Annual Golf Classic
Knickerbocker Country Club
Tenafly, NJ Details linked here.
Wednesday, September 21, 2022
Chef’s Gala
Edgewood Country Club
Rivervale, NJ Details linked here.
Remember, anyone can be a hero! And that includes you.
The Inn at Fernbrook Farms recently held their first event of the season. A true feast for the senses, the evening started with an enticing herbal tea cocktail straight from the imagination of the host presenter and tea guru, Miriam Novalle of T Salon. Made with her own blend of coconut tea, pineapple, fresh basil, tequila and an array of tropical juices, the cocktail served as the perfect ice breaker as guests arrived, mingled, and were seated. Throughout the evening Miriam delighted and entertained guests with stories about her travels in the world of tea and her experiences as the proprietor of T Salon.
A Tribute to Spring
The each course of the four-course spring grazing menu included a tea pairing. The first course, a petite plate of starters that included lemon basil ricotta crostini, salmon mousse cream puff, and a radish dipped in farm-made butter, was paired with an organic white ginger pomegranate tea.
The next course included a delicate salad of greens grown onsite, local asparagus, bacon, and creamy caper dressing, with an organic Sencha green tea.
The main course, a sampling of grass-fed lamb lollipop with mint pesto and parsnip puree, heritage pork medallion with roasted beets and carrot chutney, and organic roasted chicken with wild mushroom polenta was matched with organic Queen of Earle tea.
As a finale, chamomile lavender panna cotta with an almond biscotti was paired with Miriam’s signature tea and coffee blend.
This smart, well-paired grazing menu was truly divine! Everything presented was fresh, local, beautifully plated and delicious. There is something so special about a farm to table dinner and this one certainly hit all the marks.
Open For the Season
Nestled within 230 acres of preserved farmland, Fernbrook Farms has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway, elegant farm to table event space, or a unique place to host a weekend retreat- look no further than the beautiful Georgian-style inn.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) and Weekly Farm Shed
If you are lucky enough to live close enough for a regular pickup, Fernbrook offers a CSA program. With over 50 varieties of produce, members get weekly offerings across three seasons. If you are visiting on a whim please be sure to check out the weekly farm shed market.
Open to the public on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the farm shed market is a great spot for picking up fresh, seasonal produce and locally made artisanal pantry items. The farm shed makes it easy to take a piece of Fernbrook home with you. Pick up a couple of made-in-house, oven-ready dinners, dips, sauces, spreads, dairy, and bakery items. Please see the website for the week’s current offerings and details on how to order these items.
Environmental Education Center
At the Environmental Education Center, a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization, parents can register their children for onsite programs. Options include homeschool lessons, afterschool programs, and summer camp. All of the programs cover food, agriculture, and the environment.
The Education Center also gives back to the broader community with summer camp and field trip scholarships to low-income and at-risk children from Trenton. Learn more about these programs as well as how to donate by visiting the website: fernbrookfarms.com/center/support-us/urban-youth-scholarships/
Mark Your Calendar
If you missed the spectacular spring dinner and tea tasting at Fernbrook Farms, don’t fret! You’ll have another chance to dine at the Farm soon. Fernbrook has a farm-to-table BBQ event in the works, with a tentative date sometime in early July.
Sign up on the website for events, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to be in the know about this and all other upcoming events.
The Inn at Fernbrook Farms
144 Bordentown Georgetown Road
Chesterfield, NJ
609-298-0029
Website: fernbrookfarms.com
Temps are heating up and so is the New Jersey restaurant scene. From lobster at the Jersey Shore and over-the-top sandwich spots to new vegetarian and sushi options, you may have a hard time choosing where to go first. Enjoy!
Cousins Maine Lobster, Asbury Park
This popular lobster joint has opened yet another New Jersey location—this time, in Asbury Park. Known for its food trucks, CML has also opened a number of brick-and-mortar locations in recent years. The brand serves up lobster rolls, lobster bisque, lobster tails, and more—all fresh Maine lobster.
It’s been two decades since Pastosa Ravioli’s founder, Anthony Ajello Sr., planted the idea of an Eatontown location. Now, Pastosa has opened its doors in the Monmouth County town—its fifth New Jersey spot. The Italian market offers ravioli, of course, as well as plenty of pastas, sauces, cured meats, and cheeses, among other options.
Welcome to the Garden State, Hangry Joe’s! Recently opened in Florham Park, menu favorites include the chicken and waffles, the Korean chicken, plus a variety of sides and sauces. The fast-casual spot has locations in Virginia, Texas, and Maryland, too, with plenty of additional locations opening soon.
Jersey City welcomes Wattle Café to New Jersey. With locations in Manhattan’s Financial District and Murray Hill, this superfood destination takes pride in offering healthy, vegan options, plus keto-friendly, gluten-free, and sugar-free choices as well. The coffee is supplied and roasted by Brooklyn-based Abbotsford Road.
The fast-casual restaurant serving up fresh and flavorful “flats” has opened its third location, on Montclair’s Church Street. The “FLAT” staple of the worldFLATS menu is known in Armenia as lavash. Softer and more pliable than traditional flatbread and generally circular in shape, flats can be eaten flat or folded.
The vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant offers 11 varieties of flats inspired by cuisine and spices from around the world. In addition, the restaurant offers vegetarian soups, salads, desserts, and the option to add plant-based proteins to most menu items. You can also enjoy a pomegranate or mango yogurt drink, or a house-made Agua Fresca—fruit infused water with a touch of agave.
Located between 5th and 6th Avenues on New Jersey Avenue, Beach Bowls expands the fresh, healthy options available in the Wildwoods. This café-style space will feature a salad bar and a grab-and-go section. The menu also includes vegan options, gluten-free items, acai bowls, overnight oats, wraps, deli salads, and panini. Currently open on weekends, the spot will be open daily soon.
This Belmar favorite has just opened up a new location in Oakhurst. Stop by to enjoy the same menu as Belmar—plenty of “hoagitos,” as well as sliders, fried chicken sandwiches, breakfast choices, and sides. (Do not skip the macaroni and cheese.) The modern seating area offers guests an inviting place to enjoy a meal with friends. And be sure to check out the outdoor space as well!
Hoagitos
Towne Center Plaza
2005 Route 35, Unit 6
Oakhurst
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Paramus
Throughout the United States, people know Eddie V’s for its seafood. In addition to world-class fish, Eddie V’s offers USDA-Prime steaks that are hand cut and specially aged for more than 28 days to ensure peak flavor. The Paramus location is the first in New Jersey and officially opens on May 22nd.
For the past three decades, Tonnie’s Minis has been serving up specialty cakes and cupcakes in Newark. Now, the bakery expands to the Westfield Garden State Plaza Mall, in Paramus, with its newest location. While the cakes and cupcakes (including plant-based treats) are a given, Tonnie’s Minis is also the place to be for everything from banana bread to chocolate covered strawberries.
Chef Norman Reola highlights pan-Latin cuisine at this new Red Bank eatery with entrées such as sofrito marinated fried chicken, and skirt steak with chimichurri—plus plenty of appetizers. Don’t miss the cocktail list either, with handcrafted drinks featuring various tequilas, gins, bourbons, and more.
Downtown Westwood just got a bit more hip with the addition of Five Dimes. This craft brewery has ample seating and event space, as well as a rooftop to enjoy some brews on a warm summer day. The brewery offers plenty of beer varieties, from a double IPA to a stout and a blonde.
A small, green-and-white oasis on the side of Route 70 West in Southampton Township, the Evergreen Dairy Bar looks like a portal to an earlier place in time. Equal parts unassuming and intriguing, this eatery has been on my radar as a spot to try for quite a while.
A Step Back in Time
The Evergreen serves up breakfast all day, plus lunch and ice cream. I was overwhelmed with the menu choices of old-fashioned classic diner dishes, plus cheesesteaks, hoagies, hot dogs, and daily specials. With so many options, I just couldn’t decide. I asked my server to tell me about the most popular lunch dishes.
Her recommendation was a club sandwich. My options included turkey, ham and cheese, grilled chicken, chicken salad, tuna salad, hamburger or cheeseburger on my choice of toast. I went with a classic turkey club on rye, but I upgraded the standard fries, which come with the order, to onion rings.
Turkey club on rye, with onion rings, at the Evergreen Dairy Bar
My made-to-order lunch came quickly. My sandwich was just as it should be, with crisp bacon, just the right amount of turkey, and slathered with mayo. The onion rings were battered, whole slices and super crispy. It was a simple lunch, and when simple food is done well, you just can’t go wrong.
Room for Dessert
A trip to a dairy bar just would not be complete without ice cream. The Evergreen Dairy Bar serves Hershey’s ice cream by the scoop in cups, cones, sundaes, and banana splits. With a dozen delicious flavors to choose from, this was another tough decision! My choice of a banana pudding ice cream sundae with caramel sauce and chocolate jimmies really hit the spot—and made me smile.
A banana pudding sundae at the Evergreen Dairy Bar
Looking for More?
Full and very happy with my lunch, my next stop of the day was the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge. Located in Medford, NJ, the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge is a 170-acre, not-for-profit wildlife refuge and rehabilitation hospital with a nature center, picnic pavilion (with facility rentals), educational programs, and special events. The refuge also offers hiking trails and a view of the animals currently in rehab within their natural habitat. (See website for hours and information.)
Ready to Explore
After arriving at the Refuge, I checked in at the nature center, where I visited a small reptile and amphibian room. I learned about local snakes, turtles, and frogs, and then headed outside. After crossing a footbridge with a beautiful view of the lake I was able to visit a number of “residents” of the refuge including Hallie the bald eagle, a number of native owls, hawks, falcons, and vultures, and even a friendly mallard duck who calls the refuge home.
The Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge
I also saw a white-tailed deer, a raccoon, and a striped skunk relaxing. They stayed in their enclosures, outside of the warm sun.
You can really spend quite a while observing the creatures and reading about each species. Some of the displays even have information on how to symbolically adopt the animals. This helps with the cost of their care.
The three trails offer views of the lake as well as informational plaques. Check them out to learn about the trees and vegetation native to the Pinelands. The trails are well marked and well maintained, and have a few benches in case visitors need a place to stop and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Evergreen Dairy Bar 1643 NJ-70 Southampton Township, NJ 08088 Facebook
Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge 4 Sawmill Road Medford, NJ 08055 Website
This sponsored post is brought to you by the Bayonne Food Truck Fest.
Come celebrate the city of Bayonne! Take in the community atmosphere, kids’ rides, live music, and beer garden. Enjoy food from the best food trucks in Jersey as well as fun activities for the whole family. Hosted by the city of Bayonne, there is no fee to enter! Entertainment includes the Suyat Band and Who Brought the Dog! The Bayonne Food Truck Fest is open to all ages.
When
*UPDATE* This event has been moved from May 7 to May 14 due to weather.
Saturday, May 14, 2022
12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where
22nd – 24th Streets & Avenue E
Bayonne, NJ
The street will be closed down.
Admission is Free to All!
The Food Truck Fest is open to all ages!
No ticket purchase is required for entry.
Furry friends are welcome. This event is on the street, so please be mindful of the temperature for puppy paws if it is a hot day.
This sponsored post is brought to you by the Jersey City Wine Fest.
Get ready to warm up this April with The Jersey City Wine Fest on April 22, 2022, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The event takes place in the Harborside Atrium and outside along the Harborside Waterfront Esplanade. Take in the magnificent New York City skyline in all its glory while you enjoy over 100 styles of wine, access to food vendors with delicious options, and great music. Harborside is easy to get to, as it’s conveniently located adjacent to a dedicated light rail stop and less than 100 feet from the PATH station.
The Jersey City Wine Fest is a perfect opportunity for whiskey aficionados to meet and hang out on the picturesque Harborside and Waterfront Esplanade overlooking the New York City Skyline.
Wine Fest is your all-access pass to new wines from around the world. Guests will enjoy wine samples for the entire session along with live entertainment, interactive games, and access to a number of food vendors.
Guests at the Jersey City Wine Fest
With over 100 styles of wine and exhibits extending throughout the entire venue, it’s a great place to discover new wine and speak to sommeliers from across the country and beyond.
Guests will enjoy samples, paired with live music. Delicious food from Angry Archie’s, Chavas Empanadas, Mozzarepas, Taste of Poland, Waffle It, and more!
When
Friday April 22, 2022
6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Where
Harborside Atrium and Waterfront Esplanade
210 Hudson Street
Jersey City, NJ 07311
Ticketing Info
Tickets are available online! Take advantage of early-bird pricing!
Early-Bird General Admission: $65 through April 18 (includes tastings and a souvenir tasting glass)
General Admission: $70 starting April 18 and at the door (includes tastings and a souvenir tasting glass)
April brings many wonderful things with it. Trees and flowers start to blossom, days grow longer, and the entire month is dedicated to one of the most beloved sandwiches on the planet. Yes, April is National Grilled Cheese Month! To honor this wondrous occasion, we set out to find some of the best grilled cheese sandwiches in New Jersey. We also asked our contributors to chime in with their favorite spots for grilled cheese satisfaction. Dig in.
Toast City Diner, Asbury Park, Montclair, and Red Bank
Gourmet grilled cheese, with American, Swiss, cheddar, grilled onions, and mushrooms on multigrain bread is a three-cheese masterpiece that’s worth every calorie. The addition of onions and mushrooms is genius and elevates this Toast sandwich to the gourmet status it claims.
Wingcraft, Atlantic City
Wingcraft short rib grilled cheese
Wingcraft’s short rib grilled cheese includes braised short rib, cheddar, American, soup onions, and mozzarella. This hearty handful is another grammable sammy. With three different cheeses, a generous portion of tender short ribs and soup onions, make no mistake: This bad boy is no snack. Only the truly hungry need apply.
The Sand Castle Diner, Beachwood
Sand Castle Diner Beachwood
Outrageous and over-the-top versions of grilled cheese may strike my fancy on a whim, but the simple pleasure of perfectly toasted rye bread, Swiss that melted to gooey deliciousness, along with the slightly sweet bite of a sliced tomato will always be #1. Add in a cup of soup on the side (for dipping, of course) and every bite is a perfect bite. You can never go wrong with simple, quality ingredients done right.
The best place to enjoy it? I have been enjoying this classic at the Sand Castle Diner, in Beachwood, for over 20 years. It’s where I go for great food with fast and friendly service and a joke or sports antidote from the owner. The Sand Castle is the perfect spot to enjoy this comfort classic on National Grilled Cheese Day—or any day! —Jennifer Shafer
Tick Tock Diner, Clifton
Grilled cheese with bacon at the Tick Tock Diner
A grilled cheese sandwich at the Tick Tock Diner, in Clifton—comfort food that’s simply elegant. More than just a quick meal, it’s a statement on Garden State culture and tradition. Crispy, toasty, and tasty. My father used to say, “You can never go wrong with a grilled cheese sandwich, wherever you decide to eat.” In other words, it was always a safe choice. However, I’m pretty sure he was referring to diners, cafes, and luncheonettes in New Jersey, and not Le Bernardin, in Manhattan. Whatever.
I always enjoy slices of tomato with my grilled cheese sandwich, but this time I decided to be semiradical and go with bacon. Eat heavy, my friends; eat heavy! —Michael Gabriele
Art of Salad, East Brunswick, Long Branch, Piscataway
Art of Salad mozzarella grilled cheese
The Art of Saladmozzarella grilled cheese, served on toasted nine-grain bread, is a photo op if ever there was one. This ooey-gooey masterpiece is just begging for some serious cheese-pulling action.
State Line Diner, Mahwah
State Line Diner buffalo chicken grilled cheese
With provolone cheese and crispy buffalo chicken tenders, the breaded Buffalo chicken tenders with provolone cheese on your choice of bread brings two favorite flavors together for one super-satisfying lunch or dinner. State Line also offers many combinations of grilled cheese sandwiches in addition to an open-faced grilled cheese with bacon and tomato.
Coffee & Cornbread, Montclair
Coffee and Cornbread Vegan Grilled Cheese
You can be leaf it! The Be Leaf vegan bacon served with vegan cheese on your choice of organic peasant or sourdough bread offers all the comfort vibes of a traditional grilled cheese sandwich while it keeps your plant-based lifestyle unscathed. This, and more, at Coffee & Cornbread.
B2 Bistro + Bar, Toms River (brunch menu)
B2 Bistro + Bar Toms River – Short Rib Grilled Cheese
When you stop by B2 Bistro + Bar, do yourself a favor and order the short rib grilled cheese: short rib, caramelized onions, Gruyère, and American cheese on grilled brioche and served with garlic parmesan fries. This beefy beauty is only available on the weekend brunch menu, so plan accordingly and ask for plenty of napkins.
MooCheeze Food Truck
Gyro grilled cheese from MooCheeze food truck
My favorite grilled cheese sandwich is the gyro grilled cheese from MooCheeze—a self-
described gourmet melts, fries, and mac-and-cheese food truck, which can be found at festivals, wineries and other random places throughout the Delaware Valley. The gyro grilled cheese is much of what you would expect in the classic pita version, just not as sloppy, and delivered in grilled cheese form: tender, sliced gyro meat, crisp onions, tangy tomatoes and a fresh, vibrant tzatziki sauce, all held together by melted mozzarella cheese between two pieces of crunchy grilled bread.
With a unique menu—try a side of cheesesteak fries with your Gyro Grilled Cheese—you will not be disappointed! MooCheeze is definitely worth seeking out. —Todd Noon
Spring has sprung, along with many exciting new restaurants. From fast-casual concepts to upscale experiences and the GOAT by David Burke. Congratulations—and welcome—to all of New Jersey’s newest restaurants!
&pizza, Cherry Hill (plus additional locations)
This Washington, DC-based pizza chain is slowly making its way up the coast. Known for its eclectic vibe and oblong pizzas, &pizza has expanded its reach over the past 10 years. &pizza entered the New Jersey market via Paramus and now has a spot in Cherry Hill as well. High-quality ingredients define the customizable and consumers can also order a signature pizza. Additional locations in East Rutherford, Mt. Laurel, and Kearny are also set to open this year.
Cranford’s long-awaited tavern will offer a range of comfort food dishes, with Chef Ermelindo Firmani crafting options from upscale steaks to casual burgers, as well as wood-fired pizza. The eatery, architectural rendering at top, has created an American menu with an Italian and Mediterranean spin—the perfect spot for a dinner date or family meal. The restaurant, opening soon, also features a private room for special events. The restaurant expects to open the week of April 18th.
If you’re looking for central-European flair, you’ll find it at Charley, a new Viennese-inspired Harrison spot, with Chef Kurt Gutenbrunner at the helm. Featuring a menu full of local ingredients and seasonal produce, Gutenbrunner takes his appreciation of the casual Viennese bistro experience and brings it to life with dishes including Berlin currywurst and shitake spaetzle. The cocktail menu takes an Austrian twist, too, featuring spirits and ingredients from the region.
Jersey City’s Urby welcomes the newly opened Canard Café and Bar. Canard’s French-inspired cuisine consists of coffee, croissants, and plenty of homemade desserts. Breakfast and lunch are served as well, with sandwiches, crepes, quiche, and avocado toast on the menu, to name a few. The bar is a new concept by Sebastian Muller, the director of operations for Le District at Brookfield Place, in New York City.
Canard Café Bar
200 Greene Street (inside the Urby)
Jersey City
Crave Nature’s Eatery: Liz Martini, Wioletta Wyszynski, Samanta Filip, Suzanne Bimonte. (Photo by Andrew Schneider, Elusive Imagery)
Crave Nature’s Eatery, Lawrenceville
Craving healthy options in a fast-casual atmosphere? Crave Nature’s Eatery is your place. The menu features plenty of fresh juices and smoothies, plus items that pay homage to owner Violetta Wyszynski’s Polish roots. Those looking for customizable options will be pleased to know that Crave also offers build-your-own salad or grain bowls. Guests can choose from creative options for their meals, such as parmesan Brussels sprouts and Cajun cauliflower.
At Joe’s, the homemade bagels are a home run, but don’t let the name fool you! The eatery offers plenty of other menu choices as well. This breakfast-and-lunch spot just opened its newest location in Marlboro, and it’s offering up the same delicious fare Joe’s is already known for. Breakfast options include sandwiches, smoothies, and omelets, while lunch choices include wraps, panini, burgers, and even fat sandwiches.
This new Montclair spot brings fast-casual Mediterranean food to Valley Road, billing itself as “Mediterranean express cuisine.” Offerings include shawarma and falafel, plus hummus options and kebab platters. Zachy also serves shakes and desserts, including baklava and tiramisu. The spot caters to on-the-go meals, so while seating is limited, it’s a perfect takeout choice for lunch or dinner.
Jersey City’s The Franklin expands by opening a location just a few miles west, in Secaucus. Led by Chef Jaime Ramirez, a 20+ year veteran of North Jersey kitchens, The Franklin is conceived to be the friendliest and most accessible of neighborhood restaurants, but with an elevated aspect to many of the dishes on the menu.
Chef David Burke, who has several other restaurants around the Garden State, recently purchased the former Piero’s in Union Beach and has transformed it into an Italian-American pizza spot. The doors will opened April 6, and guests can make reservations online. ROI-NJ reports that, in addition to pizza, the new establishment will also serve various meat and chicken dishes, as well as salads.
Opening its doors on April 20, at 5 p.m., The Parkside Social is the seventh establishment in Northern New Jersey from Skopos since the group’s 2015 inception. Just a few blocks from Verona Park, in the former Ariane location, the restaurant is kicking things off with acts of kindness and generosity. The Parkside Social has partnered with Verona’s Holy Spirit Food Pantry for its opening. Stop by on April 20 to donate nonperishable items, and you’ll receive a $10 gift card toward a future meal at the restaurant!
March in New Jersey…the month where we long to put away the slow cooker soups and stews and begin to crave everything that is vibrant and fresh. After a cold, dark winter, the words “First Day of Spring” on the calendar were a most welcome sight! And although we have seen a decent number of mild days so far, this month has also had its share of cold—COLD—days.
Even though spring has sprung, we are still months away from the succulent strawberries, tender salad greens, and sweet English peas that we long for. What’s a foodie to do?
Here’s what: Head out to a farmers market. The winter farmers markets are still going strong and feature the best of what is grown locally and in season right now. Try these tips for a successful farmers market experience.
Keys to Farmers Market Success in Any Season
Be flexible. When you are shopping at a farmers market, the biggest key to success is to stay flexible with your meal plan. I am a meal planner and weekly prepper. By Wednesday, I usually have the following week’s meals planned and a shopping list written. But since there is no surefire way to predict what each stand at the market will have, it’s important to plan meals that can easily adapt to swaps and substitutions. If you have your heart set on something that a particular spot is known for, I suggest you call or message the farm on their social media to see if shopping ahead is available or if they can hold something for you.
Arrive early. An early arrival promises the best selection, but don’t get there before the market opens.
Bring small bills. Although many stands take debit cards or Venmo, you may find that you need cash for some stands. Small bills are important as they will prevent you from wiping someone out if they don’t have a lot of change.
Bring your own bags. If you’re not already doing this, there’s no better time than now to start.
Don’t forget breakfast! Going to a farmers market on an empty stomach can be even worse than going to the supermarket hungry. If doing so is unavoidable, though, many markets have breakfast stands or food trucks. Try these if you need to fuel up, and you’ll be supporting a local business.
Game Plan
For my winter market road trip I choose two markets, within in a reasonable distance of one another, to ensure the most variety in my purchases. I made a short list of my priorities and must-haves. While this step of the planning process is helpful for staying on track, impulse purchases are inevitable and part of the fun!
West Windsor Community Winter Market
My first stop of the day was the West Windsor Winter Community Market, which is held twice a month through April. Operating from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the market is set up outside. It was quite cold and windy the day I planned my shopping excursion, but I still had plenty of vendors to choose from.
My first stop was Bobolink Dairy. After reading about their small-batch cheeses, handmade charcuterie, and freshly baked breads, I was eager to try them for myself. I tried a few samples, and then happily purchased their cider-washed Amram cheese and a chunk of blue cheese, as well as fresh-baked apple biscuits and cheese biscuits.
My next stop was Jeff’s Organic Produce (pictured at top), where everything looked bright, fresh, and beautiful. I loaded my bag up with rainbow chard, celery, rutabagas, and finger radishes. After that it was Griggstown Farm for a few famously delicious chicken pot pies, which are an easy dinner to stash in the freezer and keep on hand for busy nights.
From there I stopped by and chatted with the purveyor of Two River Mushroom Co., who is in the process of setting up a larger facility, but currently cultivates his mushrooms in a shipping-container-turned-farm. I just could not resist a large variety basket of mixed exotic mushrooms including oyster, lion’s mane, shiitake and cinnamon cap.
Beechtree Farms was my final stop of the day for a few thick-cut chops from pasture-raised pork.
Trenton Farmers Market
Touted the longest running farmers market in New Jersey, the Trenton Farmers Market is an indoor market held every week, from Thursday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Inside, you will find a variety of farms, shops, vendors, and lunch counters to browse and choose from for your purchases.
I did a little advance research and knew that my first stop would be The Pie’d Piper. On busy days they run out of their famous handmade pork roll and cheese pierogi before noon. Luckily, I managed to snag one of the few remaining containers. If you are not quite that adventurous, their pierogi also come in over a dozen savory varieties, plus a few sweet and fruit-filled selections as well. While I was waiting for my order, I was pulled in by the allure of the bakery case and added a coconut cream doughnut to my bag. Both were excellent choices.
With my main mission accomplished, I took my time looking around the rest of the market. I followed my list and was able to find chicken and mozzarella sausages, cracked pepper bacon, and boneless chicken from Cartlidge’s Meats of Lancaster, a basket of apples and sweet potatoes from Russo’s Farm, a fresh artisan boule and a lemon coconut loaf from Terra Momo Bread Company, and a bottle of wine from Terhune Orchards. At this point my bags were overflowing!
Not to be overlooked are the Trenton Farmers Market lunch counters. Selections include plant-based fare at both The Lady and the Shallot and Savory Leaf Cafe, mouthwatering smoked BBQ platters and sides at the Hambone Opera, and single-origin roasted coffee and breakfast sandwiches at Kafé Ojala. You’ll most definitely find something for every craving.
Overall, my farmers market road trip was a great success. I was able to create many meals for the week using my market purchases. Numerous other winter markets throughout New Jersey that operate on a weekly or monthly schedule. I plan to venture out to a few more before the flowers are in bloom. I hope you will be inspired to grab your market bags, brave whatever Mother Nature throws our way, and support NJ farms!
When I first heard the news about a Super Wawa breaking ground around the corner from my Union County house, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia. Flashbacks of scarfing down late-night meatball and provolone sandwiches as I stumbled back to my Rowan University dorm and memories of early-morning coffee runs gave me all the feels. It’s good for North Jersey to get a taste of what Wawa’s has brewing. Since 2013, when the first Northern location opened, in Kearny, Wawa has steadily grown its presence in Jets/Giants Country. It’s nearly a decade later and the flying goose logo is almost as familiar as the green QuickChek Q.
Did My Eyes Deceive Me?
I’d like to think of myself as a good neighbor. I try to support local whenever I can, even if it’s a $13 billion convenience store behemoth. So once the initial buzz settled, I made my first visit to Wawa. I poured a medium bold roast and scanned the store, soaking in that new car smell.
It felt familiar, like seeing an old friend. On my way out, I thumbed through the breakfast sandwiches with names like Sizzli burrito, Applewood smoked bacon and egg, and pork roll and cheese. Hold up: a what and cheese?
All at once, it hit me like Rowdy Roddy Piper putting on sunglasses in the under-appreciated sci-fi flick They Live. I was seeing the world for the first time and somehow I had been transported to a South Jersey convenience store. They were selling pork roll and hoagies, not Taylor Ham and subs. Individually wrapped Philly-style pretzels sat by the cash register while all the Drakes snacks had been replaced with a rack of Kandy Kakes, Butterscotch Krimpets, and Chocolate Juniors. (For the record, I’m not complaining about the latter. I understood what was happening. We were slowly being indoctrinated.)
The Neverending Debate
Ever since 1906, when John Taylor was forced by the government to change the name of his breakfast ham to pork roll, the state has been divided. On various Facebook groups, North Jersey loyalists refuse to accept the more-than-century-old name change. Meanwhile the rest of the state continuously points out the actual definition of ham.
While amusing at times, the arguments are exhausting. Still, the passion is unmistakable. Despite the facts, there is no wavering. There is no convincing the North that this is incorrect.
Is it possible that South Jersey has finally figured out how to win this argument once and for all? Are they using Wawa as a Trojan Horse, and changing the nomenclature from the inside? I know what you’re thinking: total conspiracy theory. Fair enough, except that the day after my trip to Wawa, I asked the town ice cream shop to put jimmies on my ice cream. How do you explain that?
Of course, I don’t really think Wawa, a company with Jersey roots that date back to the turn of the 20th century, is really masterminding a covert plot to convince Taylor Ham eaters to call their beloved breakfast meat pork roll. You must admit, though, it would be pretty cool if they were, with over 900 locations and counting, including the first in Sussex County planned for later this summer. Like it or love it, Wawa-speak is here to stay.
And for the record, I know the definition and it’s still Taylor Ham.
Hearth & Tap Co. in Montvale, NJ,is an Irish gastropub with a team that’s working every day to make this location the go-to spot for residents. The place has been in operation since 1998, when it was known as the Porter House.
In 2016, the establishment rebranded, but never missed a beat with its scratch-made food, cold drinks, and lessons in Irish history. Visitors can expect staple Gaelic cuisine surrounded by other left-field options that most customers would not expect.
Chicken pot pie and Herder’s lamb pie: classic Hearth & Tap dishes
“We’ve got the best chicken pot pie, but at the same time we’ve got Thai-chili Brussels sprouts on our menu along with empanadas, Mediterranean octopus, and brick-oven pizza,” said Alberto Andrade, the general manager. “It’s an Irish home base, but as long as it’s delicious we’ll put it out there and pair it with drinks like a mezcal margarita.”
Empanadas
The elevated bar food and craft cocktails might be mistaken for those of a much higher-end establishment, while the reasonable price point and laid-back vibe suggests this place is the daily watering hole for locals. The iconic building is home to a dedicated staff with goals for stupendous service and sustainably sourced food that is downright delicious.
Historic, Handcrafted Building
In 1997, Fintan Seeley sailed from New York, across the Atlantic, to his homeland of Ireland. Seeley’s goal was to bring enough recycled and historic material back from Ireland to form a “brand-new” building for his restaurant project in New Jersey.
Brick by brick, Fintan Seeley puts his passion for his home country of Ireland on display with the salvaged building blocks he used to create Hearth & Tap Co.
“We’ve got a floor that is almost 300 years old, which came from a linen factory in Belfast,” explained Seeley, the owner of Hearth & Tap Co. “Also, there’s mahogany flooring from a monastery that’s 200 years old—the monastery’s library ladder sits behind our bar today. Some of the beams, which can be seen from our main bar, are 700 years old. They’re from a parish that was decimated in 1847. I even have part of gallows where an Irishman was hung back in the 1800s.”
Fintan spent over four months traveling with his nose to the ground, seeking old-time materials that ranged from flooring and paneling to old cabinets, antiques, fixtures, and fittings.
In the end, he returned to the states with three, 45-foot commercial shipping containers full of reclaimed materials and antiques.
Seeley had a design drawn out—giving him a good idea of what he needed to find. However, some things he brought back with him were so rare that he wouldn’t have been able to draw it up if he tried. “My wife, Kelly, is from Belfast,” he said. “I met her on one of my trips sourcing artifacts.”
Kelly and Fintan Seeley
The Plan Takes Shape
Seeley returned to build his restaurant and Irish pubconcept in Montvale—opening for service in 1998. At the time, he was also owner at two restaurants in New York City—one in Brooklyn and the other in Manhattan. Despite his work in the restaurant industry, none of his projects would touch this “trash-to-treasure” concept in Montvale.
“I’m a big believer in recycling. We’ve become used to throwing too much away and there seems to be no motivation to fix things anymore,” remarked Seeley. “Terrible way to go and so bad for the world. To use this material again is a great feeling—to give the salvage a whole new life.”
The Food
While the Hearth & Tap Co. experience lends itself to hours of learning about reclaimed, historic architecture, it’s important to note that just as much thoughtful planning has gone into the menu.
Grilled Heritage pork chop served with roasted Brussels sprouts, fingerling potatoes, and pickled mustard seed on top.
“I used to run a prime steakhouse,” Seeley said. “But the volatility of the meat from January to July was crazy and the concept became inaccessible. There’s so much great, sustainable food out there that we can source while avoiding the crazy prices. Then we can pass on the savings to our customers. We work with several farms within a 60-to-70-mile radius for the fresh, organic, and sustainable items on our menu.”
The Hearth & Tap Burger
Hearth & Tap customers can come to the gastropub for a burger and cheesy tater tots. At the same time, the menu is home to slow-cooked, demi-braised lamb shank with duck fat roasted potatoes, and sautéed spinach. No matter what customers may select, there doesn’t seem to be a bad choice.
Thoughtful Planning
Seeley, along with Andrade, explained that the ever-changing menu options reveal the true sustainable nature of the restaurant’s concept.
“American culture has always been resilient, resourceful, and adaptable,” said Seeley. “We’re losing that resourcefulness, expecting to eat the same thing years round. We’re missing out on nutrients from a varied and seasonal diet. That’s kind of our M.O. with the menu. We change it as regularly as we can.”
Flatbreads
Menu fluctuations at Hearth & Tap are not related to any fad or trend. The ownership, kitchen, and management staff all work together to buy whole ingredients from farmers. The team buys what is available during a certain time of year and designs the menu from there.
Seeley sees a lot of the “standard” American restaurant and eating practices as backwards to the way he and his family ate while growing up in the Southeast part of Ireland, in a rural town called Carlow.
“In those days, we didn’t know the term organic—it was just called food.” laughed Seeley. “The term grass-fed beef is funny because there’s no other type of beef in Ireland. You see those buzz words, but they should not exist. People should be more concerned about GMOs in our products. To make more profit, they’ll put more in to eliminate disease in animals or crops. And as a result, we become immune. We need to be concerned with what’s going into what we eat.”
At the end of the day, products harvested from an ethical and experienced farmer speak for themselves. There’s no uppity vibe to Seeley. He doesn’t look down on a person who might eat differently than he does. His goal is to simply share his Irish culture and upbringing with Hearth & Tap’s customers.
A members-only cigar lounge offers members haircuts once a month.
Cig(ar)s Inside!
As if there aren’t enough facets to this restaurant, Hearth & Tap Co. is also home to a cigar bar and lounge where customers can enjoy a Montecristo with their petit filet or wild mushroom pasta.
The Hearth & Tap Cigar Lounge, complete with a members-only, humidor storage locker
“We’ve always permitted cigar smoking because of high ceiling and ventilation,” said Seeley. “We meet all state regulations—there are only seven other similar spots in the state. The cigar lounge is totally separate for any concerned diners. We have separate air handlers, four state-of-the-art smoke eaters, extractors for negative air pressure. So, there is no smell and even in the smoking section, you barely know they are smoking in there. We have a membership club with a facial recognition camera to get into the area.”
The Team
An Irishman and woman and a Spaniard walk into a bar… Rather than the start of any joke, this is the start of a newly assembled Hearth & Tap team. As General manager, Andrade, has 20 years restaurant experience with a fixation on what it takes to run a proper bar. Owner, wife, and fellow Irish descendant, Kelly is passionate about the service.
“The whole premise and theme are a nod to the pub culture in Ireland,” explained Fintan Seeley. “Pubs are the center of everything in each town. The spots for meetings and social events because people’s houses were way too small for entertaining. This is a huge part of the culture for recreation, music, and socialization. The character of all these items—from the floors to the paneling, you can tell its old and hopefully you can absorb that culture by osmosis.”
Upcoming at the Hearth & Tap Irish Pub
Everyone on the team had a different goal or event that they were most excited about. After about six months of working together, the team has most definitely found its stride.
Alberto and his masterfully crafted cocktails.
The team is excited for the upcoming “Jersey Jam” event. He said, “We’re going to feature a menu made up of all things NJ. Scallops from Barnegat Bay, ingredients from local farms, liquor from Asbury Park Distilling, and a general celebration of Jersey spirits and the abundance of food here in the Garden State.”
On the other hand, Alberto referenced Spanish night where tapas dishes inspired by Spain, Cuba, and Ecuador would be served to the tune of Gypsy Kings band.
“We’ll have a new event every three months. We’re thinking maybe a bourbon tasting in the cigar lounge, tequila night, rosé soiree, wine tastings, and during the week bingo, trivia, and ladies’ night. We’ll be creating new cocktails seasonally, to pair with the menu.”
Fun themes and new ideas seemed to be at the forefront of the leadership’s attention. Most importantly, the team prepped for St. Patrick’s Day. This Irish-to-the-core celebration features a special Irish breakfast with bagpiper performances, Irish dancing, and more.
The staff is ready to go for St. Patrick’s Day 2022!
At the end of the day, this hard work is all for the guests. “We want this to be your third place,” said Seeley. “Work, home, and here. We’re not just for a special occasion, but a place to come often and meet your neighbors.”
