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Pop-Up Time: Seoul Brothers Beer by Kimchi Smoke and Alementary Brewing Co.

The Kimchi Smoke Pop-Up is returning to the Alementary Brewing Company in Hackensack to feature the brand new Texan-Korean beer, Seoul Brothers!

Justin Crawford and Robert Austin Cho

April 12 and 13

On April 12 and 13, 2019, join Robert Austin Cho from Kimchi Smoke and Blake Crawford from Alementary to try their new collaboration beer, Seoul Brothers, while you munch on Southern-Korean barbecue.

Event details: Friday, April 12, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday, April 13, from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The combination of Southern-Korean BBQ and craft beer was clearly bound to happen. Since 2016, Cho has brought his nationally-acclaimed Korean barbecue to pop-ups at Alementary, who are known for their scientific approach and award-winning flavor combinations. Cho expressed to Crawford the view he had for the “perfect” beer. The final product is reminiscent of makgeolli, traditional Korean rice wine, while maintaining all the properties of a beer. This style is Blonde Rice Ale with ABV at 7.5%.

Seoul Brothers beer

Seoul Brothers will be released in six 12 oz. cans at the Alementary pop-up event. Cho will be on site doing his regular pop-up thing: selling his signature 12-hour-smoked Bad as Texas Brisket and Korean Redneck Tacos.

Alementary Brewing Co. (POP-UP SITE)
58 Voorhis Lane
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-968-1290

Kimchi Smoke
301 Center Ave.
Westwood, NJ 07675
201-497-6333

Bourbon BBQ and More from the Two Fat Guys Show

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Tune in for an all-new episode of The Two Fat Guys Show where DJ Joe the Great and the One and Only Nicky D bring you the following segments and topic of the week:

LISTEN NOW on iTunes!Podcast, The Two Fat Guys Show, Bourbon BBQ

LISTEN NOW on iHeart Radio!

Friday Night Food Tales

DJ Joe talks about a pancake-filled Sunday brunch and Nicky D has trouble with one of his favorite Mexican chain restaurants.

Podcast, The Two Fat Guys Show, Bourbon BBQ
Joe’s four-pancake breakfast
Podcast, The Two Fat Guys Show, Bourbon BBQ
Three Sauce Burrito from On The Border in Paramus

Fattest Food of the Week

Nicky D has one of his favorite desserts and DJ Joe has an Easter treat.

Podcast, The Two Fat Guys Show, Bourbon BBQ
Border brownie sundae from On The Border

The Rant

Nicky D rants about some wording he hears from waiters and waitresses.

Topic of the Week

Podcast, The Two Fat Guys Show, Bourbon BBQBourbon BBQ: The guys reminisce about their favorite restaurant of all time.

LISTEN NOW on iTunes!

LISTEN NOW on iHeart Radio!

Hugh Knew: A Look at What’s Trending in the World of Wine from Salt Creek Grille – Princeton’s Operating Partner

Sponsored

This sponsored post is brought to you by Salt Creek Grille – Princeton.

Wine is an ever-changing industry, so we sat down with wine expert Hugh Preece to decode the latest trends in the world of vino. A master in his field, Hugh is one of only 44 US Vinitaly International Academy Wine Ambassadors. The Vinitaly International Academy offers an intense training to teach a chosen group of wine educators, journalists, and trade professionals a highly specialized curriculum of Italian wine. Its courses teach professionals to master the diversity of Italian wine in order to support and promote it throughout the world. To date, only 170 people have completed the vigorous course to earn the esteemed certification of Wine Ambassador.

Sponsored article, Salt Creek Grille—Princeton, Jersey Bites

Natural and Organic

Natural wines have been around for decades, but are currently seeing a spike in popularity. Due to the fact that there is no certification or regulation for what makes a wine “natural,” there is a huge window of what natural wine actually is. Natural wines typically include those that are farmed organically or biodynamically with nothing added or removed. The challenge lies in finding a winemaker who has the right practices. According to Hugh, you should still be able to taste the true characteristics of the varietal without it being cloudy or chunky. Adding commercial yeast will bring out the aromatics in wine, but doing so also alters the natural taste. However, without yeast, wine doesn’t ferment properly. Natural winemaking doesn’t mess with the fermenting process, but rather it creates a product that stays in its true state.

Sponsored article, Salt Creek Grille—Princeton, Jersey Bites

With organic foods trending, consumers are starting to take note of organic wines as another step toward improving the environment. Some wineries practice sustainability, but don’t get the organic seal due to the high cost.

Sponsored article, Salt Creek Grille—Princeton, Jersey Bites

Climate Change

With the changing climate, we are also seeing different wine regions emerging. In addition, the harvest of wine comes earlier and earlier each year. It’s currently around late August / early September. Some wines do well in droughts of high heat environments, so farmers in different locations are experimenting with growing grapes. For example, in Germany, temperatures are warmer during the day and cooler at night, which works well for Pinot Noir grapes.

Sponsored article, Salt Creek Grille—Princeton, Jersey Bites

Hugh’s Picks

The menu at Salt Creek Grille’s Princeton location features a section called Hugh’s Picks—standout wines Hugh is currently drinking and recommends. Hugh tends to search for boutique wineries that practice sustainability—ones that offer wines that aren’t mass-produced. He enjoys family wineries that want to preserve the environment with biodynamic practices. Hugh also makes sure each selection is a good quality wine at a good value.

Salt Creek Grille – Princeton
Forrestal Village
1 Rockingham Row
Princeton, NJ
609-419-4200

A Visit to Metro Diner

Jersey Bites was invited to visit Metro Diner and the meal was complimentary.

A diner opening is always cause for celebration, especially in the diner capital of the universe—New Jersey, that is. It offers another stop on the grand circuit of 500+ diners throughout the Garden State; Another place for people to meet, greet, eat and create memories.

New to East Brunswick

There are plenty of reasons to celebrate the opening of Metro Diner, located on the southbound side of Route 18 in East Brunswick, which held its grand opening on March 12.

Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick
The diner’s slogan illuminates the counter

Metro Diner was buzzing with customers on a chilly, rainy Thursday morning—a warm, lively vibe filled with the sounds of conversations, short-order cooks preparing food, and platters being delivered to tables.

This was brunch, so my wife ordered corned beef hash with poached eggs and fluffy muffins. Yes, I’ll admit I snuck a few forkfuls of hash, and it was quite tasty! She was especially pleased with the muffins. For my selection, I zeroed in on the Charleston shrimp and grits. I’ve had shrimp and grits in South Carolina, but this was a jazzy twist on the dish. Instead of creamy, “loose” grits, the shrimp sat atop crispy, fried grits cakes packed with cheddar cheese and andouille sausage. A rich sauce with onions, bacon, and green peppers complemented the serving. Absolutely wonderful!

Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick
Charleston shrimp and grits
Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick
Veggie omelette with shredded hash brown home fries

Wandering around the diner, I snapped a picture of Metro Diner’s signature dish: fried chicken and waffles with fresh, homemade strawberry butter. While I was at it, I also photographed a very good-looking veggie omelet paired with a heaping mound of shredded hash browns.

The Space

Metro Diner is built into a storefront property along Route 18, which allows for a spacious interior. Soft lighting, green accent lights, and tasteful interior appointments create a cozy environment. Sentimental diner purists will appreciate that fact that in addition to the tables, there is a short counter with stools, offering customers a full view of the open kitchen and sizzling grill, much like vintage diner cars and lunch wagons from the thrilling days of yesteryear.

Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick
Fried chicken and waffles with strawberry butter

Taste of the South

The menu, by design, has a Southern flair, with dishes such as the aforementioned Charleston shrimp and chicken and waffles, which gives the Metro a distinct flavor when compared to established Jersey diners. That’s another refreshing feature to consider: Rather than an endless “phone book” menu, I commend the Metro for focusing on classic egg dishes, salads and soups, burgers, sandwiches, and hot platters for lunch and dinner—all on three easy-to-skim pages.

Along with food, service and atmosphere, a true test for judging the success of any diner is how well it fits into a given community. Metro Diner is off to a flying start in this category, thanks to the skillful, collective leadership of Michael Killeen, the diner’s managing partner. Our server, Amanda Hager, provided friendly, fast, and knowledgeable service. The entire waitstaff was helpful, attentive, and cheerful. Their smiles were the energy that powered the new diner.

Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick
Amanda Hager (left) and Michael Killeen

Back to Jersey

As a Jersey guy, Killeen proves that “you can go home again,” despite Thomas Wolfe’s 1940 novel, which said you can’t. Originally from “Down Jersey” in Millville, Killeen joined the Army in 1989 and served for eight years. He was discharged while in Savannah, Georgia, and began working there for the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store restaurant chain. Taking well to the business, he was soon promoted, moving to Tallahassee, Florida. Killeen later opened a new Cracker Barrel in Asheville, North Carolina. He established a solid resume in the restaurant business over two decades through his travels and experiences, but about nine years ago decided it was time to return to New Jersey.

While working at DeVry University in North Brunswick, Killeen learned from a business associate that the Metro Diner franchise was planning to open an eatery in New Jersey. He networked and landed the post of managing partner. From a business standpoint, Metro Diner traces its roots to 1938 and Jacksonville, Florida, and has since become a successful enterprise, with establishments throughout the South, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The East Brunswick Metro is the first in New Jersey and the 70th diner overall in the group’s stable of eateries.

The diner’s business culture puts a strong emphasis on local ownership of each diner, along with developing community relationships. Killeen pointed to the business slogan: “Where the Locals Eat.” He took this philosophy to heart to help launch the diner. As a member of the local Elks Lodge, Killeen and his wife and business partner Jennifer, in March, organized a charity event to help open the diner and raised $13,500. Several local news outlets covered the fundraiser. He said this kind of community outreach will continue to be part of Metro Diner.

Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick

Southern Sensibility

Killeen absorbed the dynamics of Southern hospitality while employed in the Cracker Barrel business. It’s a courteous sensibility that serves him well and easily translates as part of the informal, down-home charm that’s appreciated for beloved Jersey diners. “It’s all about ‘How y’all doing today,’’” he said with a smile—and a Southern accent. “People like that kind of comfort and attention,” he said. “You take time to visit each table and make the customers feel welcome.” A friendly greeting might seem like a simple thing, but it’s how you begin building customer relationships, one at a time, according to Killeen.

On the Scene

From a statewide perspective, Metro Diner is part of a quiet resurgence of new diners that has taken shape in recent years. The list includes JB’s on 33 in Farmingdale, the Chit Chat in West Orange, the Majestic in Ramsey, the Maple Valley in Clifton, plans for a “new” Olgas in Marlton, and the reopening of Geets in Williamstown. All these are making way for a new generation of diners in New Jersey: site-built or retrofitted structures. New Jersey still has a host of vintage, factory-built, stainless steel diners. Yes, the diner business is evolving, but the diner business—going back to the days of lunch wagons—has always been evolving.

Metro Diner, Michael Gabriele, Jersey Bites, East Brunswick
Pecan pie

In addition to its regular menu, the Metro features daily blackboard specials. The lunchtime Chorizo burger, with lots of trimmings, sounded rather tempting. We decided to get dessert to go: two yummy slices of pecan pie. The 45-minute drive home on the Turnpike and Parkway was intermezzo.

Killeen promised that other desserts soon will be offered for the spring season, such as Southern peach cobbler. Now let’s see… peach cobbler? Yeah, I’ll be back for some of that.

Metro Diner
269 Route 18
East Brunswick, NJ
732-704-7587
Monday through Saturday 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sunday 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week: April 5-14, 2019

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Jersey Shore’s premier food and beverage event: Jersey Shore Restaurant Week (JSRW). Scheduled in April and November each year, JSRW participating restaurants offer three-course dinners for $22 or $32 with three appetizer choices, three entrée choices, and three dessert choices.

“It is an opportunity for restaurants to get extra business at a slow time of year and for consumers to try new restaurants at a great price,” said Jim Flynn, founder and chairman of JSRW.

Flynn said that 86% of consumers try a new restaurant during Restaurant Week. “They dine out 50% more than a normal week.”

A Bit of History

The restaurant week concept began in NYC in 1992 by Tim Zagat and Joe Baum, during the Democratic Convention, as a lunch-only promotion. It was so successful it was expanded to include dinner and that was so successful it became a national phenomenon.

The idea came to Flynn during a trip to Martha’s Vineyard. “I was on my way up 95 and I saw a sign for New Haven Restaurant Week,” he said. “It was the first time I had seen a restaurant week outside of a major city, so I called my wife and asked her to Google Jersey Shore Restaurant Week. There was nothing. It occurred to me that the Shore should have one because we had so many great restaurants here.

“We immediately bought the URL and when I returned we formed a committee and began planning the first one, which we held in November of 2009,” Flynn said. Fifty-five restaurants participated in the first JSRW and the special events drew 50 to 60 people. “Today, nearly 100 restaurants participate, said Flynn, “and our Special Events draw 200 to 300 people.”

“We are incredibly grateful to the restaurants and consumers who have made this such a tradition at the Shore.” added Flynn.

Participating Restaurants

The following restaurants were charter spots for JSRW and continue to participate.

  • Avenue
  • Brands
  • Fratello’s
  • Harpoon Willy’s
  • Jack Baker’s Lobster Shanty and Wharfside
  • La Dolce Vita
  • Langosta Lounge
  • Moonstruck
  • Mister C’s Beach Bistro
  • Rooney’s
  • Salt Creek Grille
  • Shipwreck Grill
  • St. Stephen’s Green Publick House

The following restaurants are new to the roster this year:

  • Apple Street Kitchen, Tinton Falls
  • Café Loret, Red Bank
  • Cuisine on the Green, Little Egg Harbor
  • La Modina, Brielle
  • McLoone’s Pier House, Long Branch
  • Melting Pot, Red Bank
  • Modine, Asbury Park
  • Nana’s Kitchen, Middletown
  • Olive & Ivy, Eatontown
  • Oyster Point Hotel, Red Bank
  • Prime 13 Brielle,
  • River Café, Brielle
  • Seabase Lounge, Point Pleasant
  • Stone Fired Grill, Beachwood
  • Victory Tavern, Rumson
  • Waterman’s Tavern, Brielle

Special Events

Special Events planned for the week include the Chef’s Invitational, The Great Jersey Shore Burger Contest and Craft Beer Fest, Burgers, Bloodies and Brews and Bourbon, Bacon and Blues.

Click here for participating restaurants, menus and special event tickets.

‘Food of the Italian South’ Launch Celebration April 5

Corbo & Sons at Bell Market in Holmdel, NJ, welcomes two exciting food events Friday, April 5.

Author, food historian, and journalist Katie Parla celebrates release of her new cookbook, Food of the Italian South (Clarkson Potter, $30), at Corbo & Sons, the restaurant within Holmdel’s Bell Market, which specializes in Neapolitan- and Roman-inspired, wood-fired cooking. Buy tickets here!

Food of the Italian South by Katie Parla
Katie Parla

Parla is a New Jersey native and Rome-based culinary journalist. Her new book delves into the culinary traditions of Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, and Puglia, regions best known for their rustic food.

Executive Chef Richard Corbo and Sommelier Chantelle Corbo will host two different experiences to celebrate the release of the book: an aperitivo hour and a seated dinner. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Parla in person and enjoy recipes from her book.

5:30 to 8:30 p.m.: Aperitivo Hour

Corbo & Sons will prepare cocktails and a selection of dishes from Food of The Italian South in a taste-around, cocktail party format. Sommelier Chantelle Corbo will pair each recipe, served as individual tastes, with a hand-chosen wine. Tickets include a signed cookbook, cocktails, and tasting-sized samples of recipes from the book paired with wine. $65/per person + tax.

Pizza Napoletana at La Notizia in Naples

8:00 p.m.: Seated Dinner with Wine Pairings

This marks the kickoff to Corbo & Sons Friday Night Dinner Series, in the Green Room. Executive Chef Richard Corbo will prepare a three-course dinner, with each dish inspired by The Food of the Italian South, with wine pairings by Chantelle Corbo. Tickets include a signed cookbook, a three-course seated dinner and wine pairings. $125/per person + tax and tip.

Angela Ceriello serves “garbage can” pasta at her trattoria E Curti in Sant’Anastasia, Campania
Paccheri alla Cilentana (pasta with capers, olives, anchovies, and fried bread crumbs)

Corbo & Sons at Bell Market
101 Crawford’s Corner Road
Holmdel, NJ
732- 365-2500

Photos by Ed Anderson.

Slam Dunk: Jersey City Foodie Fest and NCAA Viewing Party

Sponsored

This sponsored article is brought to to you by NJ Food Truck Fest.

Tickets are available for the Jersey City Foodie Fest and NCAA Final Four Viewing Party, taking place April 6, 2019, at the Harborside Atrium. Take in the magnificent New York City skyline while enjoying Final Four action, delicious food, amazing drink specials, and more! (And get 40% off your ticket when you purchase online with discount code JERSEYBITES!)

Jersey Bites, Jersey City Foodie Fest, Evan Berman Productions

Foodie Meets Fanatic

Celebrate March Madness and the Final Four with two giant TVs and interactive games. Tickets include entry, your first drink, drink specials, full bar, games, and a whole night of basketball. Feeling competitive? Get a game of beer pong going! (21 and over)

Jersey Bites, Jersey City Foodie Fest, Evan Berman Productions

Food Vendors

The brand new Harborside District Kitchen is the latest addition to the Harborside Atrium and boasts 13 food vendors, with all the vibes and deliciousness of a NYC food hall. The difference? Superior skyline views!

  • Angry Archie’sJersey Bites, Jersey City Foodie Fest, Evan Berman Productions
  • Ani Ramen
  • Baonanas
  • Canteen to go Indian
  • Enfes
  • Kimchi Taco
  • Left Bank Burger
  • Little Sushi Shop
  • Pizza Vita
  • Tidal Poke
  • Waffle It

Jersey Bites, Jersey City Foodie Fest, Evan Berman Productions

Jersey Bites, Jersey City Foodie Fest, Evan Berman Productions

The Details

  • Saturday, April 6, 2019
  • 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
  • Tickets are $20 online and $25 at the door. To purchase tickets, click here.
  • DISCOUNT! Get 40% off tickets purchased online with code JERSEYBITES

Milkshakes on Our Mind and More from the Two Fat Guys Show

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Tune in for an all-new episode of the Two Fat Guys Show where DJ Joe the Great and the One and Only Nicky D bring you the following segments and topic of the week.

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey BitesLISTEN NOW on iTunes!

LISTEN NOW on iHeart Radio!

Friday Night Food Tales

Nicky D recaps his trip to the Grand Lux Cafe and DJ Joe heads out for some classics at Outback Steakhouse.

 

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey Bites
Chicken Parmesan from Grand Lux Cafe in Paramus

 

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey Bites
Bloomin Onion from Outback Steakhouse in Rochelle Park

 

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey Bites
Outback salad

 

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey Bites
Ribeye with fries from Outback

Fattest Food of the Week

Nicky D surprises DJ Joe with his dessert choice and it’s pizza time for DJ Joe.

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey Bites
Warm brownie sundae from Grand Lux Cafe

The Rant

Nicky D rants about a service issue at a pizza place.

The Two Fat Guys Show, Milkshakes, Jersey BitesTopic of the Week

The guys talk all things milkshakes, from straw issues to the best-tasting shakes.

LISTEN NOW on iTunes!

LISTEN NOW on iHeart Radio!

2019 Crystal Springs NJ Wine & Food Festival: April 12 to 14

Tickets are available for the 2019 New Jersey Wine & Food Festival, taking place April 12 to 14, at Crystal Springs Resort. This prestigious showcase for top culinary talent, winemakers, and distilleries from around the world celebrates its 11th year with a weekend of dinners, wine and spirits tastings, chef demos, and more.

Festival Events

The showcase of events offers something for everyone, from fun, interactive sessions incorporating culinary elements. A few highlights include the following:

  • Wine Yoga and Paso Paint and Sip
  • Rose Champagne with Krug, Dom Perignon and Ruinart
  • 97 & Above (highlighting top-scoring wines, with 97 or more on a 100-point scale)
  • The Art of Napa Cab
  • Mix it Up with Sagamore Spirits

Click here for a full list of festival events.

The Grand Tasting

The Grand Tasting, an attendee favorite, takes place Saturday, April 13, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. It’s the festival’s signature event, featuring more than 200 wines from over 50 wineries and bites from 40 top restaurants ($150; VIP $295; VIP admission 6:30 p.m., general admission 7 p.m.).

Additional Highlights

  • VIP Experience: Two floors featuring top restaurants and premium wines, Champagnes, and spirits
  • Restaurant participants highlight New Jersey’s best. Featured restaurants include Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, Ryland Inn, Batello, Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas, Crystal Tavern, Osteria Morini, Common Lot, Viaggio, Halifax, Montclair Bread Co, Pig & Prince, 17 Summer Restaurant, Andre’s, Saly G’s, Piattino Neighborhood Bistro, and more.
  • A wide range of wineries and Champagne houses from around the world

For complete info and to purchase tickets, click here.

Top photo: A previous Grand Tasting. Photo by Eat with Dan.

Chicken and Waffles in the Garden State

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When you think New Jersey, you probably think crispy pizza and fluffy bagels. But the Garden State is hiding something else behind its restaurant doors: Chicken and waffles. In honor of International Waffle Day, here are some of the best places to find the southern staple throughout the state.

North Jersey

chicken and waffles from Griot Cafe, Julia Mullaney, chicken and waffles, International Waffle Day, Jersey Bites
Photo courtesy of Griot Cafe 

Griot Café
434 Central Avenue
Jersey City, NJ
201-420-9444

The outside of Griot Café might fool you into thinking it’s just another coffee shop, but the food proves it’s much more than that: particularly the chicken and waffles. The restaurant sets itself apart with its Creole chicken and waffles; the dish has a kick to it, but it’s not overwhelming. It’s paired with a side of mangoes to finish out that sweet and savory combination. This place definitely sees a wait on the weekends, but the generous portions and unbelievable taste make it worth it.

Chicken and Waffles from South + Pine, Julia Mullaney, chicken and waffles, International Waffle Day, Jersey Bites
South + Pine, photo courtesy of @steeckyrice

South + Pine
90 South Street
Morristown, NJ
862-260-9700

The best thing about South + Pine? Their chicken and waffles is available any time of day. The crispy chicken is served with a sweet potato waffle for a dish that’s more savory than sweet. Harissa honey completes the meal, and the smoky spice of the harissa, plus that touch of sweet honey, brings the whole dish together.

Chicken and Waffles from Cyndia's Totowa, Julia Mullaney, chicken and waffles, International Waffle Day, Jersey Bites
Photo courtesy of Cyndia’s Totowa

Cyndia’s
169 Union Boulevard
Totowa, NJ
973-925-7778

The chicken and waffles at Cyndia’s, in Totowa, is a generous portion that satisfies anyone’s savory breakfast craving. Drizzle it with “comfort syrup,” which is sort of a middle ground between syrup and gravy, for a sweet way to top off the dish. This is another place where you can expect a long weekend wait, but with a dish this delish, you won’t mind sticking around.

Central Jersey

4 Brothers Breakfast
41 Mountain Boulevard
Warren, NJ
908-834-8889

4 Brothers Breakfast is the kind of place where you’ll want to make a reservation if you’re heading over on a weekend. With the chicken and waffles, you’ll have more than enough on your plate to satisfy even the biggest appetite. This place has a whopping six different chicken and waffles options on its menu. Carrot cake waffle, chocolate waffle, red velvet waffle—the options are (almost) endless.

Chicken and Waffles from Hatch 44 Cafe, Julia Mullaney, chicken and waffles, International Waffle Day, Jersey Bites
Photo courtesy of Hatch 44 Cafe

B2 Bistro & Bar

230 Washington Pl

North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902

Immerse yourself in the rustic yet sophisticated vibe at B2 North Brunswick, neatly nestled on the shore of picturesque Lake Farrington in Middlesex County! B2 in North Brunswick serves weekend brunch available Saturday & Sunday from 11 am-2 pm, where you can enjoy their signature chicken and waffles with fried buttermilk chicken breast, waffles, two fried eggs, butter, maple syrup, and bacon jam to top it all off making it the perfect combination of a savory and sweet brunch! See Jersey Shore below for all other B2 locations. Make reservations on their website. 

Hatch 44
140 Durham Avenue
Metuchen, NJ
732-662-7200

Hatch 44 has one of those dishes that you should never go your whole life without trying. This place takes chicken and waffles to another level; they call it the Chicken’s Scoop and it pairs buttermilk fried chicken and waffles with house-made bacon jam, avocado, and maple mustard syrup. The waffles are then topped with two eggs, and a side of potatoes completes the dish. It’s arguably the most distinct chicken and waffles pairing on this list and worth the drive even if you’re not in the area.

Cheek’s Chicken and Waffles
873 King Georges Road
Fords, NJ
732-486-8733

This Fords chicken and waffle shop has a fast food vibe with high-quality food. Diners can choose whether they want wings or tenders with their waffle, plus their preferred sauce. There are nine sauce options, including honey garlic, golden BBQ, Carolina reaper, and buffalo. If you’re looking for more of a lunch or dinner meal, pair it with a side, such as mac and cheese, corn fritters, or fried pickles, for a southern-style dish.

Chicken and Waffles from 22 West Tap and Grill, Julia Mullaney, chicken and waffles, International Waffle Day, Jersey Bites
Photo courtesy of 22 West Tap and Grill

22 West Tap & Grill
1601 Route 22
Bridgewater, NJ
732-627-5012

22 West is one of only a few places on this list where you can get chicken and waffles as an appetizer. This tavern-style eatery serves up chicken and waffle sliders, which includes herb-marinated chicken served between two Belgian waffles. The chicken is topped with a chipotle maple syrup for a sweet and spicy kick. The sliders are pretty filling, but you can order either two or three, depending on how hungry you are.

Jersey Shore

Courtesy of B2 Bistro & Bar Toms River

B2 Bistro & Bar

Multiple Locations: Point Pleasant Beach, Toms River, Bayville, Red Bank

Experience B2’s garden-to-table bistro-style creations in their chic yet rustic atmosphere! With multiple locations across New Jersey and one in West Reading PA, B2 offers lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Each location has a different selection of their signature Chicken and Waffles, so be sure to check their seasonal menu for the current rendition of this brunch favorite!

Be sure to check out their website for each location’s brunch hours and to reserve a table. 

South Jersey

Kelsey & Kim’s Southern Café
201 Melrose Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ
609-350-6800

Kelsey and Kim take soul food to another level at their Atlantic City restaurant, and the chicken and waffles are the perfect example. You’ll be hard pressed to find a customer who doesn’t rave about the chicken’s perfectly crispy, non-greasy crust. The chicken’s savory seasoning complements a sweet waffle, which is crispy on the outside but light and fluffy when you take that first bite—it exceeds all expectations. The restaurant was once featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and it’s a place you won’t want to pass up.

Kitchen 519
200 East Evesham Road
Glendora, NJ
856-312-8629

You haven’t tried chicken and waffles until you’ve tried Kitchen 519’s buffalo chicken and waffles. Spicy meets tangy meets sweet with buffalo fried chicken, blue cheese crumbles, red onions, and scallions served over a fluffy Belgian waffle and topped with ranch dressing. And those with other preferences can choose from several versions of the dish. If you’re feeling a traditional option, order the classic chicken and waffles—the sriracha maple syrup is an unforgettable touch. For something a little more upscale (and filling), try the chicken and waffles benedict, which kicks up the classic order with poached eggs and hollandaise.

Kitchen87
87 Washington Street
Mount Holly, NJ
609-261-1700

Kitchen87 not only has some of the best chicken and waffles in the state, but you get a heaping helping for only $9. The chicken here has more of a crisp than the other dishes on this list, but it pairs perfectly with a softer waffle for the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish. The waffle isn’t dry, either; this place is doing things right. Don’t be turned off by the crowds on weekends—service is always quick.

Prices and menu items subject to change.

618 Restaurant in Freehold

Everyone needs a favorite restaurant.

A nice, relaxing restaurant where you can reliably dine on a Saturday night or during the week after a hectic day at work.

A restaurant that takes reservations and never keeps you waiting.

A restaurant that has a varied menu and delicious food, served hot by excellent servers who are friendly and professional.

A restaurant that has a good bar, good cocktails and a good wine selection.

A restaurant that you always look forward to.

For me, 618 in Freehold is that restaurant.

A little over two years old, 618 (the address of the restaurant and the name) has become a staple on the western Monmouth dining scene.

And with good reason.

Step 1: Appetizers

Let’s start with the appetizers.

618s Short Rib Ravioli, Freehold, 618 Restaurant, Jersey Bites, Susan Weiner
Short rib ravioli

On a recent visit, my husband and I shared the short rib ravioli starter ($11), served with shiitake mushrooms, peas, overnight tomatoes, cream and Reggiano. It was perfect for sharing (though I could have eaten the whole thing), and a good start to the meal.

Friends shared the stuffed mushrooms ($10) with fennel sausage, broccoli rabe, Pecorino and a San Marzano sauce. The mushrooms were huge, and our friends finished every bit.

On past visits, we’ve had the mac and cheese appetizer ($10), which I still think about. With chorizo, three cheeses, and buttered crumbs, it is best shared. It is very rich, very hot, and very good. I could eat it every time we dine there.

This time, I was tempted to order either Granny’s meatballs or the crab cakes, but those will have to wait for another visit.

618s Little Gem Lettuce Salad, Freehold, 618 Restaurant, Jersey Bites, Susan Weiner
Little gem lettuce salad

The Salad Scene

Salads here are good, too. The beyond organic’s Bibb ($10) with thyme roasted apples, goat cheese, pickled shallots, and maple pecans, and the little gem lettuce salad with grapes, radish, feta, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, and green goddess dressing ($10) are favorites.

But tempting as it is, don’t fill up on appetizers, you must save room for the main course.

BBQ shrimp and grits, Freehold, 618 Restaurant, Jersey Bites, Susan Weiner
Cajun BBQ shrimp and grits

The Main Event

On this visit, I opted for the Cajun BBQ shrimp and grits ($26). This dish also comes in an appetizer-size version ($13), which was my starter choice on a previous visit. I liked it so much I ordered the full-size version this time around and was not disappointed. With aged cheddar, green chili grits, and shrimp with just enough spice to it, this is the perfect creamy comfort food for a cold night.

My husband opted for the grilled bronzino ($28) with roasted cauliflower, pine nuts and golden raisins, gold potatoes, and salsa verde. This is a good dish for those watching what they eat, as it’s healthy and delicious.

One of our friends ordered the Cabernet braised beef short ribs ($29) with butter-whipped potatoes and horseradish gremolata. He knew he was ordering the short ribs before he even walked into 618. He loves short ribs, and these did not disappoint.

Another friend ordered the butternut squash ravioli ($22) with brown butter, sage, pine nuts and ricotta. The nice-size serving was filling and delicious.

It’s so hard to choose at 618. All the entrees are tempting, and there are nightly specials. The skirt steak sounds good, as does the roasted chicken, pappardelle Bolognese, and cider glazed pork chop.

But I always save room for dessert.

Warm Sticky Toffee Cake, Freehold, 618 Restaurant, Jersey Bites, Susan Weiner
Warm sticky toffee cake

Dessert: The Final Frontier

My favorite, which I order every time I dine there, is the warm sticky toffee cake with buttered pecans, Maldon sea salt and whipped mascarpone ($11). This delicious dessert is reminiscent of the sticky pudding I ate all through Scotland. It is big enough and rich enough to share, and we usually do, but this time around I had it all to myself (OK, I did give my husband a couple of bites).

My husband ordered the pistachio gelato ($7), which is always a good ending to a meal. You also could choose Nutella or vanilla bean gelato.

Our friends chose the crème brulee and the cheesecake—both great choices: creamy and satisfying. I might just have to try them next time.

Because there definitely will be a next time, and a time after that. 618 is the restaurant I always return to.

618 Restaurant
618 Park Avenue
Freehold, NJ 07728
732-577-0001

Prices and menu items are subject to change.

 

Coming Soon: New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Expo

Entrepreneurs will continue moving New Jersey’s restaurant industry forward at the upcoming New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Expo! Read on to learn more about the event and for a discount code to get 50% off general admission!

New Jersey professionals looking for a unique and educational experience about the Garden State’s vibrant restaurant and hospitality industry are invited to attend this one-of-a-kind event on April 17 and 18, 2019, at the Meadowlands Exposition Center.

Seminars

  • Farm to Table
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Franchising
  • Funding Solutions for Business

Attendees will learn about how the New Jersey restaurant and hospitality industries contribute to state and national economies. Get more information on jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities, in communities across the state. Past attendees have included hotel owners, purchasers, buyers, and food and hospitality decision makers from universities, hospitals, stadiums, and casinos.

Jersey Bites founder, Deborah Smith, will be serving as a panelist for the breakout session Marketing in Today’s Society: The Social Media Craze and How to Get Your Money’s Worth, on Wednesday, April 17, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission

$20 general admission and $10 student entry. To register or learn more, click here.
DISCOUNT CODE: When you register, write Jersey Bites under “How did you hear about us?” to get 50% off general admission.

New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Expo
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646-942-2042

Meadowlands Exposition Center
355 Plaza Dr.
Seacaucus, NJ 07094

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