Restaurants around here are getting a much-needed makeover. The Hills Tavern is the latest arrival, filling a very open need for casual, modern dining that doesn’t require booking a reservation months in advance. It honors the privilege of possession of a rare liquor license, creating a modern gastropub vibe with equal focus on food and drinks. … [Read more...]
culinary adventures at Jockey Hollow
New Jersey Monthly recently released its annual list of the Top 25 Restaurants in New Jersey, and once again, Jockey Hollow Bar and Kitchen in Morristown, NJ made the cut. I have enjoyed and recommended many of them, but Jockey Hollow Bar and Kitchen ("JHBK") stands out from the crowd. Part special occasion restaurant, part casually elegant neighborhood bar, JHBK strives to serve the community in all its food and drink needs -- and a few wants. … [Read more...]
there’s always room for ice cream: best ice cream in New Jersey
Ice cream is the best part of summer. I know I write a lot about seasonal produce, and farm-to-table dining, and all those delicious vegetables, but let’s keep it real. There is no better excuse to eat ice cream then a hot summer day. As if I needed an excuse. It is summer, so I’m going to keep it light this week with a simple roundup of some of the best ice cream shops in the area. … [Read more...]
mostly mexican: new jersey restaurant roundup
Warm weather and sunshine calls for tacos. Guacamole, margaritas, and a laid-back vibe are key ingredients for summer dining. Head to a Mexican restaurant, add a warm summer evening, maybe a sunset. Sounds perfect, right? Unfortunately we’re in New Jersey. The taco trend fueling foodie Instagram feeds just hasn’t made it here. It’s unclear why — what’s not to love? They can range from simple to sublime, street food to gourmet. … [Read more...]
Dinner in the city
Northern New Jersey is full of commuter towns. Communities built around trains that usher thousands to their city destinations and home again every day. There are a number of thriving examples along the Morristown, Gladstone, and Montclair lines, and many are attracting New York City caliber restaurants to please the palates of those former city residents. But if you’re like me, you still dine out in Manhattan often. … [Read more...]
the best of outdoor dining: south and pine and more
Outdoor dining in northern New Jersey and even New York City itself is, to put it bluntly, a challenge. Urban space limitations and neutral-on-a-good-day air quality combine for less than ideal conditions to dine al fresco. … [Read more...]