We recently found ourselves in Philadelphia for a long weekend. Even better, we had no real plans. Kind of unusual for us -- busy lives combined with a general love of a good plan. We were childless and carefree for three. whole. days, and while Philadelphia is hardly an exotic getaway, it had two key characteristics: proximity to grandparents and good food. … [Read more...]
a european vacation in jersey city
Satis Bistro opened in 2010, adding a much-needed foodie destination to the waterfront scene in the Paulus Hook neighborhood of Jersey City. I cannot recall what originally drew us to this charming place. Maybe it was the description of the food as a modern, twisted European fusion of our favorite cuisines and dining experiences -- Italian trattorias, French bistros, Spanish tapas bars, and Portuguese sidewalk cafes. … [Read more...]
abril cocina: mexican fusion in maplewood
Update: As of February 2019, Abril Cocina has closed its doors, reducing the count of wonderful restaurants in the area by one. Residents and fans are sad to see it go, as we are left wondering, once again, how best to fill that tiny, cozy space. I can only hope for food. … [Read more...]
for the love of beer – Trap Rock restaurant and brewery
Beer. Apparently I have missed out on this particular joy for the majority of my adult life. Which is too bad, because it turns out, it pairs perfectly with some of my favorite flavors in food. And more importantly, it’s yet another thing husband Gary and I can enjoy together, because it also turns out he’s a big craft beer fan. … [Read more...]
of course you are my favorite: 100 Steps
I am often asked to name “my favorite restaurant” in New Jersey. Lucky, I love pondering this question, and love the inevitable debate that follows even more. … [Read more...]
I need a drink.
BYO. It's a term that stands for "Bring Your Own", in reference to "bottle", "booze", or "beer" -- and I am not sure was in my vocabulary until we moved to Maplewood. These days, it's a way of life. … [Read more...]