head for The Hills Tavern in Millburn

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.

photo by jenn kosar

On many menus I review, I favor the offerings in the appetizer and small plates sections to the traditional entrees. The Hills was no exception. On more than one visit I have made a meal out of combination of the diverse menu of small plates. Fairly traditional elements are done well here, like the fried calamari with a unique roasted tomato sauce, and the family favorite, the giant soft pretzel with beer fondue. It is the rest of the list that is hard to resist, so go with friends and plan to share them all.

photo by jenn kosar

I love the tuna poke with the perfect balance of sweet pineapple, spicy jalapeño and crunchy hazelnut. The Bulgogi with charred short ribs is good in its own sweet soy sauce, delicious when paired with kimchi. If I could, I’d sustain life solely on the homemade potato chips with bleu cheese, bacon and scallions. With a nice glass of wine, of course. It is all about balance.

photo by jenn kosar

The entree selection continues the American tavern theme, covering traditional burgers, salads, and sandwiches, but with global twists scattered throughout the menu. The Tavern Burger is exceptional, towered high with crispy bacon, decadent frizzled onions, and of course, cheese. The beet salad with blood orange vinaigrette was bright and flavorful.  I appreciate the burger alternatives, including a lobster roll and a traditional cuban sandwich.

photo by jenn kosar

The salmon burger could be a little more on the rare side to retain that soft, buttery texture I love, but the fresh sliced avocado and sriracha aioli more than compensated. The Hills twist on traditional steak frites, a cumin-based seasoning, adds flavor without heat. As cooler weather arrives, I’m looking forward to new menu items, including the short ribs with roasted brussels sprouts.

photo by jenn kosar

Desserts are a bit less inventive than the rest of the menu, with one notable exception: the S’mores. Gary and I are biased, as we generally love anything with the combination of graham cracker, chocolate and marshmallow, but this was something special. It is not exactly designed for sharing, so feel free to selfishly order your own.

photo by jenn kosar

The Hills is of course a Tavern, so let’s not forget the drinks. There are over 25 wines by the glass, rare in the area, and a rotating craft beer list. Beer flights are coming soon to the beverage menu. The cocktail menu hits the perfect note between interesting and accessible. While I truly admire the craftsmanship of an artisanal cocktails, sometimes, it is both literally and figuratively refreshing to actually understand every ingredient and recognize familiar combinations with a twist.

photo by jenn kosar

For those heading to the theater nearby, or just looking for a quick prix fixe menu, The Hills is here for you. There is also a weekend brunch feature, with some of the dinner items I love (those chips) on the menu plus traditional brunch selections. The challah french toast is decadently piled high with fresh berries, syrup and whipped cream. The focus on creative drinks continues with brunch cocktails, including the mam-mosa and my favorite, the Lychee mimosa.

Like most casual restaurants in the area, it is kid-friendly for brunch, lunch, and early dinner. There is no separate children’s menu, but many of the menu items seem easily adapted for little palates.

photo by jenn kosar

I’m thrilled to see this entrant to the local dining scene. Every neighborhood needs a casual, warm place to stop by any night of the week for a good meal and a drink. This just may be our new favorite place. As they say, it is time to head for The Hills.

The Hills Tavern

40 Main Street⋅Millburn, NJ⋅(973) 376-4444⋅www.thehillstavern.com

photo by jenn kosar

---

Have a favorite new spot in town?  Share and let us know your view.  Follow me on Pinterest to see where I’m off to next, or join the discussion on Facebook to see all my dining out adventures.

In the neighborhood?  Join us at the brand-new SOMA Eats Local for a discussion on the best of the dining out scene in South Orange, Maplewood, and surrounding towns.

Want to learn even more about the woman behind foodwithaview.com?  Check out my interview with Urvashi Pitre at Two Sleevers as part of her “Faces Behind the Food” series.  While you’re there, read a little of her blog and prepare to be inspired by her story and creative, healthy recipes from around the world.  Enjoy!