We have always enjoyed Mediterranean food. The food and wine adventure of summer 2018 catapulted our appreciation for the simple yet sublime flavors of Greek cuisine to new heights. Characterized by so many of my favorite things, Greek cuisine features grassy olive oil, bright and citrusy lemon, fresh and flavorful herbs. Northern New Jersey is home to a number of restaurants serving authentic Greek cuisine alongside Greek-influenced dishes that feature the culinary delights of the entire Mediterranean. … [Read more...]
date night redux: two years later
Hard to believe, but it has been over two years since I posted one of my most-used restaurant lists and the inspiration behind food with a view. I rounded up my favorites and featured 100 Steps, which later grabbed top honor as my favorite restaurant. Date nights are on my mind lately, as we celebrated 23 years of dining out together on April 12. Our shared love of a good meal is high on the list of reasons for the longevity of this particular love story! So what to do with all those anniversaries and milestones? Update the list, of course! … [Read more...]
common lot: a corner turned in north jersey dining
Common Lot arrived over 18 months ago, challenging the area restaurant mold with its elegant irreverence. Early reviews from established critics were excellent. Some locals may have whispered about the "unusual" menu and wondered where the pasta and bread went. But in my view, Common Lot began what is [hopefully] a journey towards higher quality, more diverse restaurant options for the food-savvy northern NJ diner. We will perhaps, one day, look back on the arrival of Common Lot as the crest of the new wave of better dining, and graciously thank the husband and wife team that ushered in a new era of eating out. … [Read more...]
the best pizza in new jersey: our view
Two things I cannot say no to: pizza, and a good challenge. Nothing brings them together like a New Jersey food blog that seeks to bring readers a view on the best pizza in the area. Can you say you have tried all the family-owned neighborhood institutions in operation for decades? What about all the new artisanal, gourmet varieties? Have you ever tried to choose your favorite pizza place? I mean really, just one? … [Read more...]
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. … [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...]
