Byrd
A new restaurant from one of the Garden State's elite chefs aims to be relaxed and casual even as its menu stretches far and wide to reflect a worldly view. The concept's admirable, but the execution fraught with puzzling flaws.
Yuki’s Bakery & Coffee
Extraordinary pita is the standout at a bakeshop in Hoboken built on traditions of Eastern Mediterranean breads and pastries that Yuki Levinson translates with skill, pride and a tweak here and there.
Simply Sofrito
A year-old storefront that specializes in classics from Puerto Rico isn’t shy about wearing its soul on its sleeve. That’s thanks to its chef-owner, who knows a good base makes for great food.
Beauties from Winter’s Bounties
Don’t mourn what’s not in season, but revel in what’s here and astoundingly gratifying. Our five favorites of the past two weeks span type and style – and all deliver.
Mache, with Kishu and Scallops
The green that finds happy heartiness in winter is a seasonal match for a little darling of the citrus world and a type of shellfish that wears the Jersey insignia with pride.
Winter’s High-style Holidays
A procession of starred and bolded dates appears on our calendars from now through mid-March and all are best toasted with food in ways simultaneously sane and celebratory.
Wu’s Fish House
In a setting serene and calming, with white on grays and greenery toppling from pots affixed to the rafters, Homer Wu’s ode to Chinese fish dishes delivers a range of thrills for the senses.
Vegan Cheeses
At a specialty food shop in Morristown that also holds court at farmers’ markets, a variety of plant-based selections from a variety of producers offers options for those who avoid foods made with animal products.
Naoki Sushi
In Naoki Tashiro's world, every millimeter makes a difference. See, and understand, why and how during an omakase dinner at this master's refuge from big-city and hyper-hipster places.
Spiced Shrimp Dip
A jolly good spread hat-tips its ancestor in Great Britain with a rousing update ready to headline any spread of hors d’oeuvres.
Little Shop of Cheeses
The cheesemongers at Main Street Cheese Company in Somerville aim to educate with samplings, classes, community outreach and more interactive opportunities than typically found at a science museum. In the process, they’re setting a new scene in an increasingly culinary-centric downtown.
Sad Boyz
Come right now for The Frenchy, New Jersey’s best smashburger, available only in January at this chill, cozy roadhouse. Come back for the burgers to follow, primo breakfast sandwiches and a milkshake that might make you shake your head as you finish every last crumb. (Seriously.)