Coffee, with an Empanada on the Side
At El Monte in Chester, a husband-and-wife team roast, brew and make a tempting savory pastry. Combine, and create a winning start to the day. And a way to keep it going.
Greek Fries
At Efi’s Gyros in Montclair, Ella finds the seasoned spuds not only stand on their own, but may need to be ordered in pairs – one to eat on the premises, one to fuel the ride home.
Little Star
Bassam Njeim and Louisa Ajami bring a new line of Middle Eastern specialty foods to market. Join the queue at their first-ever stall at the West Windsor Farmers’ Market.
Shore Shake
The farmers’ market food truck favorite takes milks and sweets, fruits and vegetables, accents feisty and calming – and blitzes its way into the hearts of its fans. Including our intrepid scout, Ella.
Stone Circle Farm Teas
Teas from this farm in Cape May Court House are made from plants grown and dried right on its acres. More than merely flavorful, they’re a complete sensory experience.
Burnt Mills Ginger Ale
The cidery in Bedminster is a mecca for lovers of premium seasonally attuned hard ciders. But its ginger-strong ginger ale is a draw for those thirsty or underage (or both) who want to partake in its genial community scene.
Philly Fluff Cake
The name of the cake that bewitches its many, many fans betrays its “secret” ingredient and its texture. Ella Rapp explains why this confection is in high demand at Natale’s Summit Bakery – and why she always buys two.
Scallop Bowl
At Matthews Seafood in Cape May Court House, Adam dives into a true oxymoronic trifecta: superb bargain seafood. It comes directly from the source, fisherman and scalloper Tom Matthews.
Get Pickled
Carol Talarico’s condiments – think kimchi, giardiniera and gochujang – are in a league of their own in an ever-expanding field.
Ceviche de Camarones
At La Tia Peruvian Cuisine, in the food hall in Linwood called The Exchange, lightning-bolt bites of citrus-cured shrimp positively electrify.
Tubular Treat
Frankly, a bite of a top-notch artisan-made hot dog can spark fireworks on the Fourth of July more dazzling than a shimmering pyrotechnics display. Ella Rapp has tried many different brands of ’dogs and is firmly in the camp of those made by the butchers at Chester Meat Market.