Fancy Fish
"Fry" is the method done right at this storefront deep in the heart of Havana on the Hudson that’s all and only about fishes. Long may it reign, absolutely unchanged. P.S. It’s one in a family of five siblings.
Fresh, Young Ginger, for Gari
Youth isn’t wasted on this rhizome that’s juicier and livelier in its smoother-faced prime. As the cognoscenti know, now is the time to kick into ginger-pickling production.
Deccan Spice
The traditions of thali fail to receive the respect they deserve at a high-style space where the premise is much about majesty, but the practice of reheating leftovers and an indifference to freshness prevail. It’s a disgrace to a ritual built on pride of place, process and ingredients.
Ube Ice Cream, at Sweet Dynasty
The purple yam popular in the Philippines shines in ice cream form at this diminutive shop in Edison. Subtle and sophisticated, it’s a flavor to favor in fall.
Ficus Bon Vivant
Far too much tastes far too bad at a downtown café-cum-restaurant that prides itself on its worldly menu and top-flight ingredients. From dish concept to execution to disconnected service, the flaws appall and need to be addressed.
Lobster Causa
Party time? Think this versatile dish from South America that can star shellfish or chicken or vegetables or anything that partners with potatoes. Its flexibility is its touchstone.
Andrea Trattoria Italiana
Sincerity is a tangible at the latest incarnation of a rustic, yet dressy restaurant from chef Andrea Covino. Here, it’s in the food, the setting, the service and in all the ways heart and soul are expressed.
Salad Upgrade
’Tis the season to re-think the tosses that have served you well these last several months. It’s time for something more challenging and complex – something not accomplished by adding cheeses, seeds, fruits and nuts.
HoopHouse
A global swarm of styles is in sync with the happy-jumble decor at this casual eatery in an emerging hub in Burlington County. With mission being tied to farm-sourcing, however, the folks here must be resolute in name-checking those sources on menus.
Ol’ Bean
Has a new bean at the market caught your eye? Give into temptation! Tasting it is likely to turn a mere flirtation into a long-term love.
Saltwater Social
Someone needs to be watching how plates are put together in the kitchen of this snappy-looking meet-up spot in a rejuvenated, culinary-centric downtown. The setting’s divine and classy, but the executions too often stand in contrast with what’s printed on the menu.
Homemade Tomato Sauce
The greatest gifts do come from the heart, but the best of the greatest gifts come as well from harvests at our Garden State farms and the backyard gardens of friends.