AwesomeYo’s Kitchen
There’s more in store than celebrated baked goods at this downtown Indonesian hotspot piloted by a mother-and-daughter team who pay homage to grandma in the most delicious of ways.
G.O.A.T. Waffle
Lorena Cabra laces her made-on-the-spot waffles with a salty cheese from Colombia then drizzles them hot-off-the-griddle with a fruited sauce or dulce de leche. A more delightful breakfast at a farmers’ market you’d be hard-pressed to find.
3 Sons Thai Kitchen
A mother’s touch and well-practiced skills are supported by her best guys at a storefront charmingly attired even though it’s used by most for quick-stop takeout. Dine in at least once in a while to experience some of the finest Thai fare in the state and be guided by star chef-owner “Mama” Prap Khumthanom.
Heroes of Sincerity
It’s the highest compliment in food and the favorites of the two weeks just past have it in spades: the best blueberries, a braised pork Thai stew, Japanese cucumbers, earthy red lentil balls, and an Indonesian breakfast soup.
Sashimi Cucumbers from Eastbound Acres
A bio-intensive market garden farm in southern Ocean County grows an uncommon, highly desirable Japanese cuke variety known for its crispness, sweetness and light seed content. It makes for refreshing eating completely unadorned as well as a delightful vessel for hors d’oeuvres.
Toasting the Garden State’s Indies
On Independence Day, we declare ourselves in awe of, inspired by and devoted to New Jersey’s independent restaurants. Long may their doors be open for them to serve forth foods that are all about love.
Maize
Admirable pedigrees are attached to a modern Mexican set in a meticulously reimagined train station, but experience isn’t showing up on plates that may look pretty yet lack deep-seated flavors. Better sourcing and care in the kitchen are a couple of the answers to problems ownership needs to address.
Big Blues Salad
A score of a flat of organic blueberries from McCay’s early harvest at its Hammonton fields inspires a dinner-size toss of most amiable ingredients.
The Ethnico
The Eastern Mediterranean’s formidable culinary canon is well represented at this newcomer to the largest of Hunterdon County’s River Towns. It’s where classics are revered and lesser-known dishes given a chance to shine.
Sugar Snap Peas
Leading late spring into high summer is the sweetest little pea-’n’-pod in Mother Nature’s vast repertoire. Eat raw, and be happy. Or consider other options if you snag a large quantity grown on a Garden State farm.
Sigiri
Well-prepared Sri Lankan specialties capture the spirit and soul of the foods of an island country off the southern coast of India, dishes that benefit from being born in a prime post along spice routes traversing west to east. It deserves a place on your dine card.
Digging Around a Prime Peninsula
Cape May’s greats hit the heights of all eaten during the two weeks just past. Soft-shells, tilefish, mustardy shrimp, lesser-known berries and a force of nature from Chiapas in Mexico top our list.