Menya
A blossoming borough in Middlesex County has met its match in a ramen house that mirrors its best qualities.
The Front Porch
A pub is much more than just a pub when its chef crafts a menu that spotlights updated Asian-accented classics. Fair warning: Melissa Mak’s galbi burger and “bimbimmak” might distract you from the big play on TV.
Juniper Hill
Chef Josh DeChellis stays true to his mission of bringing seasonally attuned fine-dining fare to an educated audience. His skill and wisdom show in every dish on his concise menu.
Daymark
An LBI year-rounder is seafood-strong, as you might expect. But don’t think the kitchen goes shy on its meats, vegetables – or a pie-slice of a fruit tart.
Pancho Mexican Kitchen
What’s going on at a much-hyped Mexican newcomer that draws crowds even as its kitchen stumbles? Problems, in need of solutions.
Sweet Amalia Market & Kitchen
At this instant classic, an oyster from the Cape Shore Flats is honored and classic dishes get revelatory tweaks. The result is a terroir-defining experience destined for a spot on the national map.
The Windlass
Hard on the shores of Lake Hopatcong is this spot where nature’s gifts, creature-made comforts and a range of worthy food converge. Grab a glider booth, a cocktail and ponder the edible options.
Mathis House
There are temptations in teapots, food that’s pristine and a setting that inspires nod-to-your-neighbor propriety at this historic mansion where posh reigns.
The Grand Tavern
Calvin Trillin, a seminal writer with four-star ideas about food, long has campaigned to have pasta carbonara replace turkey as the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner. As usual, he’s spot-on correct. But there’s a new contender in the “86 the Bird” movement: the cavatelli BLT at this pub-by-the-Shore.
Bahay Kubo
This is one fun way to eat, this communal-style Filipino feast known as kamayan. Easy, too. Except for figuring out how to stop.
Manu’s Kitchen Bar and Sushi Lounge
Portuguese and Japanese plates co-exist and co-mingle at a distinctive destination in the Ironbound.
The Porch Crepe Cafe
A Bonus Brief RR: Bid the season adieu this week with crepes savory and sweet at an outdoor café that’s tres charmant.