Food lovers are a passionate bunch. So passionate that theywon't let a fewhours of driving deter them from experiencing an exhilarating meal. What's an hour or so behind a wheel when you know that a wonderful, scrumptious food awaits on the other end?
Ready to hop into your car?
The following are terrific restaurants in and around our region that are worth the drive.
Antique Bar & Bakery, Hoboken
Why you should go:If you love going back in time, Antique Bar & Bakery can help you do that. This restaurant in a century-old Hoboken building has an equally old 30-ton coal oven built of porcelain brick. Much of the food that lands on the blacktables in the dark, antique-filleddining room has spent sometime in that oven. If you like your baguette crisp, your meat tinged with smoke, your lemons slightly blackened by fire, this is your place.
The details: Hoboken was, as we New Jerseyansknow well, Sinatra's home. Ol'Blue Eyes may have been skinny when young but the crooner loved the famous "Hoboken Sticks" produced by that massive coal oven. Three men — chef Paul Gerard, filmmaker Joseph Castelo and nightlife impressario Rocco Ancarola — took this Hoboken heirloom and turned it into an energetic, lively bar and restaurant with great co*cktails and equally great grub. Standouts includespicy green chickpea hummus accompanied bya fire-singed baguette; whole shrimps with spicy chili oil, escorted by "dirty" lemons; and tender grass-fed herb steak enveloped ina nice charred crust.
Must-have dish: Pasta! Specifically the beef ragu and papardelle entree that comes out of theoven: thebeefin the tomato-based sauce is redolent of a good backyard smoker; themade-in-house papardelle, cooked to perfection, issimultaneously firm and tender. And make room for the Sundae —a deconstructed cannoli.
Go: 122 Willow Ave., Hoboken; 201-683-7029antiquebarbakery.com.
Basque Tapas Bar Restaurant, Piermont, New York
Why you should go: Tapas rule, sangria flows and 36-month-cured Iberico ham is a menu mainstay at this dinner-only, 50-seat restaurant which has become a favorite of area celebrities like Bill Murray, Brooke Shields and Aidan Quinn.
The details: For many years, owner Benny Castro, aBergen County resident, owned Meson Sevilla and Sangria 46 in New York's Theater district, so bringingold-school specialties such as Gambas a la Plancha (marinated sizzling grilled shrimp), Chorizo Salteado (sautéed chorizo with onions, peppers and white Rioja wine) and cured Iberico pork loin to the 'burbs was always a goal. Expect 18 different kinds of tapas, eight traditional entrees and authentic paella made with ground Spanish rice. Tapas range from $9 to $18; entrees cost from $18 to $30 and paella for two starts at $40.
Must-have dish: The “Marisco” (seafood) paella for two, abounty of clams, mussels, scallops, shrimp, baby squid, olives, piquillo peppers,tomato and onion sofrito, finished with a touch of Jerez wine. It's also available in a meat and vegetarian version.
Go: 587 Piermont Ave., Piermont;845-395-3100, basquetapas.com.
Battello, Jersey City
Why you should go: Jersey City is fast becoming a dining destination, with award-winning pizza (Razza), a hip tiki bar slinginggreat food (Cellar 335), a compelling German gastropub with craft beer galore(Wurstbar), and a cool Asian fusion spot headed bycelebrated chef and Fort Lee resident Dale Talde. And of course Battello, a stunning modern Italian, seafood-focused restaurant that sits right on a Hudson Riverpier. The restaurant was abruptly forced to close for 17 months for pier repair work. It reopened earlier this year, dazzling diners once again with itssoaring ceilings, exposed wooden beams,lityacht lanterns and breathtaking views of lower Manhattan.
The details:Chef/partner Ryan DePersio started wowing New Jersey diners when he was only 25 with his first restaurant Fascino in Montclair. He went on to open American restaurantThe Kitchen Step in Jersey City and, at age 36, Battello. Big with a huge bar that serves some luscious co*cktails (highly recommended: Smokey the Pineapple),Battello delivers —both stunning views and scrumptious food. Among the dishes to hop into a car for:a local burrata salad with sweet and spicy walnuts,tomato rigatoni with a lovely broccoli rabe pesto,sweetday-boat scallopsin a delicious white bean stew andricotta zeppoles with Nutella cream. Enjoy any or all (consider the chef's tasting menu for $75) as you stare at the magnificent One World Trade Center with awe.
Must-have dish: Don't leave without tryingthe ricotta gnocchi, DePersio's signature dish."I will never ever take this off the menu," he has said.$14 as appetizer, $24 entrée.
Go:02 Washington Blvd, Jersey City;201-798-1798;battellojc.com.
Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Pocantico Hills, New York
Why you should go: It’s among the world’s best. Seriously. The Westchester restaurant run by Dan Barber sources its menus directly from its own fields and farm. It's been named "Outstanding Restaurant" by the James Beard Foundation (2015) and been listed on the World's Best 50 Restaurants list since 2015. The food is sublime, the service impeccable, but Barber also gets kudos for being at the forefront of the sustainable movement,seeking out eco-friendly and low-waste practices to enhance his menus; he also works with seed breeders to develop more nutritious fruit and vegetables.
The details:This80-acre compound with stone barns, silos and paddocks, originally was created by the Rockefeller family. It's a true working farm withchickens, pigs, goatsand cows. What's offered in the dining room any given day is plucked from the fields (or market). Thereare no set menus, but expect to be treated to a multi-course three-hour feast with service as dramatic as the presentation. Be sure to reserve well in advance and expect to spend money: The tasting menu is $278 per person exclusive of beverage and tax. You also need to dress appropriately: Jackets and ties are preferred for men and no shorts are allowed. There’s a full liquor and wine menu.
Must-have dish: Because the menu changes according to season, it’s hard to say what you’ll encounter on the night you go: It could be Alexandria summer squash, Katarina summer cabbages, Taunus beets, cabbage sushi or purple sun carrots.
Go: 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills, 914-366-9600, bluehillfarm.com.
CaféLoret, Red Bank
Why you should go:Two point two square miles. More than 100 restaurants. In a place like Red Bank,it can be a challenge to make a name for yourself. But whenCaféLoretopened last summer, the chef needed no introduction; longtimelovers of fine dining in New Jersey remember Dennis Foy, who runs the restaurant with his wife, EstellaQuinones-Foy,from Tarragon Tree and Town Square in Morris County, Foy's in Point Pleasant Beach, andd’floret in Lambertville (plus others, including Mondrian and EQ in New York City). The chef was doing farm-to-table before it was the next big thing; a reviewer from The New York Times once wrote "I would drive some distance for his ratatouille in season, or for his roasted vegetables at any time of the year." Foy's love of quality ingredients, paired with skills perfected over decadesin his kitchens, make for memorable meals atthe year-oldCaféLoret.
The details: CaféLoret is a BYO; take a seat in thedining room, which is decorated with Foy's own vibrant artwork, or at awhite tablecloth-topped table outside. The menu, with a few more than a handful of options for both appetizers and entrées, includes warm goat cheese tart, tian of crab, mushroom crepes,salmon with truffle spaghetti squash, and classic veal Bolognese.Diners planning to catch a show at Count Basie Center for the Arts, a 10-minute walk from the restaurant,can make an early reservation;dinner service begins at 4:30 p.m.
Must-have dish: Diners and reviewers alike love Foy's veal Bolognese, but the chef says his most popular dish is an appetizer: sautéed housemade gnocchi with oyster mushrooms,Parmigiano Reggiano and chives.
Go:128 Broad St.;732-430-2250; cafeloret.com.
Crabtree's Kittle House Restaurant & Inn, Chappaqua, New York
Why you should go: For one, it's a favorite of local power couple, the former POTUS and Secretary of State Bill and Hillary Clinton. But more than that, this fine-dining restaurant and 13-room inn takes its food —and wine —very seriously. The family-owned farm-to-table spot, with a formal dining room and a more casual tap room, is known for its award-winning wine cellar, which currently houses 45,000 wines from around the world.
The details: Before farm to table was a buzzword, this 30-year-old restaurant was showcasing the best of the Hudson Valley using the finest, sustainable, naturally raised and grown products from small, local, organic and artisanal farms. Executive chef Beau Widener, a Culinary Institute of America grad who took over the kitchen last year, has upped the restaurant’s game by bringing a new energy to the menu with inventive flavors and textures. Prices range from $24 to $49 for entrées; $14 to $26 for appetizers; there’s a full bar along with a high variety, high-volume wine list.
Must-have dish: Gnudi (gnocchi-like dumpling) served with Maine lobster, asparagus, American caviar and smoked vanilla cream. It’s locally sourced and even better when paired with a glass of chardonnay or white burgundy.
Go: 11 Kittle Road, Chappaqua, 914-666-8044, kittlehouse.com.
Dock's Oyster House, Atlantic City
Why you should go:When Anthony Bourdain filmedan entire episode inNew Jersey forhis award-winning CNN food/travel show "Parts Unknown," he stopped inat Dock's Oyster House, of course. Bourdain was a self-admitted sucker for nostalgia —and Dock's, the oldest restaurant in Atlantic City, is easy to getsentimental about. It's got history — over its 112 years, it has withstood Prohibition, the Great Depression, and two world wars —and (no small matter)it servesterrific food, especially seafood.
The details:You can belly up to the stunning big bar and spend the evening listening to piano music and slurping fresh oysters (they are the "star"of the raw bar, Dock's proclaims, which offers up to a dozen varieties) or reserve a table in the equally stunning airy dining room and feast on Dock's classics that have been on the menu since 1897: Dock's seafood fry; jumbo lump crab meat in a creamy cheese sauce; panko-crusted fried shrimp with house-made tartar sauce; and jumbo lump crab meat with a roasted red pepper purée.
More of a meat eater than a fish person? No worries. Try the 16-ounce sirloin with a side of hand-cut fries.
Must-have dish: Lobster, of course. You're at the shore, for goodness sake. Get a two-to-seven pounder ($22.50/pound) and, what the hey, get it stuffed with Colossal crab meat for an additional $15. You deserve it.
Go:2405 Atlantic Ave., Atlantic City;609-345-0092,docksoysterhouse.com.
Dolly's, Garrison, New York
Why you should go:Sleepy, simple yet sophisticated, Garrison isn’t a destination like Cold Spring, its northerly Putnam County neighbor, and that’s just its charm. Time moves slow enough here that local lore still embraces the moment it masqueraded as Victorian-era Yonkers in the Barbra Streisand-starring film adaptation of "Hello Dolly."
Dolly's isn't fancy, but it couples the understated elegance of a European all-day cafe with an all-American spirit, all-local beer and all without a single measure of pretension. And if you're day-tripping to The Hudson Highlands, or hiking Breakneck Ridge, it offers the ideal nosh spot.
The details: While heavy on breakfast dishes— you can adda duckegg on most everything — the eatery segues into casual lunch (think grilled cheese and "college potatoes" ) and straight into classy co*cktails at dinner, with fresh oysters, spicy lamb shoulder, and apan fried fish on the menu. Hello, Dolly!
Must-have dish: Whatever you order, save room for a serving of Ronnybrook soft serve for dessert. — E.J. Kelley
Go:7 Garrisons Landing, Garrison,845-424-6511, dollysrestaurant.com.
El Tule, Lambertville
Why you should go: When the Egoavil and Anguino families emigrated from Peru to the Unites States in 1992, they realized their dreams of opening their own restaurant in the space of a former Mexican eatery. Creating a fusion of the two cultures, today, El Tule is a Peruvian-Mexican restaurant that is owned by women andrun by immigrants in a bright, eclectic space.
The details:In the kitchen, you’ll find Chef Carmen, who specializes in Peruvian fare, and Chef Said Anguiano, who specializes in Mexican cuisine, working together to craftdishes from their native countries.With a modern flair, the dishes at El Tule get a contemporary kick while still nodding to their past, such as in their grilled octopus tostada overover black beans, queso fresco, lettuce, tomatoes and sliced avocado.
Must-have dish: The Mexican street corn ($7) isjuicy and topped with Mexican cream, queso fresco and chili powder. If you’re indecisive, the Ceviche Trilogy ($29) is a sampler of all three main Ceviches served at El Tule: the Limeno, the Chifa and the Mixto. For dinner, be sure to try the Chaufa de Quinoa y Mariscos ($23,) a blend of Peruvian and Chinese flavors, as many traditional Peruvian dishes include Chinese influences.
Go: 49 North Main Street, Lambertville; 609-773-0007; eltulerestaurant.com.
Hearthside, Collingswood
Why you should go: When they opened the doors of their restaurant in 2017, Dominic and Lindsay Piperno altered the landscape of the South Jersey dining scene. Since that time, Hearthsideremains one of the most sought-after reservations in the region. It is a jewel in Collingswood’s considerableculinary crownand was named to some “Best of Philly’’ lists by Philadelphia and Food & Wine magazines, even though it means crossing the Delaware to eat there. Whether you choose to dine al fresco on the sidewalk with your sweetie or linger with friends near the hearth on a Saturday evening, this BYOB will not disappoint.
The details: The changing menu makes the most of seasonal ingredients and Piperno’s wood-fired culinary skills. Menu offerings are gathered into small, medium, large and "for the table"dishes. A sampling from the summer menu: red snapper ceviche with orange, avocado, potato chips and cilantro ($19); hamachi crudo with rhubarb, chili strawberries and cucumbers ($19); risotto with mushrooms, preserved lemons and smoked mozzarella ($17); Spaghetti with asparagus, crab, tomato and jalapenos ($21), and day-boat scallops with English pea purée, matbukha and chips ($36).
Must-have dish: The star of the show is Hearthside’s whole-roasted bronzino, served with artichokes, mint, olives, chili butter and white wine, meant to share with the table for $62.
Go:801 Haddon Ave., Collingswood;856-240-1164,hearthsidebyob.com.Reservations highly recommended.For parties of six or more, call between 2 and 10 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday to reserve a required tasting menu, which starts at $75 per person.
Heirloom Kitchen, Old Bridge
Why you should go: A farm-to-table restaurant, recreational cooking school and retail boutique, all headed by an executive chef who has spent time on “Chopped” and “Top Chef" — what’s not to love?
The details:Within a year of itsopening, Heirloom Kitchen was named one of the “Best Cooking Classes Around the World” by Food & Wine Magazine. Locatedin a strip-mall, Heirloom at first may seem unassuming, but inside, rustic-chic vibes pair with visually stunning (and delicious) dishes for an upscale yet unpretentious experience. Here, diners can request a seat at the "chef'scounter" for an up-close view offood being prepared by executive chef David Viana and his crew. Dishes are made not just for taste, but also for presentation.
READ:4 reasons why Heirloom Kitchen in Old Bridge, headed by Top Chef contestant, is a must-try
Must-have dish: Heirloom Kitchen only has prix-fixe menus, all of which change frequently depending on seasonality: a three-course menu for $75 and a five-course chef’s tastingmenu for $95, with vegetarian and vegan options also available, so the must-have dish literally depends on what day you're visiting.“Our menu changes on the regular, constantly evolving," saidNeilly Robinson, founder and general manager."We change a dish or two each week, as more produce pops up throughout the seasons and our chefs get inspired.”
Go: 3853 Route 516, Old Bridge; 732-727-9444; heirloomkitchen.com.
Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, Morristown
Why you should go:Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen may be the closest thing to a Tuscan getawaywithout having to leave the New York metropolitan area.A gorgeous 15,000-square-foot Italianate mansion with a longreflecting pool and enough marble to fill a quarry, JHB&K is actually a four restaurant compound in downtown Morristown. The jaw-dropping manor is co-owned by and the brainchild ofChristopher Cannon, the prominent restaurateur who helped birth and maintainthree New York Times' three-star restaurants in New York: Marea, Alto and Convivio. JHB&K is the Mountain Lakes resident's first New Jersey spot.
The details: It's nearly impossible not to be wowed by the beauty of JHB&K; it was built by the same architect who constructedKykuit, the Rockefeller estate in Westchester.Itfirst served as the home of Theodore Vail, the president of AT&T. JHBK's co*cktail lounge is called The Vail Bar. There's also a contemporary raw bar (The Oyster Bar), a basem*nt beer hall (The Rathskeller), a fine-dine seafood restaurant (daPesca) and an extraordinary 20,000-bottle wine program; 60of the bottles are under $60. Cannon is a passionateoenophile.
Executive chef Craig Polignano is no slouch either. He was executive chef of legendary The Ryland Inn in Whitehouse Station and Mistral in Princeton.
Must-have dish: There are several: the insanely delicious ricotta cavatelli with pancetta and smoked egg yolks; the look-like-scallops New Jersey skate wing on a bed of puréed cauliflower; the light salt cod and ricotta ravioli; and the briny and slightly spicy chilled New England mussels. Consider getting the four-course prix-fixe chef's menu for $86 or the six-course menu for $116 at daPesca. And get whatever wines Cannon recommends. He is not only a wine genius but he seeks and findsgreat wines at affordableprices.
Go: 110 South St., Morristown;973 644 3180,jockeyhollowbarandkitchen.com.
Lefkes, Englewood Cliffs
Why you should go: Lefkes, the name of a tree, is supposed to evoke the Greek island of Santorini, from whichits owner and chef hail. Its sister restaurants are in Santorini and Athens. If it seems familiar, this was the formerMarc Forgione's American Cut steakhouse.
The details: The mixologist at Lefkes is a wizard, so if you're not feeling that stress-free island groove,the co*cktails —highly recommended:a Blood Orange Margarita (jalapeno-infused tequila with blood orange purée), or an Apollo Cooler (ouzo, metaxa, lemon juice andginger beer) —should help. So should the seafood and fresh fish on the menu.
Must-have dish: Lefkes prides itself on its fresh whole fish. Displayedin a big stainless-steel case of ice in thedining room, thekitchen will grill one for you.Lefkesrecommends a pound of fish per person, so if you choose Maine lobster, it will set you back$29 for that pound; red sea beam$42; and Dover sole, $44.
Go: 495 Sylvan Avenue, 201-408-4444,lefkesnj.com.
Mistral, Princeton
Why you should go: Upstairs, Mistral's co-owner and executive chef Scott Anderson has created elements, which is known for itsprix-fix chef's tasting menus, but downstairs at Mistral, the focus is instead on smaller plates that allow for guests to create theirowntasting menus, and share them, too.
The details:Anderson and chef de cuisine Joe Mooney focus on fresh, local ingredients with a global touch— themenu reflects techniques and flavors accumulated byAnderson and Mooney throughout their various travels, evident in current dishes such asSpicy Tonkotsu Ramen,Jonah Crab Tagliatelli andPollo Asado. No region is off-limits here.
Plus, their dishes areartistically plated and available on both their outdoor patio or inside their rustic chic interior. Also enjoy drinks from their craft co*cktail menu, which, similar to the food menu, features classic dishes with unexpected additions.
Must-have dish:Get a mix of flavors with Mistral'sChicken Bratwurst Tortellini, served withmustard, escarole, apple andsauerkraut powder; or theirGreen Papaya andHerb Salad withcrispy duck, butternut squash, kaffir lime, chili and peanut for a refreshing summer dish.
Go: 66 Witherspoon Street, Princeton; 609-688-8808; mistralprinceton.com.
Pakt,Kingston, New York
Why you should go: Since it opened nearly three years ago, Pakt has been among a handful of restaurants and othervenues powering theresurgence and popularity of this Ulster County city, especially from transplanted and weekending New York City-ites.
It's right across the street from the Ulster Performing Arts Center, so they do a lot of theme menus to go with whatever they have going on.“We also work with the LGBTQ Center in Kingston on events," said owner ErynStutts, "so we might have 100 drag queens at the bar one night.”
The details: Just like the neighborhood, Pakt is low-key, a tad funky and high on the hipster quotient. The food is big and delicious and Southern. The country hams are from Kentucky, but everything else is local and made in house, with lots of options for vegans, vegetarians and those on a gluten-free diet.The appealing all-day menu is expansive, well-priced and flexible, with lots of options for add-ons and sides, including braised greens, pig wings, and celery root and apple slaw.
Must-have dish: Asoul-warming plate of scrambled cheese eggs, salty country ham, a big dense homemade biscuit, very creamy grits (a secret family recipe), and a dollop of red-red gravy spilling over the whole plate from the grits. A perfect fried green tomato was the jewel in the crown.— Bill Cary
Go:608 Broadway, Kingston,845-331-2400,pakttogo.com.
The Red Store, Cape May
Why you should go: There is no shortage of places to enjoy a big omelet or a tall stack of blueberry pancakes in Cape May. But if you want a truly memorable brunch experience, go right on through to Cape May Point. Even at the height of the season,this renovated general store extends that feeling of relaxation and indulgence through every meal. In season, Red Store offers brunch daily except forTuesdayfrom 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinners Wednesday through Saturday beginning at 5:30 p.m
The details:The Red Store is the only restaurant on Cape May Point, so brunch here is aperfect start to aday in Cape Mayfollowed by a leisurely walk on the nature trails near the Cape May Lighthouse. Once you’re seated in the cozy dining area or out on the back deck overlooking a small garden, you can dive into your food.Brunch items at Red Store range from $2.50 to $16. James Beard-nominated chef Lucas Manteca's menus are truly special with house-made breads and pastries, and special takes on everything from shrimp and grits to huevos rancheros to avocado toast. Manteca and artist/designer Deanna Ebner are also behind Quahog's Seafood Shack,The Taco Shop(with locations at Cape May Airport and Stone Harbor), and the newly openedBeachwood at the Dunesin Sea Isle.
Must-have dish: The Red Store Crab and Corn Pancake ($16), which has crab, corn, roasted poblano pepper and feta cheese pancakes, arugula, crème fraiche and applewood bacon. In the mood for something different? Pop in around lunchtime and grab some homemade empanadas for the beach. And don’t miss The Red Store Burger, recently chosen as Cape May County’s best by food writer Rebecca King.
Go:The Red Store, 500 Cape Ave., Cape May Point;609-884-5757,capemaypointredstore.com.
Stone House at Stirling Ridge, Warren
Why you should go: A stunning restaurant and event hall that hopes to “redefine the farm-to-table movement,” Stone House offers delicious food in an elegant setting.
The details: This stylized venue with a rustic, sophisticated setting is the vision of Frank and Jeanne Cretella, the owners of Landmark Hospitality, which includes restaurants Liberty House in Jersey City, the Ryland Inn in Whitehouse Station and Logan Inn in New Hope, PA. Executive chef David Drake has been instrumental in starting a local organic farm cooperative with Dancing Goat Farms, which is located right on the Stone House’s property.
Must-have dish: The short rib ($42) served with crispy goat’s milk polenta, charred spring onion and roasted baby carrots is a meal that’s filling and delicious to the very last bite. For dessert, the affogato mocha ($13) is a wonderful way to finish off the meal, but the brownie s’mores ($10), complete with marshmallows you get to roast yourself, are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Go: 50 Stirling Road, Warren; 908-754-1222; stonehouseatstirlingridge.com.
The Frog and the Peach, New Brunswick
Why you should go: An upscale, contemporary American restaurant situated in the original printing building for The Home News, The Frog and the Peach indowntown New Brunswickis owned by executive chef Bruce Lefebvre, who looks to bring modern spins on American dishes, while also highlighting local ingredients.
The details: So where exactly did the unique name come from? It’s based off a Dudley Moore and Peter Cook skit, in which the two British satirists joke about a restaurant in Scotland that only serves frogs and peaches. Just as that fictional eatery pushed the limits with only two ingredients, The Frog and the Peach continues to do so with itsa la carte and prix-fixe menus. With dishes that are inventive anddelicious, The Frog and the Peach is doing something very, very right.
Must-have dish: The roasted bone marrow ($27), served with Barolo onions, parsley and bluecheese is a savory appetizer meant to be shared, although you won’t want to. Eat it by itself or spread on crostini. The porcini ricotta gnocchi ($17) is also wonderful, and a great vegetarian option. Delicious, light and served with peas, parmesan and a black garlic broth, you’ll be feeling satisfied until the last bite.
Go: 29 Dennis Street, New Brunswick; 732-846-3216; frogandpeach.com.
Wm. Farmer & Son, Hudson, New York
Why you should go: With an abundance of nearby farms, the food scene in the booming Columbia County city of Hudson has taken off in recent years.
Since opening fouryears ago, Wm. Farmer & Sons has become one of the rising stars on this burgeoning restaurant scene.
The details: It's run by former Brooklynites, the husband-and-wife team of Kristan Keck and Wm. Kirby Farmer.Farmer, a talented chef with lots of experience and deep roots in western North Carolina, is in charge of the kitchen, while Keck runs the property's inn.
It's an ideal Sunday brunch stop if you're making a day trip, but the new-American dinner menu is reason enough for an overnight:jerked north Georgia quail, a hamachi collar with maitake mushrooms, crispy catfish nuggets, and a fine craftedco*cktail menu to book.
Must-have dish:The fried chicken! The Farmer's Fried Chicken is served at lunch and comes several ways in a basket, on a sandwich, as wings. Just try one. The free-range birds are buttermilk-soakedfor two days before being deep-fried to a crunchy, heavenly golden hue.— Bill Cary
Go:20 S. Front St., Hudson, 518-828-1635,wmfarmerandsons.com.
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Zeppoli, Collingswood
Why you should go: Chef-owner Joey Baldino continues to work his Sicilian magic at Zeppoli, and the South Jersey restaurant with the pull to turn heads in his native South Philly. His work in the kitchen has earned him numerous James Beard nominations.His off-the-beaten-track location is worth a mention in any serious discussion of New Jersey restaurants. Baldino also owns Palizzi Social Club, a members-only dining experience, in his oldneighborhood.
The details: Zeppoli is tucked into a diminutive space, seating 35 guests, in West Collingswood, where it is a neighbor of newcomer Porch & Proper. The small (and admittedly noisy) room gives diners an opportunity to chat with their neighbors. Zeppoli, like all Collingswood restaurants, is a BYOB, so bring your favorite bottle —or swing by Moores Brothers wine sellers on nearby North Park Drive and pick up a bottle.Baldino keeps his menu simple, and it's remained virtually the same since his 2015 launch. Salads include panzanella catania, tomato-bread salad with capers and Sicilian white anchovies ($9). Pastas include tagliatelli la limone ($9/$17) or spaghetti vongole ($9/$18), as well asgnocchi alla' argentiera, Spinach and ricotta gnocchi topped with Sicilian caciocavallo, ($9/&18), which are as light as a cloud and the stuff of dreams. A generous selection of housemade desserts – including zeppoli, of course —are $9.
Must-try dish: We dare you to find a more creative antipasto Siciliano platter anywhere, with plenty to share:white-bean salad flecked with tuna, perfectly spiced cubes of butternut squash, peppers stuffed with prosciutto and provolone, beets pickled with star anise, delicate slices of frittata, and a caponata made the traditional way, with cocoa and chili. It's $11 per person. And we could also go on all day about why you will want to end your meal with Baldino's biancomangiare,an almond milk panna cotta dessert served with fresh fruit.
Go: Zeppoli,618 W. Collings Ave., Collingswood;856-854-2670,zeppolirestaurant.com. Reservations are a must.
