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21 February 2015 Bodega Catena Zapata Wine Dinner at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

Bodega Catena Zapata Wine Dinner at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

February 21, 2015 By

Spuntino Catena Wine Dinner

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas is hosting a Bodega Catena Zapata Wine Dinner at its location in the Clifton Commons on Thursday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m.

The evening will highlight wines produced by the family-owned Bodega Zapata Catena winery, a pioneer in Argentinian winemaking.  Hosted by General Manager, Brian McAllister, Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas will take guests on a culinary adventure, with wine pairings to match the carefully crafted menu by Executive Chef Josh Bernstein. Guest speaker, Kendra Forsythe, brand manager of Catena Family Wines for The Winebow Group, will also share tasting notes to go along with the cuisine, which includes:

ANTIPASTO

FIRE-ROASTED BLUE POINTS OYSTER – Caviar, butter-braised leeks, chervil. Paired with a 2013 Catena Chardonnay.

PASTA

HOUSE-MADE CAVATELLI – Puntarelle greens, Italian sausage, smoked mozzarella. Paired with a 2011 Catena Malbec.

PRIMI

CASSOULET DI TOSCANA – Lamb, wild boar sausage, duck confit, borlotti bean. Paired with a 2011 Catena Alta Malbec.

SECONDO

PETITE FILET – Roasted baby vegetable, salmoriglio sauce. Paired with a 2012 Catena Cabernet Sauvignon.

FORMAGGI

TALEGGIO – Tart cherry mustarda, black olive crostini. Paired with a 2010 Nicolas Catena Zapata Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec.

Tickets for the Bodega Catena Zapata Wine Dinner, which has limited seating, can be purchased in advance for a cost of $49/person by calling 973-661-2435.

For more information, visit www.SpuntinoWineBar.com

Cheers,

Veronique

Filed Under: Food & Wine Events Tagged With: , ,
20 December 2014 Christmas Morning Brunch Recipes from Spuntino Wine Bar

Christmas Morning Brunch Recipes from Spuntino Wine Bar

December 20, 2014 By

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas Executive Chef, Josh Bernstein, wants to help us to impress friends and family with unique and delicious Christmas morning brunch recipes he serves at both the Clifton, NJ and the Westbury, NY locations.

Egg White Fritatta

Egg White Fritatta

Egg White Frittata

Serves 4

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup Clarified Butter
  • ½ cup Spanish Onion, diced
  • ½ lb Chicken Sausage, cooked and diced
  • ½ bunch Rainbow Swiss Chard, cleaned and chopped
  • 8 cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 2 cups Egg whites
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Heat a 10 inch, nonstick sauté pan over medium high heat. 
  2. Add the clarified butter. 
  3. After about 30 seconds, add the onions, sausage, Swiss chard and tomatoes. 
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes. 
  5. Season to taste with the sea salt and ground black pepper. 
  6. Mix in the egg whites and stir with a rubber spatula. 
  7. Smooth the mixture out and place into a 400° oven for 5-7 minutes.  (The eggs should be fully set and slightly browned on top.) 
  8. Slide the frittata out of the pan onto a round plate.  Cut into 8 wedges.

 

Pane Francese

Pane Francese

Pane Francese alla Spuntino

Serves 4

Ingredients:

Pane Spuntino:

  • ¼ cup Clarified Butter
  • 1 each Crusty Baguette, cut into 1” bias slices
  • 2 cups Buttermilk
  • 8 eggs
  • 4 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp Sea Salt
  • 2 Cups Maple Syrup
  • Powdered Sugar for dusting

Warm Berry Compote:

  • 1 lb Strawberries, de-stemmed
  • 1 ls Blueberries
  • ¼ cup Honey
  • 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt
  • 1 tbsp Mint, chiffonade

Method:

Warm Berry Compote:

  1. Cut the strawberries into quarters. 
  2. Combine the strawberries, blueberries, honey, vanilla and sea salt in a sauce pan. 
  3. Slowly bring to a boil over low heat to allow the berries to release their liquid.
  4. Let the mixture cook for 30 minutes to reduce the liquid by at least half. 
  5. Fold in the mint.  Set aside for service.

Pane Spuntino:

  1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon and salt. 
  2. Whisk for 1 minute to combine well. 
  3. Dip the baguette slices into the egg mixture.  Allow to sit for one minute to absorb the batter.
  4. Heat the clarified butter in a large non-stick sauté pan. 
  5. Add the battered bread to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. 
  6. Remove baguettes from the pan and dip into the bowl of maple syrup.  Coat on both sides and place into a baking dish. 
  7. Put the pane spuntino into a 450° oven for 4 -5 minutes.  The pane spuntino will puff slightly.
  8. Remove from the oven.  Serve on top of the warm berry compote.  Dust the top with the powdered sugar.

Spuntino’s philosophy, which emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients for their chef-driven made-from-scratch menu, is demonstrated in these dishes.

For more information, visit www.SpuntintoWineBar.com or at Facebook.

Cheers,

Veronique

Filed Under: American, Breakfast, Cheese, Chocolate, Eggs, Vegetables Tagged With: , , ,
24 August 2014 The Fun Never Ends at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

The Fun Never Ends at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

August 24, 2014 By
Cured Meats & Cheese

Cured Meats & Cheese

As I’ve documented in the past, I’m a fan of the Spuntino concept. I like the idea of stopping in for a glass of wine and a few tapas after a long day at work or to meet a group of friends for an affordable evening of small plates sharing over a few bottles of vino.

Spuntino, the popular wine and tapas bar and restaurant in Clifton is now 2 ½ years old and judging by the convivial crowd we encountered on our last two weeknight visits, I’m guessing doing well. With nearly 50 wines by the glass and an extensive selection of tapas, shareable small plates, Spuntino offers something for everyone.

Chicken Live Pate

Chicken Live Pate

Something I especially enjoyed on my last visit, a Thursday night, was the flight of three Italian wines, available on that particular night of the week, for $12. The three pours of three ounces each offer diners not familiar with Italian wines a chance to sample three wines from various regions at an attractive value. On the night we were there, I sampled a 2009 La Chiara Gavi, a 2011 Boroli Langhe Anna Nebbiolo Blend and a 2007 Il Chiosso Ghemme. All three paired well with the various tapas we selected and I’ll review each of these wines in future posts.

Besides the tasty food and outstanding wine selection, Spuntino does a great job at doing special events and hosting food celebrations. This month through August 21, it held the Feast of Ferragosto, an Italian fête dating back centuries recognizing the end of the harvest season. The celebration features a five-course tasting menu at an incredible price of $35 – simply an unbelievable value. Another exclusive event Spuntino’s having soon is a Castello di Bossi wine dinner with special guest Pasquale Depinto. The award-winning Chianti wines will be paired with Spuntino’s delicious food on September 16 at 7PM and the cost of the limited-space dinner is $75.

Arancini

Arancini

On the evening we were invited, peaches were the celebrated food staple. At our waiter’s urging, we sampled the crostino of roasted peaches with Mascarpone and a drizzle of honey on grilled Italian bread. What a delicious combination! Another crostino we tried and absolutely loved was a special that evening – chicken liver pâté with fried sage leaves and pickled red onion, a delight of creamy, rich chicken liver with a bit of crunch and earthiness from the sage and acidity from the red onion.

A favorite of ours when dining at Spuntino, and a dish we don’t ever not order, is the Arancini – risotto balls. The creamy risotto interior with the deep golden, crunchy exterior are a winning formula only enhanced by the flavorful tomato sauce served on the side.

Spaghetti with Mullet Roe

Spaghetti with Mullet Roe

Something else we’re fond of is the meat and cheese plate. Spuntino offers an interesting lineup of Italian cheeses and cured meats that can be ordered in a combination of one item for $5 or 3 for $14. We opted for high-quality Pecorino cheese, Wild Boar Cacciatorini, a dried sausage with heirloom spices and Speck, a smoked Prosciutto from Alto Adige. The three items were served on a wooden board with Prosecco mustard and perfectly-grilled bread.  

A special of the evening that we couldn’t pass up when our waiter described it was the spaghetti tossed with white wine and olive oil then topped with shaved mullet roe – delicious in its simplicity and extra brownie points for perfectly al dente pasta.

We’re fans of Spuntino’s pizza and couldn’t leave without ordering one. This time, we opted for the Salsiccia with sausage, onions and peppers. While the personal-sized pie (enough for two) had the nicely charred and a bit-chewy crust we’ve come to love, the toppings just weren’t our favorites. The onion and pepper caused the surface of the pie to be slightly wet and not on par with the Fig and Prosciutto or the Funghi pizzas we’ve enjoyed in the past.

Pizza

Pizza

In keeping with the peach theme, we sampled the peach crostini for dessert. The buttery crumbly topping paired with the juicy, ripe yet slightly tart peaches worked well and we thoroughly enjoyed this dessert.

Another delicious visit to Spuntino under our belts, literally. If you’ve not experienced this welcoming restaurant with its friendly staff and open kitchen concept, stop in and join the rest of us who have a difficult time selecting wine and tapas from the extensive menus.

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas – 94 Kingsland Road, Clifton, NJ, 07014. (973) 661-2435.

Cheers,

Veronique

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,
29 November 2012 Northern NJ Wine MeetUp Visits Spuntino Wine Bar

Northern NJ Wine MeetUp Visits Spuntino Wine Bar

November 29, 2012 By

Last night, the Northern NJ Wine MeetUp Group had a gathering at Spuntino Wine Bar in Clifton. This diverse group of wine fans meets about every six weeks at various places in northern New Jersey. I’ve belonged to the group for about three years and the events are always fun and insightful. I’ve written about Spuntino in the past, so I was pleased when I received a notification that the November event would be there.

Our group of about 30 members, including friend and fellow New Jersey food and blogger Peter Conway of Mano A Vino, met for drinks in the spacious bar area then met in a private room near the open kitchen. Spuntino’s Sommelier, Jane, graciously walked us through the extensive menu and wine list. The restaurant offers forty two Italian wines by the glass, over one hundred Italian wines and a reserve wine list with several gems I’d like to sample.

When I say the menu is extensive, I mean it! Spuntino features a tapas menu, small plates meant to be shared. My party sampled a plate of Salumi and Formaggi, cured Italian meats and cheeses served with perfectly grilled crostini that was perfect paired with our first bottle of wine.

Bruschetta come in nine variations (one for $3, three for $8 and five for $14) and our table tried the Prosciutto di Parma and fresh Mozzarella version. The Italian bread was grilled to a crunchy exterior while the interior was still moist. We also sampled the Carciofo – flash-fried artichoke hearts served with a tangy lemon aioli.

Meatballs ($6) are king at Spuntino and last evening, we opted for the lamb variation. The three meatballs were served with a Parmesan wafer and were good, albeit a bit bland.

There are five pastas ($8) on the menu and on this visit, we devoured the pasta with wild boar ragu. The sauce was rich and flavorful and the pasta was topped with freshly-grated Parmesan cheese.

The pizzas are thin-crusted and hand-stretched and the meaty Salumi ($11) topped with Prosciutto, crumbled sausage, Capocollo and Cacciatorini made it to our table, once again.

If you’ve not experienced Spuntino, make a point to visit soon. It serves delicious, affordable food and the wine list would please any fan of the grape.

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

94 Kingsland Road

Clifton, NJ, 07014

(973) 661-2435

HOURS

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. -10 p.m.
Monday –Thursday: 11 a.m. – Midnight.

Filed Under: Culinary Travel Tales, Other Neat Things, Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , ,
27 July 2012 42 Wines by the Glass at Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas

42 Wines by the Glass at Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas

July 27, 2012 By

Arancini

With less than six months under its belt, Spuntino Wine Bar in Clifton has garnered positive accolades from locals and northern New Jersey wine lovers. The well-appointed space is divided in a lounge area with table and bar seating and a comfortable dining room with an open kitchen concept. There are even private rooms for small gatherings.

Spuntino offers a clever and affordable wine list, including 42 Italian wines by the glass, over 100 Italian wines and a reserve wine list of stellar, sought-after bottles.

The extensive menu features small plates ideal for sharing.  The larger-than-usual portions offer some old school favorites and creative, modern fare.

On my last visit, my guests and I sampled a plate of Salumi and Formaggi, cured Italian meats and cheeses, that was excellent.  Diners can opt for one selection for $4, three selections for $10 and ten for $18. Some of the choices are the Prosciutto di Parma – aged for 18 months, the Fontina – paired with honey and the Hot Sopressata – imported from Central Italy. All were served with perfectly grilled crostini.

Antipasti ($5) options range from an olives plate to pan-seared goat cheese wrapped in Mortadella to mussels steamed in white wine sauce.

Salumi Pizza

Bruschetta come in nine variations (one for $3, three for $8 and five for $14) and are mounded with toppings like Ricotta cheese and roasted grapes, goat cheese and caramelized onions and Gorgonzola cheese, apple and walnuts.

Must-try fried choices ($6) are the Arancini – fried risotto balls stuffed with peas and Mozzarella and the Carciofo – perfectly fried artichoke hearts served with a tangy lemon aioli.  The Arancini are super-crunchy on the outside with perfectly creamy risotto on the inside – a truly delectable treat.

Meatballs ($6) are a labor of love at Spuntino and come three to an order.  The classic version is served with either a rich tomato sauce or a spicy marinara sauce – try the latter, it is delicious. Diners can opt for pork, chicken, vegetable or lamb variations.

There are five pastas ($8) on the menu at Spuntino and our favorite was the Perciatelli Con Pesto – thick spaghetti with rich, herby pesto sauce.

The thin-crusted and hand-stretched pizzas are truly some of the best around these parts.  Whether in the mood for a simple basil and Mozzarella Margherita ($9) or a decadent and meaty Salumi ($11) pizza topped with Prosciutto, crumbled sausage, Capocollo and Cacciatorini, do not pass up ordering a pie.

Tapas-style food allows diners an opportunity to try many different dishes they might not otherwise order. Spuntino is a perfect place to share a romantic meal or for dining with a group.  Add it to your list of places to try for delicious and affordable food and wine in northern New Jersey.

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

94 Kingsland Road

Clifton, NJ, 07014

(973) 661-2435
HOURS

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. -10 p.m.
Monday –Thursday: 11 a.m. – Midnight.

 

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , ,
29 April 2019 NJ Restaurants Celebrating Mother’s Day

NJ Restaurants Celebrating Mother’s Day

April 29, 2019 By

Mother’s Day is one of the most booked days for restaurants. Many New Jersey restaurants are offering brunch and dinner specials so you can treat the moms in your lives to a very special meal.

Here are some local restaurants offering special Mother’s Day menus.

LAUREL & SAGE ADDED 5/2/19. I’ll be updating this post as new information becomes available.

Bergen County

Chakra (www.chakrarestaurant.com  W.144 Route 4, Paramus will offer a three-course meal from 12PM until 8PM for $49/person (plus tax & gratuity). A children’s a la carte menu will be available. Call for reservations 201-556-1530.

Haven (www.havenedgewater.com 2 Main Street, Edgewater) will serve a three-course menu all day for $75. Reservations are required, call 201-943-1900.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pubs (http://theshannonrose.com  1200 New Jersey 17, Ramsey and 98 Kingsland Road, Clifton) will host a special brunch from 11AM until 4PM. The menu will feature a wide selection of stations and special dishes. Tickets are $35 per adult and $15 for children ages 3-12. For reservations, call 201-962-7602.

Vesta Wood Fired (http://vestawoodfired.com  64 Hoboken Rd., East Rutherford) is offering brunch specials and dinner menu from 11AM until 9PM. Reservations strongly recommended 201-939-6012. 

Essex County

Calandra’s Italian Village (https://calandrasitalianvillage.com) will celebrate Mother’s Day at its various venues:

Calandra’s Mediterranean Grill – 118 US Highway 46, Fairfield. Will offer a buffet for $55 for adults, $25 for children 12 and under and free for children 4 and under. Seatings are at: 11:30AM, 2:30PM and 5:45PM. Call 973-575-6500 for reservations.

Cucina Calandra (https://www.cucinacalandra.com) – 216 US Highway 46, Fairfield. A la carte specials along with a special brunch buffet. Brunch buffet is from 11:30AM to 2:30PM and $59.95 for adults and $19.95 for children 3 – 10 and à la carte dining is from 12PM until 10PM. For reservations, call 973-575-7720 or 973-575-7200.

Il Vecchio Café – 234 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell. A brunch buffet for $40 for adults and $19.95 for children 4 – 12 with seating at 11:30AM and lunch/dinner with seatings at 2PM and 4:30PM is offered for $49 for adults and $24.95 for children 4 – 12. Free for children 3 and under. Call 973-226-8889 for reservations.

Laurel & Sage (http://www.laurelandsage.com 33 Walnut St, Montclair) will offer a brunch and dinner.  Chef Shawn has created special seasonal menus to treat Mom. There are three prix-fixe brunch ($40pp) seatings: 10AM, 12PM, & 2PM and a new spring dinner menu is offered a la carte from 4:30PM – 7:30PM. Kids menu will be $15. Reservations accepted by phone 973-783-1133.

The Manor Restaurant (www.themanorrestaurant.com  111 Prospect Avenue, West Orange) is offering a four-course menu from 12:30PM to 7PM for $79.95 per adult or $29.95 for children 10 to 3 years old, plus tax and gratuity. A brunch buffet will be served with seatings at 12PM and 1PM for $69.95 per adult or $22.95 for children 10 to 3 years old, plus tax and gratuity. A dinner buffet will be served with seatings from 3PM – 6:30PM for $69.95 per adult or $22.95 for children 10 to 3 years old, plus tax and gratuity. Call 973-731-2360 for reservations.

Hudson County

Amanda’s (http://amandasrestaurant.com  908 Washington Street, Hoboken) will offer brunch from 10:30AM until 2:30PM for $42 plus tax and gratuity and a three-course menu starting at 3:30PM until 6PM for $59 plus tax and gratuity. Kids under 12 are ½ price. Call to reserve at 201-798-0101.

Battelo (www.battellojc.com  502 Washington Blvd., Jersey City) is offering several options, including a buffet brunch in the Battello Lounge, a two-course prix fixe brunch menu in the main dining room or a three-course prix fixe dinner menu for those who choose to celebrate later in the day. Call 201-798-1798 for reservations.

Photo by Battello

Liberty House (https://libertyhouserestaurant.com  76 Audrey Zapp Dr. Jersey City) will offer a brunch buffet from 11AM until 6PM for $58 for adults and $26 for kids ages 4-12. For Reservations call 201-395-0300.

Hunterdon County

The Ryland Inn (https://rylandinnnj.com  115 Old Hwy 28, White House Station) brunch and lunch is from 12PM until 5PM. 4-course prix fixe menu for $79 per adult, $29 per child 12 and under not inclusive of tax & gratuity. For reservations, call 908-534-4011.

Mercer County

Agricola (https://www.agricolaeatery.com   11 Witherspoon St, Princeton) will offer a three-course prix fixe menu from 9AM to 3PM for $45 for adults and $25 for kids under 12 plus tax and gratuity. For reservations call 609-921-2798.

Middlesex County

Due Mari (https://www.duemarinj.com  78 Albany Street, New Brunswick) is doing a two-course menu plus pastries, juice and coffee/tea from 10AM to 2:45PM for $42 per adult and $20 for children under 10. Call 732-296-1600 for reservations.

Monmouth County

Avenue (www.leclubavenue.com  23 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch) is offering a $46 brunch (9AM – 4PM) and a $52 dinner (4PM – 8PM) prix-fixe menus. Call 732-759-2900 for reservations.

Restaurant Nicholas (www.restaurantnicholas.com 160 Route 35 South Red Bank) will offer from 2PM – 8PM a 3-course tasting menu for $80pp, four-course garden menu for $80pp, six-course tasting menu for $100pp and a children’s menu for $32pp (plus tax and gratuity). Reserve at 732-345-9977.

Morris County

Blue Morel Restaurant & Wine Bar (http://bluemorel.com  2 Whippany Road, Morristown) will offer a 3-course menu for $68 adults and $34 children under 12 years old plus tax and gratuity with seatings from 12PM to 9PM. The Wine Room is also available for parties up to 18 guests. For reservations and more information call 973-451-2619.

Morris Tap & Grill (http://www.morristapandgrill.com 500 Route 10 West, Randolph) is offering a brunch buffet from 11AM until 2PM and a dinner buffet from 2PM until 5PM. $38 for adults, $15 for ages 5-11 and free for children under 5. Call 973-891-1776 for reservations.

Passaic County

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas (http://spuntinowinebar.com  70 Kingsland Road, Clifton) is featuring its usual brunch offerings as well as its limited-time Spring Truffle Festival menu, a five-course tasting menu highlighting truffles. Call 973-661-2435 to reserve.

Spuntino Wild Mushroom & Black Truffle Ravioli

The Shannon Rose Irish Pubs (http://theshannonrose.com  1200 New Jersey 17, Ramsey and 98 Kingsland Road, Clifton) will host a special brunch from 11AM until 4PM. The menu will feature a wide selection of stations and special dishes. Tickets are $35 per adult and $15 for children ages 3-12. For reservations, call 201-962-7602.

Viaggio (https://viaggioristorante.com  1055 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne) is offering a four-course menu from 1PM until 7PM for $79. Call to reserve: 973-706-7277.

Somerset County

Olde Mill Inn & Grain House Restaurant (www.oldemillinn.com  225 Hwy 202, Basking Ridge) will offer a buffet from 9:30AM to 3:30PM for $58 adults, $24 children ages 4-11, 20% service charge and sales tax apply. Reservations required 908-696-2335.

The Bernards Inn (www.bernardsinn.com  27 Mine Brook Road, Bernardsville) will offer a buffet brunch for $69 for adults, $25 for children 2 to 12 years old with seatings from 10AM to 5:30PM.  There will also be a three-course menu served from 1PM – 5:30PM for $79 for adults, $35 for children 2 to 12 years old. Reservations are required and can be made by calling: 908-766-0002.

Sussex County

Andre’s Restaurant (www.dresrealfood.com  112 Tomahawk Trail, Sparta) will offer three-course menu for $42 and a four-course menu for $52 from 1PM until 7PM. Kids menu will be $15. Call 973-726-6000 for details and to order.

Andre’s Restaurant

Crystal Springs Resort (www.crystalgolfresort.com  1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg) will offer specials at its various restaurants and ballrooms: The Emerald Ballroom will host a grand buffet from 10AM until 3PM for ages 12 and over $62++ and children 4-11 $25++ and under 4 free. Crystal Tavern will offer an à la carte menu from 7AM – 10PM. Minerals Hotel’s Diamond Ballroom will offer a buffet from 11:30AM to 3:30PM for ages 12 and over $42.95++, children 4-11 $19.95++ and under 4 free. Black Bear Golf Course will offer a buffet from 10:30AM until 3:30PM for ages 12 and over $39.95++, children  4-11 $17.95++ and under 4 free. Call 855-977-6473 for reservations.

Crystal Springs Dessert Buffet

Perona Farms (https://www.peronafarms.com  350 Andover-Sparta Road, Andover) will offer a buffet from 11AM until 5PM for $50.95 for adults and $19.95 for children under 12. Call 973-729-6161 for reservations.

Stone Water (https://stonewaternj.com  125 NJ-181, Lake Hopatcong) will offer a buffet starting at 10AM for $42/adults, $19/children over 4. Call 973-810-3858 for reservations.

Union County

Summit House (www.summithousenj.com  395 Springfield Avenue, Summit) from 11AM to 3:30PM, a three-course prix fixe brunch will include monkey bread, family-style starters, desserts and choice of main dish along with a welcome cocktail. Adults $60 and children $30, optional wine pairing available.

Filed Under: Food & Wine Events Tagged With: , ,
28 February 2019 2019 NJ Wine & Food Festival

2019 NJ Wine & Food Festival

February 28, 2019 By

Tickets are now on sale for the 2019 New Jersey Wine & Food Festival (https://njwinefoodfest.com) at Crystal Springs Resort, taking place April 12 – 14. This prestigious showcase for top culinary talent, winemakers and distilleries from around the world is celebrating its 11th year with a weekend of dinners, wine and spirits tastings, chef demos and more.

The weekend’s events offer something for everyone, from fun, interactive activities incorporating culinary elements such as Wine Yoga and Paso Paint and Sip, to tastings like Rose Champagne with Krug, Dom Perignon and Ruinart or 97 & Above, highlighting top-scoring wines (97 or more on a 100 point scale) to educational seminars such as The Art of Napa Cab to cocktail workshops like Mix it Up with Sagamore Spirits.

Event highlights:

Friday 4/12:

Top Chefs & Top Wines dinner at the newly redesigned Restaurant Latour featuring Crystal Springs Executive Chef Aishling Stevens and two chefs from the current season of Top Chef, David Viana of Heirloom Kitchen and Eddie Konrad of Philadelphia’s Laurel Restaurant, along with new Crystal Springs Resort Pastry Chef Matthew Siciliano. (4/12, 8pm, $295 plus tax & gratuity)

Wine Cellar Dinner with Chef Gabriel Kreuther, chef/owner of Michelin 2-starred Gabriel Kreuther in NYC. Chef Kreuther will be joined by his pastry chef Marc Aumont for an amazing dinner paired with back vintage wines from Crystal Springs’ award-winning Wine Cellar. (4/12, 8pm, $495 plus tax & gratuity)

Saturday 4/13:

9am Wine Yoga Start your day with some morning yoga. After the class, relax with a glass of sparkling wine from Domaine Carneros, refreshed and ready for the day. ($30)

10am Chandon & Donuts learn how to create doughnuts and dress them with the perfect toppings. ($30)

11am The Age of Wines Sommelier Tali Dalbaha will share tips on the practical side of home wine storage, as well as how to source and age wines. A tasting of six wines will showcase a variety of aged wines. ($35)

11am Paso Paint & Sip Learn how Hope Family Wines helped put Paso Robles wines on the map with Jason “JC” Diefenderfer, then create your own masterpiece with hands-on guidance from local artists. ($40)

12pm-3pm Marketplace Lunch Enjoy a feast of seasonal fare prepared by a team of chefs serving up spring dishes, fresh oysters, pasta, carved meats, artisanal cheeses and more, accompanied by the best of New Jersey wines. ($45)

12pm Bistro di Montalcino Follow Alessandra Angelini, proprietor of Wine Spectator Top 100 Winery Caparzo, on a walk through Tuscany’s most celebrated Sangiovese producing wine region, Montalcino, along with a spread of Italian small plates from Springs Bistro Chef Matthew Mulligan. ($40)

1pm The Art of Napa Cab with Nickel & Nickel Through a flight of 6 single-vineyard Nickel & Nickel Cabernets, learn and taste for yourself how vineyards that are in some cases less than a mile apart and growing the same varietal may produce wines of remarkably different character. ($65)

2pm 97 & Above Taste highly rated wines all 97 points or above (on the100 point scale) from Wine Spectator and Wine Advocate ($75)

3pm The Pursuit of Pinot Join Calera winemaker Mike Waller to learn what’s truly special and age-worthy about the Pinot Noirs of Mt Harlan and why the Wine Advocate called Calera “California’s Romanée-Conti.” ($35)

3pm Secrets of the Cellar Explore the secrets of the incomparable Crystal Springs Wine Cellar with C.O.O. Robby Younes during this 90-minute seminar and tasting of some very rare and special wines. ($150)

3pm Rose Champagne Krug, Ruinart, Dom Perignon. Need we say more? ($65)

3pm Mix it Up with Sagamore Spirits Maryland Rye Whiskey is making a comeback – and here’s your chance to mix it up! Taste the line of Sagamore Ryes and try your hand a mixing a classic cocktail. ($30)

4pm Glenfiddich / Balvenie Higher Marks A rare treat for single malt lovers as we taste marks that are 15 years and older from Balvenie and Glenfiddich. ($70)

6:30/7pm – 10pm The Grand Tasting is the Festival’s signature event featuring more than 200 wines from over 50 wineries and bites from 40 top restaurants ($150; VIP $295; VIP admission 6:30pm, General Admission 7pm). Highlights of The Grand Tasting:

  • VIP Experience: two floors featuring top restaurants and premium wines, Champagnes and spirits
  • Restaurant participants highlight New Jersey’s best including: Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, Ryland Inn, Batello, Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas, Crystal Tavern, Osteria Morini, Common Lot, Viaggio, Halifax, Montclair Bread Co, Pig & Prince, 17 Summer Restaurant, Andre’s, Saly G’s, Piattino Neighborhood Bistro and more
  • A wide range of wineries and Champagne houses from around the world

10pm – 1am Meet the Chefs and Winemakers After Party at the Biosphere tropical pool complex with open bars, DJ, buffets and more. ($150)

Sunday 4/14:

Champagne Brunch – the Festival wraps up with a Champagne Brunch featuring a sumptuous feast and lots of Champagne (4/14, 10am-1pm, $50 plus tax & gratuity)

The current schedule of events + tickets can be found at www.njwinefoodfest.com. Events take place at Crystal Springs Resort’s Clubhouse at Grand Cascades Lodge located at 1 Wild Turkey Way in Hamburg, NJ.

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14 September 2018 Major NJ Wine Dinners Happening on September 20

Major NJ Wine Dinners Happening on September 20

September 14, 2018 By

Thursday September 20th will be a huge night for New Jersey wine lovers as two outstanding dinners are taking place in the northern part of the state.  

Wines of Portugal Dinner at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas (http://spuntinowinebar.com), specializing in small plates that put modern twists on Italian classics and fine wines from around the world, invites guests to enjoy its Wines of Portugal Dinner at its location in the Clifton Commons on Thursday, September 20 at 7pm.

Mussels

Portugal offers a variety of climates from north to south that differentiates its wine from those produced in other countries. With over 200 varieties of grapes and a wide range of appellations, Portugal has developed impressive wines. To highlight some of the world-class wines produced in the region, Spuntino Wine Bar is pairing a selection of Portuguese wines with a five-course tasting menu to complement the flavor profiles of each. The full Wines of Portugal dinner menu includes:

  • Steamed Mussels – Mussels, pepper vinaigrette. Paired with Twin Vines Vinho Verde. 
  • Cod Fillet – Chickpea purée, onion, peppers. Paired with Periquita White 2017.
  • Roasted Pork Belly – Orange pepper salad. Paired with Periquita Reserva 2016.
  • Goat Osso Bucco – Rustic mashed potato. Paired with Jose Maria Da Fonseca Domini Douro 2014.
  • Doce Da Casa – Condensed milk, Chantilly cream. Paired with Alambre Moscatel de Setubal 2012.

Tickets for the Wines of Portugal Dinner are $69 per person and can be purchased online by visiting http://spuntinowinebar.com/wines-of-portugal-clifton/

Sommelier Steel Cage Wine Pairing Death Match at Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen

Paul Grieco

Sommelier Steel Cage Wine Pairing Death Match at Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen (https://www.jockeyhollowbarandkitchen.com) on Thursday September 20th, 2018 at 6:30 pm. Paul Grieco, famed Sommelier and Owner of Terroir Wine Bar in NYC and Jockey Hollow’s Chris Cannon will face off in a Blind Wine Pairing Dinner. Five Courses, Ten Wines, One Winner.

Menu offered by Chef Craig Polignano:

  • Chilled Rhode Island Mussels – Green Curry, Coconut and Thai Basil
  • Chilled Corn Soup, Smoked Steelhead Trout, Jalapeño and Bronze Fennel
  • Sunchoke and Kale Pansotti – Brown Butter, Walnuts and Sherry
  • NJ Skate Wing – Oven Roasted Tomato, Dandelion Greens and Pine Nuts
  • Wagyu Flatiron Steak – Potato Pave, Crispy Maitake and Roasted Shallots

$110 pp plus Tax and Gratuity. Call 973-644-3180 to reserve.

Cheers,

Veronique

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21 April 2018 Top New Jersey Restaurants Celebrating Mother’s Day

Top New Jersey Restaurants Celebrating Mother’s Day

April 21, 2018 By

Mother’s Day is one of the most booked days for restaurants. Many New Jersey restaurants are offering brunch and dinner specials so you can treat the moms in your lives to a very special meal.

Here are some local restaurants offering special Mother’s Day menus. 

Bergen County

Chakra (www.chakrarestaurant.com  144 Route 4, Paramus, NJ) will offer a 3-course prix fixe menu for $49 from 12pm – 8pm with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Call 201-556-1530 to reserve.

Haven Riverfront Restaurant and Bar (www.havenedgewater.com  2 Main St, Edgewater, NJ 07020) will offer a 3-course menu from 11:30am – 8pm for $75.

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern (http://hohokusinn.com  1 E. Franklin Tpke., Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ) will offer a grand buffer with seatings at 10am (no alcohol served due to Blue Laws), 12pm and 2pm for $39.95 pp adults (*Includes complimentary unlimited Mimosa or Bloody Mary) and $14.95 pp children 10 & under.  Reservations required, call 201-445-4115.

Orama (www.orama.com  595 River Road, Edgewater, NJ 07020) will offer a 3-course prix fixe brunch menu from 11am to 2:30pm for $62 +tax & gratuity and 3-course prix fixed menu from 2:30pm to 8:30pm for $75 +tax & gratuity. Call 201-945-2020 for reservations. 

Essex County

Restaurant Lorena’s (www.restaurantlorena.com  168 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, NJ 07040) will offer a 2-course menu starting at $55 and a child’s menu at $38 served from 11:30am – 6:30pm. Call 973-763-4460 to reserve.

Hudson County

Amanda’s (http://amandasrestaurant.com  908 Washington Street, Hoboken will offer a brunch 10:30am / 11:00am & 12:30pm / 1:00pm for $39.50 three course prix-fixe menu + tax, gratuity & beverages and also a dinner 3:00pm / 3:30pm, 5:00pm / 5:30pm & 7:00pm for $60 three course prix-fixe menu + tax, gratuity & beverages. Call to make a reservation 201-798-0101.

Choc∙O∙Pain French Bakery & Café is offering NEW baking classes at its downtown Hoboken location make a great Mother’s Day gift for the moms who love to bake or would like to get more advanced in their skills. Choose from three classes:Artisan Bread Baking, Macarons and Croissant. $90/pp, $170 for two and $250 for three.

private-dining-lh

Photo: Liberty House

Liberty House (https://libertyhouserestaurant.com  76 Audrey Zapp Dr. Jersey City, NJ 07305) will offer a Mother’s Day buffet from 11am – 6pm for $57 per person, $25 per child. For reservation, call 201-395-0300.

Middlesex County

Stage Left Steak (www.stageleft.com  5 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, NJ) will offer a special brunch from 10:30am – 11:45am for $39.95 pp and $19.95 children and a la carte dinner from 1pm – 9pm. Call 732-828-4444 for reservations.

Monmouth County

Restaurant Nicholas (www.restaurantnicholas.com 160 Route 35 South Red Bank, NJ 07701) will offer several enticing menus for Mother’s day and each mother will be gifted a box of its homemade macaroons. 3-Course Tasting Menu- $80, 4-Course Garden Tasting Menu- $80, 6-Course Tasting Menu- $100 ($160 with wine) and Children’s Menu- $32. Tax and gratuity not included. Reserve at 732-345-9977.

Morris County

Blue Morel Restaurant & Wine Bar (http://bluemorel.com  2 Whippany Road, Morristown, NJ 07960) will offer a 3-course menu for $68 per adult and $34 per child under 12 with seatings from 12:00pm to 9:00pm. The Wine Room is also available for parties up to 18 guests. For reservations and more information call 973-451-2619.

Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen (www.jockeyhollowbarandkitchen.com  110 South St, Morristown, NJ 07960) will offer a prix fixe brunch and dinner menu in the Oyster Bar, Vail Bar, and daPesca for $49 adults and $25 children plus tax and gratuity and the Rathskeller will offer both brunch for $42 – adults and $25 – children and dinner for $52 – adults and $25 – children plus tax and gratuity. Call 973-644-3180 for reservations.

Passaic County

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub (http://theshannonrose.com  98 Kingsland Road, Clifton, NJ and 1200 Route 17, Ramsey, NJ) will host a Mother’s Day brunch from 11am – 3pm at its Clifton and Ramsey locations. The cost is $32 for adults (price includes coffee and tea), $14 for children.

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas (http://spuntinowinebar.com  70 Kingsland Road, Clifton) will offer its special Spring Truffle menu in addition to its standard menu on Mother’s Day.

Somerset County

Photo: Stage House Tavern

Ninety Acres (www.natirar.com/ninety_acres  2 Main Street, Peapack-Gladstone, NJ 07977) will serve a special 3-course meal from 12pm – 5:00pm. To make reservations, call 908-901-4701.

Olde Mill Inn & Grain House Restaurant (www.oldemillinn.com  225 Hwy 202, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920) will offer a buffet from 9:30am – 3:30pm. $56 Adults, $24 Children Ages 4-11, 20% Service Charge & Sales Tax Apply. Reservations required 908-696-2335.

Stage House Tavern (www.stagehousetavern.com  1719 Amwell Road, Somerset, NJ) will offer a brunch from 11am – 2pm that includes unlimited visits to our buffet for $21.95 – adults and $13.95 – children plus tax and gratuity. Call 732-873-3990 for reservations.

Sussex County

Andre’s Restaurant (www.dresrealfood.com  112 Tomahawk Trail, Sparta, NJ 07871) will offer multi-course meals from 1pm – 5pm; 3 courses $42, 4 courses  $52, 5 courses $62, kids menu $15. Call 973-726-6000 for reservations.

Photo: Crystal Springs Resort.

Crystal Springs Resort (www.crystalgolfresort.com  1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ 07419) will offer Mother’s Day specials at its various restaurants and ballrooms to please all moms. Options include Emerald Ballroom Mother’s Day Brunch (12 & over; $62pp9++; 4-11; $25pp++; Under 4 FREE), Crystal Tavern 3-Course Mother’s Day Brunch ($43pp++), Diamond Ballroom Mother’s Day Brunch (12 & over; $42.95pp++; 4-11; $19.95pp++; Under 4 FREE), Black Bear Mother’s Day Brunch (12 & over; $39.95++; 4-11; $17.95pp++; Under 4 FREE). Call 855-977-6473 for reservations.

Perona Farms (www.peronafarms.com  350 Andover Sparta Road, Andover, New Jersey 07821) will offer a dinner buffet from 11am – 5pm for $50.95 per person and $19.95 children under 12. Reservations are required at 973-729-6161.

Union County

Grand Summit Hotel (http://www.grandsummit.com  570 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901) will offer brunch from 11:00am – 4:00pm for $69.95* per Adult / $24.95* per Child (4 – 12 Years Old), Children 3 and Under: FREE. *Prices exclude service charge and tax. Reservations required, please call 908-273-3000 ext 168.

Is your restaurant celebrating Mother’s Day? Please message us and we’ll add you to our list!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Veronique

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22 March 2018 New Jersey Restaurants Easter Celebrations

New Jersey Restaurants Easter Celebrations

March 22, 2018 By

Photo by Crystal Springs Resort

Celebrate with friends and family in style this Easter at some top New Jersey restaurants. On Sunday April 1st (it’s no joke), the following local restaurants are offering brunch and/or sit down meals.

Agricola (11 Whiterspoon Street, Princeton, NJ) will offer a brunch from 9am-3pm on April 1st. Cost is $45/adult; $20/children under 10.  Reservations can be made at http://agricolaeatery.com/reservations.  

Blue Morel Restaurant & Wine Bar (2 Whippany Road, Morristown, NJ 07960) will offer a three-course menu for $59 adults and $29 children under 12 years old from 12 noon to 9pm. Call 973-451-2619 for reservations. http://bluemorel.com.

Calandra’s Mediterranean Grill (118 U.S. Highway 46 East, Fairfield, NJ 07004) Easter Buffet on Sunday, April 1st, 2018.  Seating at 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 5:30 PM. Adults: $46.95 Children 12 & Under: $23.95 (toddlers 4 & under: no charge) NJ sales tax and 20% Gratuity will be added automatically. For reservations, call: (973) 575-6500. https://www.calandrasmedgrill.com.

Cargot Brasserie (98 University Place, Princeton, NJ 08540) will offer a brunch from 9:00am – 3:00pm on April 1st. Cost is $40/adult; $20/children under 10, plus tax and gratuity. Menu and reservation info at http://www.cargotbrasserie.com/menus.

Catherine Lombardi (3 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901) is celebrating Easter with a full, a la carte dinner featuring Easter specials. More details at https://www.catherinelombardi.com/reservations.

Chakra (W. 144 Route 4, Paramus, NJ 07652) will offer a three-course prix-fixe menu from 12pm to 5pm on Sunday April 1st. Cost is $42 per person (plus tax & gratuity). Children’s a la carte menu available. Visit http://www.chakrarestaurant.com for reservation info.

Chevys Fresh Mex® (Clifton and Linden) Saturday March 31 kids can participate in an egg-cellent Easter Egg Hunt at 10:30am. Families can also enjoy a kids eat free special following the Easter Egg Hunt from 11am-12pm. April 1, families who dine in at Chevys Fresh Mex will receive one free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchase. More details at www.chevys.com.

Crystal Springs (1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ) is a great place to spend the holidays. With six options for Easter celebrations on Sunday April 1st. Visit www.crystalgolfresort.com for menus and reservations.

Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar (2 Main Street, Edgewater Harbor, Edgewater, NJ 07020) is offering a three-course menu costing $65 on April 1st. More information at http://www.havenedgewater.com/menu.

Restaurant Serenade (6 Roosevelt Avenue, Chatham, NJ 07928) is offering a three-course menu at a cost of $75/person and $35/child 10 (exclusive of sales tax and gratuity). Details and menu at www.restaurantserenade.com.

Ryland Inn (115 Old Hwy 28, White House Station, NJ 08889) is offering an Easter brunch on April 1st from 12pm-6pm. Costs is $79 per adult, $29 per child (not inclusive of tax & gratuity). Details and menu at https://rylandinnnj.com/menu.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub (Clifton and Ramsey) is hosting a family-friendly brunch on Sunday April 1st complete with an Easter egg hunt and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Cost is $32 for adults and $14 for children 12 and under. Reservations can be made via phone at 973-284-0200 (Clifton) or 201-962-7602 (Ramsey), or online at www.TheShannonRose.com.

 Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas (Clifton and Garden City, NY) is offering its a la carte brunch menu on April 1 from 11:30AM – 3:00PM. Note that the restaurants’ Taste of Tuscany menu will also be available on Easter. Menu and more info at http://spuntinowinebar.com

Stage Left is offering a 3-course brunch with an unlimited dessert bar on April 1st from 11AM-2:30 PM at a cost of $39.95; kids 12 and under $19.95. More details at http://www.stageleft.com/reservations.

Summit House (395 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ) is offering an Easter Sunday meal from 12PM – 5PM. The 3-course menu includes four options per course and two tiers of optional wine pairings will be available. Pricing (tax + gratuity not included) Adults (15+): $65, Children 8-14: $35, Children 0-7: a la carte kids menu. http://www.summithousenj.com.

Happy Easter?

Veronique

PS: Is your restaurant offering Easter? Email me at veronique@foodandwinechickie.com to alert me!

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