Three New Restaurants to Challenge Your Appetite

By Millicent K. Brody

Supper at Ana Beall’s Tea Room in Westfield
Nancy Baker, proprietor of Ana Beall’s Tea Room in Westfield, recently announced that on Friday, the 13th of November, the Tea Room will be open for supper. Be one of the first lucky guests to come and enjoy appetizers of Louisiana crab cakes with sweet corn relish and red pepper remoulade, chicken and Andouille sausage gumbo on a bed of aromatic Carolina white rice, and hush puppies with a spicy-sweet orange dipping sauce. Entree specialties include chili-lime spice-rubbed hanger steak with fresh melon salsa, pan-fried catfish with red pepper remoulade, crab and asparagus shortcakes with tasso gravy, and a vegetarian trio. For dessert, try the banana bread pudding with chai chocolate sauce.

The tea room is open for breakfast, lunch, tea, weekend brunch, and now for supper. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Thurs., 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Available for showers and special occasions. Ana Beall’s Tea Room, 415 Westfield Ave., Westfield. Call for reservations: 908.264.4221.

Drewby’s Raritan is Where You Want to Be
Drewby's Grill Pub, located at 16 S. Main Street in Manville, celebrated its 5th Anniversary in early October. Folks stop by for steaks, seafood, thin-crust pizza, fresh pasta, and their fabulous raw bar.

Happily, Drewby's owner Bill MacKenzie opened his second eatery, Drewby’s Raritan, on November 4. The menu boasts tapas, grilled steaks, seafood, and his special fresh pasta.

For starters, come by and check out the tapas menu, which includes duck confit and white beans, buffalo turkey wings, and grilled chorizo. Entrees include beef short ribs, New York strip steak, hangar steak, and seafood. Desserts are prepared by house pastry chef Jackie B. Just for the record, Bill loves her apple crumb cheese cake.

Priding himself on dealing with local purveyors, MacKenzie’s produce arrives from local farms.

BYOB and come on down. Drewby’s Raritan is located at 18 West Somerset St., Raritan. Hours: 5:30 p.m. to closing Tuesday to Saturday. Sunday brunch starts November 16th at 10 a.m. Casual dress. Party room available for 25 to 30 people. Call for reservations: 908.725.2500.

Mangia Ristorante Opens in Somerville
Imagine my surprise when I drove by N. Gaston Ave., in Somerville and noticed a new sign at the former location of La Scala. It's now owned and operated by Paul Pankuch; manning the kitchen is Chef Raul, who trained under Chef Omar Aly.

Heading the menu is a 20 oz rib eye topped with exotic mushrooms, finished with Dijon brandy cream sauce and black truffle essence. Resembling veal shanks, turkey osso buco is prepared with all of your favorite ingredients. Salmon lovers will appreciate a filet of wild salmon served with fresh leaks, tomato, basil, and capers in white wine.

“All of our dishes are prepared fresh daily,” says Pankuch who served as head waiter and general manager of La Scala for many years. “Folks look forward to dessert. Along with our pastry, we make our own gelato and sorbet.”

With two distinct dining rooms, come casual and enjoy dinner with the kids on the first floor, or head upstairs for a more formal meal. Hours: 4:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday. 4:30 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Call for reservations and information. 908.218.9300. Mangia Ristorante, 117 N. Gaston Ave. Somerville.

Marzullo’s Restaurant and Cafe: The Place to Go When You Really Want to Eat

By Millicent K. Brody

For the longest time, we’ve been hearing about this great place in Montclair called Marzullo's. Coming from Westfield, where we’re actually steps away from the next restaurant, we seemed to come up with a dozen excuses, “Sure, we’ll get there. Someday soon. Maybe next month,” and on and on...until we decided to meet friends from around the area and just go.

It turned out to be a nice surprise. Of course, not really knowing where Grove Street was, we used our friendly GPS to guide us. Lo and behold, we reached our destination...a railroad track. But don’t despair. Just a few blocks down is a sprawling specialty shop/restaurant featuring pizza and huge portions of whatever it is you want to eat, plus specialty desserts.

We were there on a Saturday night, and loved Marzullo’s busy, bustling atmosphere. The place was jumping.

“It reminds me of my old neighborhood,” one of our friends commented after ordering the osso buco, ($23.95). “It’s like Brooklyn in the olden days. Imagine, being “Brooklynized” in New Jersey?”

Our other friend ordered the grilled salmon over tricolor salad with aged balsamic vinegar ($19.95). “The salmon was delicious,” she said.

I had my usual chicken parm, ($19.95), and my husband, Monty, enjoyed his veal parm, ($18.95).

The restaurant has been around for 27 years, according to Raffaele Marzullo who, with his brother and executive baker Mimmo, owns the restaurant, cafe, deli, sandwich shop, and catering establishment. Heading the kitchen is executive chef Andres Perez, who has been with the Marzullo’s since 2002.

“All of our dishes are prepared to order” he says. “Our seafood is delivered fresh daily We use a selection of private purveyors who deliver our meat, poultry, and dairy products. We are extremely particular about the quality of our food. It has to be the best.”

Do plan to visit during ‘Recession Relief Days’ on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. That’s when you’re able to take advantage of ‘Half-Price’ pasta dishes. Be assured that whichever dish strikes your fancy, you will have more than enough to eat for two or three meals. You might enjoy Fettuccini with Grilled Chicken and Mushrooms in an Alfredo sauce, ($16.95), Cavatelli with Ricotta cheese served with fresh tomato sauce, ($14.95), or Paglia e’ Fieno with asparagus, salmon, arugula, and diced tomatoes in a pink champagne sauce, ($18.95).

Milanese fans will enjoy a breaded veal cutlet with chopped greens, tomatoes, onions, and balsamic vinegar, served with a side of pasta, ($18.95). Veal Classico offers a choice of Marsala, Francaise, Piccata, or Parmigiana. Along with veal dishes there’s a full selection of chicken, steaks, chops, and seafood that include shrimp francaise, scampi, and marinara. All entrees are served with potatoes and vegetables and your choice of pasta or salad.

You can find a spot on the deli side of the restaurant, which is usually reserved for families with small children, take a seat in the main dining room, or arrange a party in their party room, which seats 60 people.

Wherever you choose to sit, do not leave without a slice of their special cheesecake, an assortment of their house-prepared biscotti, or a dish of their signature gelato.

Marzullo’s Restaurant and Cafe, 117 Grove St., Montclair
Call: 973.744.6663
Hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday to Thursday. 10 a.m. to midnight Friday.
9 a.m. to midnight Saturday. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
FYI: Reservations for 6 or more. Five course Dinner Special Thursday Nights, $24.95. For directions: marzullos.com. Ample parking onsite. Handicap accessible.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Multi-Tasking

By Millicent K. Brody

I remember my friend Alvin drooling over a cup of hot chocolate he had while visiting his friendly Lexus dealer last year. It happened to be on one of those cold and snowy mornings. He had an appointment to get his car serviced, and he wasn't about to be deterred by the weather. He made the trip to North Jersey with glee, for his just reward would be his cup of delicious, hotter-than-hot chocolate. But that’s not all he had waiting for him. Along with the hot chocolate was a wicker basket filled with fresh bagels and sides of cream cheese and butter. Not bad, you’re saying. Not bad!

I’m saying, “WOW!”

A great way to start the day, and it’s on the house.

Another friend, Susan, has been getting her hair cut at the same salon for years. She always schedules her appointments bright and early in the morning. Why?

“I come in with the staff,” she says. “That’s when the bagels arrive hot and fresh from the oven, and the coffee is perking. I eat like a queen, and it’s always on the House. I love it!”

Having never been privy to breakfast on-the-house at any place I’ve visited, I was totally blown away when I arrived at Lexus of Edison this past week. As I walked through the showroom, I came upon a group of people lounging in comfortable seats. Some were reading the morning papers, others brought their books, and still others were chatting on their cell phones or text messaging their buddies.

And as I got closer to my destination, I noticed a small counter filled with baskets of muffins and bagels. Being a foodie, I naturally had to inspect the selection. There was a generous variety of chocolate, blueberry, and corn muffins, plain bagels, and a coffee station replete with cups, sugar, milk, and artificial sweetener.

I had just had my breakfast, so I only checked out the fare and headed to my appointment.

But, suddenly it was early afternoon, and we were taking a break. As I left the showroom, I couldn't help but notice that the morning repast had been replaced by a gorgeous platter of sandwiches. There were all kinds of freshly prepared turkey, ham, cheese, chicken, and deli sandwiches, along with some really tempting wraps. Finding this much too difficult to pass up, I indulged in a wrap. It was delicious. I was not handed a bill. I did not leave a tip.

From there, I headed to an appointment with my friendly ophthalmologist. Lucky me. It was time for dessert. There on his special counter was a container of cookies, a big dish of candy, and would you believe more coffee?

So what did I learn?

Time your appointments to coincide with breakfast, lunch, and possibly a mid-afternoon snack. If you’re lucky, you’ll be invited to enjoy a cup of coffee. If you’re really lucky, you’ll get to bite into a bagel with cream cheese or enjoy a Danish pastry. And if you’re really, really lucky, and it’s lunch time, you’ll get the opportunity to choose between a tuna on rye with tomato and lettuce, a sub sandwich, or a generous grilled chicken wrap with lettuce, tomato, and balsamic vinegar.

You cannot afford not to take advantage of every bit of generosity during these tough economic times. Just don’t forget to say, “Thank-you!”

Keeping Up with Foodies

Haimowitz and Rob Russo

By Millicent K. Brody

Guest Chef Michael Haimowitz Does Tuesdays at Girasole in Bound Brook
Somerset County residents and fans of Girasole in Bound Brook should plan to visit the restaurant on Tuesday evenings.

Michael Haimowitz, the former Executive Chef at the now defunct Arthur’s Landing in Hoboken, is serving as consulting executive chef at the restaurant. Guests are being treated to his menu of fabulous favorites. Come and enjoy his featured sea scallops, risotto, rack of lamb, grilled salmon, halibut, and veal dishes.

“Michael never ceases to delight the crowd with his wonderful array of salads and fresh vegetables,” said Proprietor Rob Russo. “He is doing what he does best...cooking with passion and zeal.”

A fond and old friend of the Russo family, Haimowitz is looking forward to greeting former dining clients, and many new friends.

Girasole, 502 W. Union Ave., Bound Brook, 732.469.1080.


Flamenco Dinner Show at Spain 92
Amigos, plan to attend the Flamenco Dinner Show at Spain 92. The festive evening takes place on October 21 at 7 p.m.

The menu: Salad of baby greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, garlic croutons, shredded Manchego cheese, citrus vinaigrette; a tapas platter; grilled New Zealand herbed lamb chops with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled mixed vegetables, sherry wine sauce; Arroz con leche, rice pudding, coffee or tea. Serving Red and White Sangria with the meal. Cost: $60 per person (excluding tax and gratuity). Entertainment: Ricky Santiago Flamenco Show (rickysantiago.com). Reservations required. For more information and/or reservations contact Sergio at: 908. 872-9591 or info@spain92.com.

Spain 92, 1116 Route 202 S., Raritan


Gary’s Wine & Marketplace Hosts Wine Tasting Event
If you have a passion for wine, circle October 26. Gary's Wine will be hosting a huge wine tasting event at the Madison Hotel, with all proceeds going to charity, This year’s recipients include: Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute at Morristown Memorial Hospital and the Interfaith Food Pantry.

Although the event will feature spirits, beer, a buffet, and gourmet cheeses, fine wines will clearly be the main attraction. At Wine Tables, guests can experience 2004 Brunello di Montalcino-Vintage: Score: 97 points; 2005 Bordeaux-Vintage Score: 95-100 points; 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape - Vintage Score: 98 points; GF Family of Wines, (Gary Fisch); Go Figure, Going Forward, and Grand Finale. Each label comes from very prestigious partner wineries. General Admission Tickets: $75.00: Taster's Guild Members $65.00. Hours: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at any Gary’s Wine & Marketplace Stores: 121 Main Street, Madison, 973.822.0200; 100 Morristown Rd., Bernardsville, 908.766.6699; 1308 Route 23 N.,Wayne, 973.633.3900


Fall at Restaurant Nicholas
A graduate of the famed Culinary Institute of America, Executive Chef Nicholas Harary has worked in all aspects of the restaurant industry. Along with his wife Melissa, he opened Restaurant Nicholas in December of 2000. Over the next nine years, Restaurant Nicholas garnered four stars from The New York Times, The Star Ledger, and the Bergen Record, as well as many others.

Harary can now add author to his impressive resume: he's just published his first cookbook: Restaurant Nicholas. To order a copy, call the restaurant at 732.345.9977 or visit restaurantnicholas.com.

New fall offerings in the dining room and bar include Venison "Carpaccio", Jicama & Fig Salad with Pine Nuts, and hazelnut crusted bass, red pearl onions, fingerling potatoes, and banyuls broth.

Nicholas, 160 Rte. 35 S. (between Navesink River Rd. & Pine St.), 732.345.9977


Bargains at Restaurant Plan B in Asbury Park
Visit Plan B on Thursday nights for their three-course Dinner and a Movie, $25 per person, theshowroomap.com or their four-course prix fixe dinners from Tuesday to Thursday, $25 per person. The restaurant served brunch every Saturday and Sunday.

Restaurant Plan B, 70 S. Cookman Ave., Asbury Park, 732.807.4710

It’s All about Hope

By Millicent K. Brody

The Center For Hope Hospice & Palliative Care, a non-profit organization, was founded in the late 1970's by the late Peggy Coloney, R.N., and the late Father Charles Hudson, M.A.

I first met Father Hudson when he was administering to a dear friend. A most patient, kind, gentleman, he was full of love and compassion as we all sat together chatting in the confines of my friend’s small living room, surrounded by his hospital bed, special lift, and all of his medical paraphernalia. In spite of how truly ill my friend was, Father Hudson brought sunshine, life, and hope into the room. His beloved presence and energy will never be forgotten.

The term hospice dates back to medieval times, when it referred to a place for weary or ill travelers. Today, hospice care is about increasing an individual’s quality of life by providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support to patients and their families as they face the challenges associated with a life-limiting illness.
Hospice is about an individual's right to choose how they wish to be cared for in the final phase of their life. Hospice believes that all persons have the right to live in dignity and free from pain until the natural event of death occurs.

“Since its inception, the growth of our organization has been remarkable,” says Diane Coloney, Director of Volunteer Services. “More than 500 women will be attending our Annual Fashion Show this Sunday, October 11 at 11 a.m. at L’Affaire, in Mountainside.”

The Center For Hope Hospice & Palliative Care attributes this growth to the commitment of its staff, the support of the community, and the faith of referring physicians.

“We've added ‘Palliative Care’ to our name as an expansion of the mission of hospice," Coloney adds. "We strive to address the needs of individuals outside of the six-month life expectancy parameter. This change represents the willingness of Center For Hope Hospice & Palliative Care to share its expertise in the area of palliative care for the terminally ill and offer consultative services. Ours is an interdisciplinary approach to symptom management for patients with a debilitating chronic disease.

The Center For Hope & Palliative Care Home Care program offers services to individuals who are homebound, seriously ill, or in need of the assistance of visiting health professionals.

Even though home care patients are usually in a recovery phase and have a good prognosis, they may be confronting very complex issues. These issues can include coping with the loss of independence due to physical limitations, the fear of creating stress for other family members, and even the inevitability of their own mortality. These are difficult concerns to express, yet part of healing involves recognizing and responding to the emotional as well as the physical effects of an illness.

For more information on the Center For Hope services or to volunteer your services, please contact Diane Coloney at the Center for Hope Hospice,1900 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains. Call: 908.889.7780.

Annual Fashion Show
Sunday, October 11, 2009
11:00 a.m.
L’Affaire
1099 U,S . Highway 22
Mountainside, NJ
Cost: $60
Grand Raffle Prizes
1st: Vacation for 2 (valued at $3500)
2nd: Necklace (valued at $2200)
3rd: $500 Shop Rite Certificate
Raffle tickets: $1 each

A Weekend Getaway, Courtesy of the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of New Jersey

By Millicent K. Brody

The Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs of New Jersey, which have chapters all over the state, have partnered with the The Heldrich Hotel in New Brunswick for a complimentary Family Vacation Program. Working together, the organizations and the hotel will provide complimentary vacations to deserving families affiliated with the Clubs. One of the state’s most respected youth organizations, the Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs aim to provide quality after-school programs for young people ages 6 to 18.

Through the unique partnership with the Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs, The Heldrich Hotel will provide two five-night, all-expenses paid vacations at the hotel. The package will include: guest accommodations, three meals each day, full access to recreation amenities (indoor pool and fitness center), as well as access to several local destination attractions. Also included in the vacation package will be a $100 gas card compliments of Shell Oil Company to help each family cover transportation costs.

Interested families who may have thought a trip was not possible this year and who are affiliated with a Boys’ & Girls’ Club in New Jersey are invited to complete a brief application form available online at: www.benchmarkhospitality.com/BGCAfamilyvacation. Applications should be completed by October 30, 2009.

A committee of administrators from the organization will review each family’s application and forward final recommendations to a committee at The Heldrich for consideration. Families will be informed of their selection for a vacation in late November.

For more than 100 years, Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs of America (www.bgca.org) have provided hope and opportunity to those children who need it most. Today, more than 4,300 Clubs throughout the nation serve some 4.5 million young people through Club membership and community outreach.

Known as The Positive Place for Kids, Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs can be found throughout the country and on U.S. military bases worldwide. Their constant objective is to provide young people with guidance-oriented character development programs conducted by trained, professional staff. Membership in the Clubs impacts lives and helps young people reach their full potential as productive, caring citizens. Key programs emphasize leadership development, education and career exploration, community service, technology training, financial literacy, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation, and family outreach. In a recent Harris Survey of Club alumni, 57 percent said that membership in the Boys & Girls Club saved their lives.

Good Guests Remember Plum Cake

By Millicent K. Brody

As much as many of us love to entertain, it tends to be pretty tiring. By the time you sit down to eat, you’re ready for bed! And, there’s the “Plus-One Factor”: after perusing the guest list and deciding how many leaves you’re going to need to extend your dining room table, there is always a last-minute someone who calls and asks if they could bring one or two of their friendly, overnight visitors. You don’t dare refuse.

But, as tiring as it is, entertaining is also very rewarding, and it’s always great to get your friends together. As one of my friends says, regardless of the holiday, as soon as it’s a table full of people, it’s like Christmas: Lots of good food and lots of people having a great time.

And make no mistake, there’s always lots of good food at my parties (and the parties I go to!) One friend of mine who is expecting sixteen for Yom Kippur is dishing up a Blintz Souffle. As for me, I’ll be serving my traditional Italian Prune Plum Cake. I’ve discovered that plums purchased at a local farmer’s market are far plumper than those you may find in a supermarket, so start scouring your local market and see what you can find.


Delicious Plum Cake
Ingredients:
2 C. flour
2 C. sugar
2 sticks butter
4 eggs plus one egg white, beaten
2 tsp. baking powder
28 prune plums, halved, skin side up
cinnamon and sugar to taste

Procedure:
Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Slice prune plums and toss with 2 teas. cinnamon and 2 teas. sugar to taste

Grease a 9x13 Pyrex dish

In large bowl, beat eggs, butter, and baking powder. Add flour. Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Take 5 or 6 plums and cut them into several pieces. Toss into the batter.

Hand stir and fold the batter several more times.

Pour the mixture into a Pyrex dish.

Top with remaining plums. Dab with bits of butter. Drizzle with cinnamon and sugar.

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.

Served with your favorite cup of coffee and vanilla ice cream.


Blintz Soufflé
Ingredients:
2 boxes of Golden or Ratners Blintzes. (Cherry or Blueberry)
1 stick butter or margarine
4 eggs
1/4 t. salt
1 t. orange juice
1 t. vanilla
1/4 cup sugar
1 pint sour cream

Procedure:
Heat oven to 350 degrees

Take 1/4 lb. butter (1 stick) and place it in a 9x13 casserole dish. Melt in oven.

Place all the other ingredients except Blintzes in a blender and combine.

Place 12 blintzes over melted butter. Pour and pack mixture from blender.

Bake for 45 minutes uncovered. Serve warm with extra sour cream.

Holiday Blessings

By Millicent K. Brody

I find myself feeling particularly grateful this Rosh Hashanah season. As Jews all over the world look forward to the year 5770, I can only share my heartfelt wish for a world of peace and harmony filled with good health and happiness for all.

One thing I’m very grateful for is the fact that many of my favorite markets, delicatessens, and grocery stores are not only stocking prepared Kosher and Kosher-style foods, they’re catering entire meals and ready-to-eat side dishes, making holiday entertaining a snap for myself and other busy families.

The centerpiece of every table should include a round, fresh-baked challah from a local bakery. At the Swiss Pastry Shoppe in Scotch Plains, proprietor John Cioffi has been at his huge ovens for hours and hours. Not only are his challah delicious, his rugalach are baked fresh daily. Filled with nuts, raisins, apricots, and chocolate, they’re worth the trip

A traditional holiday meal should start with appetizers of gefilte fish and chopped chicken liver. Then, of course, it’s a bowl of chicken soup with matzoh balls or noodles, or fresh vegetable soup. If you’re considering purchasing chicken soup and matzoh balls, consider taking your own soup pot to the University Diner in Union. The staff will be more than happy to ladle their steaming brew into your container. Then all you have to do is heat, serve, and enjoy.

Rosh Hashanah, entrees often feature roast chicken, brisket of beef, breast of capon, or stuffed Cornish hen. But oftentimes it’s the side dishes that really wow the guests. They could easily include potato latkes (pancakes), zucchini cup cakes, carrot souffle, a fruit compote, and a platter of freshly prepared garden vegetables.

At my house, the featured dessert is always a fresh plum cake, chocolate chip cookies, and, of course ice cream.

Suggested Places to Shop for the Jewish Holidays:

Bovella’s Pastry Shoppe, 101 E. Broad Street, Westfield

Deli-King Clark, Clarkton Shopping Center, 3090 Clarkton Dr., Clark, Linden; Deli King of Linden, 628 W. Saint Georges Ave., Linden

Fairway, Market, Fashion Center Mall, Rt. 17 North and Ridgewood Ave., Paramus

King’s Super Markets, 100 Morristown Road, Bernardsville; 450 U.S. Highway 206, Bedminster; U.S. Highway N. 22 & 513 Whitehouse; 64 Mountain Blvd., Warren, 908.226.4988

Swisse Pastry Shoppe, 1711 E. 2nd St., Scotch Plains

Shop Rite of Bound Brook, Kosher Experience, 611 Union Ave., Bound Brook and the local Shop Rite Supermarkets in your area.

University Diner, 580 North Avenue, Union

Wegman’s, 724 Route 202 S., Bridgewater; 2100 Route 70 W., Cherry Hill; 55 US Highway 9, Manalapan; 2 Centerton Rd., Mt Laurel; 1104 Highway 35, Ocean; 240 Nassau Park Blvd., Princeton; 15 Woodbridge Center Drive, Woodbridge

Whole Foods: 222, Main St., Madison; 2245 Springfield Ave., Vauxhall; 701 Broomfield Ave., Montclair; 235 Prospect Ave., West Orange.

Westfield Restaurant Week: Dine at the Best of the Best for $25 or Less

By Millicent K. Brody

Ok, so it’s not New York City, but it can certainly be as much fun. Become part of an exciting new tradition by visiting downtown Westfield for their first Restaurant Week. Starting Monday, September 14 and continuing through Friday, September 25, (excluding Saturday, September 19), shop and dine in one of New Jersey’s most charming communities for $25 or less. Whether you’re in the mood for great seafood, fine Italian, continental, French cuisine, sandwiches or salads, you'll find it here.

“We’re happy to be hosting this exciting event,” says Sherry Cronin, executive director of the Downtown Westfield Corporation. “We hope everyone enjoys their dining experience and discovers all that our that our downtown has to offer.”

During Restaurant Week, you can enjoy some of the participating restaurants' best dishes at a reduced price. You can also find two-course lunches for $15 and three-course dinners for $25. To add to the bargain, participating cafes and delis will be offering menu selections for $7.50 or less. During the two-week period, (and as a special incentive), CoolVines will be offering wine pairings for each BYO Restaurant and a 10% discount for customers who mention Westfield Restaurant Week.

Save room for dessert. Many of Westfield’s dessert shops will be offering special promotions.

Participating restaurants include: Chez Catherine, Limani Seafood Grill, Xocolatz, 16 Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro, Aquaviva delle fonti, Boulevard Bistro, Ferraro's, Mojave Grille, Theresa's, Isabella's American Bistro, The Brick Oven, Splash of Thai, Jeffrey's of Westfield, Clyne & Murphy, Ana Beall's Tea Room, Cosimo’s, Gabi’s Sushi & Noodles, The Office Beer Bar and Grill, Rockn’ Joe Coffeehouse + Bistro, Robert Treat Deli, Vicki’s Diner, Windmill, Manhattan Bagel, Cheeburger Cheeburger, Bovella’s Pastry Shoppe, Cold Stone Creamery, I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt, and Rita’s of Westfield. To view the list of participating restaurants and for more details, visit westfieldtoday.com or call the Downtown Westfield Corporation at 908.789.9444.

Please note: Discounts do not apply on Saturday. All beverage, tax, and gratuities are not included for any Westfield Restaurant Week price-fixed menu.

For those who go, I'd love to know what you thought of your dining experience! Happy Eating!

Spending Labor Day with Livingston Bagel

By Millicent K. Brody

Believe it or not, the “official” final weekend of summer 2009 is here, and many of us are hosting one last summer party with family and friends. At my house, as we’ve done for many years, we’re celebrating with Sloppy Joes from Livingston Bagel.

Unlike the Sloppy Joes that arrive on soft, round, buns stuffed with mounds of sauteed ground beef, onions, green and sometimes red peppers, and your favorite brand of tomato sauce, Livingston Bagel Sloppy Joes are sure to wow the crowd.

Displayed on a tray garnished with sour pickles, three large slices of fresh rye bread are topped with layers of three different cuts of deli meat. Depending on where you go to purchase your Sloppy Joe, meat choices might include roast beef, corned beef, pastrami, turkey, and possibly tongue. After each layer of bread has been adorned with the deli meat of your choice, it’s then topped with a very generous amount of coleslaw and slathered with Russian dressing.

“We prepare our Sloppy Joes with first quality deli meats,” says executive chef Kris Wojciuk. “Each Sloppy Joe has eight cuts. Depending on the size of your crowd, we believe one Sloppy Joe can serve three to four people. For a party of 10, we suggest three Sloppy Joes, two pounds of potato salad, and two pounds of our special health salad, which we prepare with marinated cabbage, sliced cucumbers, peppers, and carrots.”

If Sloppy Joes are not your thing, Livingston Bagel offers a huge array of deli meats, hot dogs, hamburgers, and turkey burgers. Add a container of their own house-baked beans, and sauteed onions and mushrooms, and you’ve got a successful party.

Once a tiny mom and pop bagel shop, Livingston Bagel has grown into a multifaceted food emporium. Whether you’re coming for breakfast, lunch, or a really early dinner, you’ll find shelves and glass-enclosed, refrigerated cases filled with everything you’ve always wanted to eat. The moment the door opens, you’re greeted with counters and shelves filled with trays of barbecued chicken and ribs, veal, mac and cheese, pastas, salads, ravioli, spreads for your crackers, and even tuna, chicken, and egg salad.

But that’s not all. You shouldn’t leave without one of their very special chocolate babkas, a few black and white cookies, a selection of hand-sliced cheeses, and of course, a dozen bagels.

FYI:

Location: Livingston Bagel, 37 Northfield Rd., Livingston

Call: 973.994.1915

Hours: 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday; 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Deal or No Deal?

By Millicent K. Brody

After a ten-day stay, it was had to leave Stratton Mountain. Even though we ended up traipsing around in the pouring rain for four days, I still loved it there.

Now that I’m back, I must comment on the question I’m most frequently asked: “So, what were the outlets like?”

I think it’s fair to say we all love a bargain; however, please don’t visit Manchester, Vermont for the outlets. There are no bargains. Most of whatever you’re looking for can be purchased at your favorite local department store or specialty shop for a lot less money. But if you love browsing country roads filled with barns and shops overflowing with antiques and bibelots, go ahead and plan an excursion.

I will admit, I’m a sucker for the Vermont Country Store. You really can’t visit Vermont without stopping and browsing the shelves, bins, nooks and crannies at Vermont’s “Voice of the Mountain”. But don’t expect to find any great deals there, either.

I was—and still am—searching for a red-and-white check cotton tablecloth. My first thought was, “What better place to find it than the Vermont Country Store?” No such luck.

What they did have (and please don’t laugh) was a “Genuine Oilcloth: Wipe-Clean, Real, Fabric Cloth, That Won’t Peel or Crack”.

How many of you remember your grandmother’s “Genuine Oilcloth Tablecloth” that was like a part of her kitchen table?

At first I thought, "Go for it. It's probably the closest thing to what you’re really looking for,” but then I lifted the size 60 x 84 cloth ($59.95), and thought, “NO!” Aside from the fact that it weighed a ton, I could not stop seeing my late mother’s face. She’d never approve of inviting friends to dinner and serving them on oilcloth, genuine or otherwise.

Then, because I had orders for several long, colorful rain slickers, I headed over to that department. Again, no such luck. However, the very kind salesperson gave me the address of a shop in Maine that would happily welcome my online order.

If you find yourself in Vermont and hankering for a bit of shopping, definitely visit the historic village of Grafton. Stop by My Mind’s Eye for a chat with proprietor and craftsman Jason Ballard. Watch as he creates everything from wooden bowls to furniture to wine stoppers, all right in his studio/showroom. (55 Bell Rd., Grafton,Vt., mymindsdesign.com). Also on Main Street is the Hunter Gallery of Fine Art, which offers blown glass, pastels, watercolors, and sculptures.

Don’t leave without a visit to the Grafton Cooperative Cheese Company. (533 Townshend Road, Grafton). Founded in 1892, Grafton Cheese is crafted from hormone-free cow milk gathered from family farms across the state. Aged from one to four years, Grafton Cheese was named among the top 100 cheeses in the world by Wine Spectator Magazine. Enjoy generous samples, a grand assortment of crackers, and the chance to purchase a fine selection of cheddar cheese.

Of course, it’s virtually impossible to drop everything and run to Vermont, but if you’d like to enjoy the leaves and music, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Made in Vermont Music Festival’ takes place Wednesday, September 30 at 7:30 p.m. (Tickets: $22 adults: $18 seniors 65 and over; $12 students: Flynn Tix at 802.86-FLYNN and at wso.org)

Even Without Snow, Stratton, VT is the Place to Go

By Millicent K. Brody

While the traffic inched its way toward the Jersey shore, we chuckled as we cruised to the village of Stratton, Vermont. Once there, I was totally mesmerized.

Stratton is, essentially, a bit of Switzerland a mere five hours from my Westfield doorstep. Located in the heart of the Green Mountains of Vermont, Stratton is ready to provide whatever Vermont has to offer.

From Thanksgiving to Easter, the area is perfect for skiing. If you’re more of a fan of warm-weather pursuits, head up there during the summer months for golf, tennis, swimming, hiking, canoeing, biking, kayaking, or even a game of paintball. For golf and tennis enthusiasts who want to take their game to the next level, there’s Stratton’s renowned Golf University or the Cliff Drysdale Tennis School. And for those of us non-sporting types, there are plenty of shops to peruse, local theatrical productions to check out, and, of course, pastoral landscapes wherever you turn.

A favorite summer pastime is a gondola ride to Stratton’s summit, then a climb to the top of the fire tower for 360 degree views of the White and Green Mountains, the Berkshires, and the Adirondacks. And while you may not be up to hiking all 270 miles of the Long Trail, (the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States), you are welcome to join other hikers and explore the spine of the Green Mountains.

Lucky for us, friends have been visiting the area for more than twelve years, so we were in good hands from the moment we arrived.

Cynthia Knowles, a local rental manager, was able to book a two bedroom/two bath condo replete with lovely furnishings, and a delightful deck for two weeks in August. However, I’ve subsequently learned that for as little as $69 per night, you can stay at the Inn at Stratton Mountain and walk to nearly everything the resort has to offer. You can also create your own home-away-from home at the Long Trail House where premium one-bedroom accommodations, including a kitchen, deck, outdoor pool, and hot tub, start at $130 per night. And if you want to spread out in style, three-bedroom condos with chef’s kitchens at the Hearthstone Lodge, on the Common, start at $249 per night. There you can soak in the Jacuzzi hot tub, or take in the scenery from your own private deck.

If you visit, you really must take time to enjoy your favorite flavor of ice cream at Silver Springs Scoops, in Manchester. I’ve got to confess, as an ice cream enthusiast, I was a constant consumer.

Not to worry about meals. Restaurants at Stratton Mountain Village welcome families and are priced to suit your budget. Try Mulberry Street Pasta and Pizza, which offers two-for-one pizzas on Wednesday, or Mulligan’s, where lobster specials reign on Monday and prime rib on Sunday. For breakfast, swing by Partridge in a Pantry deli, where folks congregate for bagels. Afterward, you may consider a day trip to the Saratoga Race Track and other exciting local attractions.

Forget that it’s all about snow and winter: Consider Vermont for your next summer getaway.

FYI:

the Inn at Stratton Mountain: Call: 1.800.STRATTON

Visit: stratton.com/summer

For Rental Reservations:

Cynthia Knowles: 802.297.4572

Patty Hernandez: 802.297.4571

Summer Suggestions

By Millicent K. Brody

Do Your Summer Shopping at a Farmer’s Market

Do yourself and your family a favor, and visit a farmers' market. I’ve been visiting the Summit Farmer’s Market every Sunday morning and can’t seem to get enough of it. You can find anything from lavender plants and sunflowers to early apples, delicious peaches, zucchini, glorious peppers, string beans, corn, lettuce, and tomatoes. You’ll also find an endless supply of mozzarella cheese, fresh bread, and delicious confections from the Brownie Points Bakery stand. Start your Sunday morning with a freshly baked muffin or scone. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and enjoy. You’ll find a real Brownie Points Bakery in Summit at 3 Beechwood road, (908.464.2253) and at The Mall in Short Hills. The Summit Farmer’s Market is located at DeForest Ave., City Lot #2, (Summit & Maple Sts.). To find a farmers’ market near you, visit newjerseylife.com/dining/farmers-markets

Jersey Corn Week at Gladstone Tavern

The Gladstone Tavern is celebrating one of New Jersey’s most famous crops by offering fresh summer corn on its menu. See some of the delicious dishes they'll be offering:

Starters: Chilled gazpacho with corn fritters, ($6.); sauteed crab and corn cake with crispy corn flake crust and smoked bell pepper sauce, ($12.50); shrimp tamales steamed in corn husks with smoked tamale sauce, ($12.00).

Entrees: blackened chicken and corn salad with avocado, tomato, black beans, and a creamy, cilantro-lime dressing, ($18.00); sauteed halibut with roasted corn sauce, sauteed zucchini cakes and spicy cherry tomatoes, ($25.00); grilled pork chops with a corn whisky sauce, wilted greens, and creamy cheddar grits, $23.00).

Desserts: caramel corn parfait with vanilla ice cream, candied peanuts and hot fudge sauce, sweet molasses corn cake with Bourbon chantilly and a fresh summer berry compote, ($7.00); malted corn ice cream, ($4.00).

If you have a four-legged foodie in the family, bring your dog to the Tavern’s annual “Take your Dog to Dinner Day” on August 23.

Gladstone Tavern is located at 273 Main St., Gladstone, 908.234.9055, GladstoneTavern.com

Greek Taverna Celebrates First Anniversary in Montclair

As a thank-you gift for a year of welcoming and success, Greek Taverna owners Peter Hajiyerou and Wei Chen will host a Greek-style open house anniversary party at their Montclair location on Tuesday, August 25. Enjoy a free buffet from 6 to 9 p.m. Party to live Greek music from 6 to 11 p.m. For reservations and information call: 973.746.2280. Greek Taverna is located at 292 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair and 55 Promenade, Edgewater. Call: 201.945.8998.

Be the Best Guest

By Millicent K. Brody

It’s the summer season which means you're likely to either have houseguests or be one yourself.

Because of the economy, many people have had to tighten their belts. They’ve traded being travelers for being spongers. According to the Random House College Dictionary, “Sponging” guests live at the expense of others. Spongers never make formal reservations. They go “Guesting”.

What most spongers do is set up a network of homes in a general area. Using their host home as a base, they get to travel and visit at the expense of others.

When you’re a guest in someone’s home, it’s important to keep the social niceties in mind. Or at least remember two rules: don’t be an inconvenience, and don’t overstay your welcome. Remember the witticism first made by Plautus in about 200 B.C., perfected by John Lyly in 1580, and recorded by Ben Franklin in Poor Richard’s Almanac, “Guests are like fish, after three days, they stink.”

Nothing infuriates most host families more than shopping and planning for guests to arrive in time for dinner, only to receive a phone call about noon with the bold question, “What’s for lunch?”

That’s the situation a friend of mine found herself in recently. She obligingly trotted off to the deli for turkey, cheese, and bread, but a good guest should really find a place to have lunch, and then arrive at the house afterwards for a relaxing afternoon. In my friend’s case, she had barely finished cleaning up from lunch before she had to start dinner.

While peeling potatoes, she happened to notice her friend’s partner catching a snooze. Being a good hostess, she wandered into the den and quietly asked, “Ralph, would you like to take a nap?”

“You wouldn’t mind?” he asked.

“Of course not, why should I? Just walk into the guest bedroom and close the door.”

As soon as Mr. Guest entered the bedroom, he hurried back into the kitchen.

“You’re not expecting me to sleep in a double bed?” he asked rather seriously.

“Well, as a matter of fact, that’s the only bed we have in our only guest room,” my friend replied.

“I sleep in a King size bed at home,” countered Mr. Guest. “I don’t know how I’ll manage in a double bed.”

My friend smile sweetly and told him:

“You can certainly sleep in a King-size bed. There’s a really nice motel about five minutes from here. I know they don’t book-up during the week. Here’s the number, give them a call.”

Obviously, he did not leave. Nor did he volunteer to assist with doing the dishes, or remember to pick up his clothing, strewn throughout the house. However, he did remember to let my dear friend know that he’d be back, same time next year!

How to be a Good Guest

* Arrive when you say you will, and leave when you’re supposed to.
* Don’t create additional work. Keep the guest room neat. Notice what needs to be done, and do it. Don’t be afraid to offer to prepare a meal or baby sit.
* Don’t surprise your host and hostess with your children or pets--unless they were invited.
* Don’t arrive with a list of social engagements and expect your host to drive you everywhere. If you want to see special friends, make plans to stay at their home.
* In addition to taking a lovely house gift, plan to take your host and hostess out for dinner.
* Don’t complain.
* Even if the bed squeaks and the toilet overflows, don’t forget to send a thank-you note. After all, you may want to return. Good guests do receive rewards. They get invited back.

Not Just any Peach…A Jersey Fresh Peach!

By Millicent K. Brody

Long awaited, eagerly anticipated—New Jersey’s fresh peaches have arrived. Juicier than ever from early summer rains, and perfectly blushed with golden undertones, they’re appearing at restaurants, supermarkets, farm stands, and farmers’ markets. According to the New Jersey Peach Promotion Council, the state’s primary source for selecting and handling peaches, “This year’s crop is just what consumers should be looking for.”

“We have a near full crop,” says Santo Maccherone, Peach Promotion Council president. “Cooler weather during bloom did a good job of thinning flowers. Enhanced by timely rainfalls, the fruit size is excellent. With no major disease or insect problems, sunny weather has brought out the sugar to produce nutritious, delicious, locally grown, yellow and white peaches and nectarines.”

The beautiful peaches found at Dreyer’s Farm in Cranford arrive from Circle M Farms in Mullica Hill and Salem. Farmers there also grow white peaches, nectarines, white nectarines, and yellow and white Saturn peaches.

“Our peaches are best for eating, preserving, and baking,” said proprietor John Dreyer. “Be sure to ask your favorite farmer for his peach selection of the week.”

Jersey Fresh peaches are being celebrated with special events and promotions at 13 farmers markets, 26 restaurants, and supermarkets throughout the state. On August 1st, the Collingswood Farmers Market has packed a full-day celebration of “The Peach” with music, story telling, raffles for a peach basket, peach-dish tastings, and more. Throughout the state, participating farmers markets and restaurants have created their own special events.

For more information, visit the NJ Peach Promotion Council website. www.jerseypeaches.com You’ll find recipes from participating restaurants; nutritional information, (a peach contains only 68 calories and is packed with vitamins, minerals, Omega 3 and other nutrients); what to look for when purchasing peaches, and how to handle, freeze and can this versatile fruit.
Want a peachy dinner? Find a restaurant near you that's celebrating peach month!

Big Fish in a Small Mall

By Millicent K. Brody

Last Saturday proved to be a nice day for a drive, so we met friends at the MarketFair Mall on U.S. 1 at Meadow Road, in Princeton. We decided to browse, and dine at Big Fish. MarketFair is considerably smaller than the Mall at Short Hlls (my usual shopping destination) but nonetheless houses a discerning collection of shops: Smith & Hawken, White House/Black Market, Chico’s, Restoration Hardware, Anthropologie, and Barnes & Noble.

For the foodies, MarketFair also has a Williams Sonoma and Harry and David. If you hurry into Harry and David before July 31st, you’ll be able to mix and match from the following categories:Gourmet Relishes, Savory Salsa, Premium Preserves, Snack Mixes, Moose Munch Confection, chocolate truffles, fruit chocolates, Mondo Malt Balls, gummies, licorice, nuts, and more! The deal is, buy 3 and get the 4th Free. Villeroy & Boch, an excellent stop for anyone looking for attractive dishes, is also having a sale: save an additional 25% off their regular savings price. Available patterns include :Petite Fleur, Vieux Luxembourg, Design Naif, Switch 3, Manoir, Flora, and Cascara.

After dashing in and out of all the shops, we were starving, so we headed for one of only two restaurants actually inside the mall: Big Fish Bistro (there are also a few restaurants just outside the mall building). To celebrate the bistro's name, there's an enormous splash of color spanning the wall that is designed to resemble a BIG FISH. Adding to the decor are gigantic, blown glass globes of light, patches and swatches of color, and crisp table settings.

You’ll like the menu. Hitting various price points, it offers something for everyone. Starters included Tuscan shrimp marinated in garlic and herbs, paired with a tomato and cannellini bean salad, ($9.99); a crab cake with mustard sauce and roasted corn salsa, ($10.99); and shrimp mango spring rolls, or a mixture of shrimp, mango relish, Napa cabbage, cucumbers, and carrots in rice paper, served chilled with peanut sauce, ($8.99). You can choose a salad or cup of soup for an additional $2.99. We all started with a fresh and delicious Caesar salad. I moved to cedar planked Atlantic salmon, roasted with a tarragon-mustard glaze and served with a gaggle of roasted vegetables and redskin potatoes ($19.99). My friend Phyllis enjoyed the potato-encrusted tilapia, served with fresh vegetables ($17.99). My husband ordered the crab-stuffed sole with lemon butter sauce ($21.99), and Stan chose salmon Rockefeller stuffed with bacon, jumbo lump crab, and classic Rockefeller stuffing, ($21.99). A blueberry-hazelnut crisp with Hammonton blueberries, served with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce ($6.99), was enough for each of us to share. Both food and service were a fine contribution to a delightful Saturday.

Westfield Welcomes Boulevard Bistro

By Millicent K. Brody

It’s not often that a new Bistro with exciting fare and reasonable pricing arrives in your very own town, but proprietor William Perillo had the vision to create a restaurant in what was once a corner business machine shop.

“I knew Westfield was a restaurant destination. I also know their residents appreciate fine food and service. I do believe you’ll find it all at Boulevard Bistro,” he said.

“When dining out, I like to know I’m going to be fed the finest, freshest food,” he adds. “Our meat, seafood, and vegetables are delivered fresh daily. Our pastas and desserts are prepared in house. At Boulevard Bistro, you can expect local warmth with Soho flair."

For starters, try the Mozzarella Tre--homemade mozzarella with roasted peppers and tomato; insalata frutti di Mari--shrimp, scungilli, and calamari with garlic, olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs; or Sicilian sliders topped with housemade mozzarella and a fra diavolo sauce. Guests seemed to really enjoy the grilled polenta topped with artichoke hearts and mushrooms in a tomato basil sauce, and calamari sauteed with black olives and capers in a red, white, or brandy sauce.

Salads are prepared with care. Refreshing, organic greens are topped with apples, pecans, and goat cheese, while funghi , or wild mushroom soup, is blended with fresh herbs.

Of course the menu includes a host of pasta dishes prepared in all of your favorite ways. You’re also able to order shrimp scampi and grilled salmon, shrimp, and calamari. Like all other Italian restaurants, chicken is served Balsamico, Francese, Marsala, Milanese, Parmigiano and PIccata. Ditto for your favorite veal dishes.
Desserts range from a creamy tiramisu to Italian cheese cake, tartuffo, and lemon sorbet. Guests are invited to bring their own wine. The staff offers bottled or sparkling water.

With this gorgeous warm weather, you’ll enjoy dining outdoors on comfortable, upholstered furniture....or head indoors and enjoy the bustling ambiance.

Delicious Dinner Party Fun

By Millicent K. Brody

It’s not often that one gets invited to a dinner party on the fifteenth floor of a magnificent apartment overlooking the New York skyline. But there we were, enjoying all of the beautiful treats our friend set out for the occasion. Along with a host of hors d’oeuvres and salad with bleu cheese, candied walnuts, romaine hearts, and marinated, sliced red pears drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, we dined on filet mignon and baked salmon straight from the friendly butcher and fishmonger at Whole Foods in Edgewater.

My contribution was a casserole of my special, super simple mashed potatoes. Why mashed potatoes? Because they’re always a hit and every now and then you need a dallop of simple comfort food. Regardless of the size of the casserole dish or the number of guests, the bottom is always scraped clean by the end of the meal.

Milli’s Mashed Potatoes for 8

Ingredients:
7 large Yukon Gold potatoes
approximately 3/4 pint sour cream
3/4 C. large curd cottage cheese
3 T. unsalted butter
dash Kosher salt
freshly ground pepper
dash of Italian seasoning

Procedure:
In a large pot, boil potatoes until skin cracks or they become soft. Remove.

In a large bowl, mash potatoes, adding 2 T. butter, then slowly adding cottage cheese and finishing with sour cream. Taste, if you wish.

Spoon into round or oblong casserole dish.

Smooth top with sour cream and bits of remaining butter. Once again top with cracked pepper and dash of Italian seasoning

About 20 minutes before serving, turn oven on to broil.

Place the potatoes under the broiler and watch the top become goden brown and crispy.

July Restaurant Happenings

By Millicent K. Brody

* The Tri-County Cooperative Auction Market in Hightstown has been offering fresh Jersey produce, flowers, and nursery stock from local growers for sale since 1931. This year, the night auction opened in mid-May rather than July and has been featuring early season South Jersey produce trucked north by Flaim Farms. The auction is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the rest of the season.

* The South Jersey Independent Restaurant Association (commonly known as the South Jersey Hot Chefs) is again planning a week-long celebration of special dinners called “Farm to Fork Week”. Taking place July 19th-25th, special four-course menus will consist of produce grown by local farmers for $35.00 per person. A series of four “Feast in the Fields” special dinners will also take place between July 11th and September 13th at South Jersey farms. Each event will feature the cuisine of three or four restaurants. For more information, visit sjhotchefs.com.

* Planning a picnic this weekend? Make it easy on yourself and pick up a July 4th Snack Pack at Rosie’s. It includes one bottle of bubbly and two champagne glasses, hummus with crudite, a French baguette and several cheeses, an assortment of fruit, a few chocolate sweets, and glow-in-the-dark wrist bands, all packed in a green Rosie’s Wine Tote: cost: $40 plus tax. Snack Pack orders must be in by noon on Friday. Pickup is after 4 p.m. on Saturday, the 4th of July. If you visit Rosie’s restaurant on the 4th, there’s good news: corkage fees will be $4 all night. Enjoy $4 drafts; house wine at $4 a glass, and a 4% discount on all dine-in dinner bills. Rosie's, 514 North Ave., Garwood. Call 908.518.WINE

* Restaurant Serenade is catering to the 4th of July with a picnic. Proprietor and Executive Chef James Laird is offering culinary fireworks with 4th of July picnic food. Enjoy a grilled picnic entree and dessert for $30 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Seating for the special event begins at 5:30 p.m. The menu features hamburgers, hot dogs, barbecued chicken, corn on the cob, corn bread, cole slaw, and flag tarts. An a la carte menu will also be available. For reservations, call 973.701.0303. Restaurant Serenade is located at 6 Roosevelt Ave., Chatham.

* The Pluckemin Inn in Bedminster has a new chef: Juan Jose Cuevas. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Cuevas worked directly with Chef/Owner Dan Brown at 81 in Manhattan. In San Francisco, he worked at Jardiniere and the Ritz-Carlton. In New York, he opened Alain Ducasse at the Essex House and served as sous chef at the four-star Lespinasse. The Pluckemin Inn is located at 359 Rte. 202/206 S. Bedminster. Call or stop for a drink at their Plucky Bar. 908.658.9292.

* Visit the Mountainside Spanish Tavern from Friday, July 3rd to Sunday, July 5th and indulge in Maine lobsters at dramatic savings. Enjoy two 1/1/4 lb. lobsters for only $20.95 (plus tax and gratuity; no special offers or coupons will be accepted for this event). Regular lobsters (2 lb - 3 lb) are priced at $14.95 per lb. The menu features a variety of your favorite Spanish dishes. Be sure to order a pitcher of their famous sangria. The Spanish Tavern, 1239 Route 22, Mountainside. Call 908.232.2171.

A Cardiac Reality Check

By Millicent K. Brody

Just two weeks ago, I underwent a cardiac catherization at Morristown Memorial Hospital. The entire event was chilling. I hadn’t shown any symptoms of a heart problem; no high or low blood pressure, no shortness of breath, no weight loss or gain....NOTHING! But there I was, nonetheless.

Exactly one year ago, I decided it might be time to secure a family physician. After scheduling an appointment with a local doctor, part of the routine physical included inquiring about my family history. I was asked if any member of my immediate family had adny serious medical conditions.

“My father dropped dead of a heart attack at age 54,” I answered.

The doctor suggested I make an appointment for a 64-Slice Cat Scan.

One year later, almost to the day, I paid a visit to my husband’s cardiologist where I mentioned this test.

The cardiologist replied, “Oh you won’t need that sophisticated a test. We’ll do a Nuclear Stress test, and see the results.”

I did, and gave it no further thought until about two weeks later. The cardiologist called and suggested I return to the office to discuss my results. He indicated the test showed that there could be a possible blockage in the main artery leading to my heart. That’s when I contacted Dr. David Fein, proprietor of the Princeton Longevity Center, to request a 64 Slice Cat Scan.

That same day, I watched photographs of my scan being projected on a computer screen. The results indicated there could indeed be a blockage at the base of my aorta, which is known as the Widow's Artery. I was referred to one of New Jersey's most respected cardiologists, Dr. Stephen Guss of the Morristown Cardiology Group. It was his opinion that I should undergo a cardiac cathaterization.
Dr. Craig Rosen, another cardiologist, did the procedure. He discovered that the artery leading from the base of my aorta was clogged, but only 30 to 40%: Not enough to stent.

Dr. Guss, Dr. Fein, and Dr. Rosen tell me that I’m very fortunate. Apparently, heart disease is the number one silent killer of women, and current risk assessment methods, like blood pressure and cholesterol tests miss as many as 75% of patients who develop heart problems. Symptoms of heart disease often do not appear before a major cardiac event.

Of course I am back to being Milli. I am fine, perfectly healthy. But when I got this news, I was completely drained, a nervous wreck, and the hardest part of the whole thing was having to sign a paper allowing the physicians to perform open heart surgery if necessary. The whole ordeal was beyond bizarre for me.

I believe my story must be told. Millions of women walk around with symptoms. I had NONE. Give your family the gift of your good health. If there is any doubt in your mind about your health: Call your doctor!