Perhaps it is its proximity to the Big Apple and all its impressive eateries, but northern New Jersey knows how to appeal to food lovers and keep them coming back. The following restaurants are among the best-reviewed in the region.
With accolades from the Zagat Survey and New Jersey Monthly magazine, Chez Catherine provides classic French dining in an elegant atmosphere. Some of its offerings include Nova Scotia mussels, crispy duck confit, New York strip steak and pan-seared Chilean sea bass. There is a tasting menu for those who wish to share several menu options.
Chez Catherine
431 North Ave West
Westfield, NJ 07090-1433
908-654-4011
chezcatherine.com
In 2009, Blu was named one of the "25 Best Restaurants in New Jersey" by New Jersey Monthly magazine. Though the dress code is casual, Blu is sleek in design, both architecturally and in the plating of its food. The cuisine is modern American touched by French, Asian and Italian influences. Sample dishes include risotto with tomato and feta cheese, escolar with forbidden black rice, hangar steak with carmelized onions and blue cheese, and calamari salad. The restaurant is BYOB.
Blu
554 Bloomfield Ave.
Montclair, NJ 07042
973-744-3600
restaurantblu.com
Zagat's has praised Trap Rock's "awesome beers and New American cuisine," while the local Star Ledger newspaper says "the cuisine is a perfect match for the handsome exterior." With its rustic ski-lodge style and on-site microbrewery, Trap Rock provides a cozy yet contemporary setting for lunch or dinner. Tuna tartare, homemade gnocci with gulf shrimp, grilled swordfish and pork chop florentine are some of the kitchen's specialties. There is an extensive wine menu, as well as the varied and unique beer menu expected from a microbrewery.
Trap Rock
279 Springfield Ave
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
908-665-1755
traprockrestaurant.net
The praise keeps coming for Highlawn Pavillion, chosen as "Best of the Best" by New Jersey Monthly magazine and dubbed "excellent" by The New York Times. An Italian-style summerhouse at the top of Eagle Rock Reservation, this restaurant serves rabbit cavatelli, Colorado lamb, organic Maine salmon and a ravioli of the day as part of its varied menu. The venue is also available for weddings and other special events.
Highlawn Pavillion
Eagle Rock Reservation
West Orange, NJ 07052
973-731-3463
highlawn.com
