Asbury Park, NJ October 2024 by City Lifestyle

Food & Drink

Designing thoughtful, purpose-driven, ecologically-appropriate landscapes.

Asbury Park Home Sales

Drink, Eat and Be Merry!

Fall is officially here!! Phew! There are so many wonderful things to do this month- local fun runs, like the Skeleton 5K in Fort Monmouth, Pickyour-own pumpkins and apples at Eastmont Orchards, the Fall Asbury Bazaar and the beach is free all day again….. I could go on and on. October is dedicated to the food and drink scene in our area. We are spoiled for quality options!

We were lucky enough to get a sneak peek of the new restaurants that opened locally over summer. Catbird, Hadaka and Mabel (an extension of the Cardinal brand up in Bellworks) are all very different, exciting vibes with one very important aspect in common- local talent that are passionate about creating the best dining experiences possible.

For dessert, Purple Glaze gave us a fun insight to their halloween inspired creations- perfect for fall!

Also, we interviewed Falco’s Catering this month- this local family business is celebrating 30 years of business. Their passion and expertise in the business is unparalleled, and we are honored to have them as partners in the magazine!

As always, we are happy to hear feedback, story pitches, and chat to possible partners about what a collaboration in the magazine looks like! Get in touch with us.

Until next month,

CHRISTINE MCKENNA-TIRELLA, PUBLISHER @ASBURYPARKCITYLIFESTYLE

October 2024

PUBLISHER

Christine McKenna-Tirella christine.tirella@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Svetlana Blasucci | svetlana.blasucci@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christine Mckenna, Svetlana Blasucci

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Blue Sky Photo, Hunter Franklin, Nikolai Puc, Michael Aarons, Svetlana Blasucci

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

1: Turn Key Women Event with Teal Cruises 2: The Max Challenge of Ocean Showing Love! 3: ReMAX’s Meghan Carroll, and Luis Morales of Endless Waves at Chamber of Commerce event 4: Kate Santangelo and Lauren Farrell at the Turn Key Event with Teal Cruises 5: Community Karma, Kim from Habitat for Humanity, Kristy of Boho Yoga, Chamber of Commerce event 6: Volunteers at The Center AP in the kitchen! 7: The view from AP Rooftop, by Connor Kane

business monthly

Asbury Book Cooperative Fall Drive

Asbury Book Cooperative will be raising kids books for their 2024 Holiday Drive. Last year they were able to raise enough books for every child at Thurgood Marshall Elementary, the Boys and Girls Club of Asbury Park and Alphabets Preschool. This year they hope to add two more recipients including Asbury Park High School and Jersey Shore Medical Center’s Children’s Hospital. This drive will run from October through December. If you wish to contribute, purchase your donation in store or online: http://asburybookcoop.org/

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The Red Heart Gala Awards at the Center AP

Since 2011 The Center in Asbury Park has been honoring our tireless volunteers and community supporters through the annual Red Heart Gala. This year we will honor the following six outstanding volunteers and community partners. Tickets are still available for this special evening of food, fun, and inspiration on October 15th at The English Manor in Ocean, NJ. For more details visit: https://www.thecenterinap.org/

Darcy Park Boutique

Book Darcy Park Boutique for your Fall private shopping party with your girlfriends or host your favorite fundraiser at the store. They will provide apps, drinks, and on-trend styles, plus for your fundraiser, we donate 15% of total sales to your charity. Please get in touch with the store for more details https://www.darcypark.com/, DPinfo@darcypark.com.

Photography by Darcy Park

Photography by The Center AP

New Dining Spots

Everyone’s Talking About

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI

Dish It Out

Aimee Owner of Catbird

The culinary talent in-and-around Asbury Park continues to impress and delight! At the Jersey Shore, we are spoiled for choice with world-class cuisine. Here’s a roundup of the restaurants that have recently opened:

CATBIRD:

(The name “Catbird” draws inspiration from an indigenous bird known for its distinctive song, which sounds like a car meowing. These birds are common in the Northeast, often found in hedges)

Aimée McElroy, a full-time resident of Asbury Park, previously lived in Jersey City and worked in Manhattan from 1996 to 2014. Her career began in the arts, where she gained experience working in museums and art galleries. Her culinary journey started as a creative outlet when she enrolled in night classes at the French Culinary Institute, focusing on bread baking. This newfound passion set her on a path toward opening her own establishment. Her journey in the culinary world began as a bread apprentice at Alimentari and Il Buco. Aimée’s fascination with pizza-making grew after visiting wood-fired oven pizzerias on the West Coast, which inspired her to create a wood-fired bakery & pizzeria in Asbury Park. At Catbird, she seamlessly merges her artistic sensibilities with her culinary skills, creating a unique dining experience.

The menu at Catbird features a variety of fresh sourced ingredients including Smiling Earth mushrooms in Long Branch, greens from Kula Farm, Asbury Park and herbs from an on-site garden are essential to her dishes. Aimée’s background in sculpture and hands-on work, combined with her family’s culinary influences and fine dining experiences, shape her approach to baking.

The pizza dough is made by hand with King Arthur flours. The standout pizza at Catbird is the pesto, which is both cheese-free and nutfree, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine. Popular offerings also include Margarita and fennel and spicy sausage pizzas. Aimée’s unique crust, distinguishes Catbird from other establishments.

hello@catbirdap.com 1215 Sunset Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 https://www.catbirdap.com/

“Aimée’s background in sculpture and hands-on work, combined with her family’s culinary influences and fine dining experiences, shape her approach to baking.”

MABEL:

Laura Brahn and Grace Crossman, the dynamic duo behind Cardinal Provisions, are embarking on an exciting new venture with Mabel, located in Bell Works. Though Laura doesn’t have a formal culinary degree, her kitchen experience began at the age of 13 at Vic’s in Bradley Beach, shaping her culinary journey.

Opening Cardinal in Asbury taught Laura valuable lessons, including learning Spanish and overcoming various challenges. Laura and Grace, who first met working in Asbury kitchens, humorously reflect on the obstacles they faced, confident that if they could manage those, they can handle the transition to Holmdel and the opening of Mabel.

Mabel will feature two distinct areas: an outdoor patio offering small bites and an indoor restaurant set to open in October

2024. The venue aims to offer coastal European bar food with a focus on good drinks, inspired by their Italian and French backgrounds. The slogan, “Casual Celebrations,” captures their vision of an unfussy, celebratory atmosphere.

At Mabel, you can expect creative drinks like the Spiggia Spritz and a selection of local farm-sourced ingredients. Highlights include a circular brioche lobster roll with fresh lobster, smoked paprika, and garlic aioli. The team prides itself on making all the bread, focaccia, and breadsticks in-house and is excited about contributing to the vibrant culture of Bell Works.

101 Crawfords Corner Rd Holmdel, NJ 07733 https://www.mabelatbell.com/

“Named

HADAKA, which means

“naked”

in Japanese, the restaurant emphasizes raw food and fish. Gino brings his NYC experience and passion for Japanese culture...”

The restaurant prides itself on freshness, with ingredients flown in daily from Japan. The design is inspired by a striking mural that serves as a focal point. The baby yellowtail is currently in season, adding to the menu’s allure.

Here, there is no fixed menu; guests leave their dining experience to the chef’s discretion. The motto is “Experience a new level of taste,” highlighting both exceptional food and ambiance. The menu changes every hour and a half, with four seatings daily and five on weekends. A complimentary sake kick-starts the meal.

HADAKA:

When I recently had the pleasure of dining at this exciting new restaurant, the appetizer truly stole the show: a Kumamoto oyster adorned with salmon roe, oyster sauce, fresh tomato, crisp radish, and a touch of gold leaf. The harmonious blend of these ingredients created a taste sensation that was both elegant and unforgettable. As I savored each bite, I had the chance to chat with the visionary owners, Eddie Falzarano and Gino Ferretti, who revealed that it took them a dedicated year and a half to bring their dream to life.

Named HADAKA, which means “naked” in Japanese, the restaurant emphasizes raw food and fish. Gino brings his NYC experience and passion for Japanese culture, while Eddie adds his nightlife expertise. With only 12 seats, reservations are essential for this intimate experience. Guests can choose between 12 or 18 pieces of sushi, with dessert included, or opt for à la carte.

Eddie, a Bradley Beach native, wanted to bring something new to Asbury Park. The plan is to eventually expand. For a complete experience, try a cocktail from Lola’s, their cross-promoted partner.

(732) 361-0238

527 Bangs Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

https://hadakanj.com/

Owners Eddie and Gino

FIVE MINUTES WITH FIVE FOR FIGHTING

Grammy® nominated, platinum-selling artist, Five For Fighting, aka John Ondrasik, will be on tour this Fall including at The Vogel in Red Bank.

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE MCKENNA-TIRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS

In the two decades since his first major single, “Superman (It’s Not Easy),” hit the stratosphere, John Ondarasik, the man behind Five For Fighting has kept growing and evolving his sound.

To date, Five For Fighting has released six studio LPs, including the platinum-certified America Town and The Battle for Everything ; and the top-10 charting Two Lights , along with an EP and live albums.

Five For Fighting’s music has been featured in more than 350 films, television shows, and commercials. Ondrasik has penned major hits, including the chart-topping “100 Years,” “The Riddle,” “Chances,” “World,” and “Easy Tonight,” which have earned over one billion streams and place him as a top-10 Hot Adult Contemporary

Photo: Hunter Franklin

Photo: Nikolai Puc

Photo: Michael Aarons

artist of the 2000s.The reflective “100 Years” has joined “Superman (It’s NotEasy) ” as part of the American Songbook.

This Fall Ondrasik is touring with top musicians including Tony-Award-winning concertmaster and co-orchestrator of Moulin Rouge! The Musical Katie Kresek (Violin), Melissa Tong (Violin), who toured with Post Malone in 2023, and Broadway’s Chris Cardona (Viola) and Peter Sachon (Cello).

We spoke with him about his upcoming concert at the Count Basie in Red Bank, his love of touring, and what to expect with this upcoming intimate concert setting.

TELL US JOHN, WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TOURING?

The joy of performing across the nation with world-class musicians, who also are my second family, is like nothing else. Since the pandemic, I think both musicians and audiences have a new appreciation for the magic that only happens in a live setting.

IT’S BEEN A WHILE SINCE YOU TOURED, WHAT SHOULD THE AUDIENCE EXPECT WITH THIS TOUR INCLUDING THE STRING QUARTET?

The String Quartet format allows a very intimate and dynamic experience where we go behind the music, tell stories behind the songs, and have a one-on-one relationship with the audience. The string arrangements

not only add an extra dimension to the popular songs but allows me to pull songs from my catalogue with incredible arrangements from renowned composers. The quartet always has a surprise of their own that I look forward to every night! To share the stage with such incredible musicians every night is a gift that keeps giving. Such an intimate format allows me to share the stories behind the songs, and the adventures along the way.

YOU ARE AN OUTSPOKEN ACTIVIST AND HUMANITARIAN, TELL US ABOUT YOUR PASSION FOR YOUR CHARITY, WHAT KIND OF WORLD DO YOU WANT?

The most rewarding part of my career is using my songs and platform to shine the light on heroic people and charitable causes. Whether it’s our troops and Gold Star Families, ALS patients, or the critical need for music in every school, What Kind of World Do You Want strives to make our world a freer and better place for all.

Five for Fighting play in Red Bank, NJ at Count Basie Center for the Arts, on October 9th, 2024. Check out www.thebasie.org for more information.

For more information on Five for Fighting’s charity visit https://www.whatkindofworlddoyouwant.com/

“SINCE THE PANDEMIC, I THINK BOTH MUSICIANS AND AUDIENCES HAVE A NEW APPRECIATION FOR THE MAGIC THAT ONLY HAPPENS IN A LIVE SETTING.”

Bewitched Bites

Purple Glaze Donuts is a true “neighborhood” destination spot in Asbury Park, where locals and visitors drop by for donuts and coffee. Rich Silva and Kevin Pat purchased Purple Glaze Donuts in 2021 from Purple Glaze’s amazing founder, Jacki Sharpe. Along with their creative partner, Mary Flynn, their mission is to ensure that your day is satisfying one donut at a time. The team is incredibly creative, always striving to raise the bar. They continue to create mouthwatering donuts made fresh daily by using the donut as a canvas (slightly crisp on the outside & fluffy on the inside), with bold and distinctive flavor combinations along with unique toppings, decorations, and custom presentation. Eating is believing!

“Purple Glaze proudly supports our neighborhood community through donations, fundraisers, and as local employers. We also partner with local businesses – supporting our small business peers!”

516 Summerfield Ave,

Asbury Park, NJ 07712 (732) 361-5308

hello@purpleglazedonuts.com

Purple Glazed Donuts A Must Taste for Halloween

Concept to Cuisine

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI

The Journey of Exceptional Event Catering by Falco’s

Since its founding in 1995, Falco’s Catering has been delighting taste buds and creating unforgettable events, all thanks to the culinary magic of brothers Stephen and Joey Falco. Their secret sauce? A philosophy that places customer happiness and satisfaction at the heart of everything they do. Join us as we dive into the delicious world of Falco’s Catering and discover what makes these brothers the premier choice for gourmet catering in the Garden State.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START A CATERING BUSINESS?

Joseph, who is six years older than Stephen, always had a passion for cooking. When Stephen turned 14, he began working for Joseph as his dishwasher and prep cook, and the two quickly realized they enjoyed working together in the kitchen. Their bond grew stronger over the years, especially after Joseph graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. They seized the opportunity to open their own business, and thus, Falco Brothers was born. After several successful years running their a la carte restaurant, another opportunity arose at The Renaissance. This new venture inspired them to transition from the restaurant business to catering, allowing them to bring their culinary expertise to a wider audience.

CAN YOU SHARE THE STORY BEHIND THE NAME OF YOUR COMPANY?

They decided to honor their family and Italian roots. While they could have chosen a more elaborate name, they felt it was important to

Owners

maintain a sense of heritage and familiarity. Their recognizable name reflects the deep family values and traditions that influence their work.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DISH TO PREPARE AND WHY?

Stephen’s favorite dish is his grandmother’s soup—a comforting blend of chicken thighs, beef, and miniature meatballs that brings back memories of winter cooking with her. Joey prefers Chicken Murphy, a simple yet refined dish that impresses with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation, making it a guest favorite.

ANY FUNNY OR MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM AN EVENT YOU CATERED?

With 30 years of experience, Joseph and Stephen have many memorable stories, like the time a microburst storm wrecked an outdoor wedding, sending the tent and equipment into the water. Remarkably, the cake and alcohol were spared. They quickly called in favors, delivered food, and, once the sun reappeared, the couple resumed their celebration indoors, turning a near disaster into a night to remember.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST EVENT YOU’VE EVER CATERED?

Joseph and Stephen have catered numerous large events over the years, including BBQs for 2,300 people at a hospital, galas, and weddings for up to 400 guests. One of their most significant annual events is a spring gathering for over 700 attendees. These large-scale events demonstrate their capability to handle high volumes while maintaining exceptional quality and service.

YOUR SECRET TO MAKING A SUCCESSFUL EVENT?

The secret to their success lies in meticulous preparation and comprehensive checklists. From the initial client call to the final team

“Falco’s success lies in meticulous preparation and comprehensive checklists. From the initial client call to the final team meeting before an event, every detail is carefully planned and rechecked.”

meeting before an event, every detail is carefully planned and rechecked. Their expert sales team, experienced kitchen prep staff, and thorough truck-packing process all contribute to the seamless execution of events. This level of preparation helps alleviate last-minute requests and ensures a smooth, successful event every time.

As they approached their 30th year in business, Joseph and Stephen reflect on a journey filled with dedication, hard work, and a passion for bringing people together through exceptional food. Their commitment to quality and their deep-rooted values have earned them a cherished place in the hearts of their clients and a legacy that continues to thrive.

1110 Highway 35 Ocean Township, NJ 07712

falcoscatering@verizon.net (732) 660-9000

Stephen and Joey

To learn more about Monmouth Arts, including our engaging programs, exhibits, workshops, and networking opportunities at ArtSpace, our Red Bank gallery and community space, please visit th t

WICKED

walks

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI

HAUNTED TOURS FOR A CHILLING FALL

Step into the shadows and explore the haunted corners of Asbury Park at the Paranormal Museum with hosted ghost tours this October! As the nights grow longer, join Kathy for an eerie journey through forgotten tales, restless spirits, and haunted history. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, these ghost tours offer a thrilling mix of adventure and captivating storytelling.

Kathy Kelly is a passionate and dedicated student of the paranormal. Her fascination with the unknown began at an early age with her first play,

“Monsters,” written when she was just eight years old. This early intrigue has only grown stronger, leading her to embark on thrilling adventures such as her recent exploration of the Queen Mary. Kathy’s enthusiasm for the paranormal is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life.

In 2008, Kathy opened Paranormal Book & Curiosities, followed soon after by The Paranormal Museum. These ventures were born from her desire to share her love for the strange and unusual with the world. As a gifted storyteller with a Master’s degree in history, Kathy seamlessly blends her historical expertise with her paranormal pursuits. Her lectures are renowned for being both captivating and enlightening, offering audiences a unique blend of historical context and paranormal intrigue.

Kathy’s extensive knowledge of history and the supernatural is matched only by her friendly and humorous demeanor. She firmly believes that every story contains a kernel of truth and often much more. Through her work, Kathy not only explores the mysteries of the paranormal but also fosters a sense of community and connection among those who share her passion.

For 16 years Paranormal has taken visitors on tours through Asbury Park’s haunted history. Tours take 75-90 minutes in length. Comfortable shoes required.

October Ghost Tour Schedule:

Downtown Tours: Friday & Saturdays 8pm

Boardwalk Tours: Tuesday Thursday & Sundays 7pm

Haunted Pub Tour: Scheduled Monthly and privately

621 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 https://www.paranormalbooksnj.com/

“...her desire to share her love for the strange and unusual with the world.”

OCTOBER 2024

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

OCTOBER 6TH

Asbury Fresh and Markers Market

Press Plaza (Emory St. between Cookman and Lake) | 9:00 AM

Asbury Fresh Farmers and Makers Market in Press Plaza (Emory St. between Cookman and Lake), 9 am-1 pm, with local food and crafts

OCTOBER 8TH, 15TH, & 22ND

Piano Party with Bob Egan

Asbury Hotel

Piano Party With Bob Egan 7pm- 10pm Asbury Hotel, Listen to Bob play and Sing-a-long in the Soundbooth!

OCTOBER 9TH

City Council Meeting

City Hall 1 Municipal Plaza Asbury Park, NJ 07712 | 6:00 PM

City Council meets, 6 pm, for more information: https://www.cityofasburypark. com/158/Mayor-City-Council

OCTOBER 15TH

Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce

Networking Event

Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, Asbury Park Broadwalk | 6:00 PM

The October networking event for the Asbury Park Chamber will be at Tim McLoone’s Supper Club on Tuesday October 15th from 6pm - 8pm. Check out https://asburyparkchamber.com/ events/calendar/ for more details.

Spotlight on Commercial and Hospitality Projects

With over 30 years of experience, our architecture excels in transforming commercial and hospitality spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing environments. We tackle the unique challenges of designing spaces that cater to both business needs and guest experiences, ensuring every project exceeds client expectations.

Our diverse portfolio includes boutique hotels, restaurants, and innovative office spaces. We create designs that are visually stunning, functional, and sustainable, reflecting our commitment to excellence from concept to execution.

We genuinely understand our clients’ vision and goals, working closely to ensure their unique needs are met and their brand identity is reflected in every design aspect. Our collaborative process and extensive experience allow us to deliver exceptional results that stand the test of time.