Greater Long Branch, NJ October 2025 by City Lifestyle

A Taste of Greater Long Branch

Dear Readers,

October in the Greater Long Branch area is a season for crisp walks along the boardwalk, cozy evenings and—let’s be honest—planning your next culinary adventure. For food lovers, the search for the best hot spots is less a hobby and more a calling. This month’s issue is your guide to eating like a local, with tips, stories and hidden gems to satisfy every craving.

This month, we’re excited to share something brandnew: Garden State City Lifestyle! We’ve joined forces across New Jersey to launch gardenstatecitylifestyle.com , your statewide destination for luxury living, food, fashion, and events. We’re curating the best of the best from Bergen, Somerset, Essex, Monmouth, and Hunterdon counties. Follow along on Instagram at @gardenstatecitylifestyle for statewide updates. We’re hyped about this launch—and you should be too!

One of our first initiatives is our inaugural Garden State City Lifestyle Restaurant Month. We’ve rounded up some of the top restaurants in northern and central Jersey, each offering exclusive specials just for you. From a complimentary glass of wine to a lobster dinner for two, we’ve got your dining calendar covered. Turn to page 32 for the full lineup.

We kick things off with The Jersey Girl Guide ( page 16), an insider’s look at the women making waves in our local food scene. From innovative chefs to restaurant owners, these inspiring women are redefining what it means to run the show— while keeping our plates deliciously full.

Next up, meet The Veggie Lady of Monmouth County (page 12). If you’re looking to add fresh, seasonal produce and plant-based goodness to your meals, she’s the go-to expert. Her tips and tricks make eating healthy feel effortless—and delicious.

Of course, we couldn’t let October pass without a nod to the local secrets that keep food lovers coming back. Long Branch’s Secret Eats (page 36) uncovers the spots only true insiders know—because sometimes the best meals aren’t on the main street.

So grab a fork (or a knife, or chopsticks—no judgment) and let this issue guide your next culinary adventure. October in the Greater Long Branch area is about savoring great food, great company and the little moments in between.

Here’s to delicious discoveries,

October 2025

PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Cary Zackman | cary.zackman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Angelica Ferri, Sadie Brown

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Caroline Fanning, Lindsay DeAngelis, Garden State City Lifestyle, Mel Boban

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Karyn Moskowitz, David Surks, Estelle Massry, Michael Lago, Kartheek Hedge, The Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center, Liz Polo - My Havanna Photography, Reyla, 2nd Floor, Cardinal Provisions, My Kitchen Witch, Ed Gallucci, Billy Smith, Buddy DeSantis

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1—7: Thousands gathered in Long Branch for Oceanfest 2025, celebrating the Fourth of July with live entertainment, food and fireworks.

Photography by Kartheek Hedge

8—10: Thousands gathered in Long Branch for Oceanfest 2025, celebrating the Fourth of July with live entertainment, food and fireworks. 11: Our sales director, Cary Zackman, with our partner The Modern Woman, LLC, Dr. Melissa Blackburn, D.O., FACOG. 12: The Long Branch Free Little Art Gallery, where residents can take or leave art. 13: The West Long Branch Police Department hosted a tour of police headquarters for fourth graders from Frank Antonides School. 14: The Long Branch Arts Center partnered with Z.E.Y.B.R.A.H. to feature Yakar Roots and Rhythms.

15: The Oceanport Police Department showed support for young entrepreneurs selling handmade bracelets on Monmouth Boulevard this summer. 16—17: Action Camp welcomed an exciting visit from Oceanport’s Volunteer First Aid Squad.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

THE Veggie Lady OF MONMOUTH COUNTY

KARYN MOSKOWITZ

HOW KARYN MOSKOWITZ IS TURNING FRESH FOOD INTO COMMUNITY POWER

At first glance, Karyn Moskowitz might seem like just another friendly face in Ocean Grove. But to hundreds of families across Monmouth County, she’s better known by a different name: The Veggie Lady.

As the coordinator of the Building a Healthier, More Equitable Community Initiative (BHEC) at Interfaith Neighbors, Moskowitz isn’t just distributing food—she’s helping build an entirely new model for how food flows through our communities. One rooted not in handouts, but in collaboration, dignity, and long-term equity.

“We’re not a food pantry,” Moskowitz explains. “We’re a coalition. We connect farmers, pantries, libraries, housing authorities, and community spaces to get fresh food where it’s needed most. It’s about filling the gaps—not duplicating what already exists.”

That focus on collaboration is what makes BHEC’s model so effective. Through an interconnected network of community-driven partnerships and host sites called the Community Food Connection, Moskowitz, along with her Food Justice Coordinator, Derek Blackwell, coordinates pop-up produce distributions across Monmouth County— from Long Branch and Asbury Park to Red Bank and other high-need areas. By contracting directly with a local farm (Fernbrook Farms in Chesterfield, NJ), and paying them a fair price, her team ensures a steady supply of seasonal produce for over 800 families throughout a 25-week season. But it’s not just what they distribute—it’s how they do it.

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Karyn Moskowitz, The Veggie Lady.

“FOOD IS love , IT’S health , IT’S pride , IT’S rootedness . WHEN PEOPLE LINE UP IN THE COLD FOR KALE AND COLLARDS, you know IT MEANS SOMETHING.” —Karyn Moskowitz, The Veggie Lady

Rather than pre-packing items, the host sites offer a market-style setup where participants can choose the fruits and vegetables they prefer. “That small shift changes everything,” Moskowitz says. “It honors choice. It respects culture. It gives people the same agency they’d have at any other market.”

Moskowitz’s passion for food justice comes from experience. Raised in Matawan by a single mom, she learned early on that healthy food doesn’t always come easy. Eating local was simply a way of life—before it became a buzzword. After college, she spent decades in Louisville, Kentucky, leading a nonprofit focused on food access and community health.

Then the pandemic hit. Moskowitz returned to New Jersey, at first temporarily—but she quickly realized this was where her work belonged.

“I landed here, and I knew I was never leaving again,” she says. “This is where the work needs to be done.”

Since then, her efforts have gone far beyond fruits and vegetables. Moskowitz also chairs the Monmouth County Food System and Access Work Group, and leads the Mayor’s Wellness Committee in Asbury Park. She’s working to eliminate the area’s four state-designated food desert zones through policy change, community partnerships, and direct intervention.

In partnership with Communities First Initiative, her team has even piloted a home delivery program for residents in affordable housing communities, recognizing that not everyone has transportation or feels comfortable accessing traditional food pantries. “We’re meeting people where they are—literally,” she says.

Moskowitz also sees food as a gateway to something bigger. Through her pop-up sites, she’s building relationships, encouraging community ownership, and changing the conversation about food access.

“Food is love,” she says. “It’s health, it’s pride, it’s rootedness. When people line up in the cold for kale and collards, you know it means something.”

The Community Food Connection’s seasonal produce distribution is supported by educational materials and recipe cards, often developed with local chefs and nutritionists. All are plant-based or culturally relevant dishes tailored to a busy family. The goal isn’t just to feed—it’s to empower.

“We’re not just dropping off boxes. We’re creating something sustainable, something that grows,” she says. “And we’re doing it together.”

The success of the program has caught the attention of neighboring communities, prompting discussions about replication, funding expansion, and deeper engagement across sectors. Still, for Moskowitz, it’s all about the people. The seniors who stop by every week. The kids who learn to love beets. The families who finally have access to fresh produce in their own neighborhood.

So yes—she’ll remind you when Jersey tomatoes are finally in season. But she’ll also remind you that how we grow, share, and value food might just be the key to building healthier, stronger, communities.

Because in Monmouth County, food isn’t just fuel. It’s connection. And thanks to leaders like Karyn Moskowitz, it’s also a movement.

How You Can Support Food Equity in Monmouth County

Here’s how you can support the Building a Healthier, More Equitable Community Initiative and Interfaith Neighbors:

VOLUNTEER:

Help with produce distribution, recipe sharing, or educational events.

DONATE:

Funds go toward purchasing produce from local farms and expanding access points.

HOST A POP-UP IN 2026:

If you’re part of a school, community center, or faithbased group, consider partnering as a site.

CONNECT:

Reach out to Karyn Moskowitz at Interfaith Neighbors to learn how your skills or organization can support the mission. Visit interfaithneighbors.org for upcoming events, donation links, and partnership opportunities.

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ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ESTELLE MASSRY

TURNING LOCAL LIFE INTO A MUST-FOLLOW MOVEMENT

THE JERSEY GIRL GUIDE

What began as a closet clean-out during the pandemic is now one of New Jersey’s most engaging lifestyle platforms. Mackenzie Malpass, Jersey Shore local and the creator behind The Jersey Girl Guide, has turned her eye

“THE

into a weekend pop-up boutique, complete with scheduled shopping slots and racks of secondhand fashion.

“It became bigger than I expected,” she says. “That’s when I realized I wanted to be an entrepreneur.”

JERSEY GIRL GUIDE STARTED AS A FUN SIDE PROJECT —

JUST A PLACE TO POST THINGS I LOVED.”

—MACKENZIE MALPASS

for style and love for local spots into a curated feed of food, fashion and fun.

“The Jersey Girl Guide started as a fun side project — just a place to post things I loved,” Malpass says. “But the more I leaned in, the more I saw its potential.”

Malpass launched her first business during her freshman year of college. With the world on lockdown, she started Kenzie’s Kloset, a consignment shop run entirely through Instagram. Girls from her hometown purged their wardrobes, and Malpass turned her backyard

As the world reopened, Malpass shifted her focus from fashion to lifestyle — specifically food, experiences and must-visit destinations in and around New Jersey. From coffee shops to cocktail bars, her vibrant photos and honest reviews began catching the attention of locals and businesses alike.

“I always say people eat with their eyes first,” she says. “I try to showcase food and places that feel exciting, beautiful and worth checking out.”

Her posts are deeply local — and deeply personal. From sharing her favorite Monmouth County spots like Park Social in Neptune and Teak in Red Bank to highlighting gluten-free options at Asbury Ale House, Malpass’s recommendations are authentic and community-focused. And despite managing multiple chronic health conditions, her energy for creating has never waned.

“I found out this past year I have three lifelong chronic illnesses,” she says. “But even during that time, the platform kept growing. It showed me this work really means something.”

Now, Malpass manages The Jersey Girl Guide as her full-time career, securing brand partnerships, running media collaborations and staying committed to promoting small businesses. She’s passionate about being selective — working only with businesses she genuinely enjoys.

“I never wanted to be called an influencer,” she says. “I see myself as a creative partner to brands — someone who helps them shine in their best light.”

The French Market

“I JUST WANT TO KEEP GROWING — NEW PLACES, NEW PEOPLE, NEW STORIES.”

—MACKENZIE MALPASS

Looking ahead, she hopes to scale the platform to over 100,000 followers and expand collaborations with national companies. Still, she insists on staying rooted in New Jersey, spotlighting towns she loves and always ending the day at home.

“I just want to keep growing — new places, new people, new stories,” Malpass says. “If I can help someone find their next favorite spot, then that’s a win for me.”

Hair: Amanda Bisignano - Natural Beauty Hair Salon - @naturalbeautyhairsalonnj

Makeup: Maggie Beyer - Makeup Mags@makeupmags

Photoshoot Location: The French Market 114 E River Rd, Rumson

Mackenzie Malpass

“I try to showcase food and places that feel exciting, beautiful and worth checking out.”

Andrew Lepping Photography

PHOX’S PHIGGIE BARS

ARTICLE BY MARILYN SCHLOSSBACH PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PHOX

When Andrea Phox steps into her kitchen, creativity is just as present as it is behind her camera lens. Known for her dynamic photography and international workshops, Phox has also developed a unique recipe that blends family tradition with the unexpected bounty of her own backyard.

For 20 years, Phox’s fig tree has produced more fruit than she could ever imagine. Unsure of what to do with the abundance, she turned to her sister Jill, who often made classic lemon squares. Jill suggested substituting the lemon with figs. The result was a sweet, rich, and slightly earthy dessert now lovingly called Phox’s Phiggie Bars .

“Every family memory is around food,” Phox says. “The most special was when my sister Jill catered Lance’s and my wedding day. Truly special.”

That sense of togetherness carries into how she envisions the perfect dinner table. If given the chance, Phox said she would invite Frida Kahlo, Maya Angelou, and Dorothea Lange—three women who, like Phox, used their art to tell deeper truths about humanity.

The meal would be as much about beauty as it would be about nourishment. Hibiscus agua fresca would start the evening, followed by slow-braised short ribs, grilled vegetables, and wild mushrooms. Dessert would be flan infused with orange blossom, served alongside cinnamon-spiced café de olla . The soundtrack: a mix of Chavela Vargas, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, and Philip Glass.

For Phox, food and art are both rooted in freedom— the ability to travel, explore, and immerse in new cultures without restraint. That philosophy mirrors her proudest achievement so far: building Andrea Phox Photography into a multifaceted business, expanding from a small portrait studio into fine art sales, commercial work, and international workshops.

Her dream superpower? A vision beyond what others can see—something she already achieves, both through her photography and her inventive approach to the everyday, figs included.

A Family-Inspired Twist on Tradition

RECIPE: PHOX’S PHIGGIE (FIG) SQUARES

SHORTBREAD CRUST

• 2 cups flour

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, and confectioners’ sugar.

Step 3. Press mixture evenly into a 10- or 12-inch

Pyrex baking dish.

Step 4. Bake for 20 minutes, until lightly golden.

FILLING

• 4 eggs

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt

• 6 tablespoons Phox’s Phiggie Jam (or any fig jam)

• 2 cups granulated sugar

Step 1. While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, baking powder, salt, fig jam, and sugar until smooth.

Step 2. Pour filling over the hot crust.

Step 3. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, until set.

Step 4. Cool completely before cutting into squares.

Phox’s Phiggie (Fig) Squares

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‘Born to Run’

Exhibit Honors Springsteen’s Long Branch Roots

The Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center marked the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” with a summer exhibition highlighting the Jersey Shore city’s influence on the legendary album.

The exhibit, which opened Aug. 18 with a reception Aug. 19, was presented in collaboration with Monmouth University and the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music. It spotlighted Springsteen’s formative years living in West End, where he wrote “Born to Run,” the 1975 album that cemented his place in rock history.

A section of the exhibition focused on West End in the 1970s, exploring its lasting impact on Springsteen’s music and career. Visitors also learned about his surfing days along the Shore and the local culture that shaped his early artistic voice.

Rarely seen posters, photographs and promotional materials from the “Born to Run” era were on display, alongside notable artifacts such as a green drum set from Springsteen’s early band, Earth, and an exact replica of the guitar featured on the album cover.

The interactive exhibit invited guests to share personal memories of Springsteen

on vintage-style Long Branch postcards. Those reflections will be preserved in the Bruce Springsteen Archives, which is scheduled to open its new home on the Monmouth University campus in 2026.

“Bruce Springsteen is one of the most iconic and influential musicians to have ever lived and we are proud of his roots here in Long Branch,” Mayor John Pallone says. “Not many people know the importance of his time spent in Long Branch and how it shaped specifically the ‘Born to Run’ album.”

Bob Santelli, executive director of the Bruce Springsteen Archives, called the album “unquestionably one of the greatest rock albums of all time.” He noted that Springsteen wrote it just blocks from the site of the Archives’ future home.

Monmouth University President Patrick F. Leahy said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to preserving the Jersey Shore’s cultural legacy and its influence on American music.

The Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center will continue to host programs tied to the exhibit, including a Springsteen song open mic night, a presentation on his years in Long Branch, and a storytelling event.

For more information, visit longbranch.org or call 732-222-7000 ext. 2050.

Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen is one of the most iconic and influential musicians to have ever lived.

Mayor John Pallone “

Fans with Born To Run Replica Guitar

Mayor Pallone with Monmouth University President Patrick Leehy at Opening Reception

Bruce and E Street Band 1972

Vinny 'Mad Dog' Lopez with Long Branch Council member Glenn Rassas

Bruce at Monmouth College 1969

Pasta, Passion & Purpose

CULINARY JOU R NEY WITH PIAT

For Chef Bill, food has always been more than a profession — it’s a calling rooted in tradition, family, and community.

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LAGO

His culinary journey began at age 11 in his father’s pizzeria in Garfield, New Jersey, where he started out answering phones and taking orders. As soon as he was tall enough to reach the ovens, he was making pizzas himself. Eventually, he ran the shop, carrying with him the values of hard work, hospitality and heart.

“I learned the importance of tradition in that kitchen,” Chef Bill says. “Those early days shaped everything I do now.”

Over the years, his path led him through nearly every corner of the food industry — from line cook at Rustler’s Steakhouse and IHOP to managing full-service restaurants and working as a chef for large institutions. He studied hotel and restaurant management at Bergen Community College and later cooked with Gourmet Dining and CulinArt Group, where he handled high-volume service at pharmaceutical companies, corporate offices, private schools, and Montclair State University — often crafting personalized, dietary-specific meals.

Still, one thing remained constant: his deep love for food and the joy of creating meaningful, memorable experiences around it.

That passion runs deep — not just from restaurants, but from home. Bill grew up watching his mother and grandfather prepare traditional Italian and Sicilian recipes with love and care. “The first dish I ever made was stuffed onions,” he recalls. “I used to write to an Italian cooking show as a kid, and they’d mail me recipes on index cards.”

A heart attack and quadruple bypass surgery changed everything.

“It reminded me how short life is, and how important it is to do what you love — now,” he shares.

That moment inspired him to launch Piatto Di Pasta, a business offering hands-on pasta-making classes and events across New Jersey. From birthday parties and bachelorette nights to team-building events, each gathering centers on fresh pasta, good conversation, and authentic connection.

“This isn’t just a job,” he says. “It’s who I am. It’s how I connect with people. It’s my way of giving back.”

For more information visit piattodipastanj.com .

Photos were taken at Aurora Kitchens & Interiors in Somerville.

A

Note from Chef Bill

I’ll be the first to admit — I’m no Hemingway or Shakespeare. But I wanted to put into words what I truly feel:

“For me, Piatto Di Pasta isn’t just about food. It’s about laughter in the kitchen, stories shared over rolling pins, and reconnecting with the traditions that made us who we are. This is what I grew up with — fresh dough, big family dinners, and time-honored recipes passed down with love.

I started this business to bring people together — to slow down, create something by hand, and experience the joy of cooking the way our grandparents did. Whether it’s your first time making pasta or your hundredth, my goal is to make every event feel like home. Thank you to everyone who’s supported me so far. And to those I haven’t cooked with yet — I hope we meet soon.”

– Chef Bill

October is GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE RESTAURANT MONTH!

Explore New Jersey’s Best Bites: Exclusive October Offers, Chef Specials, and Culinary Surprises Await

It’s our inaugural Garden State City Lifestyle Restaurant Month, and we’ve partnered with top New Jersey restaurants to bring exclusive specials to you throughout October. From fine dining to casual bites, these offers are our treat to you.

Visit any of these featured establishments this month and ask for the “Garden State City Lifestyle Special” to receive one of the offers below.

CLINTON HOUSE – CLINTON

Address: 2 West Main Street, Clinton, NJ 08809

Website: theclintonhouse.com

Offer: Signature Tasting Menu $100 (valued at $120) | Add Wine Pairings for $60

FIRST COURSE

Spicy jumbo lump crab meat on crisp lettuce with dill

Lobster bisque with tender lobster chunks

Smoked salmon with Royal Osetra caviar, goat cheese, and crostini

Paired with Miner Viognier

SECOND COURSE

Two fried oysters over creamy spinach

Two Clams Casino with fresh lemon

Paired with Archery Summit Pinot Gris

THIRD COURSE

Stuffed shrimp over lemon butter rice, garnished with sweet drop peppers and lemon

Paired with Merryvale Chardonnay

FOURTH COURSE

Lamb lollipop with mint pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, and whipped potatoes

Paired with Chappellet

FIFTH COURSE

Filet medallion with crabmeat béarnaiseand tender asparagus

Paired with Elk Cove Pinot Noir

SIXTH COURSE

Decadent chocolate lava cake with molten center, served warm

Paired with Sauternes

ARTICLE BY GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LAGO, LIZ POLO - MY HAVANNA PHOTOGRAPHY

DE MARTINO’S – SOMERVILLE

Address: 9 Davenport St, Somerville, NJ 08876

Website: demartinolatin.com

Offer: “Fluffy for Fifty” — Half-price Classic Buttermilk Pancakes weekdays in October (Dine in only)

FOCACCERIA RISTORANTE BASKING RIDGE

Address: 26 Church St, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920

Website: focacceria26.com

Offer: Seasonal appetizer special

FOGO DE CHÃO BRIDGEWATER

Address: 400 Commons Way, Suite 279, Bridgewater, NJ 08807

Website: fogodechao.com/location/ bridgewater

Offer: Complimentary dessert

GIOVANNI’S – SOUTH BOUND BROOK

Address: 113 Clinton Street, South Bound Brook, NJ 08880

Website: giovannis-nj.com

Offer: Complimentary dessert (one offer per table)

JUNIPER HILL RESTAURANT AND BAR – ANNANDALE

Address: 73 Beaver Ave, Annandale, NJ 08801

Website: juniper-hill.com

Offer: Complimentary glass of wine or draft beer for anyone joining us for lunch (Tuesday–Friday, 12–3) for October

MAIN STREET CRAVINGS CLINTON

Address: 3 Main St, Clinton, NJ 08809

Website: mainstreetcravings.square.site

Offer: Complimentary fountain drink with purcha se

MARINELLI’S – HAMPTON

Address: 505 NJ-12, Flemington, NJ 08822

Website: marinellisrestaurant.com

Offer: 10% off the total bill

MASON’S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS – LONG BRANCH

Address: 78 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ

Website: masonslobster.com/

locations/long-branch-nj

Offer: 15% off the total bill

MAX’S BAR AND GRILL LONG BRANCH

Address: 25 Matilda Terrace, Long Branch, NJ 07740

Website: MaxsBarAndGrillNJ.com

Offer: Buy one entrée, get one 50% off

METROPOLITAN SEAFOOD & GOURMET – LEBANON

Address: 1320 Rt. 22 West, Lebanon, NJ 08833

Website: metroseafood.com

Offer: Lobster dinner for two special

OSTERIA CRESCENDO WESTWOOD

Address: 36 Jefferson Ave, Westwood, NJ 07675

Website: OsteriaCrescendo.com

Offer: Garden State City Lifestyle Roasted Beet Mezza Luna Special (lemon, poppy seed, brussels sprouts, chive)

OSTERIA MORINI

BERNARDSVILLE

Address: 107 Morristown Road (Route 202 N), Bernardsville, NJ 07924

Website: osteriamorini.com/ bernardsville-nj

O ffer: Cicchetti Sampler of 3 (Melone, Panzanella & Beets)

RED HORSE BY DAVID BURKE BERNARDSVILLE

Address: 27 Minebrook Road, Bernardsville, NJ 07924

Website: redhorsebydb.com/ restaurant-bernards

Offer: Complimentary appetizer or dessert with entree purchase

RED HORSE BY DAVID BURKE – RUMSON

Address: 26 Ridge Road, Rumson, NJ 07760

Website: redhorsebydb.com

Offer: Complimentary appetizer or dessert with entree purchase

SWEET T’S SOUTHERN EATERY MONTCLAIR

Address: 387 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042

Website: sweettseatery.com

Offer: 10% off total bill

VIAGGIO RISTORANTE – WAYNE

Address: 1055 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ 07470

Website: viaggioristorante.com

Offer: Barchette Special (Butternut squash, fall spiced agrodulce, brown butter, sage)

Eat up! And don’t forget to follow @gardenstatecitylifestyle for sneak peeks, chef spotlights and gift card giveaways throughout October to some of the best restaurants in the state.

Garden State Harvest

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE

There’s something magical about fall in New Jersey. The air turns crisp, the boardwalk crowds fade, and the landscape transforms into a patchwork of deep reds, golden yellows, and burnt oranges. Farmers’ markets brim with fresh-picked squash, apples, and herbs, making it the perfect time to create dishes that warm the heart and highlight our state’s seasonal bounty. This Garden State Harvest Risotto captures the cozy spirit of the season—creamy Arborio rice, roasted butternut squash, fragrant sage, and a savory punch from crispy pancetta. It’s comfort food with an elegant, local twist.

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes

Risotto with Butternut Squash, Sage & Crispy Pancetta

ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)

• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock (kept warm)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice

• ½ cup dry white wine

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 6–8 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• 4 oz pancetta, diced and crisped in a skillet

• Optional: drizzle of truffle oil for serving

directions:

Step 1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss squash cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a lined baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2. Start the Risotto: In a large saucepan, heat remaining olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Step 3. Toast the Rice: Add Arborio rice, stirring constantly for 2–3 minutes until edges are translucent. Pour in white wine and cook until mostly absorbed.

Step 4. Add Stock Gradually: Add warm stock, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Continue for 18–20 minutes, until rice is creamy and al dente.

Step 5. Finish the Dish: Stir in roasted squash, Parmesan, and chopped sage. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6. Serve: Spoon risotto into bowls, top with crispy pancetta, extra Parmesan, and fresh sage leaves. Optional: drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet finish.

Garden State City Lifestyle Tip: Pair with a glass of local New Jersey Chardonnay or a crisp hard cider to bring out the flavors of the season.

Craving more? Follow @gardenstatecitylifestyle for simple, delicious recipes.

Risotto with Butternut Squash, Sage & Crispy Pancetta

Long Branch’s Secret Eats

Four insider dining experiences that locals love — and hope you won’t tell too many people about.

You don’t need us to tell you about Tim McLoone’s, The Butcher’s Block or Anjelica’s—you can Google “best restaurants Long Branch” for that. Instead, I’m sharing how to eat like a true insider on the Jersey Shore: curated, little-known experiences not often advertised. These are the best-kept culinary secrets you learn only by living here.

As a longtime Jersey Shore resident, writer, and passionate foodie, I’ve spent years uncovering hidden gems. I’m sharing a few of my favorites with you because I trust you — just keep them out of the hands (and mouths) of the New York City crowd. Promise?

By its sheer existence, My Kitchen Witch qualifies as a secret eat. Primarily a breakfast and lunch spot — it belongs in your go-to brunch rotation — the candied bacon is a must-try. But the real insider move is their Friday Night Dinners: once-monthly candlelit dinners with a four-course, $39.99 prix fixe menu.

About the Author: Caroline is a longtime Jersey Shore resident, writer, and passionate foodie who has spent years uncovering the area’s hidden culinary gems. Whether it’s a tucked-away supper club or a brunch spot with a twist, she loves sharing insider tips that help locals and visitors alike eat like true insiders.

About the Author: Caroline is a longtime Jersey Shore resident, writer, and passionate foodie who has spent years uncovering the area’s hidden culinary gems.

Each Friday Night Dinner menu is new and handcrafted. When I last went in June, diners were offered a choice of soup or salad (I chose the peach basil salad over watermelon gazpacho), a seafood or beef entrée (herb-roasted prime rib with chimichurri, though I’d have been just as happy with the jumbo shrimp over orzo), and desserts of competing flavor profiles (red velvet cake for me instead of blueberry lemon cheesecake brownies). All preceded by a surprise appetizer (which I won’t spoil for you).

Friday Night Dinners are reservation-only and fill up quickly, so call on Monday: 732-229-3033. And don’t forget to pick up a bottle of your preferred wine on the way.

My Kitchen Witch

2nd Floor

The Mix, a downtown Long Branch staple, has been serving cocktails and elevated pub grub on the building’s first floor since it opened almost 25 years ago. But venture upstairs — on one of two designated weekends each month — and you’ll find 2nd Floor, an exclusive supper club serving classic fine dining fare like short rib, branzino Milanese, and butternut squash and roasted apple soup. It’s the kind of place that strives to make you feel more guest than customer — and if it feels cozy and homey, that’s because it is. Owners Michael Bienz and Sam Navito converted their old apartment above The Mix into the space for 2nd Floor. You have to contact Bienz by phone (732-443-7399) for reservations. Don’t be surprised to get a call or text back from him to check in on you.

Reyla

You’re already going to this beloved family-style Middle Eastern restaurant for dinner — but you should be going for brunch. Known for its to-die-for small plates (hello, Turkish hummus, warmed and dusted with cinnamon), this Asbury Park eatery is on every foodie’s radar.

A bit less known: Reyla serves one of the best brunches on the Jersey Shore. Skip the eggs Benedict and fluffcakes at Turning Point or MeeMom’s and try the green shakshuka with wagyu kofte and fried halloumi drizzled in hot honey. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. You’ve been doing it all wrong.

Cardinal Provisions

Our tip for this essential Asbury Park brunch spot is a bit different than the others. There’s no secret basement supper club, and the chef doesn’t slaughter the fatted calf if you use a code word while ordering.

However, after 2:30 p.m., all the treats in the bakery window drop to $1. You have 30 minutes to get there before closing — and two minutes if you want any of the salted vegan chocolate chip cookies. By 2:32 p.m., I will have cleaned them out.

OCTOBER 1ST

West End Farmers’ Market

West End Park Brighton Avenue, Long Branch | 9:00 AM

Discover fresh, local flavors at the West End Farmers Market in Long Branch on Wednesdays. From vibrant produce to artisanal goods, enjoy a community-focused shopping experience each week. Support local vendors and savor the season’s best.

OCTOBER 1ST

Looney Long Branch

Amazing Race & Tour

57 Brighton Ave, Long Branch | 11:00 AM

Explore the hidden gems of the city while getting creative and having fun. For more information, visit offshorecoffeeco.com

OCTOBER 5TH

Monmouth Hawks Women’s Soccer Game

Hesse Field - Norwood Ave, West Long Branch | 1:00 PM

Enjoy the excitement of Hofstra Pride Night at the Monmouth Hawks women’s soccer game this October.

OCTOBER 9TH

2025 Future of the Ocean Symposium & Champion of the Ocean Awards

Monmouth University - Great Hall 10:00 AM

The Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute’s annual Future of the Ocean Symposium returns Oct. 9, with a theme of “Exploring the Wine-Dark Sea – U.S. Ocean Science and Technology: Keys to Prosperity and Security.”

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events

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A Champion of the Ocean Awards Luncheon recognizing Congressman Frank Pallone, extreme ocean explorer Victor Vescovo, and deep-sea mapper Larry Mayer will directly follow.

OCTOBER 18TH

Pooch Parade

Doggie Sweets - 15 Morris Ave Unit 119, Long Branch | 12:00 PM

Grab your pup and your favorite costume and head to Pier Village. Looking for outfits? Doggie Sweets has plenty of options. All dogs must be pre-registered at doggiesweets.com. Registration is $5, with proceeds benefiting Pick Your Paw Rescue.

OCTOBER 21ST

Adult Education Series

Monmouth University - 400 Cedar Ave, West Long Branch | 7:30 PM

Join music historians Ken Womack and Kit O’Toole as they revisit classic record albums. In Classic for a Reason, they take listeners on a guided tour of some of history’s most enduring musical accomplishments.

OCTOBER 24TH

5th Annual Pink Party

23 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch | 6:30 PM

Get ready to paint the town pink at the fifth annual Pink Party in support of I Pink I Can, a New Jersey nonprofit. For more information, visit ipinkicannj.com

OCTOBER 26TH