Long Branch, NJ October 2023

Welcome Fall!

With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with Fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Joseph Zazzarino, more commonly known as Chef Zazz, and learning all about his at-home catering business and the fall menus that he has in store. He even shared his recipe for Sea Bass & Orzo—so get your tastebuds ready, you are in for a treat.

We also included Long Branch's best spots for brunch, along with a few new recipes for you to try at home, whether you’re cooking for just your family or for entertaining guests. The smells of Fall bring memories to my mind of sitting in my grandmother's kitchen, and the aroma of cinnamon, apple, pumpkin, chili and soups of any kind brings me right back to her table.

There is definitely an art to creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies our taste buds but evokes memories. The aroma of certain spices and foods can bring us right back to our childhood, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. Food brings us all together, and whether we are sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying food is invaluable.

As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Amy Dimes | amy.dimes@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Molly Gregor | molly.gregor@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Tara W. Pimco

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Vivian Pisano

AMY DIMES, PUBLISHER @LONGBRANCHCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

FIXING A STUFFY NOSE AND SNORING

QUESTION: My nose is always stuffy, worse on one side. And not only that...I am told by my spouse that I snore loud! What can I do?

ANSWER: Your best bet is a full evaluation by an ENT specialist who can determine what is causing your nasal obstruction and the most effective treatment. Often, once the nasal breathing is restored, the loud snoring is then diminished or even eliminated. There are several steps necessary for a thorough exam:

HISTORY: Questioning the patient about previous trauma to the nose and also anything that may cause chronic swelling inside the nasal cavity like recurrent sinus infections, allergies and overuse of intranasal sprays such as Afrin.

EXAM: Fiberoptic scope of the nose and throat to look for septal deviations, polyps, abnormal enlargements of other intranasal structures, and draining secretions which can be cultured. Check the external nasal structure for cartilage collapse that can result in a valve obstruction. Also allergy tests, home sleep studies and CT scans if indicated.

TREATMENT: Customized to the patient’s cause of obstruction. Can be as simple as a regimen of intranasal and oral medications or more complex involving surgical procedures.

ADVANCED SURGICAL TREATMENT: The latest techniques allow for quick recovery, no bruising, more precise repairs and open breathing immediately after surgery. Technology has improved with the use of 4K camera/monitors and microscopic visualization, laser guided infrared navigation and new methods and instrumentation for septum repair, turbinate reduction, valve collapse reconstruction and sinus blockage. Rhinoplasty techniques have also advanced and can often be performed at the same time if there are external nasal cosmetic concerns.

American Board of Otolaryngology (ENT)

•

American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery

•

Top NYC Metro Doctor 2006-2023

•

In-office NJ state licensed accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center

• Jack Anderson Prize award for highest score in board certifying exam.

70 E Front St. 3rd Floor | Red Bank, NJ 732-747-5300 www.riversideface.com

Frank J Scaccia, MD FACS

These pictures are actual patients of Dr. Scaccia who underwent septal and nasal reconstruction.

OPENS 4 HOURS BEFORE FOOTBALL GAMES

SCAN HERE TO ACCESS RUTGERS FOOTBALL TICKET CENTRAL

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Where

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1: Long Branch National Night Out. 2: Guire Touch a Truck at Long Branch National Night Out. 3: West Long Branch National Night Out.

4: Mint Collection celebrates its 3rd Anniversary. 5: First place awarded to Monmouth County lifeguards. 6: Vera Cengiz and Sarah Bandy film for American Dream in Long Branch and Monmouth Beach. 7: Jersey Shore Basketball League (JSBL) celebrates 55 years.

R. THOMPSON

GUIRE

MINT COLLECTION

LONG BRANCH OCEAN RESCUE

AMERICAN DREAM TV

JSBL

business monthly

Wedding File

There's a new way to plan a wedding in New Jersey. Weddingfile.com offers the best venues and vendors in the state for your big day, along with a Facebook group where you can get all of your questions answered 24/7. (Go to "Molly's New Jersey Wedding Insiders" on Facebook.) Receive expert tips, advice and referrals—and be a part of a community of engaged couples in the same stages of planning that you are.

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Griffy's Organics Celebrates Its Second Year!

Griffy's Organic is celebrating its second year in business. This premier raw juice house at 144 Brighton Avenue in Long Branch specializes in raw elixirs, wellness shots, super smoothies, cleanses, sea moss, supplements and more. They believe in a raw organic whole-food, plant-rich diet, and their proprietary science-backed nutrition philosophy delivers life-transforming results. Griffy's offers local pick-up along with nationwide delivery.

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iCode Shrewsbury Offers After-School Coding Classes

iCode Shrewsbury uses gamified learning to teach your kids valuable STEM skills like coding, programming, video-game development and more. Hands-on, collaborative projects teach students time management, team work, presentation and communication skills, strategic thinking, and more. Classes are structured in two parts: Instructor-led lessons followed by hands-on applications. Seeing the lessons in action gives students instant feedback and aids in comprehension and retention.They're now offering after-school classes for the Fall.

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Idalia Photography

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

AMY DIMES

Our community is brimming with incredible food and drinks to indulge in at brunch time and we’ve selected some of our picks that you must experience for yourself. Here is our round-up of the best brunches in and around town!

Our Picks for Foods to Feast On

ROONEY'S OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT: Delectable bites, impeccable service and stunning views of the ocean! Rooney's is brunch perfection: top 100 in America! Complimentary mimosa included now through April 24th. 100 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch

MCLOONE'S PIER HOUSE: McLoone's Sunday brunch offers it all! An incredible spread of pastries, fruits, salads and chef-attended stations. I personally love the raw bar and drink selections! 1 Ocean Avenue, North Long Branch

NICHOLAS BARREL & ROOST: Barrel & Roost offers impeccable quality and the best Bloody Mary! Chef Nicholas takes select brunch classics and spins them with a modern touch. 160 Route 35, Red Bank

CE LA VIE: This brunch is not just incredibly delicious, it's fun! Sunday brunch offers live DJ entertainment and what is guaranteed to be an unforgettable day. 16 Monmouth Street, Red Bank

THE BLACK SWAN: The Black Swan offers traditional English Breakfast (my favorite!), delicious starters and decadent dishes like Nutella crepes. $25 Mimosa pitchers and DJ on Sundays! 601 Mattison Avenue, Asbury Park

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR Amy Dimes | @longbranchcitylifestyle

As the publisher of Long Branch Lifestyle, Amy loves exploring the community and enjoying all the incredible food and drink spots in the area. Brunch is hands-down her favorite meal, and now that the kids are back in school she enjoys grabbing her girlfriends during the week or enjoying time with the family on the weekend at brunch.

Barrel & Roost

Favorite Spots for Date Night

An evening spent away from the daily routine is a great way to create space for connection and shared experiences

ARTICLE BY TARA W. PIMCO

Amid the whirlwind of daily life, the concept of a dedicated date night might appear like a luxury, an extravagant indulgence in a life full of responsibilities. But regular date nights are not just a fun night out— they're essential for a resilient and thriving relationship.

By deliberately carving out a recurring space for connection and romance, you can lay the foundation for lasting intimacy and companionship. These nights also offer a sanctuary away from humdrum routines, creating a new space for just the two of you.

Scientifically, the benefits of monthly date nights are well-documented. Regular quality time enhances communication, deepens emotional bonds and reduces stress within couples. They also offer opportunities to explore new activities, reignite shared interests and inject excitement into your relationship.

Lucky for us that Long Branch offers so many great spots for a fun date night. I've put together a list of my favorites here. Now go get that calendar out and make a date!

Date-Night Prep:

1 St. James Thrift Shop. There’s nothing like retail therapy, and the St. James Thrift Shop at 236 Broadway is one of my weekly haunts. This is a great way to put together a new fun, fashionable look without breaking the bank.

2. Spa at Ocean Place Resort. Self-care is another great mood lifter and way to prep for date night. My go-tos are the warm bamboo massage and the caviar facial.

Pre-Dinner Drinks:

3. Mix Lounge and Food Bar. This fun cocktail lounge has a great drink menu including fruit-infused vodka martinis and Long Branch iced tea. If you time it right, you can even pop in for Taco Tuesdays with $2 tacos and $5 margaritas.

4. Rooney’s. For cocktails with a view and a few pre-dinner apps, there’s nothing like Rooney’s. Favorites include the spice jalapeño margarita and the raw bar sampler.

Dinner & Dessert:

5. The Butchers Block. For some of the best steak dinners and cocktails around, head straight to this West Avenue eatery. The ambiance is also really fun. Make your reservations now!

6 Strollo’s Lighthouse. No date night is complete without a last stop at Strollo’s for some soft-serve and homemade Italian ices.

LEARN MORE: Tara W. Pimco is a passionate business owner with a creative eye for design. After 20 years in the hair, makeup and bridal industry and owner of Hot Mess Salon in Long Branch and Asbury Park, she considers herself a beauty architect. She's also an artist, wife and mom—and lifelong Monmouth County resident.

Stunning Ocean Views!

365 Ocean Blvd. Unit 408 Long Branch, NJ 07740

2 bed I 2 bath I $1,450,000

Residence 408 is a 2 bed, 2 bath, with North and East exposures. From the balcony you will enjoy unobstructed ocean views. There are 10 foot ceili ngs with recessed lighting, open kitchen with center island, Jenn-Air appliances, custom cabinets, Xenon task lighting, walk-in closets and private balcony with gas grill hookup. The unit comes with 2 assigned parking spaces, a private cabana, access to the club room, bike room, heated infinity pool, 2 outdoor showers and fire pit.

At-Home Chef

With more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Joseph Zazzarino—better known as Chef Zazz—is a personal chef in Monmouth County who offers catering, at-home dining experiences, pig roasts and mozzarella-making parties. With his chef's table dining experience, he will come into your home and be your private chef for the night. He'll work with you to create a customized menu and can accommodate an intimate meal for two up to parties of 20 or more.

ARTICLE

BY AMY DIMES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHEF ZAZZARINO

PRIVATE CHEF ZAZZ SHARES HIS DELICIOUS RECIPE FOR SEA BASS & ORZO

Sea Bass & Orzo

ingredients:

• 6 ounces sea bass

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch to coat

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons canola oil

• 1/4 cup orzo pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves fresh garlic, sliced very thin

• 1/2 bunch broccolini

• Canned black tapenade

3. In an oven-safe pan, sear sea bass in canola oil for 1 minute on each side to form a crust. Transfer pan to 375-degree oven to bake for 8 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, cook 1/4 cup orzo pasta in boiling water until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

5. Season cherry tomatoes with salt and pepper, and toss with cooked orzo.

For Broccolini:

makes: directions:

serves 1

For Sea Bass and Orzo:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Lightly coat sea bass in cornstarch, and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Add half bunch to hot water for 3 minutes to blanch. Remove immediately and add to ice bath.

2. Add 1/4 cup EVOO to sauté pan. Add thinly sliced cloves of fresh garlic to oil. When garlic has lightly browned, add blanched broccolini.

To Serve: Place orzo and tomatoes on plate. Top with the sea bass and a dollop of black tapenade on the sea bass. Add blanched broccolini on side. Serve with your favorite glass of white wine, and enjoy.

MENS’ FASHION JERSEY SHORE on the

ARTICLE BY TARA W. PIMCO

The Jersey Shore has long been synonymous with sandy beaches, summer vibes and a distinctive sense of style that seamlessly blends elegance with laid-back surf culture. This unique fusion has given rise to a diverse array of fashion options for men seeking to make a statement while embracing the coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling the boardwalk or catching waves, two standout clothiers will have you covered from tailored sophistication to effortless surf style this Fall.

CUSTOM SUITS BY MICHAEL DURU CLOTHIERS

When it comes to formal occasions and refined gatherings, men on the Jersey Shore turn to Michael Duru, a renowned clothier specializing in crafting bespoke suits that exude class and confidence. Nestled in the heart of Monmouth County, Michael Duru offers a personalized experience that ensures each suit is a perfect fit, both in terms of measurements and style.

Expert tailors have been groomed from an apprenticeship to become masters of their trade. They meticulously guide clients through a plethora of fabric choices, lapel styles and detailing options. Whether it’s a classic black tuxedo for a seaside wedding or a stylish ensemble for a charity gala, Duru’s commitment to quality craftsmanship guarantees a head-turning look that captures the essence of the Jersey Shore’s sophisticated charm.

SURF-STYLE ATTIRE BY STYLE ROCKET CLOTHING

While formal occasions call for refinement, the Jersey Shore’s vibrant surf culture also demands fashion that effortlessly mirrors the carefree spirit of the waves. Style Rocket, a local favorite on the legendary Asbury Park boardwalk, is the go-to destination for men seeking to embrace the beachy vibes through their wardrobes. From board shorts and graphic tees to relaxed button-ups, Style Rocket offers an array of pieces that capture the essence of the surf lifestyle.

With designs that celebrate the sun, sand and sea, Style Rocket combines comfort and style in a way that resonates with both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just looking to embody the beachy aesthetic, their collection perfectly encapsulates the relaxed yet trendy vibe that defines the Jersey Shore’s casual fashion scene.

SURFSIDE SOPHISTICATION

Here's another smart look from Style Rocket Clothing. This classic Cuban-cut vacation-stripe shirt by Rhythm is a year-round staple—spun in a breathable linen blend and featuring a yarn dye stripe and rhythm trims. It's been washed for a vintage feel, and pairs nicely with a comfortable pair of linen pants.

TOUCH OF TIKI

Style Rocket Clothing, with two locations in Asbury Park (on the Boardwalk at 800 Ocean Avenue and at 600 Cookman Place) offers casually chic clothing, accessories and everything you'd need for a day or night at the beach. Stock up on hip T-shirts, shorts, pants, flannels, over shirts, sweatshirts and more—all with a cool beach vibe.

DAPPER DURU

Build your wardrobe from the bottom up to fit your personal style and lifestyle—all with an eye on today's top looks. In addition to bespoke suits, Michael Duru Clothiers also offers the highest quality fabrics from top Italian and German brands that are guaranteed to give you functionality, durability and comfort. But most of all, they'll make you look so stylish! Here, gorgeous wool plaid pants are paired with a fun floral shirt, sophisticated vest and smart leather boots to complete the look.

3 MADE TO MEASURE

Nothing looks better—or makes you feel as good—as a custom suit or tuxedo made to your exact specifications. Let the expert tailors at Michael Duru Clothiers at 801 Broad Street in Shrewsbury dress you in style. They offer expertise and convenience, along with more than 7,000 swatches to choose from the best mills around the globe, resulting in a custom-tailored suit that's 100% you. In addition to their great selection of made-to-measure options, they also offer off-the-rack suits and shirts from iconic brands.

Our Favorite Bourbons

Under $150

ARTICLE BY ANTHONY ADAMS

We were recently asked to suggest the Best Bourbon under $150 and as I reflected on my list of favorites, providing a single answer wasn’t as straightforward as it appeared.

Think of it like this. If we asked 100 people in our community what their favorite restaurant is—the answers would be varied based on the individual’s personal palate or even the moment you asked them in!

Here is our list of favorites that will have you covered at any price point and occasion.

BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL BOURBON

Blanton’s is recognizable on sight due to the round bottle with a brass horse and jockey for a stopper. Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H. The taste profile is sweet, with notes of citrus and oak. The creamy vanilla nose is teased with caramel and butterscotch, all underscored by familiar baking spices such as clove, nutmeg, or cinnamon.

— BlantonsBourbon.com ($100-$150)

BASIL HAYDEN’S RYE BOURBON –AGED 10 YEARS

In a sea of cask-strength offerings, Basil Hayden’s stays true to its 80 proof roots. The high rye content of its mash bill charges the nose and palate with notes of caraway and spice, while 10 years in the barrel have added leather and an attractive nuttiness. If you aren’t looking for high proof, this is a remarkable bourbon.

— BasilHaydens.com ($75-$100)

PINHOOK ‘BOURBON WAR’ VERTICAL SERIES 5 YEARS

Pinhook pulls 150 barrels from a special lot to create this straight bourbon whiskey with a lively nose of butterscotch,

cinnamon stick, licorice, and vanilla. These aromas set the stage for a robust palate of cherry, chocolate, toasted brown sugar, and chicory. With the additional 5th year of age, what was tropical fruit transitions to darker fruit flavors and what was brighter candy is now rich and caramelized; hints of smoke now start to appear for the first time.

— PinhookBourbon.com ($75-$50)

EAGLE RARE 10 YEAR

Eagle Rare 10 Year lives somewhat in the shadow of its 17-yearold elder sibling, but don’t let that shy you away. This is a sweet and mellow bourbon with definite signs of maturity and its orange peel and toffee aromas are a little shy, but the palate serves sturdy sweet and spice notes and a toasty finish.

— EagleRare.com ($30-$50)

OLD FORESTER 86 PROOF

While others in Old Forester’s impressive lineup claim the hearts of bourbon geeks (such as the 1920 Prohibition Style), this bottle stands head and shoulders above everything at this proof and price point. It oozes aromatic charm and follows with a palate that is lithe but in no way lacking flavor.

— OldForester.com ($20-$30)

MCAFEE’S BENCHMARK OLD NO. 8

Sometimes you find a $20 laying around or just need a good mixing bourbon. Benchmark Old No. 8 is made at the same distillery as Blanton’s and the ever-coveted Pappy Van Winkle! The nose bears caramel notes with a delicate stone-fruit backdrop. A robust and sturdy palate with some fine leather notes mingling with dry tobacco, a touch of oak, and a hint of dried cherries. The finish is smooth and calming.

— BuffaloTraceDistillery.com (Under $20)

THE FLAVOR OF FALL

Apples are the trademark fruit of fall, and with the many varieties to choose from, there is an apple that is sure to please any palate. They can be included in both sweet and savory dishes and are delicious and incredibly healthful. We all have heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While they aren’t a cure-all, apples are packed full of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamin C, B vitamins and fiber. Make the most of autumn’s best produce and the flavors of fall with this simple recipes.

APPLE GALETTE WITH CARAMEL DRIZZLE

Easier than pie but with all the same textures, this gooey warm dessert is sure to please. For simplicity, this can be made with a premade crust.

INGREDIENTS:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 cup iced cold water

Filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and sliced into thin slices

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Caramel sauce

• Optional: 1/4 chopped walnuts or pecans

INSTRUCTIONS:

Crust:

(Note: If running short on time, store bought crust works great, too.)

Mix flour, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut in the butter. Add water and mix until moistened. Lightly knead the dough and then form into a ball. Next, flatten dough into a thick circular form and refrigerate for one hour.

Filling: Mix the apples, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar together in a bowl.

Assemble and Bake:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into a circle and set on parchment paper. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving about one inch of space for the edges. Fold crust over the apples and press to seal edges. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts. Bake for 35 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce and ice-cream.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

FIRST THREE THURSDAYS IN OCTOBER

West End Farmers' Market

WEST END PARK | 9:00 AM

Featuring fresh local produce and locally crafted food items such as Jersey Fresh organic locally grown produce, flowers, jams, baked goods, cheeses, salsas, soups and more. New seasonal items arrive each week.

OCTOBER 5TH

Whiskey at the Beach

OCEAN PLACE RESORT AND SPA, 1 OCEAN BOULEVARD |

6:30 PM

Sample the world’s finest whisk(e)y distillers. Brand Ambassadors and masters of whisky will be in attendance to guide you through your sampling experience while sharing the secrets behind the craft. Whiskies from around the world of Scotch, Bourbon, Rye, American, Japanese, Irish, Canadian and more will be available for you to explore, plus some surprises. General admission: $120. VIP: $150.

OCTOBER 19TH

Greater Long Branch Chamber of Commerce

88th Annual Awards Dinner

WAVE RESORT, 110 OCEAN

AVENUE | 6:00 PM

The Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the Louis G. Libutti Community Service Award to the Monmouth County Commissioners, Nick DiRocco, Susan M. Kiley, Thomas A. Arnone, Lillian G. Burry and Ross

F. Licitra and Darrell Wordelmann, managing partner of Rooney’s Oceanfront. The award is given to individuals who exhibit exemplary leadership, outstanding professional achievement and community service.

OCTOBER 21ST

Light the Night

THE GREAT LAWN, WHITMAN TERRACE AND MCKINLEY STREET | 4:30 PM

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night brings the community together to celebrate, honor and remember those touched by blood cancers. Friends, families, schools, corporate teams and sponsors join together to bring light to the darkness of cancer. The funds raised fund lifesaving research, advocacy and support for blood cancer patients and their families.

OCTOBER 22ND

Monmouth Moms' Fall Festival

BELL WORKS, HOLMDEL | 11:00 AM Enjoy: Touch-a-Truck Outdoor Zone, 80+ Vendors, Holiday Shopping, Kids Indoor Activity Zone, Magic Show, Face Painting, Character Visits from @thepartyfairyllc, Storytime, Holiday Photo Sessions by Sea Salt + Honey, Local Food, Fall Cocktail Bar, Pumpkin Carving Contest, Halloween Activities. Admission is FREE (Touch-a-Truck Outdoor Zone is $10/ family). Register at  eventbrite.com/e/ the-monmouth-moms-2023-fall-festival-tickets-681749630497.

OCTOBER 28TH

Halloween at Jack-o-Lantern Woods

JACKSON WOODS, 41-219

OCEAN BOULEVARD NORTH | 2:00 PM

Celebrate Halloween at Jack-o-Lantern Woods! Costume parade, trickor-treating, refreshments and free activities from 2-4 PM at Jackson Woods.

Want

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LongBranch