Northwest Bergen, NJ December 2018

NorthwestBergenLifestyle.com

DECEMBER 2018

Holiday Gift Guide: Shop Local ITALIAN BAKERY IN RAMSEY DELIGHTS

GASTROPUB OPENS IN GLEN ROCK

Allendale Town Center | 33 West Allendale Avenue Allendale, NJ 07401 | (201) 962-3207

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Marc Schwartz | marc.schwartz@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Lucy Probert | lucy.probert@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jean Terman | jeant@jeantermanphotography.com

Happy Holidays!

WE ARE SO EXCITED TO BRING YOU OUR SECOND ISSUE OF NORTHWEST BERGEN LIFESTYLE. On behalf of the Northwest Bergen Lifestyle team, we send our warmest holiday greetings to you and your family. It is truly an honor to share the “good news” of our community with you each and every month.

We say a huge “THANK YOU” to our readers, who have welcomed us into their homes and lives. Especially during the holidays, you keep others on your minds by supporting and donating to our local organizations and charities of which they are eternally grateful. Please become or stay involved; they need your continued support.

Additionally, we thank and acknowledge our advertising partners who make this all possible. Please support our local businesses by keeping “local in local”; invest your hard-earned dollars back into Northwest Bergen County. We take great pride in partnering with some of Northwest Bergen’s best brands. Whether you are purchasing, building or remodeling your home, promising yourself a new start to a healthy lifestyle in 2019, enjoying a phenomenal performance at the Angelica and Russ Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts or “unlocking the learning potential” of your child, we hope you consider our local businesses. There’s no place better than Northwest Bergen to do just that!

Thank you, and best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season! We’ll see you in 2019!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Marc Schwartz, Publisher

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

NorthwestBergenLifestyle.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

ON THE COVER L’Arte della Pasticceria in Ramsey

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN TERMAN 4

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northwest Bergen areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Northwest Bergen Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

The Most Extraordinary & Luxurious Kitchens!

Photograph:

Peter Rymwid

*By Appointment* 19 W Ridgewood Ave Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-444-1650 www.thehammerandnail.com

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2018

FEATURES 13 Stone & Rail Glen Rock Gastropub Serves Up Craft Beer and an Eclectic Menu

18 Holiday Gift Guide Need the Perfect Gift? Shop Local

22 L’Arte Delights Italian-American Bakery Brings Sweets to Ramsey

18 26

26 Decorating Your Table for the Holidays How to Achieve Multiple Looks Simply

13

22

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

13

Hot Spot

16

Locally Owned

26 Open House 30 Page Turners 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

HOLIDAY PROMOTION

GIVE THE DUX® BED AND

RECEIVE UP TO $1,500 TO SHOP HOLIDAY GIFTS AT DUXIANA® NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 31, 2018 PURCHASE ANY DUX® BED DURING OUR HOLIDAY PROMOTION AND RECEIVE UP TO $1,500 TO FEATHER YOUR NEST WITH FINE EUROPEAN LINENS, DOWN, HEADBOARDS AND BEDROOM ACCESSORIES.*

DUXIANA RIDGEWOOD 63 East Ridgewood Avenue 201-670-4488 DUXIANA SUMMIT 354 Springfield Avenue 908-522-8200 www.duxiana.com THE DUX BED IS AVAILABLE ONLY AT DUXIANA * Credit value dependent on bed size and model. Visit duxiana.com/holiday-event-2018 for a full reward chart. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Good Life Ridgewood, the Mayor's Wellness Festival This fourth annual festival, held at Van Neste Square in September, brought residents, businesses and professionals together to showcase what the Village community has to offer.

4.

6.

5.

1. Lindita Limani from Racefaster leads a yoga class on the lawn. | 2. Phil Ross of American Eagle MMA & Kettlebells shows his stuff. | 3. Young dancers from the Jig Factory at the Ridgewood Irish Dance Academy perform for the crowd. | 4. Event Director Janna Diorio with Lauren Kelston McMillin | 5. Jeanne Johnson of Ridgewood Walks with Gwenn Hauck, an event organizer| 6. Youngsters getting body paint at the fair.

1.

2.

3.

Local High School Marching Band Competition The Ridgewood High School and Northern Highlands Regional High School Marching Bands gathered at NHRHS recently for a band competition titled "The Ceilidh."

4.

6.

5.

1. The RHS Marching Band percussion section performs. | 2. RHS senior Emily Park performs a saber solo. | 3. NHRHS senior drum major Victoria Winters leads the marching band onto the field. | 4. The NHRHS Marching Band and Color Guard during a ballad | 5. RHS Marching Band performs its 2018 show, “A Journey West.” | 6. Senior drum major Alex Barutis of NHRHS conducts “Cool” from West Side Story.

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

• OLIVE • R • TWIST •

OLIVE OIL COMPANY At Olive R Twist Olive Oil Company we offer a broad selection of the finest and freshest extra virgin olive oils produced in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, full-bodied 12-18 year aged balsamic vinegars from Modena Italy, delicious specialty foods and beautiful gifts.

Come in today and join us for a unique culinary experience!

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me

ods • t fo

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34 wilsey square ridgewood, nj

eg c vin ars • go

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mi

s • fine extr a

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olive oils • ba l sa

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(201) 882-1515

Visit online

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AROUND TOWN employees who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces as well as those who have been involved with area charities. He then was given a tour of the new 30,000-square-foot product research, training and development center. Set on a 12-acre campus, the new headquarters has nearly 400 employees.

JaguarLandRover.com

DOG GROOMERS OPEN GROOMINGTON COAT FACTORY IN MIDLAND PARK After

seven

years

traveling

throughout

Northwest Bergen County as a mobile dog grooming service, this fall Groomington Coat Factory opened its first salon in Midland Park. They limit the number of dogs they groom each day, which helps to reduce stress on the animals and allows for a high-quality personal experience. Within a two-hour appointment, their all-inclusive service

JACK’S LOBSTER ROLLS BRINGS TASTE OF MAINE TO RIDGEWOOD

includes a shampoo, massage, nail trim, thorough

Who’s hungry for lobster tacos, crab grilled

brushing, ear cleaning and a blow dry. Mobile ser-

cheese or even a more traditional Maine lobster

vices are still available as well. Groomington.com

roll? If you can’t make it to Maine this winter, Jack’s Lobster Rolls has brought Maine to you in its recently opened eatery on Ridgewood Avenue.

Jack and Aline Tabibian, owners of Jack’s Lobster Shack in Edgewater, have expanded with this lobster-packed menu in a 400-square-foot space, with outdoor dining opening in warmer weather. They even serve Maine whoopie pies and organic Maine soda. JacksLobsterRolls.com

OAKLAND LIBRARY RENOVATION GRAND RE-OPENING More than 20 years in the making, the Oakland Public Library has recently completed its reported $4,800 renovation and invited the public to a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate. At the cer-

BRITISH ROYAL DEDICATES JAGUAR LAND ROVER’S NEW HEADQUARTERS IN MAHWAH

10

emony, a short history of the library and the long renovation process was presented. Highlights of the remodeled space include a new circulation lobby, an adult services department, a young adult

The Earl of Wessex (aka Prince Edward) was on

meeting/reading room, public meeting rooms and

site for the official building dedication ceremony

a Maker Space for STEM activities for kids age

of Jaguar Land Rover North America’s new

5 and up. Doors lead to an outdoor area, which

state-of-the-art headquarters in Mahwah in late

will eventually accommodate tables and chairs.

September. Before the ceremony, HRH met with

OaklandNJLibrary.org

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

INSURANCE YOU CAN DESIGN TO MEET YOUR EVER CHANGING NEEDS ■ Products and services to meet all your insurance needs ■ Insurance you can tailor to meet your needs ■ Call to see if you can save

Keith Ferrara Your Local Agent 258 EVERETT AVE WYCKOFF, NJ 07481 KFERRARA@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/kferrara

Call 201.425.1100 today!

For Home, Auto, Life and Business.

Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies.

Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.

HOT SPOT A Stone & Rail craft beer ready for tasting

The main dining room with high tops and regular seating

Stone & Rail GLEN ROCK GASTROPUB SERVES UP CRAFT BEER AND AN ECLECTIC MENU ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT | PHOTOGRAPHY JEAN TERMAN

STONE & RAIL, JUST ACROSS THE TRACKS FROM THE GLEN ROCK MAIN LINE STATION, ROLLED INTO TOWN EARLIER THIS YEAR, BRINGING WITH IT A RELAXED TAVERN-LIKE ATMOSPHERE AND AN ECLECTIC MENU FROM A LOCAL AWARD-WINNING CHEF. Its name pays homage to the railroad nearby as well as the iconic and massive Glen rock around the corner. A gastropub with a focus on craft beer and a bar as a centerpiece stretching the length of the restaurant, the vibe is comfortable and the menu choices creative and satisfying, with an emphasis on high-quality American comfort fare.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

13

HOT SPOT (CON TI N U ED)

Enjoy sliders and fries and a beer on tap at the bar at Stone & Rail.

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

Stunning mural by artist Julius B. Fil

“FINISH OFF YOUR MEAL WITH AN UNCLE ADAM’S LEMON CHEESECAKE MARTINI WITH STRAWBERRY SAUCE AND CHANTILLY CREAM OR S’MORE ZEPPOLES.”

More than 20 craft beers are on tap for those just step-

“We began brainstorming with Adam as soon as he

ping off the train or gathering with friends, and the space is

came on board,” Brian says. “He is very creative, and

warm and rustic (i.e. exposed brick and reclaimed wood).

often the dishes he is the most passionate about are the

“We designed it entirely ourselves,” says Brian Crowe,

ones that turn out the best.”

who is a partner in the restaurant along with Mac Crikelair

Finish off your meal with an Uncle Adam’s Lemon

and David Feit. “The bar’s design was one of the first things

Cheesecake Martini with strawberry sauce and Chantilly

we worked on. It’s built using reclaimed wood from the

cream or s’more zeppoles.

rafters of a very old home in town that was coming down.”

The main eating area seats about 90 people and the

Bring your appetite for executive chef Adam

side room about 65. An upstairs loft offers party space

Weiss’ menu that includes small plate selections

for rent and includes a 22-foot shuffleboard table, a pool

like a sauteed lump crab cake and kielbasa sausage

table and two dartboards.

corn dogs; and main dishes including grilled shrimp

“We think our craft beer selections will continue to

tacos, pulled pork poutine and of course the Stone

excite our customer base,” Brian says. “And with Adam

& Rail Burger with smoked bacon, caramelized beer

making changes to the menu as the seasons change,

onions and muenster cheese.

we’re very happy with everything.”

175 Rock Road, Glen Rock, New Jersey, 201.345.0709, StoneAndRail.com December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

15

DANSON JEWELERS

LOCALLY OWNED

ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT

PHOTOGRAPHY JEAN TERMAN

A LEGACY OF FINE JEWELRY OFFERED IN ALLENDALE

Danson Jewelers owner Jack Nazy at his Allendale store

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

The perfect gift for a special occasion

grandfather’s passion for jewelry, Jack has earned his gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America and is also one of the youngest members of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.

D

“I think what I bring to the business is a willingness to embrace change,” he says. “I take advantage of the technology available to us now. For example, custom work that may have taken three months in the past, we can now produce the same quality piece in just 10 days.”

ALE NAZY AND HIS SON JACK,

Specializing in custom jewelry, timepieces, fash-

OWNERS OF DANSON JEWELERS

ion-forward designs and customized engagement

IN ALLENDALE AND HASBROUCK

rings, Danson Jewelers in Allendale under Jack’s man-

HEIGHTS,

agement delivers it all.

CAN

TRACE

THEIR

ROOTS IN THE JEWELRY BUSINESS

“We offer one-of-a-kind custom work, of course,

BACK TO DALE’S FATHER, JACK,

but we also have beautiful earrings and necklaces

IN ISRAEL. Born in Jerusalem, the

and all types of jewelry in the store in a wide range of

elder Jack spent years as a merchant,

prices,” he says.

trading and buying precious metals, diamonds, antiques and art.

“He came to appreciate finer things and items of rare beauty and spent

his life teaching us the same,” says his grandson and namesake, Jack.

From Franck Muller timepieces and customized jewelry made with the finest stones to personalized necklaces and pendants, Danson offers an extensive array of options.

And choosing Allendale for their second location has been an excellent decision.

Moving from Israel to the U.S. in the late 1960s, Jack

“In some ways, Allendale is untouched in that there is

Nazy settled in New Milford and soon after opened his

still room for a lot of growth,” Jack says. “That, along with

own business as a jewelry wholesaler in the Diamond

the very strong sense of community we feel here makes

District on 47th Street in Manhattan.

it a great place for us to settle in for years to come.”

“My grandfather came with barely $100 in his pocket and started all of this from scratch,” says the younger Jack.

But while looking ahead, Jack thinks often of his grandfather, who passed away three years ago.

“As a kid, I spent most of my Saturdays and days off

After many years in New York, the Nazys made the

from school with him, watching how he treated his cus-

move to the Jewelers Exchange in Paramus in 2007.

tomers and how he listened and related to them. This

When the opportunity came just a year later to purchase

impacted me in an enormous way, and it’s very important

Danson Jewelers in Hasbrouck Heights, they took it, ful-

to me that I continue his legacy in this business. That has

filling a lifelong dream to open a private store where they

always been my No. 1 goal.”

could offer the finest quality jewelry to clients directly.

About a year ago, they opened the Allendale location with Jack, 30, at the helm. Continuing his father and

33 W. Allendale Avenue, Allendale, New Jersey, 201.962.3207, DansonJewelers.com December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

17

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE NEED THE PERFECT GIFT? SHOP LOCAL ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT

1. Snow Tubing: Get out and enjoy the

snow, Campgaw Mountain, $26 for two hours. SkiCampGaw.com.

For Him Whether it’s gifts for the businessman or the outdoors enthusiast in your life, it can be tricky to find something perfect. We’ve

2.

found local places with great gifts that will fit the bill, including from craftsman Paul Cunningham of Leather Head Sports in Glen Rock who makes amazing leather sporting goods. New baseball mitt anyone?

Business Backpack: Tumi Nellis Backpack in leather from Jekyll & Hide, Ridgewood, $595. JekyllAndHide.com

1. Snow Tubing: Experience gifts are sometimes the most memorable and this one is both local and, well, fun.

2. Business Backpack: Briefcases are starting to become a thing of the past and backpacks, perfect for business or travel, are filling the void.

3. Rugby Ball: If he played rugby in his early years or always loved the game, these rugby balls from Leather Head Sports are made locally and would make a unique gift. One-ofa-kind baseballs, baseball gloves and footballs are also available.

4. Waterproof Jacket: For outdoor winter shoveling, chopping wood or a brisk hike

3.

Rugby Ball: Angus Rugby ball, handmade from Leather Head Sports in Glen Rock, $150.

LeatherHeadSports.com 18

try this great looking Barbour Men's Irvine

4.

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

Waterproof Jacket.

Waterproof Jacket: Barbour Men's Irvine Waterproof Jacket at Ramsey Outdoor, $279. RamseyOutdoor.com

For Her

The mom, sister, wife or friend in your life wants to be pampered—trust us—whether it’s at a spa, shopping or with a night out. We’ve come up with some sure-fire ideas that will fit perfectly. Give her the best of all worlds; she won’t be disappointed.

1. Dining Out: Three date nights:

Saddle River Inn, No. 12 in Ridgewood, Varka in Ramsey

1. Dining Out: With so many amazing restaurants opening in Northwest Bergen County, it won’t be hard to pick a few to try together this winter.

2.

Shoes:

Tucked

away

Ridgewood

Avenue

in

off

of

downtown,

Gardiner & Co. is a small, intimate shop packed with a variety of seasonal shoes and handbags. Known for their outstanding personalized service, she won’t be disappointed.

3. Pamper Her: Mani’s and pedi’s are fine, but facials and sea salt scrubs are better. Get her a gift certificate to a local spa and she’ll be elated.

4. Claddagh Pendant: The Claddagh is a traditional Irish symbol that represents love, loyalty and friendship.

What better way to show her your appreciation this holiday?

CONTINUED >

2.

Shoes: Gift certificate and personalized service, Gardiner & Co. in Ridgewood.

201.447.0910

3.

Pamper Her: Gift certificate to a local spa, The Fountain Spa, Ramsey. Araya Rebirth, Ridgewood. TheFountainSpa.com, Araya-Rebirth.com

4.

Claddagh Pendant: Sterling silver, 1 3/4 inches tall, from Carrick Mor in Glen Rock, $125.95. CarrickMor.com

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

19

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE (CON TI N U ED)

1. Climb: Sign your kids up for a 6-week class, ages 7-13. The Gravity Vault, Upper Saddle River. $199.

GravityVault.com

for the kids When you get your kids’ holiday lists, it’s super easy to go online

2. Baseball: Chromexcel Lemon Ball from Leather Head Sports in Glen Rock, $40 LeatherheadSports.com

and be done shopping in 15 minutes. This year, how about searching out some of our area’s excellent shopping spots for teens and younger kids? We’re willing to bet that really cool art classes at One River School of Art and Design and rock climbing lessons at Gravity Vault aren’t even on their lists. Shhhh…..

3. Gifts Galore: Learning Express, Ridgewood.

LearningExpress.com

1. Climb: Everyone wants to climb the walls when winter sets in, so how about taking the kids to an indoor rock gym so they can learn it the safe way?

2. Baseball: If you have a baseball enthusiast in the house, a player or a fan, these hand-made balls from Leather Head Sports will delight.

3. Gifts Galore: Shop local this year for board games, science kits and crafts for your youngsters. Learning Express in Ridgewood has them all and much more.

4. Art Lessons: Bring out your kids’ creative side with art and digital classes offered for both kids and teens at One River School of Art and Design in Allendale.

4. Art Lessons: One River in Allendale.

Allendale.OneRiverSchool.com

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

Diane Durocher Interiors Sophisticated • Elegant • Timeless

Diane Durocher Interiors is an award winning design firm that specializes in creating beautiful interiors customized to reflect the clients’ individual needs and unique style.

Diane Durocher, ASID, IIDA, CAPS, CID P: 201.825.3832 E: diane@dianedurocherinteriors.com

ID# 21ID00023200 Ramsey, NJ www.dianedurocherinteriors.com

L’A R T E ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT PHOTOGRAPHY JEAN TERMAN

CRAVING SOMETHING SWEET? Drop by L’Arte della Pasticceria on Main Street in Ramsey and experience homemade delights at their contemporary Italian-American pastry shop and café. Made by a Sicilian chef, their Italian-inspired offerings include both sweet and savory pastries, with only the freshest ingredients.

“We literally make everything here at L’Arte,” General Manager Anna Bischof says. “Cakes, frostings, cookies, even our croissant—an Italian cornetti—are made fresh by our staff every day, and that’s unusual for a bakery.”

L’Arte’s chef brings his Sicilian background to everything he makes.

“We have a Sicilian crumb cake called Sbrisolona, which he makes with mascarpone, Sicilian ricotta and chocolate chips that’s incredibly versatile,” she says. “It’s an elegant profile but very simple in design and rustic like a classic crumb cake. We make and slice it every day, and it’s amazing.”

Another Italian sweet, the Dolce Savoia cookie, comes with an interesting history.

“Our chef tells me that it was taught to him by his pastry teacher’s mother and was likely created some 150 years ago by Sicilian ‘first bakers.’”

Coffee and a Sicilian crumb cake

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

CONTINUED >

DELIGHTS ITALIAN-AMERICAN BAKERY BRINGS SWEETS TO RAMSEY

General Manager Anna Bishof prepares desserts for L'Arte customers.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

23

L’ARTE DELIGHTS (CON TI N U ED)

DOLCE SAVOIA COOKIES INGREDIENTS ++ 2/3 cup almond flour ++ 1/3 cup butter, room temperature ++ 1/3 cup cocoa powder ++ 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar ++ 2 cups cake flour ++ 2 teaspoons baking powder ++ 4 large eggs ++ Zest of 1 orange ++ 1 teaspoon cinnamon ++ 1 teaspoon ground cloves ++ 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg FOR THE FILLING: ++ 1/2 cup cranberry jam ++ 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped ++ Mix together.

FOR THE SUGAR GLAZE: ++ 2 cups confectioners sugar ++ 1 tablespoon milk ++ Mix until creamy. Add a little milk if necessary.

FOR THE EGG WASH: ++ 1 egg ++ 1 tablespoon cold water ++ Whisk together.

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cream the almond flour and butter with a mixer. Add the sifted dry ingredients, the eggs, the orange zest and spices. Mix for 2 minutes on low speed.

Divide the dough into 3 parts and roll them out on a surface with sprinkled flour. With your fingers, press down in the middle of each part and add filling inside. Roll the dough into “logs” and put them on a tray lined with baking paper.

Gently roll them out to approximately 12 inches long and 1/2-inch thick.

Brush some egg wash over the three rolls. Bake for 10 minutes. When cooled, brush a thin layer of the sugar glaze on top. Let dry for 30 minutes.

Cut in small pieces. Can be stored in a closed container at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.

24

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

These cookies are very popular during Christmas time over there, she says, and the presence of warm spices like cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon makes it perfect for colder winter weather. And for those who want more traditional bakery fare, they also have plenty to offer— from buttercream cakes to Key lime pies, a vanilla Danish or a birthday or wedding cake, no one will walk away disappointed.

Strong believers in fostering a positive work culture and strengthening their community, L’Arte is a supporter of local organizations like the Center for Food Action in Mahwah.

“It’s important that people here work as a team and motivate each other to be the best they can be,” Anna says.

And when it comes to making wedding or other specialty cakes, she says their job is to take away their clients’ stress.

“It’s supposed to be a happy day, so we’re here to make it the best experience possible.”

So as the weather gets colder and a treat is in order, stop into L’Arte for a hot cocoa or coffee and enjoy a delicious pastry made from scratch. It’ll make your day a little sweeter, Italian-style.

109 E. Main St., Ramsey, New Jersey, 201.934.3211, LArte.biz

L'Arte desserts are made fresh daily.

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

25

OPEN HOUSE

DECOR ATING YOUR TABLE FOR THE HOLIDAYS HOW TO ACHIEVE MULTIPLE LOOKS SIMPLY ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT PHOTOGRAPHY JEAN TERMAN

Greens as centerpieces bring the winter theme indoors.

26

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

A pretty white textured tablecloth works with any holiday setting.

WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON COMES AN ABUNDANCE OF ENTERTAINING, WHICH CAN BE A CHALLENGE WHEN PARTIES QUICKLY SHIFT FROM A FAMILY CHRISTMAS OR CHANUKAH DINNER TO A NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION. Christine Figliuolo, a Waldwick-based special events planner and owner of Creations By Christine Events, showed us a few timeless looks that simply but elegantly switch from one holiday to the next and showcase your table for the season. From a neutral tablecloth that can remain as a staple to chargers and placemats to add sparkle and texture to napkins and napkin rings for pops of color, her looks are joyful and inviting.

CONTINUED >

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

27

OPEN HOUSE (CON TI N U ED)

1.

Holiday entertaining is not only about the food; it’s about how the food is presented, whether on the table or on your kitchen island for the pre-dinner gathering, Christine Figliuolo says. “Try not to lay everything flat on the table. That can be boring. Layer food when you can by using a few tiers for finger-food appetizers or desserts. It looks pretty and appealing.”

2.

For a centerpiece, Christine loves pinecones, Napkin holders in gold brighten any table.

a sprig with red berries, birch branches or fresh greenery—anything with texture and a winter feel. “I love to mix them up too,” she says. Then before New Year’s Eve, switch them out for any combination of silver, gold

“WHEN THE TABLE IS SET AND BEFORE GUESTS COME,

or blue ornamental balls in a bowl.

TAKE PICTURES. WHEN EVERYTHING IS PERFECT AND JUST THE WAY YOU WANT IT, SPEND A FEW MOMENTS NOT ONLY ENJOYING YOUR BEAUTIFUL TABLE BUT MEMORIALIZING IT SO YOU HAVE A FRAMEWORK FOR NEXT YEAR’S PARTY SEASON.”

3.

The final step is an important one, Christine says. “After the table is set and before guests arrive, take pictures. When everything is

Make everyone feel special at the dinner table this holiday.

perfect and just the way you want it, spend a few moments not only enjoying your beautiful table but memorializing it so you have a framework for next year’s party season.”

4.

Speaking of next year, it’s never too early to start planning, so come January hit spots like Marshalls in Wyckoff and T.J. Maxx in Ramsey for sales. “I have bought things for a fraction of the price just a few weeks after the holidays,” Christine says. “I put them in a big Tupperware container and store them away. It’s always a great feeling when I open the box 11 months later and get to make use of the great deals from the year before.”

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

T R UNK SH OW

DECEMBER 6, 2018 | 3–8 pm JOIN US TO WIN A FREE PAIR OF TOM FORD SUNGL ASSES Hors d’oeuvres graciously provided by

RIDGEWOOD EYEWEAR

BSTER O L

LLS RO

JACK'S

201.652.8080 | 160 E. Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450 | ridgewoodeyewear.com

JACK’S LOBSTER ROLLS 194 Ridgewood ave • Ridgewood NJ

WE DELIVER

201.882.1244 jackslobsterrolls.com

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

29

PAGE TURNERS

The Essentials of Italy EAT, READ, TRAVEL

ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT

IT MAY BE COLD OUTSIDE, BUT YOU’RE STILL DREAMING OF SOMEWHERE WITH TURQUOISE SEAS, AMAZING LANDSCAPES AND MAGNIFICENT ARCHITECTURE. That would be Italy, of course, so get cozy, mix up an Amaretto coffee and grab a few good books guaranteed to transport you there.

LIDIA’S ITALY LIDIA BASTIANICH

Best-selling cookbook author Lidia Bastianich takes us on a cooking tour through 10 different regions of Italy that have influenced her cooking. From Trieste to Rome to Puglia, 140 recipes fill this rich and gratifying book.

Amaretto Coffee A ROOM WITH A VIEW E.M. FORSTER

A Room with a View is E.M. Forster’s classic 1908 romantic

1 1/2 ounces Amaretto 8 ounces hot coffee Whipped cream Pinch of cinnamon 1 teaspoon powdered sugar

novel of an Englishwoman’s visit to Florence with her aunt where she encounters an unconventional lower-class

DIRECTIONS

gentleman whom she is drawn to. Italy is the backdrop to

1. Pour Amaretto into a

their romance, and the reader is transported to its beauti-

glass mug.

ful places through these lovers’ eyes.

2. Add coffee and top with whipped cream, cinnamon and powdered sugar.

ROME: A CULTURAL, VISUAL, AND PERSONAL HISTORY ROBERT HUGHES

Former Time art critic and best-selling author Robert Hughes writes an engrossing and passionate biography of Rome. With informative and entertaining details, he paints an indelible portrait of a city from past to present. A fascinating read for anyone planning a trip there.

30

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

LISA SAMMATARO Realtor Associate

Exceptional Service for Exceptional Clients “We would recommend Lisa to anyone...”

“Hands down the best realtor...”

“True professional...sold our home in a few days...”

201-970-8183 201-445-4300 x230 LisaSammataro@kw.com LisaSammataro.kw.com 74 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450 Each office independently owned and operated

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle

31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1, 8, 15, 22

6-9

RIDGEWOOD CHAMBER ANNUAL SANTA IN THE PARK

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Van Neste Square

The Y Arts Theatre Company at the

Bring little ones to see Santa

Wyckoff YMCA is presenting this

in Memorial Park at Van Neste

classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and

Square for this annual tradition.

his Christmas Eve visits from three

SANTA'S WORKSHOP

He will be there every Saturday in

ghosts. Adapted from the extrava-

Hermitage Visitor Center, Ho-Ho-Kus

December from 12-3 p.m. in his lit-

gant Broadway show presented at

This family-friendly event at the

tle house waiting to hear children's

Madison Square Garden, the Y per-

Hermitage Visitor Center features

wishes. Ben & Jerry's will also be

formers are made up of young kids,

vintage toys, trains, holiday decora-

on hand to serve hot chocolate.

teens and adults. WyckoffYMCA.org

tions, music, refreshments, arts and

over the wall of his grandfather's garden and meets a wolf. Following the performance will be a concert of holiday music. MahwahLibrary.org

Wyckoff Family YMCA

RidgewoodChamber.com

16

crafts for the kids, and of course,

7-9

2

photo ops with Santa and his elves! Included also is a tour of the Hermitage House, decorated for the

THE NUTCRACKER

GLEN ROCK POPS HOLIDAY CONCERT

holidays. TheHermitage.org

Paramus Catholic High School

The young ballet students of Miss

Glen Rock High School

Patti's School of Dance in Midland

The theme of this year's concert,

Park will perform with the Donetsk

“Making Spirits Bright,” will feature

Ballet from Ukraine and the Adelphi

popular standards, light classics and

Orchestra in this holiday classic.

contemporary

MissPatti.com/nutcracker.htm

music.

Organized

in musicians from around the area who perform informal and formal concerts in town and throughout the region. GlenRockPops.org

GINGERBREAD HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Ridgewood Public Library

The holidays mean gingerbread

in 1975 through the Glen Rock Community School, GR Pops brings

17, 21, 22

7

houses, so bring your kids to the Ridgewood Library to make their own. For kids age 4 and

ANNUAL HOLIDAY LIGHTING IN HO-HO-KUS

over. Registration required.

RidgewoodLibrary.org

Ho-Ho-Kus Municipal Building

4

Gather in front of the municipal building on Warren Avenue in Ho-Ho-Kus for this annual Holiday Lighting

FRANKLIN LAKES MENORAH LIGHTING & CHANUKAH CELEBRATION

event. Ho-Ho-KusBoro.com

HOLIDAY BREAK CAMP Health Barn, Ridgewood

Franklin Lakes Borough Hall

The Menorah Lighting & Chanukah

9

Take a few days during holiday break to send your 5- to 12-year-olds to the Health Barn's Holiday Break

Celebration, which will include the

PETER AND THE WOLF

mayor and local officials, will also

Mahwah Public Library

feature Judah Maccabee and dreidel

Listen to the sounds of the flute,

kitchen, spend time outside on

man

clarinet,

French

nature hikes and come home health-

refreshments, holiday crafts, glow

horn and the narrator tell the story

ier and more adventurous eaters.

giveaways

of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf, the

HealthBarnUSA.com

characters, and

hot a

Chanukah

grand

raffle.

Chabadplace.org/franklinlakes

32

27-28

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

oboe,

bassoon,

Camp, a healthy lifestyle immersion experience. They'll cook in their

classic tale of a boy who escapes

THE ANGELICA and RUSS BERRIE CENTER FOR PERFORMING and VISUAL ARTS

FAREWELL ANGELINA Saturday, December 1, 2018 Sharp Theater, 8 p.m.

Farewell Angelina’s stellar blend of heart-stopping harmonies over blazing double violins and guitars has earned soaring praise across the board. Roughstock calls them a “Superstar Act…with Killer Songs.”

Rolling Stone says, “Wickedly smart songwriting

The difference between LISTING your home & SELLING your home is the right Realtor®

delivered with a healthy dash of sass…deft playing… into one sonic knockout punch.”

EILEEN IVERS Saturday, December 8, 2018 Sharp Theater, 4 & 8 p.m.

Eileen Ivers has established herself as the pre-eminent exponent of the Irish fiddle in the world today.

Nine Time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion, Ivers and Immigrant Soul return to the Berrie Center to capture the spirit and magic of the season.

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

Darlene Jelen, ABR, SRES, SFR, ePRO Sales Associate 201-995-7770 cell 201-891-2223 office Darlene.Jelen@gmail.com UpperBergenCountyHomes.com

For disability-related accommodations, please call 201.684.7844.

For show times and tickets, visit www.ramapo.edu/berrie 235 Everett Avenue Wyckoff, NJ 07481

or call 201.684.7844.

505 Ramapo Valley Road Mahwah, N.J. 07430

December 2018 | Northwest Bergen Lifestyle Ad-Northwest Bergen.indd 1

5/31/2018 4:29:35 PM

33

LOCAL’S CHOICE

Giving Back FIVE SIMPLE WAYS TO MAKE SPIRITS BRIGHT ARTICLE LUCY PROBERT

SPREAD THE JOY THIS SEASON BY MAKING SOMEONE ELSE’S HOLIDAY SPECIAL TOO. Whether it’s buying a gift, lending a hand or even a smile, everyone could use a little boost during this season.

FIVE WAYS TO GIVE BACK:

01

The Depot: The go-to store for unique holiday gifts and handmade crafts, the Depot in Midland Park donates proceeds to Children’s Aid

and Family Services, our area’s leading nonprofit offering human services and child welfare programs to the most vulnerable. DepotGiftStore.com

02

All Wrapped Up: Bergen Volunteers’ All Wrapped Up program will match you with a family in need from the community. “Adopt”

a family and buy items off their wish list to make their holiday brighter.

BergenVolunteers.org

03

Pay it Forward: Next time you’re with your kids at the Starbucks drive-thru or settling your bill at a diner, pay for the customer behind

you too. Paying it forward is a great way to show kids that a simple act of kindness goes a long way.

04

Donors Choose: Connect with a school in an area where funds are badly needed. You can target a school hit by hurricanes or in a

low-income community by funding a teacher’s class project (i.e. books for a library, basic classroom supplies). You’ll be rewarded by thank-you notes from happy children. DonorsChoose.org

05

34

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | December 2018

Smile at six strangers today: Their reaction will surprise you, and you’ll get it back tenfold.

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