Monmouth June/July 2024

PAVE YOUR WAY TO PATIO PERFECTION IN INTERLAKEN 7 WAYS TO EMBRACE NATURE

LIFE’S A BEACH A GUIDE TO LOCAL SHORE SPOTS FUN IN THE SUN IN LONG BRANCH

Contents

Features

Stressed? 24

If things are making you persistently tense and worried, it’s not just in your mind—your body’s getting in on the act too. Here are some ways to chill.

Steps Of Splendor 26

Pavers with a floral design that recalls Moroccan and Spanish tiles beautify an Interlaken backyard.

Second Nature 28

Yearning for the great outdoors? Here are 7 ways—from serene to sporty—to embrace all the open air our county has to offer.

Life Is Better At The Beach 32

Here’s your guide to what’s new at 15 local beaches, including tips for parking and picnicking, snacking and shopping, and more!

Teatime Triumph 38

Departments

Monmouth Buzz 8

Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Friends & Neighbors 12

Singer and musician Carlotta Schmidt organized this year’s Fourth Wave Fest to aid victims of domestic abuse. Not bad for a 17-year-old!

Style Watch 14

Eyelets are a delicate detail that adds elegance to any outfit.

Home Front 12

Maintain a well-rounded home with shapely pieces like these.

Kids’ Corner 12

Keep little ones active with the latest garb, gear and games.

Escapes 26

Travel is a fine teacher, with destinations near and far. Here are five ways it can smarten you up.

Tastes 28

Who says healthy food has to be boring? These dishes are easy to make, full of nutrients—and are both surefire crowd-pleasers.

Bar Tab 26

Rich with flavor, the green goddess is a summertime sip that‘ll keep your guests relaxed and refreshed.

Restaurant Review 59 Vegan-friendly Gray Leaf Café in Freehold offers dishes for all taste buds.

Gatherings 63

A proud father captures his daughter enjoying nature at Deep Cut Gardens. 59 26 ON THE COVER

Elegant, thoughtful touches can elevate your afternoon gathering into something berry memorable indeed.

Monmouth residents always show up to support their neighbors.

A Monmouth Moment 64

IN EVERY ISSUE

4 Editor’s Note 20 Health News

56 Where to Eat 62 Be There

Joseph and Declan D’Elia play in the sand at Long Branch Beach. Photo by Pete LaGregor.

A Great Place For The Great Outdoors

Now Open!

Why does a person choose to live in a place like Monmouth County? The answer doesn’t vary much with the calendar, as the ocean is a spirit-refreshing companion no matter what it’s doing—or what the skies are doing. But surely June and July close the deal. They show us the Shore in all its glory as they beckon us to spend much of our lives outdoors. And if our numbers swell with visitors during this season, who can blame them? They help support the rich cultural, recreational and culinary resources that make life here special.

So it’s with a sense of mission that we assemble the Outdoors Issue of MONMOUTH each year. Thus, beginning on page 28 we list and explain parks, boating spots, golf courses, horseback riding facilities and other venues for outdoor enjoyment. And starting on page 32, you’ll find the lowdown on 15 of the county’s great beaches—practical information on fees, amenities, the parking situation, surrounding towns and whether or not the welcome mat is out for dogs and other pets—to help you plan your sun fun. (Remember that sunscreen!)

Outdoor pleasures, of course, aren’t confined to these public places—you can enjoy them in your own backyard. But is that yard all that it could be? This season may get it may be more practicable than read there of an Interlaken and more exotic than the one they travels to Spain and Morocco and landscape designer recalls. Happily, he

outdoors. Father’s Day is June 16, and hours memorable. Then there’s Inwhere to go, depending on how observance to be.

female-led bands together to create This issue also includes a Health frittata and potato fritters (page experiences that will keep the family learanother great thing about Monmouth

you’ve got the good sense to beJune and July bring you even more this issue of MONMOUTH be

Monmouth

Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

Creative Director

STEPHEN M. VITARBO

Senior Associate Editor

DARIUS AMOS

Assistant Editor

KIRSTEN MEEHAN

Contributing Editors

DENISSE GONZALEZ RAMIREZ

PAUL RANCE JR.

DONNA ROLANDO

Contributing Photographer ADAM PASS

PRODUCTION

Production Manager

FERN E. MESHULAM

Production Artist

CHRIS FERRANTE

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Monmouth is published 6 times a year by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. This is Volume 22, Issue 3. © 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Subscriptions in U.S. outside of Monmouth County: $30 for one year. Single copies: $6.95. Material contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. If you have medical concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.

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PUBLISHED BY WAINSCOT MEDIA

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ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

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Monmouth Buzz

INDEPENDENCE DAY, YOUR WAY

Planning a Fabulous Fourth? There’s no one “right” way to spend it. Yes, fireworks, barbecues and music are popular ingredients, but the options here in Monmouth are legion. A few:

• Celebrate big You can’t get much bigger than Long Branch’s Oceanfest. Not only is it the largest seasonal event on the Jersey Shore, but it’s also the biggest July 4 celebration anywhere in New Jersey. Come for a full festival atmosphere, with vendors and live performances, and then close the night with a spectacular fireworks display over the water.

MAKE DAD’S DAY

He may stoically wave away any thanks or attempts at praise, but don’t let that fool you—Dad will appreciate being recognized, and when better than on Father’s Day, June 16?

Some ideas:

• Make him a high flier. If your dad is gadget-inclined and always wanted to get into drone flight, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is a great way to start. It’s light, small and designed to be easy for a beginner to pick up and fly.

Available at dji.com

• Boost his swing. Nothing improves a golf game like a launch monitor. Rapsodo’s portable and powerful MLM2PRO delivers all recorded stats directly to his smartphone—anything from “carry axis” to the ball’s spin rate.

Available at rapsodo.com

• Give him great shades. Guard Dad’s eyes and vision with New Wayfarer Sunglasses from RayBan, which protect against harmful UV rays while also looking sharp and stylish.

Available at Pearle Vision, Eatontown, 732.542.8888

• Serve him suds. Kane Brewing Company in Ocean is famous for a reason. Pick up some extraordinary beer for Dad to enjoy any time he wants. We recommend the flagship Head High IPA, which is citrusy, crisp and perfect for afternoons spent lounging on the patio. Available at Kane Brewing Company, Ocean Township; kanebrewing.com

• Celebrate small. If you want to avoid large crowds on the Fourth, head to The Proving Ground in Highlands for a night of cocktails, bar food and live music from local band High Strung. Unwind with breathtaking waterfront views and chill vibes.

• Celebrate loud. Want fireworks? With the oceanfront views and open spaces, there are few better places in the state than Monmouth to check out a fireworks display. Asbury Park’s annual show on July 3 is a favorite among locals, and Freehold Raceway in Freehold is a great spot to pull up a lawn chair and enjoy a show and a warm summer night.

• Celebrate quiet. If you’d like a little peace during the long holiday weekend, head to Colts Neck 4JG’s Vineyard on July 6 and 7 for its “Red, Whites and Blueberries” festival to enjoy all flavors of wine and ring in New Jersey’s blueberry season. Small picnics are welcome, and every guest enjoys a tasting and leaves with a souvenir glass.

PUPPY LOVE

Dog: Connor, a 1-year-old giant schnauzer, and Samantha, a 4-year-old mini schnauzer

Owner: Dave DeSane, Ocean Township

Schnauzers are highly intelligent and loving, but these two pups have a sibling rivalry going on. “It’s a love-hate relationship,” says DeSane. “Connor loves Samantha, and Samantha hates Connor.”

Though he’s had the elder Samantha for years, bringing Connor into the family was DeSane’s mother’s idea. The family needed something positive after the loss of DeSane’s father. DeSane picked up Connor on his father’s birthday—“Connor will always make us remember my dad and smile,” DeSane says. He also explains that Samantha isn’t immune to the green eyes of jealousy, and that the pooches have been known to have a scuffle over their favorite toys. But they often do get along, particularly when they join forces to bark at the mailman.

Want to see your pet in an upcoming issue? Email details and a photo to rita.guarna@ wainscotmedia.com.

CULINARY CORNER

If you hunger to try something new, the county’s restaurant scene is extensive and ever-expanding. Three recently opened eateries:

Good food is the Pointe

Owned and operated by a Rumson father-son duo, River Pointe Inn markets itself as the midpoint between classic American cuisine and French bistro fare. Its menu offers oysters, a raw bar and numerous surf-and-turf favorites. They also offer a cozy dining room and a commitment to hospitality.

• River Pointe Inn, 132 E. River Rd., Rumson, 732.530.6590; riverpointeinn.com

Taste of Broadway

Food takes center stage at Wall new Broadway Hot & Honey Chicken. ders, nuggets and wings are served to-order and with a choice of 15 you have a hankering for something than chicken on its own, there are options for sandwiches and wraps. up some specialty waffle fries to round out your meal.

• 1861 Rte. 35, Wall Township, 732.820.6765; broadwaychicken.com

Bao in a Basket

Bao, or steamed dumplings, a Chinese staple, have evolved from a street snack to an art form. Ugly Dumpling, which has that form mastered, has opened a new location in Holmdel. Stop by for dumplings, wonton soup and an extensive spread of other favorites. The drinks are also great—keep eye out for refreshers in innovative flavors like cucumber mint.

• 2130 Rte. 35, Suite 6, Holmdel, 848.294.7188; uglydumpling.us

CAN’T-MISS CONCERTS

In the half-century since The Stone Pony opened its doors, the Asbury Park venue has seen a lot of musical history—and it’s not taking a summer break. Its Summer Stage series for ’24 showcases interesting artists, including:

June 15: The Bleachers are full of New Jersey natives and fronted by producer Jack Antonoff.

June 21: T-Pain’s Mansion in Wiscansin Party brings a summer celebration to Asbury Park.

June 22: Nashville comes to New Jersey when the award-winning Jake Owen stops by.

July 12: Alternative rock icons The Used are known for their electric live shows.

July 21: Dark Star Orchestra, one of the county’s best-known Grateful Dead cover bands, brings a jam-band sensibility to shows.

HAVE SOME PRIDE!

is Pride Month! Since 1999, the anniversary Stonewall Riots has marked a month-long celebration of the LGBTQ community worldwide. If looking for ways to show your support or celyour own pride, the nonprofit PFLAG Jersey which serves Monmouth and Ocean counprovides support and resourses to teens and parents in the community. You can visit its website (pflagjerseyshore.org) for more resources. For other to celebrate Pride in Monmouth, check out:

• June 7: Join the City of Long Branch for its annual Pride Flag Raising at West End Park. There will also be live music! Info: longbranch.org.

• June 8: Red Bank’s annual Pride in the Park at Riverside Gardens Park has live music, vendors and giveaways. The event is free. Info: redbanknj.org.

• June 8: The Count Basie Center for the Arts presents “Drag Brunch at The Vogel: Pride Month Cele-brunchion” with drag queens and food. Info: thebasie.org.

• June 14: At the Paradise Night Club in Asbury Park, you can belt out a tune at a Pride Karaoke Night. Info: paradisenj.com.

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

A Guitar And A Cause

Singer

and musician Carlotta Schmidt organized this year’s Fourth Wave Fest to aid victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault. Not bad for a 17-year-old!

On March 3, eight women-led bands convened at the Fourth Wave Fest, a musical event held to raise funds for the charity organization 180 Turning Lives Around. The impresario behind this big idea? Seventeen-year-old Monmouth County resident Carlotta Schmidt. Recently she spoke with MONMOUTH.

How did you get into music?

I’ve been singing since I was really little. My dad played a little bit of guitar, and my mom sang in church. I learned to play guitar when I was 7 because I wanted to accompany myself singing. Then I told my parents I wanted to take lessons and they agreed.

What’s a favorite memory from when you started playing?

When I started playing guitar my feet couldn’t touch the ground, so they put a footstool down during lessons. I had my little pink three-fourths-size acoustic guitar, which I still have. My guitar teacher has since passed away—he and I were really close, and we had a lot of fun moments together. Early on, while I was learning how to play guitar, my brother’s birthday was coming up, so I started learning the “Darth Vader” theme song. I said to my instructor, “Charlie, I want to learn this.” He actually gave me my first gig—at Ocean Township Library, I was paid $10 for playing two songs with him and his band. When did you decide that music would be your career?

After I was exposed to performing in front of an audience. When I started playing, I wasn’t really expecting to make a career out of it; I just fell in love with it.

What led you to the genres your music is in?

I learned to play guitar through jazz. I dove into female acoustic singer/songwriters because I listened

to Indigo Girls when I was 8, and it opened up a whole new world for me.

What inspired you to create an opportunity for women?

I learned about the women-led music festival Lilith Fair, which took place in the ’90s. So I went to my family and asked how we could do another Lilith Fair. My mom suggested we turn it into a fundraiser. We decided to work with 180 Turning Lives Around. They were all for it.

How did you gather musicians for the festival?

I knew a couple of the bands, like A Real Human Jazz Band, The Gab Cinque Band and Ryver Bey. For the other bands, I’d heard of Teen Idle and Des and the Swagmatics, but the new ones like Pepperwine I’d never heard of. We told them what it would be donated towards, the date and time, and they agreed. They all donated their time too; it’s important to note that.

How did you decide you wanted the money to go to this organization?

180 Turning Lives Around has been around for 50 years. They provide support for survivors of domestic

abuse and sexual assault—not just women, but men, children, non-binary people. They have a safehouse and are in all of the courts, police stations and hospitals of Monmouth County.

When my mom said we should turn this into a charity event, she recommended 180 Turning Lives Around. We raised more than $5,500.

Will it become an annual event?

Hopefully, we’re going to do another one next year. We got a lot of wonderful feedback. We partnered with organizations like Coach Ray, Little League, Boys & Girls Clubs and the Kiwanis Club. Any stories to tell from the event?

There weren’t any massive train wrecks, and I was very thankful for how it went. The sing-along was great. After all eight bands performed, the remaining singers— Ryver, Des, Gab, Teen Idle, Jazz Band and I—sang along to “Respect” by Aretha Franklin. I figured out harmony parts for everyone. We all rehearsed on the day of, and it worked really well.

What’s next?

If we’re going to do another Fourth Wave Fest next year, we hope to raise more money for 180 Turning Lives Around. It will follow the same structure and have all women-led bands. As for my own career, I’m writing for my next album, which I’m hoping to release in the next few years. I also volunteer at Jon Bon Jovi’s Soul Kitchen, a nice restaurant where they serve customers in need.

What do you do when you’re not making music or planning a festival?

I also like to knit, go on walks and spend time with family. I go to concerts a lot—I love live music. My favorite concert has to be Brandi Carlile in Madison Square Garden in 2022. The vocals were wonderful, and the band was just awesome.

—Denisse Gonzalez Ramirez

Photo courtesy of Carlotta Schmidt

The HaveEyelets It

pedrogarcia.com

Eyelet Lace Sandrift Women’s Pant thelittlebazaar.com

Simone Embroidery Skirt acacia.co

Alexander McQueen 2017 Red White Eyelet Flare Dress Alexandrina Boutique, ebay.com

Orito Satin Eyelet Wedge Espadrilles

Blouse with Eyelet Embroidery H&M, Freehold, 855.466.7467

Solid & Striped the Charlie Cotton Eyelet Shorts Anthropologie, Shrewsbury, 732.842.0762

Maddy Eyelet Leather Shoulder Bag Macy’s, Eatontown, 732.542.1212

Transform Your Home’s Drab

Exterior into a Stunning Masterpiece

Are you tired of your home’s outdated and lackluster appearance? Do you cringe at the thought of its worn-out siding, dated colors, and drafty windows?

You’re not alone. Many Monmouth County homeowners find themselves frustrated with the dull façade of their aging properties and wish they knew how to get started on a modern and stylish upgrade. Right now, let’s co-imagine how refreshing your siding, windows, and doors could impact how you feel about your home.

A House Isn’t Just a House

It’s something much deeper. Your home’s exterior reflects your personality. Its character and charm should give you a sense of pride when sipping a glass of wine on your front porch or hosting a birthday celebration or barbeque on your back deck. It should be a canvas for the memories you create and the moments you cherish with loved ones. That’s why it is essential to invest in a design that resonates with your tastes and enhances your everyday experiences.

Higher Resale Value

A siding makeover isn’t only a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a wise financial decision. While other home interior improvements might seem tempting, a siding replacement consistently offers substantial returns. According to Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value” Report, siding replacement is among the most costeffective renovations. In the mid-Atlantic

region, homeowners typically see a significant increase in property value—up to $18,366 for siding replacements. Our customers in New Jersey often experience even higher appraised values, ranging from $20,000 to $30,000, thanks to our meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Procrastination Costs

As an example, if you delay a kitchen remodel for a year, you will likely pay a slightly higher price based on the cost of materials and labor. Worn siding, however, can create hazards that go far beyond aesthetics. We’ve seen this time and time again. If you delay a siding replacement for a year, and you have an unidentified leak, you could end up with extensive damage due to mold, rot, and pests, resulting in higher repair or replacement costs and risks to your family’s health and well-being.

Love the House You Live In

Reach out to B&B Siding and Roofing for a consultation. Our expert advisors are here to co-imagine your unique vision and turn your house into the envy of the neighborhood.

Patrycja’s core focus is to elevate the home exterior industry to a style-guided experience where our advisors work with you to co-imagine your dream exterior. She inspires our design team to discover and incorporate the latest style trends while honoring timeless remodeling approaches. She is the voice of the customer, drawing on our core values of transparency, integrity, and lasting quality.

Over the last 30 years, we have transformed over 6,000 homes with siding, roofing, windows, and doors and have earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. We offer $0 down financing and industryleading lifetime material and labor warranties.

Patrycja Maras Owner B&B Siding and Roofing

Child’s Play

Keep little ones active with the latest garb, gear and games.

Baby Smocked Bullion Romper with Hat by Feltman Teddy Bears by the Seashore, Spring Lake, 732.664.4300

Peg Perego Rialto Booster Seat amazon.com

Water Magic Grape Kingdom & Construction Bundle scentcoinc.com

Little Unicorn Outdoor Blanket Target, Ocean Township, 732.918.6645

Stonz’s Cruiser Toddler Shoes stonz.com

Mickey Mouse Plastic Indoor/ Outdoor Playhouse deltachildren.com

ACTIVE KIDS REDUCE RISK OF DIABETES

An increase in sedentary time in childhood is associated with a significant increase in blood insulin concentration, a new study shows. However, activity could reduce

HEALTH NEWS

RED MEAT VS. FISH?

Swapping red meat for “forage such as herring, sardines and anchovies, could save up to 750,000 year in 2050 and significantly the prevalence of diet-related disease, suggests a data analysis.

—BMJ Global Health

ONLINE TIME LINKED TO MISSING SCHOOL

Spending too much time online plus not sleeping or exercising enough are linked to an increased risk of school absence due to illness among teens—ages 14 to 16— according to research. And teen girls appear to be more vulnerable to excessive internet use.

—Archives

‘WHEYS’ OF PROTEIN POWDER

Adults seeking to boost protein intake should consider whey protein powder, according to research. Derived from milk, whey appears to be better at reviving muscle growth than plant proteins or casein.

—Nutrients

—Compiled by

Paul Rance Jr.

VITAMINS AND CANCER SURVIVAL

A study that followed people with colorectal cancer showed that moderate use of multivitamins was associated with a lower risk of both colorectal cancer (45 percent lower) and all-cause mortality (20 percent lower) over the following 11 years.

—Cancer

LIFETIME OF AFIB

The lifetime or Afib, a heart causes an irregular increased from to one in three past two decades, a recent study. those with the two in five are develop heart over their lifetime, one in five encounter stroke.

EXERCISE TO CUT INSOMNIA RISK

Consistently exercising two to three times a week over the long term is linked to a lower risk of insomnia as well as the ability to get the recommended six to nine hours of shut-eye every night, suggests an international 10year study.

—BMJ Open

Stressed?

IF THINGS ARE MAKING YOU PERSISTENTLY TENSE AND WORRIED,

IT’S

NOT JUST IN YOUR MIND—YOUR BODY’S GETTING IN ON THE ACT TOO. HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO CHILL.

We hear a lot these days about stress. But the first thing to know is that it’s not all bad. “Stress has many wonderful attributes,” wrote Alia and Thomas Crum in the Harvard Business Review a few years ago. “It reminds us that we care; it connects us directly with the most challenging and important aspects of our lives.” Still, many of us would respond that we know we care; we’d actually like to stress a little less.

You’re not living in the wild anymore, with dangers around every bush, as your distant ancestors once did. But try telling that to the built-in responses in your own body. They seek to help you by putting your organ systems on high alert in reaction to any perceived threat. In our complicated modern world, however, too much of that, sustained for too long, can be a hazard to your health.

Acute (short-term) stress elicits our fightor-flight response to a dangerous situation. Your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate and levels of muscle tension may skyrocket for a short time. Chronic (long-term) stress occurs over time and can lead to insomnia, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, weight gain, memory problems and headaches. It also can increase inflammation in the body, contributing to metabolic disease, fatigue, brain fog and cardiovascular illness.

Though there’s no one-sizefits-all approach to dealing with stress, handling it is crucial to one’s wellbeing. “Poor stress management can lead to actual physiological changes

in the body, through the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline,” says Dana Spada, Ph.D., LCSW, founder of the eponymous psychotherapy practice in Colts Neck and Little Silver. When patients come to Spada with health issues related to stress, she explains how they can use a variety of lifestyle tools to navigate stressful situations.

“The first step to managing anxiety and stress is to identify your anxiety triggers, or the specific things that cause you to have an emotional or stress reaction,” she says. “Everyone deals with stress, but you have to figure out what is specifically making you upset. People can have habitual patterns and not even realize what they’re doing every day is causing stress.”

Once stress triggers are identified, life can be a bit more predictable and manageable, and actions can be taken to decrease the impact of the trigger itself. For instance, prioritize activities in your life that bring you joy and peace; they can be restorative and help you inoculate yourself against chronic stress. Another way to reduce stress is to reduce time spent in front of a screen (including computers, TVs, tablets and smartphones) and re-engage with nature, family and friends. And there’s also:

• Healthy eating. An old proverb states, “You are what you eat,” and if you eat well, you’ll feel well too. The body’s gut-brain axis, which directly connects the brain with your gut, can play an important role in helping to regulate mood, stress and cognition. Eating foods like yogurt with probiotics, leafy greens and prebiotics can help sustain a healthy gut-brain axis and have a positive impact on overall mood. On the other hand, foods high in sugar can negatively impact mood, as they cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. And highly processed foods made can cause inflammation, which also negatively impacts both physical and mental health.

• Getting enough sleep. Resetting your body with rest can have a positive impact on stress and mood. Adequate sleep is essential for overall well-being—it helps people cope with the stresses of everyday life, regulate emotions and maintain a healthy and positive outlook on life. Too little shut-eye can have the opposite effect. “Sleep is like fuel,” Spada says. “If you don’t get enough sleep, you won’t feel as well the next day.” In fact, there is a strong connection between the amount and quality of your sleep and your mental and cognitive health. Sleep deprivation can lead to the development of anxiety and depression, as well as causing deficits in attention, memory and decision making, our expert says. Less than adequate sleep can negatively impact the way hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol are regulated in the body.

• Meditating. Holistic approaches to stress such as breathwork and meditation also can reduce tension and anxiety. “People may not realize they’re not breathing, or not breathing properly,” Spada says. “For example, you may hold your breath when writing a work email— talk about stress! This can make you light-headed. Practice taking deep breaths, either at your desk or during meditation, throughout the day. It’s an absolute game-changer.” Practices like yoga also promote a good mind-body connection. “We lose touch with our bodies, so just sit down and take a minute to breathe and reset,” she says.

Spada reminds those who are battling excessive stress that help is always available. “Help is always available,” Spada says. “If you’re battling stress with breathing, proper nutrition and sleep and still not feeling better, seek professional help. Feeling good about yourself and feeling healthy is invaluable.”

STEPS OF SPLENDOR

PAVERS WITH A FLORAL DESIGN THAT RECALLS MOROCCAN AND SPANISH TILES BEAUTIFY AN INTERLAKEN PATIO AND BACKYARD.

The owners of an Interlaken home wanted something different for the backyard they’d created and maintained on their own. The old wooden deck and patio were functional for small outdoor gatherings, but the homeowners wanted to do away with them—the spaces didn’t connect, and neither truly reflected their personalities. That’s why, in winter 2023, they turned to Shaun Thomson, landscape designer at Manasquan’s By Design Landscapes.

Design by Shaun Thomson, By Design Landscapes

Photography by Adam Pass

by Darius Amos

as the 2-foot-by-2-foot gray stone pavers were arranged to mimic the Spanish mosaic tile design that the homeowners admire. A border made of square pavers in black onyx and with a tumbled texture complements the etched stone. “The space is perfect for a small group or a larger get-together with 12 people,” the designer says.

With so much stone and concrete now in place, Thomson wanted to make a “soft transitional area” from the patio leading to the sitting and lounge areas in the yard. He evenly spaced individual Techo-Bloc pavers with plantings in between to create a “stepping-stone” effect. In time, the plantings will grow and offer more ground cover, providing a different texture underfoot, he says. “It’s lower-maintenance and aesthetically pleasing, and it softens up the concrete connection,” says Thomson.

“We talked about inspiration, and they wanted something based on their recent travels to Spain and Morocco and influenced by the ancient culture of tiles,” says Thomson. “I knew exactly the detail they wanted.”

He found the details in Techo-Bloc’s Industria Flora pavers, each of which features an etched floral pattern. Thomson used them to construct a new patio, replacing the existing structures. The idea was a “home run” with everyone, he says,

“In a small yard, you want to be thoughtful of the space,” he says, adding that the project wrapped up in early summer 2023. “The plan was all thought through. The idea and vision on paper really translate well to what people see.”

Forty-two Techo-Bloc pavers make up the patio in this Interlaken backyard. Etched into each paver is a distinct floral design. More pavers are used as “stepping stones” that lead to other areas of the yard, explains landscape designer Shaun Thomson of Manasquan’s By Design Landscapes.

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SECOND NATURE

YEARNING FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS? HERE ARE SEVEN WAYS—FROM SERENE TO SPORTY—TO EMBRACE ALL THE OPEN AIR OUR COUNTY HAS TO OFFER.

CANOEING/ KAYAKING

Squeeze in a workout while you’re on the water by renting a craft or launching your own from these spots in the county.

A CANOE TO YOU

Keyport

732.765.9342

acanoetoyou.com

BAYSHORE

WATERFRONT PARK

Port Monmouth

732.787.3033

MANASQUAN RESERVOIR

KAYAK RENTAL

Howell

732.919.0996

monmouthcounty parks.com

MANASQUAN RIVER

VIA THE HOWELL PARK

GOLF COURSE

Farmingdale

732.938.4771

monmouthcountyparks.com

MANASQUAN RIVER

GREENWAY

Farmingdale

732.919.0996

monmouthcountyparks.com

PADDLE OUT

Manasquan

732.223.3131

paddleoutmanasquan.com

PADDLE TIME KAYAKS

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

ALONG THE SHARK RIVER

Neptune

732.449.2593

paddletimekayaks.com

RED BANK MARINA

Red Bank

732.741.3320 redbankmarina.org

SANDY HOOK KAYAKS

Sandy Hook

732.708.4004

sandyhookkayaks.com

THOMPSON PARK

MARLU LAKE

Lincroft

BOATING

Enjoy your day of R&R or sport fishing: Charter a vessel and let the pros take you out to sea.

ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

CLASSIC BOAT RIDES

732.337.9292 classicboatrides.com

MI-JO

732.872.0121

njfishing.com/mi-jo

BELMAR

CELTIC STOIRM CHARTERS

732.742.9276 celticstoirm.com

FIN-OMINAL FISHING CHARTERS

732.489.1463 finominalcharters.com

KATIE H SPORTFISHING

908.600.6413 katiehfishing.com

PARKER PETE’S FISHING

732.496.5028 parkerpetefishing.com

SHARK INLET CHARTERS

732.513.3895 sharkinletcharters.com

XTC SPORTFISHING

732.267.7922 xtcsportfishing.net

BIKING

CAPTAIN CAL II

732.977.2020 captaincal2.com

OCEAN EXPLORER

848.565.0519 oceanexplorerbelmar.com

BRIELLE

BOGAN’S DEEP SEA FISHING CENTER

732.528.5014 bogansbasin.com

HIGHLANDS

NETKEEPER SPORTFISHING

862.222.0913 netkeeperfishing.com

REEL FUN SPORTFISHING

908.421.4761 reelfunsportfishing.com

KEYPORT

DOUBLE DOWN SPORTFISHING

908.915.6416 doubledown2.com

PAPA’S ANGELS CHARTERS

973.277.3096 papasangelscharters.com

Whether you’re on paved roads or on rocky trails, perfect activity for summer. It’s great for your health impact and a fantastic stamina-builder!), and it can every corner of the county. Monmouth is full of cyclist-friendly streets, but your adventure need not stop there. Venture forests and historic neighborhoods on the Edgar Felix Bikeway, which offers 5.4 miles of trails between Allaire and Manasquan. Want something longer? The Henry Trail, with trailheads in Freehold and Highlands, stretches of scenic wetlands, fields and streams. Itching for With its access point in Freehold, the Union Transportation Trail follows a former rail line and includes a 9-mile stretch of gravel terrain for stronger cyclists hoping to push their limits.

MIDDLETOWN

TAGGED FISH CHARTERS

732.895.7830 taggedfishcharters.com

NAVESINK YACHTS navesinkyacht.com

732.671.9358

732.842.4000, ext. 4312 monmouthcountyparks.com

TURKEY SWAMP

PARK

Freehold

732.462.7286 monmouthcountyparks.com

Freehold is Assunpink Lake, where largemouth bass are always nibbling. To catch fluke, try your luck at Bayshore Waterfront Park in Port Monmouth. Looking for bluefish, striped bass and summer flounder? Try the brackish waters of the Navesink River. Reminder: A New Jersey fishing license is required for anyone between the ages of 16 and 70. Fees are $22.50 for ages 16 to 64 and $12.50 for 65 to 69. Visit dep.nj.gov/njfw/ fishing/freshwater/buy-a-license to purchase.

HORSEBACK RIDING

GOLF

What’s the secret to a good golf swing? Practice. Spend some time at the range or play a round or two at one of the picturesque courses in Monmouth.

BEL-AIRE GOLF COURSE

3120 Allaire Rd.

Wall

732.449.6024 belairegolfcourse.com

CHARLESTON SPRINGS

GOLF COURSE

101 Woodville Rd. Millstone

732.409.7227 charlestonsprings.com

COLTS NECK GOLF CLUB

50 Flock Rd. Colts Neck

732.303.9330 coltsneckgolfclub.com

CREAM RIDGE GOLF COURSE

181 Rte. 539

Cream Ridge

609.208.0050 creamridgegolfcourse.com

CRUZ GOLF COUNTRY CLUB

55 Birdsall Rd. Farmingdale

732.938.3378

GAMBLER RIDGE

GOLF CLUB

121 Burlington Path Rd. Cream Ridge 609.758.3588 gamblerridge.com

HOMINY HILL GOLF COURSE

92 Mercer Rd. Colts Neck 732.462.9222 hominyhill.com

HOWELL PARK GOLF COURSE 405 Squankum Yellowbrook Rd. Howell 732.938.4771 howellpark.com

KNOB HILL GOLF CLUB 1 Shinnecock Dr. Manalapan 732.792.7722 knobhillgolfclub.com

PEBBLE CREEK GOLF CLUB

40 Rte. 537 E. Colts Neck 732.303.9090 pebblecreekgolfclub.com

PINE BROOK GOLF COURSE

Covered Bridge Blvd. Manalapan 732.536.7272 pinebrookgolfcourse.com

QUAIL RIDGE GOLF WORLD

4130 W. Hurley Pond Rd. Wall 732.681.0918 quailridgegolfworld.com

SHARK RIVER GOLF COURSE Old Corlies Ave. Neptune 732.922.4141 sharkrivergolfcourse.com

SPRING MEADOW GOLF COURSE 4181 Atlantic Ave. Farmingdale 732.449.0806 springmeadowgc.com

SUNEAGLES GOLF CLUB 2000 Lowther Dr. Eatontown 732.389.4300 suneaglesgolf.com

WILLIAM F. LARKIN AT COLONIAL TERRACE 1003 Wickapecko Dr. Ocean 732.775.3636 colonialterracegolf.com

PARKS

Our parks system is truly one of the county’s gems. With more than 17,000 acres to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place for a hike, stroll, picnic or breathtaking view.

ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

MOUNT MITCHILL

SCENIC OVERLOOK 460 Ocean Blvd. 732.872.0336

COLTS NECK

DORBROOK RECREATION AREA 353 Rte. 537 732.542.1642

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP For parks information call 732.294.2190

DUCHESS COURT PARK 20 Duchess Ct.

DURAND PARK 225 Randolph Rd.

GREENTREE PARK 75 Coldspring Rd.

MEDFORD PARK 1 Medford Blvd.

MICHAEL J. TIGHE PARK 65 Georgia Rd.

OPATUT PARK 458 E. Freehold Rd.

ORCHARD HILLS PARK 145 Joysan Ter.

SANDY BROOK PARK 10 Parkside Ave.

SARGENT PARK 50 Sargent Rd.

STONEHURST PARK 240 Stonehurst Blvd.

TURKEY SWAMP PARK 200 Georgia Rd. 732.462.7286

WHITTIER OAKS PARK 500 E. Freehold Rd.

WOODCREST PARK 55 Spruce St.

WOODGATE PARK 100 Ticonderoga Blvd.

WYNNEFIELD PARK 130 Hibernia Way

HIGHLANDS

GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA 26 Hudson Rd. 718.354.4606

HARTSHORNE WOODS PARK 1402 Portland Rd 732.842.4000

HENRY HUDSON TRAIL, POPAMORA POINT 369 Shore Dr. 732.495.2115

HOLMDEL

HISTORIC LONGSTREET FARM 44 Longstreet Rd. 732.946.3758

HOWELL

MANASQUAN RESERVOIR 311 Windeler Rd. 732.919.0996

LINCROFT

SUNNYSIDE RECREATION AREA 628 MiddletownLincroft Rd. 732.224.1367

THOMPSON PARK 805 Newman Springs Rd. 732.842.4000, ext. 4312 LONG BRANCH

SEVEN

Ocean Ave.

LIFE IS BETTER AT THE BEACH

SUMMER IS FINALLY HERE! OUR COUNTY OFFERS THE BEST SUN, SAND AND SURF, AND THERE’S MUCH MORE. HERE’S YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S NEW AT 15 LOCAL BEACHES, INCLUDING TIPS FOR PARKING AND PICNICKING, SNACKING AND SHOPPING, AND MORE!

ALLENHURST

Description: Beach club members have access to the pool, cabanas and other amenities. Daily passes are available, giving nonmembers access to the beach.

FYI: The borough dyes the ocean green for good luck on Labor Day, an annual tradition since 1943. Beach fees: For non-members, club fees are $10 weekdays for adults, $12 on weekends; children ages 12 and under are free.

Beach parking: Free street parking Pets: No pets allowed.

For more information, call 732.531.2700.

ASBURY PARK

Description: Beyond the sand, there’s plenty to enjoy here, including eateries and shops along the boardwalk and events at the iconic Convention Hall.

FYI: Water bottle refilling stations are located along the boardwalk at 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th avenues as well as at the restroom entrances at 7th Avenue and Deal Lake Drive.

Beach fees: $6 daily for adults (Monday–Friday), $10 weekends and holidays, free for ages 13 and under as well as active military members and veterans with military ID.

Beach parking: Payable at kiosk or ParkMobile app

Pets: Dogs are allowed only on the dog beach (use the Deal Lake Drive north entrance) from 6 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. now through Sept. 14. However, dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk at any time. For more information, call 732.502.8863.

AVON-BY-THE-SEA

Description: This family-oriented town has a little bit of everything, from quaint, Victorian-esque bed and breakfasts to a boardwalk with live music and street fairs.

FYI: Summer concerts take place at the boardwalk/ pavilion Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Programs are free, but chairs are not provided, so plan accordingly.

Beach fees: $12 per person for ages 11 and older (cash or check). Daily passes can be purchased at tag booths at the beach.

Beach parking: Free street parking

Pets: Pets are only allowed in the off-season, October through May.

For more information, call 732.502.4510.

BELMAR

Description: This family-friendly beach is one of the most popular along the shore, and for many reasons. It spans 1.2 miles and includes a vibrant (but not overcrowded) boardwalk with food options and umbrella and chair rentals. Additional food and refreshment vendors are situated across the street along Ocean Avenue.

FYI: Though the oceanside is picturesque, the small beach along the Shark River features a marina, restaurants and paddle boat rentals.

Beach fees: $12 daily for adults, free for 13 and under, active military members and veterans. Passes can be purchased at Borough Hall or online at belmarbeachbadges.com.

Beach parking: Payable via ParkMobile app for beachfront; free on side streets—but arrive early as the free spots tend to fill up quickly.

Pets: Dogs are prohibited on the beach until October. Dogs are prohibited on the boardwalk any time of the year.

For more information, call 732.681.3700.

BRADLEY BEACH

Description: Want to escape large Jersey Shore crowds? This beach has a serene boardwalk with shops and restaurants—and plenty of space for visitors to walk, bike or jog. Those interested in fishing can find spots along the water where the sport is permitted.

FYI: Bradley Beach continues to improve its accessibility with ADA-friendly lockers, AccessMats and wheelchairs available for rent.

Beach fees: $12 for adults; kids 11 and under are free. Admission is free for active military members and their spouses, as well as for veterans with proper ID.

Beach parking: Paid parking is available on the entire east side of Ocean Avenue and the east end of Bradley Boulevard. Pay station kiosks are located on Ocean Avenue and Sylvan Lake. There are five numbered spaces that border Avon-By-The-Sea and are paid spots.

Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the beach or boardwalk at any time now through Sept. 30.

For more information, call 732.776.2999, ext. 3310.

This page, from left: Though leashed dogs are permitted on the Asbury Park boardwalk during offseason months, pets are prohibited there as well as the beach from May 16 to Sept. 14; guests can rent beach umbrellas and chairs in Belmar—but reserves yours early! Opposite page: the picturesque surf at Asbury Park.

DEAL

Description: Everyone can enjoy the public beach at Conover Pavilion, or members can enjoy the sun, sand and ocean access through the Deal Casino Beach Club.

FYI: Without a boardwalk in the area, the beach here remains relatively quiet. If you plan to stay awhile, remember to pack plenty of water and snacks—otherwise you’ll have to drive to the nearest shop.

Beach fees: $10 for weekday admission or $12 for weekends and holidays; children under 12 and vets are free.

Beach parking: Free street parking Pets: Dogs are banned from the beach through Labor Day.

For more information, call 732.531.0404.

LOCH ARBOUR

Description: Though it’s one of the county’s smallest beaches—it’s only two blocks long and covers one-tenth of a square mile—the area has plenty of daily fun without the crowds. For instance, the Village Beach Club is a great stop for refreshments, a snack and a bathroom break.

FYI: Before heading over, check out the beach’s Instagram, @locharbourbeach, for updated conditions such as UV levels and ocean temps. Beach fees: $10 per person Monday through Thursday; $12 Friday through Sunday and holidays. Beach parking: Most streets offer free parking, but there are a few streets near Ocean Place that are metered.

Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the beach through Sept. 15.

For more information, call 732.531.4740.

LONG BRANCH

Description: This destination has a lot going on beyond the sun and sea. The Pier Village promenade features a variety of beachfront restaurants and shops and two miles of boardwalk starting at Seven Presidents Beach, a 38-acre beach park for sand and surf.

FYI: The state’s longest-running fireworks show is Oceanfest, Long Branch’s annual July 4th celebration along the beach at Pier Village. Beach fees: $6 on weekdays, $9 for weekends and holidays. Teens ages 14-17 are $3 every day, and kids under 13, seniors over age 62, military members, veterans and disabled individuals are always free.

Beach parking: There is a muncipal lot across from Ocean Place Resort (arrive early) as well as lots and metered spaces at Pier Village and Great Lawn. Parking is free for residents with proof of residency.

Pets: Pets are not allowed on the beach or boardwalk through Sept. 30. For more information, call 732.222.7000.

MANASQUAN

Description: A destination for families, the main beach in Manasquan has plenty of food options and an arcade. At the nearby Manasquan Inlet, there are opportunities to surf and fish.

FYI: Another way to enjoy the day is to get on the water. Rent a canoe, a kayak or a paddle board at the Inlet for more adventures.

Beach fees: $10 for everyone ages 12 and over; veterans and active military personnel and their families are free.

Beach parking: Manasquan Beach offers free on-street parking. The free spots will fill up early, so arrive in the morning. However, there are five municipal lots that, if you’re not a season pass holder, require a daily fee of $15 on weekdays or $20 for weekends and holidays.

Pets: Pets are not allowed on the beach or boardwalk now through Sept. 30. Your leashed furry friend is allowed on the east portion of the beach at nearby Fisherman’s Cove.

For more information, call 732.223.2514.

MONMOUTH BEACH

Description: You’ll find plenty of space to spread out at Monmouth Beach Bathing Pavilion, an immaculate and well-kept beach.

FYI: The beach doesn’t have a boardwalk nor are there many eateries, so you’ll have to travel— though not too far—to find a bite.

Beach fees: $12 for adults 12 and over.

Beach parking: Street parking is free but limited, so arrive early. Otherwise, try the free municipal parking lot near the pavilion.

Pets: Pets are not permitted on the beach through Labor Day.

For more information, call 732.229.2204.

This page, from left: Who needs sand? Families can enjoy the playground at Seven Presidents Park in Long Branch; boating and other activities and water sports begin at Monmouth Cove Marina in Port Monmouth. Opposite page: Surfing is a popular pastime in Manasquan.

OCEAN GROVE

Description: Escape the hustle and bustle of busier Shore spots at this quaint town. Just a couple blocks from the beach awaits Ocean Grove’s charming downtown, where you can grab a bite or indulge in some retail therapy.

FYI: Though there are many places to dine, expect to travel outside of town if you want a cocktail— Ocean Grove is a dry town.

Beach fees: $12 per person; children 11 and under are free.

Beach parking: You can park for free on the street or in a lot if you purchase a beach badge. Pets: Dogs are not permitted on the beach through Sept. 30.

For more information, call 732.988.5533.

SANDY HOOK

Description: Part of the National Park Services’ Gateway National Recreation Area, this 7-mile-long peninsula features public beaches, salt marshes, a holly forest and numerous historical landmarks. FYI: There are no trash receptacles in Sandy Hook’s beaches and parks, so bring your own garbage bag from home. It’s part of the federal park’s carry-in/ carry-out policy.

Beach fees: Free with vehicle parking Beach parking: $20 per day

Pets: Leashed dogs are allowed on bayside beaches; all pets are prohibited on ocean beaches through Sept. 14.

For more information, call 732.872.5970.

SEA BRIGHT

Description: The borough of Sea Bright has seven free public beaches along Ocean Avenue. There’s also Sea Bright Municipal Beach in the center of town, which includes lifeguards, parking, restrooms and locker rentals. Municipal Beach’s boardwalk doesn’t have activities nor concessions, but it’s within walking distance to Sea Bright’s downtown.

FYI: Don’t want the kids to get too sandy? There’s a playground here along the beach.

Beach fees: $8 for ages 12 and over; kids under 12 and military and family members are free.

Beach parking: $2 per hour every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Pets: Dogs are prohibited through Sept. 15. For more information, call 732.842.0099.

SEA GIRT

Description: Beyond the white sand and quiet boardwalk, this beach offers gazebos, seating areas and the Historic Sea Girt Lighthouse. Just a quick stroll from the beach are charming restaurants and shops with turn-of-the-century architecture.

FYI: You don’t have to walk far if you get hungry— there’s a snack bar at the end of Beacon Boulevard. Beach fees: $11.98 daily; children 11 and under are free. Admission is free after 4:30 p.m.

Beach parking: Parking is free, if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot on the four-block stretch of parking along the boardwalk.

Pets: Dogs are prohibited through Sept. 15. For more information, call 732.449.9335.

SPRING LAKE

Description: There are two miles of pristine beach in Spring Lake, and a quiet boardwalk for an easy stroll or bike ride. If you’re looking for restrooms and concessions, you’ll find them at the North End Pavilion and South End Pavilion.

FYI: Food and coolers are not allowed on the beach. Visitors can enjoy snacks and lunches on the benches and picnic tables at the pavilion. Beach fees: $12 for a daily pass; kids 12 and under are free.

Beach parking: Free along Ocean Avenue, but come early as spots are first come first served.

Pets: Now through Sept. 30, dogs are only allowed in the fenced-in area near Pitney Avenue from sunrise to 9 a.m. They are not allowed on the boardwalk.

For more information, call 732.449.0800.

This page, from left: Ocean Grove visitors can enjoy the quaint beach, charming downtown—or both! Beyond sunbathing, paddleboarding, kayaking and other activities are popular in Sandy Hook. Opposite page: Spring Lake’s boardwalk offers undisturbed views of the ocean on one side, and stately homes on the other.

Teatime Triumph

Elegant, thoughtful touches can elevate your next afternoon gathering into something berry memorable indeed.

Don’t wait for a milestone occasion to bring family and friends together at your home. As a host, you can make any afternoon with family and friends an event. Entertaining experts Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper know their get-togethers, and for years they’ve been transforming everything from backyard brunches to book club meetings into lavish parties. In their book Classical Shindig: Amateur Artistry from the Simple to the Sublime (Susan Schadt Press, 2023), for instance, the duo showcases the creative ease of turning outdoor teatime into a private strawberry festival in the garden, featuring freshly picked fruit and pastries. Strawberries rule the season “from roadside stands to local supermarket,” they write. “The brown cartons and plastic green containers are swapped out for white porcelain, and it’s fancy on the spot.” Guests will enjoy this elegant and delicious upgrade to your tea party, yes, but they’ll also reap the health benefits of the fruit: A 2023 University of Cincinnati study indicates that a daily cup of strawberries can boost brain function and improve mood. Now, that’s food for thought.

This page: Dress your outdoor table with white linens and serve tea, along with accompaniments such as cream, sugar, fruit and pastries in fine china. At teatime at their home, authors and entertaining mavens Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper use a collection of hand-painted, 19th-century Staffordshire pearlware as well as linens from Peeper’s great-grandmother, Bette Speck, whose initials can be seen on the napkins. Opposite page: When it’s time for a celebratory toast, put down the teacups and raise a glass of bubbly.

Photos reprinted with permission from Classical Shindig: Amateur Artistry from the Simple to the Sublime by Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper (Susan Schadt Press, 2023).

I love fresh melons in summer months. Watermelon is one of my favorites because you can jazz it up with herbs, like basil and mint. It also pairs nicely with cheese and salads, and is always super refreshing. If you want to go sweeter, pairing chocolate with strawberries, bananas or pineapple is always a hit; it adds a layer of richness to the fruit. For décor, incorporating any kind of fabric to your table adds texture and depth, or a pop of color. It enhances the whole look.”

—Alexa Lucchese, Pardon My Picnic, Eatontown

THE WORLD’S YOUR

Travel is a fine teacher, with destinations near and far. Here are five ways it can smarten you up.

On a vacation, there’s nothing wrong with beach-bumming, relaxing poolside or watching the world go by from a sidewalk café. But challenging your mind with new learning, or probing deeper into something that’s always intrigued you, can also make travel a rich, memorable experience. Which vagabond curriculum below suits you best for an educational trip? Consult your inner chef, photographer, artist, sailor or archaeologist!

GET COOKING

PICTURE THIS

STATESIDE: PEAPACK, N.J. With a multitude of great restaurants in our area, fine dining is always within reach. A few classes at The Cooking School at Natirar, however, give you even better access— and knowledge to prepare amazing meals at home. Located in picturesque Somerset County, the school offers a range of individual classes (no long-term commitment required) for all kitchen-skill levels, large groups, families and friends. Previous culinary experiences include French Bistro Brunch, New England Comfort Food and Italian Seaside, each taught by a specialty chef instructor. Info: natirar.com/nj_cooking_school

After class: When you’re done in the kitchen, leave the Natirar campus and explore Bluebird Farm Alpacas in Peapack. Hike on the 15-acre farm—or, better yet, take a furry and friendly alpaca for a walk around the site. For a quieter outdoor adventure, head to Willowwood Arboretum in Chester for an easy stroll surrounded by flowers and plant life. After a day of cooking and adventure, rest your body and soul at the Pendry Natirar, a luxury hotel with a full-service spa, a fitness center, a swimming pool, tennis courts and additional outdoor activities.

STUDY ABROAD: PARIS, FRANCE. A land rich in the culinary arts offers some of the finest opportunities to develop cooking skills. In this city of love, Le Cordon Bleu, which operates the largest network of culinary and hospitality schools in the world, offers two- to three-hour group or private courses in cuisine, patisserie and wine tasting. Don’t worry if your culinary know-how isn’t up to par: Classes range from basic to advanced level.

Info: cordonbleu.edu

After class: Drop off your luggage at the five-star Mandarin Oriental Hotel or the equally posh Hotel Opéra Richepanse, which is less than half a mile away from the culinary school. Paris is rich in history and can provide many adventures. Take the classic route and visit the famous Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe—or spend a day observing the work of renowned artists at the Louvre Museum. During your stay, consider a commute to visit the nearby Palace of Versailles to take in the stunning architecture. The palace now offers overnight accommodations, so guests can experience a mystical night there.

STATESIDE: NEW YORK, N.Y. There’s no shortage of sights to see in the Big Apple, and what better way to capture them than through a lens? Keep your smartphone in your pocket and learn how to handle a DSLR at NYC Photo Safari, which provides information on composition, lighting and other technical details before leading foot tours in the city. Shutterbugs will hit spots like Central Park, Times Square and the Brooklyn Bridge during sessions that last anywhere from two to five hours. Don’t have a digital camera? You can rent one (and a tripod too) for the session with a memory card that’s yours to keep afterward.

Info: newyorkcityphotosafari.com

After class: A day in the city virtually guarantees getting your steps in, so give yourself a break and see a show on Broadway. Tickets are always available, and nothing wraps up the night like a great performance. However, if you’re still up to the challenge, explore the city some more and visit iconic landmarks such as Rockefeller Center or St. Patrick’s Cathedral. A good trip always requires wonderful rest, and five-star hotels like Marriott’s Times Square Edition, The Algonquin or The Plaza can meet those standards.

STUDY ABROAD: DUBLIN, IRELAND: Immerse yourself in the lush green landscape and join a private or public workshop or tour by Gareth McCormack. Depending on your interest—and time—lessons can range from three to 10 days. Tours will usually focus on one region of the country but involve travel through many towns.

Info: garethmccormack.com

After class: Lodging and entertainment are covered when you’re signed up for courses with Gareth McCormack. Bed-and-breakfast-style accommodations are provided depending on the duration of your trip, and there’s much to see and do beyond photography. When you put the camera down, consider visiting the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, The Irish Emigration Museum or the National Museum of Ireland.

CLASSROOM

FIND YOUR ART’S DESIRE

STATESIDE: SANTA FE, N.M. Designated as a UNESCO Creative City in Design, Crafts and Folk Art, New Mexico’s capital has been a haven for artists for decades. The city was home to famed American painter Georgia O’Keeffe, and it continues to inspire many up-and-coming creatives thanks to art centers such as Paseo Pottery. The popular workspace and gallery offer two-hour pottery sessions for beginners and intermediate students, who can learn the pottery-making process using a wheel or develop different techniques to manipulate clay with hands. Advanced individuals can partake in Raku firing, which creates a distinctive color, pattern and texture on the piece.

Info: paseopottery.com

After class: The area is rich in markets such as the Railyard Artisan Market, indigenous art markets and the International Folk Art Market. Outdoor adventures include trips to inspiring sunset locations and food tours to sample the city’s diverse flavor and culture. Visitors should also check out the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, the Museum of International Folk Art, the New Mexico History Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts. After exploring, take a break at the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado, which provides a spa, a swimming pool, a fitness center, an outdoor firepit and more.

STUDY ABROAD: CARMONA, SPAIN. To truly immerse yourself in another culture, spend two weeks living and learning in this city in southern Spain. A two-week residency here through Art Immersions provides a variety of workshops where artists work on a piece and share it twice, during a mid-term check-in and at a final exposition of everyone’s completed work. Tours of Carmona as well as Seville are provided for art inspiration—and sightseeing.

Info: artistimmersionprogram.com

After class: This trip offers everything in one: accommodations in a historic hotel, guided tours, entertainment and culinary experiences are all included. Guests will check out the cities’ exclusive art and architecture, local museums, historic sites and artisan studios.

SET SAIL

STATESIDE: NEWPORT BEACH, CALIF. You can take up sailing all along the California Coast, but proximity to famed Catalina Island and top-tier instruction are two of the biggest draws of Newport Beach Sailing School. It offers three-hour private lessons for one to three students or a three-person group assigned by the school, creating a personal learning opportunity. Participants will also learn terminology, steering and maneuvering. Additional classes for all levels include Coastal Cruising and Cruising Catamaran.

Info: newportbeachsail.com

After class: Being on the water is work, but save time for play. Consider a sunset cruise, dolphin watching or whale watching—or simply take a relaxing stroll along the Newport Beach Pier or the Balboa Pier and visit the Crystal Cove State Park. For a shopping adventure, stop by luxurious Fashion Island. When the day ends, rest up and enjoy the amenities at Newport Beach Marriott Bayview or the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.

STUDY ABROAD: FEZZANO, LIGURIA, ITALY. A country surrounded by water naturally has much to offer in terms of sailing opps. Orza Scuola Vela is a sailing school focusing on beginner and intermediate courses, which can range from seven to 14 days. It has three camp locations, one of them here on the Mediterranean Coast. The sea is your classroom; most instruction takes place on a cabin cruiser, a dinghy or a keelboat.

Info: orzascuolavela.it

After class: In Fezzano, enjoy weekend cruises, rowing, speedboating, scuba diving or dining while on the water. Luxury accommodations also can be found at various hotels, including Poet Hotel, a pet-friendly location that offers a variety of suites and workspaces.

UNEARTH THE PAST

STATESIDE: CORTEZ, COLO. Archaeologists are still learning about the past civilizations and people who thrived in our country centuries ago, and you can do the same. At the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center in this southwest Colorado city, visitors can explore replicas of the Pueblo native structures, survey the area and learn about the lives of people who lived in the land’s earliest days, including the Pueblo, Ute and Navajo. To complement on-site learning, researchers, experts and tribal members lead free weekly webinars focusing on the land’s history and geography.

After class: Not far from Cortez is Rocky Mountain National Park, which offers unrivaled views of rivers, mountains and trees. And don’t miss an outdoor concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre or the exhibits at the Denver Art Museum or the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. If you’re staying for the weekend, The Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs offers topflight amenities and access to water rafting, rock climbing, hiking, golf, tennis and pickleball.

STUDY ABROAD: GUATEMALA CITY, GUATEMALA. Home to volcanoes, rainforests and national parks, this country is also known for its relics from the ancient Mayan civilization. Researchers at Chabad Antigua Guatemala welcome visitors to observe them as they work and offer tours around the archaeological site known as Kaminaljuyú Archaeological Park. There you can witness live excavations as archaeologists learn more about the pre-Classic Maya city.

Info: chabadantiguaguatemala.com

After class: Continue touring history and visit the Hill of the Cross, the Santa Catalina Arch, the Antigua Guatemala Central Park and the Great Jaguar Tikal. The area is also rich with restaurants, where you can indulge in Guatemalan cuisine (beef, chicken and turkey stews, for instance). Wrap up each day of exploration at the luxurious Casa Santo Domingo near La Antigua. This location provides a spa with saunas, hot tubs, pools and indoor and outdoor areas. There’s also a private museum at the hotel, where guests can enjoy collections of modern art.

—Denisse Gonzalez Ramirez

TASTES

Veggies Redux

Who says healthy food has to be boring? These dishes are easy to make, full of nutrients—and both are surefire crowd-pleasers.

SPINACH AND POTATO FRITTATA

Yields 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 2 Tbs. olive oil

n 6 small red potatoes, sliced

n 1 cup fresh spinach, torn

n 2 Tbs. green onions, sliced

n 1 tsp. garlic, crushed

n salt and pepper to taste

n 6 large eggs

n ¹/³ cup milk

n 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

DIRECTIONS

Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook potatoes in hot oil, stirring occasionally, until tender but firm, about 10 minutes.

Mix in spinach, green onions and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Cook and stir until spinach is wilted, 1 to 2 minutes.

Beat together eggs and milk in a medium bowl. Pour over vegetables in the skillet. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until eggs are firm, 5 to 7 minutes. Slice and enjoy!

“To increase the protein of this dish, substitute the milk for 3/4 cup of 1 percent cottage cheese, which will add a creamy texture that complements the eggs. You can also use 1/4 cup of low-fat cheddar cheese to reduce the fat. For extra richness, blend the cottage cheese with the eggs and then pour into your baking dish. Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven and cook until it is puffed, lightly golden brown and set in the middle.”

—Julianna

Szatmari, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Intuitively Nourished, Eatontown

TASTES

CARROT AND POTATO FRITTERS

Yields 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 11/2 lbs. yellow mini potatoes

n 2 carrots, grated

n 1/2 onion, minced

n 2 eggs, beaten

n 1/2 cup spelt flour

n 1 Tbs. salt

n 1/2 tsp. pepper

n 2-3 Tbs. vegetable oil

n sour cream and green onions for serving

DIRECTIONS

Wash potatoes in cold water and then add to a large pot of cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Allow to boil for about 2 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft in the middle. Drain potatoes and mash with a fork in a large bowl. Stir in the carrot and onion. Add the eggs, flour, salt and pepper and mix well.

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the skillet. Press down on the batter to form a pancake. Cook until the bottom is golden and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook on the other side. Repeat until all the batter has been used.

Drain the fritters on paper towels. Serve with sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions. Fritters will keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

“Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, but you can boost your intake by substituting the yellow potatoes with sweet potatoes. You can also substitute the spelt flour with 1/2 cup of almond flour for more vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its role in anti-inflammatory processes and its immune-enhancing properties.”

—Julianna Szatmari, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Intuitively Nourished, Eatontown

Greener Pastures

This summertime cocktail is rich with flavors that‘ll keep your guests relaxed and refreshed.

GREEN GODDESS

Yields: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

n 11/2 oz. tequila blanco

n 1/2 oz. Salers aperitif

n 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice

n 1/2 oz. pineapple juice

n 1/2 oz. fresh celery juice

n 1/2 oz. vanilla syrup

n tonic water

n ice

n celery ribbons, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Combine all the ingredients except the tonic water in a shaker tin with ice and shake briefly to combine. Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with tonic water. Garnish.

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Suzanne

Quigley, D.M.D.

Red Bank Orthodontics

130 Maple Avenue, Suite 2B, Red Bank, NJ 07701 732.741.1355 • www.redbankortho.com

WHEN DR. SUZANNE QUIGLEY, A FOURTH GENERATION RESIDENT OF THE RED BANK AREA, bought the practice what excited her most was to be caring for her local community. Her “one-size fits one-person”philosophy is demonstrated in the holistic approach and individual treatment given to every patient. Having worked in pediatric offices throughout her career, Dr. Quigley pays close attention to the needs of those patients who have sensitivities and require special attention. If you are looking for a discreet treatment option, Dr. Quigley is the only orthodontist in Monmouth County who is a provider of InBrace®(behind the teeth braces). Additionally, Valerie, the office Goldendoodle puppy provides emotional and moral support to patients and their families during their appointment.

Where To Eat

Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Monmouth County is home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.

ASBURY PARK

Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten 527 Lake Ave.

732.997.8767 asburybiergarten.com

Dolce Fantasia 4 521 Cookman Ave. 848.372.1341 dolcefantasia.us

Iron Whale

1200 Ocean Ave. 732.361.5185 ironwhalenj.com

Moonstruck 517 Lake Ave.

732.988.0123 moonstrucknj.com

Pascal & Sabine

601 Bangs Ave. 732.774.3395 pascalandsabine.com

Porta 911 Kingsley St. 732.776.7661 pizzaporta.com

Robinson Ale House

1200 Ocean Ave. N.

732.774.1400 therobinsonalehouse asburypark.com

Stella Marina

Restaurant & Bar 800 Ocean Ave. 732.775.7776 stellamarinarestaurant.com

Taka 660 Cookman Ave. 732.775.1020 takaasbury.com

Talula’s 550 Cookman Ave. 732.455.3003 talulaspizza.com

ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

Copper Canyon 51 First Ave. 732.291.8444 thecoppercanyon.com

Harborside Grill 40 First Ave. 732.291.0066 ahwinebar.com

Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant 99 First Ave. 732.291.2397 kunyasiam.com

On The Deck 10 Simon Lake Dr. 732.872.1424 onthedeckrestaurant.com

AVON-BY-THE-SEA

Clementine’s 306 Main St. 732.988.7979 clementinesavon.com

Seed to Sprout 410 Main St. 732.774.7333 seedtosproutnj.com

BELFORD

Belford Bistro 870 Main St. 732.495.8151 belfordbistro.com

Naples Pizzeria 872 Main St. 732.787.9479 naplespizzaand restaurant.com

BELMAR 10th Ave. Burrito Co 801 Belmar Plz. 732.280.1515 tenthaveburrito.com

Anchor Tavern 713 Main St. 732.280.2266 anchortavernnj.com

Boathouse Bar & Grill 1309 Main St. 732.681.5221 boathousebarandgrill.com

Brandl 703 Belmar Plz. 732.280.7501 brandlrestaurant.com

Federico’s

700 Main St. 732.681.6936 federicospizza.com F Street Social 1002 Main St. 732.934.2378 fstsocial.com Klein’s Fish Market 708 River Rd. 732.681.1177 kleinsfish.com La Dolce Vita 400 Ocean Ave. 732.749.3177

Pig And Parrot Sandbar 201 Union Ln. 732.528.7750 thepigandparrot.com Shipwreck Grill 720 Ashley Ave. 732.292.9380 shipwreckgrill.com Whiskey Lounge 403 Higgins Ave. 732.722.8978 whiskeylounge brielle.com

Photos courtesy of La Mondina, Tommy’s Tavern + Tap, Molly Pitcher Inn

La Mondina, Brielle

EATONTOWN

All Seasons Restaurant

176 Wyckoff Rd.

732.542.9462 allseasonsrestaurant.net

ENGLISHTOWN

Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina 180 Rte. 9

732.617.0099 rosalitasnj.com

FREEHOLD

618 Restaurant

618 Park Ave.

732.577.0001 618nj.com

Aarzu Modern Indian Bistro

30 E. Main St.

732.333.0933 aarzu.com

Court Jester

16 E. Main St.

732.462.1040 courtjesternj.com

El Meson

40 W. Main St. 732.308.9494

Federici’s Family Restaurant

14 E. Main St. 732.462.1312 federicis.com

Metropolitan Cafe

8 E. Main St.

732.780.9400 metrocafenj.com

Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 3492 Rte. 9

732.543.0053 tommystavernandtap.com

Tre Pizza Pasta Beer Garden 611 Park Ave.

732.751.4422 trepizzanj.com

HAZLET

Neil Michael’s Steakhouse 1104 Rte. 36

732.217.3626 neilmichaelsteak house.com

Yesterday’s Restaurant

3153 Rte. 35

732.264.3777 yesterdayshazlet.com

HIGHLANDS

Bahrs Landing 2 Bay Ave.

732.872.1245 bahrslandingnj.com

Proving Ground 56 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.872.2266 theprovingground.com

KEYPORT

Drew’s Bayshore Bistro

44 E. Front St. 732.739.9219 drewsbayshorebistro.com

LONG BRANCH

21 A On Broadway 202 Broadway 732.483.6967 21aonbroadway.com

Avenue

23 Ocean Ave. 732.759.2900 leclubavenue.com

Charley’s Ocean Grill

29 Avenel Blvd. 732.222.4499 charleysoceangrill.com

Mar Belo 611 Broadway 732.870.2222 marbelorestaurant.com

McLoone’s Pier House 1 Ocean Ave. N. 732.795.3493 mcloonespierhouse.com

Rooney’s Oceanfront 100 Ocean Ave. N. 732.870.1200 rooneysocean.com

Sirena Ristorante 27 Ocean Ave. N. 732.222.1119 sirenaristorante.com

MANALAPAN

Anemos Greek Cuisine 333 Rte. 9 732.414.6590 anemosgreekcuisine.com

Cholula Restaurant 24 Wilson Ave. 732.786.0080 cholularestaurant englishtown.com

Manalapan Diner 48 Rte. 9 732.462.7165 manalapandiner.com

Nonna’s Citi Cucina 190 Rte. 9 N. 732.536.9050 nonnasnj.net

Peking Pavilion 110 Rte. 33 732.308.9700 pekingpavilion.com

MANASQUAN

Blend On Main 152 Main St. 732.223.0030 blendonmain.com

Harpoon Willy’s 2655 River Rd. 732.223.8880 harpoonwillys.com

The Salty Whale And Guesthouse 390 E. Main St. 732.592.3344 thesaltywhale.com

Squan Tavern 15 Broad St. 732.223.3324 squantavern.com

MATAWAN

Buttonwood Manor 845 Rte. 34 N. 732.566.6220 buttonwoodmanor.com

MIDDLETOWN

MJ’s Restaurant Bar & Grill 1005 Rte. 35 732.796.1400 mjsrestaurant.com

Neelam Exotic

Indian Cuisine 1178 Rte. 35 S. 732.671.8900 neelamindiancuisine.com

NEPTUNE

The Grand Tavern 1105 6th Ave. 732.774.0120 thegrandtavern.com

Il Posto 1129 Fifth Ave. 732.775.4823 ilpostonj.com

Kelly’s Tavern 43 Rte. 35 732.775.9517 kellystavern jerseyshore.com

Local Smoke 719 Rte. 35 732.455.8888 localsmokebbq.com

Molinari’s 312 W. Sylvania Ave. 732.775.7733 molinarirestaurant.com

Pete & Elda’s 96 Woodland Ave. 732.774.6010 peteandeldas.com

OCEAN

Illiano’s 933 W. Park Ave. 732.493.2003 illianosrestaurant.net

Piccola Italia 837 W. Park Ave. 732.493.3090 piccolaitalianj.com

Tommy’s Tavern + Tap, Freehold

RED BANK

Birravino

183 Riverside Ave.

732.842.5990 birravino.com

B2 Bistro + Bar

141 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.268.8555 b2bistro.com

Char Steakhouse

33 Broad St. 732.450.2427 charsteakhouse.com

Danny’s

11 Bridge Ave.

732.741.6900 dannyssteakhouse.com

Gabriela’s Italian Steakhouse 447 Rte. 35 732.456.6699 gabriellasnj.com

JBJ Soul Kitchen

207 Monmouth St. 732.842.0900 jbjsoulkitchen.com

Juanito’s Restaurant 159 Monmouth St. 732.747.9118 juanitosredbank.com

Kitch Organic 75 Leighton Ave. 732.471.5400 kitchorganic.com

Molly Pitcher Inn

88 Riverside Ave. 732.747.2500 themollypitcher.com

Muang Thai Restaurant

7 E. Front St. 732.741.9999 muangthairedbank.com

Nicholas Barrel & Roost 160 Rte. 35 S. 732.345.9977 barrelandroost.com

Patrizia’s

28 Broad St. 732.741.5555 patrizias.com

Pazzo MMX

141 W. Front St. 732.747.4551 pazzoredbank.com

The Robinson Ale House 26 Broad St. 732.383.8219 robinsonsalehouse.com

Semolina 13 White St. 732.945.6816 semolinarestaurant.com

Teak 64 Monmouth St. 732.747.5775 teakrestaurant.com

Triumph Restaurant & Brewery 1 Bridge Ave. 732.852.7300 triumphbrewing.com

RUMSON

Barnacle Bill’s

1 First St. 732.747.8396 barnaclebills rumson.com

Giorgia

102 Ave. of Two Rivers 732.741.3880 ristorantegiorgia.com

Salt Creek Grille 4 Bingham Ave. 732.933.9272 saltcreekgrille.com

Undici 11 W. River Rd. 732.842.3880 undicirestaurant.com

SEA BRIGHT

Anjelica’s 1070 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2800 anjelicas.com

Eventide

Grille 1400 Ocean Ave. N. 732.530.1414 eventidegrille.com

The Rum Runner 816 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2894 mcloonesrumrunner.com

Tommy’s Tavern + Tap

1030 Ocean Ave.

732.842.5044 tommystavernandtap.com

SEA GIRT

Fratello’s 810 The Plaza

732.974.8833 fratellosnj.com

SHREWSBURY

Americana

Diner

1160 Rte. 35 S. 732.542.1658 americanadiner.net

Bayroot 555 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.747.3444 bayrootmarket.com

D’jeet 637 Broad St. 732.224.8887 djeetcatering.com

SPRING LAKE

Amelia’s By The Sea 1505 Ocean Ave. N. 732.769.5700 ameliasbythesea.com

Arugula

306 Morris Ave. 732.974.2800 arugulaspringlakenj.com

Spring Lake Tap House

810 Rte. 71

732.282.1530 springlaketaphouse.com

St. Stephen’s Green Publick House

2031 Rte. 71

732.449.2626 ssgpub.com

Whispers 200 Monmouth Ave.

732.974.9755 whispersrestaurant.com

Molly Pitcher Inn, Red Bank

WALL

Meemom’s

1825 Rte. 35

732.359.8544 meemoms.com

Mossuto’s Market & Cafe

2029 Rte. 35 S.

732.449.8058 mossutosmarketnj.com

Shogun Legends

1969 Rte. 34

732.449.6696 shogunlegends.com

Turn Over A New ‘Leaf ’

Vegan-friendly Gray Leaf Café in Freehold offers dishes all taste buds will love.

When my foodie friends and I talk about trying something new, the conversation usually takes a turn toward dishes and cuisines still on our bucket lists. Some of us want to sample unusual and daring delicacies, such as guinea pig and balut, while others are on a quest to find what’s rare. For instance, of the nearly 750,000 restaurants in America, only a few dozen are certified to sell authentic Kobe beef.

I was up for expanding my flavor palate on a recent spring afternoon. A new Uzbek eatery? Not yet. A higher spice level at a recently opened Indian restaurant? Nope. On this day, I gave myself a taste of something much lighter than my carnivorous appetite was used to: the vegan offerings at Gray Leaf Café in Freehold.

The cozy, short-order restaurant opened earlier this year in the township’s Poets Square outdoor mall. Like the mall, which features brick walkways and picturesque landscaping, Gray Leaf is a quaint establishment with ample indoor and outdoor seating. Diners can place their orders the old-fashioned way at a counter or make their selections at the tech-friendly iPad station, which my friend and I chose for our casual lunch.

Given the choice to sit indoors or out, we took a seat outside and enjoyed the view of the plaza’s man-made pond. A single blue heron tiptoed along the shore for a few moments before taking flight. We barely had time to marvel at the leggy bird when our server delivered two fresh drinks. Instead of traditional appetizers, we started our meal with beverages from the juice menu. (The restaurant also offers smoothies, Turnstile Coffee Roasters coffee and kombucha.) The “spicy Hawaiian,” my choice, is created using fresh pineapple, orange and ginger juice, and it’s a refreshing sip for a warm day. Pro tip: Stir or swirl the drink well to fully combine the juices, otherwise the ginger—the spicy component— can overwhelm the other flavors. My friend, meanwhile, was more than satisfied with the “morning glow,” a beverage made of celery and apple juices. She typically isn’t fond of the taste of celery, so she was pleasantly surprised that the vegetable flavor wasn’t overpowering.

It was so far, so good—but we’d soon find out if the food would satisfy my usually meatoriented cravings. After a full week of sports

spectating, wings were on my mind, so I ordered the buffalo cauliflower wrap, Gray Leaf’s version of a spicy chicken sandwich. The wrap is a carryover from Gray Leaf owner Vincent Gulino’s food truck, Try Vegan. It’s made of roasted cauliflower and diced celery and mixed with a spicy—but not too fiery— buffalo sauce and served in a panini-pressed wrap. If you’re expecting buffalo chicken, sorry, this isn’t for you. (And frankly, Gray Leaf isn’t trying to make you think it’s meat.) But if what you want is a healthy mix of delicious vegetables doused in hot sauce and served in sandwich form, this is a must-try. While cauliflower tends to soften when cooked and sauced up, the perfectly grilled panini adds plenty of crispiness to every bite.

For her main course, my friend had the vegan crunch wrap, which Gray Leaf likens to a similar menu offering at Taco Bell. The vegan version is made with black beans, salsa, lime and cilantro inside two round corn tortillas and then wrapped in a flour tortilla. The whole thing is then pressed on the panini grill. It’s a mouthful and a handful, especially when dipped into the accompanying vegan sour cream. Coming from a family of vegans, my friend noted that Gray Leaf’s crunch wrap is similar to a recipe her parents follow and reminded her of home cooking. Second pro tip: Ask for a side of vegan salsa. While delicious on its own, the wrap received a helpful flavor boost with each dip of salsa.

A shared order of French fries rounded out the meal, and these shoestring fries were flawless. They were perfectly crisp the way the best fastfood joints make ’em—just without all the oil and shortening. We had ours made with a few dashes of Cajun seasoning. (You choose from plain, truffle, old bay and other flavors.)

As we dined, Gulino checked in and chatted with us for a few moments. We talked about the growing number of vegan options, as more people are choosing healthful diets and sustainable approaches to eating. Whether you’re already following a plant-based diet or trying vegan dishes for the first time, Gray Leaf is a great option.

—Darius Amos

by Darius Amos

Photos

Senior Living Guide

New Jersey stands out as a premier destination for assisted senior living communities. Our locations throughout the state offer a blend of Independent Living, Assisted Living, and specialized Inspiritás – Memory Care services. Residents at our senior living communities in New Jersey enjoy highly personalized care and awardwinning programs. If you’re exploring the perfect place to settle into and call “home” in retirement, check out our 5 locations in Monmouth County.

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TRUE Independence. Come and go as you please in your vehicle or ours. Host private dinners or celebrations. Take a carefree vacation while we take care of everything at home. Choice. What will you do today? At Brightview, you can pursue hobbies, catch a film in the theater, grab a drink in the pub, rejuvenate in the salon it’s up to you! Possibilities. You’ll have plenty of resources and opportunities to explore new interests and embark on new adventures with like-minded neighbors.

Brightview’s

What will you do today?

At Brightview, it’s entirely up to you! So go ahead. Pursue your creative passions, socialize at happy hour, enjoy an outing, sample our chef’s menus, rejuvenate in our salon, take in a concert, or simply relax in your apartment home. Whatever you want to do, you can do it with Brightview.

Our associates have two words for you: Why not? Each day presents opportunities to explore new interests and embark on new adventures at Brightview.

Want to try a new cuisine? Learn an instrument? Start a club? Cross “zip-lining” off your list? Why not?

ON THE TOWN

Be There

Whether you’re looking for fireworks, music or fantastic food, there’s something for everyone in Monmouth.

JUNE 15-16

a creative Father’s Day outing, take Dad (and the whole family) to the FRESHWATER FISHING DERBY at the Manasquan Reservoir in Howell on Saturday, June 15, or Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold on Sunday, June 16. Prizes will be awarded for the longest fish in three categories, and equipment rentals are available but limited. For more information, see reg.monmouthcountyparks.com.

JUNE 15

Asbury Park’s Stone Pony welcomes New Jersey-based band Bleachers, fronted by Jack Antonoff, to their Summer Stage series as part of the SHADOW OF THE CITY FESTIVAL A portion of each ticket purchased will be donated to The Ally Coalition in support of LGBTQ youth. The program begins at 2 p.m. For the full lineup and ticket prices, visit stoneponyonline.com.

JUNE 15

Batter up! If you want to see a ball game with a historical twist, head to Belmar for an OLD TIME BASEBALL GAME, played by 1864 rules. The Monmouth Furnace take on the Flemington Neshanock at Memorial Park for an 11 a.m. game. For more information,

JUNE 23–JULY 7

Every year, the JERSEY SHORE FILM FESTIVAL brings cinema’s best to our backyards. This year, locations include venues in Deal, Red Bank and Asbury Park. See the best and brightest of the film industry and stop by events and enriching craft For more information, jerseyshorefilmfestival.com.

Jersey, we know our pizza. Grab slice or two at Monmouth Park in Oceanport during NJ PIZZA FESTIVAL, a celebration showcasing the finest pizzerias across the state. Enjoy both classic pies and gourmet twists on old favorites as you wander the park and enjoy horse racing and family activities. Gates open at 9 a.m. For tickets and detailed schedule, head over monmouthpark.com.

JUNE 27

Comedian JEFF ARCURI brings his talents to the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank. Once called “a joke machine” by The Chicago Tribune, Arcuri has been featured on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Comedy Central’s Roast Battle The laughs begin at 9:30 p.m.; see thebasie.org for ticket information.

JUNE 26–AUG. 21

Freehold favorite FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS return for the season! Bring a lawn chair and blanket and sit outside for free viewings of cinema favorites such as The Lego Movie, Toy Story 2 and Back to the Future Part II For the detailed schedule, check out downtownfreehold.com.

JULY 4

Ring in Independence Day

LONG BRANCH’S

OCEANFEST, the largest seasonal event on the Jersey Shore. Beginning at 1 p.m., you can stop by for a festival atmosphere with performers, food vendors and a craft fair that draws artisans from all over the Northeast. It all culminates with a fireworks show over the ocean at 9 p.m. more information, see oceanfestnj.com.

JULY 21

Start your engines and head over to the Port Monmouth VFW for a CAR SHOW! All makes, models, years and conditions will be featured shown off. Join other enthusiasts for food, drink, live music and great prizes. The festivities start at 10 a.m. For more information, you can head over to hemmings.com.

JULY 24-28

The MONMOUTH COUNTY FAIR returns to the East Freehold Showgrounds in Freehold! This fiveday event includes rides, games, exhibitions, live music and entertainment, vendors and plenty of food. There will also be home and garden competitions, with categories in art, photography, crafts, vegetables, flowers, baked goods and more. For times, ticket rates, competition details, parking information and more, visit monmouthcountyparks.com.

Gatherings

Monmouth residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors— especially when help is needed most.

1. FULFILL

The Neptunebased food pantry recently received 143 pounds of food and a $200 donation from Daughters of Penelope Aulis 195. The contributions from the Ocean Township group help create 719 meals for neighbors in need. Pictured are staffs from both organizations during their donation meeting.

2. YMCA MONMOUTH OF GREATER MONMOUTH COUNTY

YMCA of Greater Monmouth County’s swim coach Jack Caucino received the Joseph G. Rogers Award. The national recognition honors one’s dedication, accomplishments, and excellence in YMCA competitive swimming and diving.

3. MONMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Brookdale Community College in Lincroft hosted the Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Leadership Summit. The program included speakers Dawn Doherty, Howard Stein and Carissa Cardinale.

4. MERCY CENTER

Twelve area restaurants and sweet shops supported Mercy Center’s food pantry at the nonprofit’s first-ever Chefs’ Feast fundraising event and Top Chef competition at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, Asbury Park. Chef Ulises Nova from Metropolitan Cafe, Freehold, was voted “Top Chef” by event supporters.

5. HEARTS OF HOPE

Hearts of Hope honored David Stout, president of Brookdale Community College, and The Caroline Huber Holistic Wellness Center, with the “Hope in Action” Award. The Hearts of Hope event, held at 618 Restaurant in Freehold, brought together five nonprofit organizations with a shared vision: to uplift and support the mental and emotional wellbeing of youth.

6. NORTH TO SHORE

Details of the annual North to Shore Festival, a three-day music event happening in Asbury Park, Atlantic City and Newark, were announced at the Stone Pony. Pictured: Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Asbury Park Mayor Moore, Jarod Clemons, Gov. Phil Murphy, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr., Shané Harris, Richard Parkinson, John Schreiber

Fulfill (1), YMCA of Monmouth County (2), Tom Zapcic (3), John Vitollo (4), Hearts of Hope (5), Jeremy Smith (6)

A MONMOUTH MOMENT

“On a beautiful July day last year, my wife and I took our now 2-year-old daughter Ellie and 5-year-old son, Anthony Jr., to Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown. We watched Ellie cheerfully walking along the paths having the time of her life as she followed her brother. The kids love to smell and look at all the flowers. It was a perfect day to do just that.”

—Anthony Trimarco,

Middletown

Photo courtesy of Anthony Trimarco, Instagram: @ant_trimz

Get More Out of Your Mammo

Are you getting the most out of your mammogram? You will with Mammo&More at the Star and Barry Tobias Women’s Health Center at CentraState. Mammo&More adds more benefits to your routine breast screening including:

• More accuracy with 3D technology

• More information with a comprehensive breast cancer risk assessment

• More protection with personalized monitoring plans for high-risk individuals

To make an appointment or learn more: 866-CENTRA7 centrastate.com/mammo

• More convenience—no prescription required for routine mammograms