MAPLEWOOD HOME CHANNELS TROPICAL VIBES * DINNER TIME IN WEST ORANGE
Departments
Morris/Essex Buzz 6
Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the counties.
Friends & Neighbors 10
Artist Layqa Nuna Yawar creates murals that tower above the viewer and connect people and communities.
14 10
Features
Life In An Age Of Stress 12
A constant diet of worrisome global headlines can be an actual health hazard. Here are some ways to beat it.
Grandkids Galore 14
When you think of empty nesters “downsizing,” how many bedrooms do you envision? For the owners of a West Orange townhome, the right answer was five.
The Pressure On Mom 22
For a designer, a Livingston renovation presented aesthetic and functional issues— plus the challenge of pleasing a client who was family.
Caribbean Queen 28
Once purely traditional, a Maplewood Cape Cod took on a tropical vibe when transformed by a Storm(s).
A New Jersey photographer captures the springtime beauty at Branch Brook Park in Newark. 36
Escapes 34
Why not celebrate spring—and behold beauty—by visiting a botanical garden?
Tastes 36
These dishes are stuffed, flavorful and impossible to resist. Who knew spring produce could be this indulgent?
Bar Tab 40
Toast to longer days and sunnier moods with this refreshing, herb-kissed sip.
Gatherings 51
Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their neighbors.
Restaurant Review 54
With welcoming vibes and soulful Lebanese cuisine, Lyla is one of Morristown’s most exciting tables.
A Morris/Essex Moment 56
by Aimee Ryan. 7
ON THE COVER
Molly Miller designed a West Orange townhome with the owners’ entire family in mind.
IN EVERY ISSUE
4 Editor’s Note
11 Health News
48 Where to Eat 52 Be There
Photo
DEBORAH E. NELSON
CHIESA SHAHINIAN & GIANTOMASI PC
105 Eisenhower Parkway | Roseland, NJ 07068
973.530.2390 | dnelson@csglaw.com |
Deb’s family law practice includes adoptions, child and adult guardianships, divorces and custody matters, international kidnapping, domestic violence, relocations, premarital agreements, post and mid-marriage agreements, enforcement of divorce judgments and appeals. Some cases must go to trial, like international kidnapping cases that Deb tried over a 12-day period in Bergen County Superior Court. Cases involving custody and parenting rights must sometimes go to trial, as well, to promote and preserve a child’s best interest. Most cases, however, resolve amicably utilizing alternative dispute resolution processes such as arbitration, mediation and collaborative law. Deb is frequently retained as an arbitrator, mediator and collaborative law practitioner and has been listed on the Court-approved roster of economic mediators, is certified in collaborative law and has served on the New Jersey Supreme Court Complementary Dispute Resolution Committee. Deb is a former President of the Morris County Bar Association and the Morris County Bar Foundation. Deb has also served as a Judge for the American Mock Trial Association. In continuing efforts to give back, Deb has volunteered with Susan G. Komen, an organization dedicated to eliminating breast cancer, and is actively involved in CSG’s Pro Bono Committee.
Who’s The Expert On Your Home?
If you’ve ever felt torn when retaining a designer to work on your home, join the club. Part of you wants to give the pro free reign on everything from A to Z. Another part insists, “But I want Q and X no matter what.”
Don’t worry. Both parts of you are right—and the best designers know this, as we at MORRIS/ESSEX are reminded with every Home Issue we publish. Designers bring to your project experience, objectivity, professional training, a practiced aesthetic eye and an insider’s awareness of where to find the best materials, furnishings and specialty services. And also the knowledge that they’re not ultimately the boss. You are—it’s your home.
Sometimes, of course, it’s smooth sailing. Such was the case—despite the designer’s name—when Sarah Storms imbued a 1929 Maplewood Cape Cod with a fresh and lively Caribbean spirit (page 28). Beyond voicing the wish for something “contemporary, colorful and deeply personal,” the clients didn’t weigh in much—they were busy having a baby. With touches of whimsy, Storms gave the home a refreshing island spirit that drew on the wife’s heritage—and won a decisive thumbs-up.
a Livingston home (page 22), designer Amy Greenberg faced a ticklish challenge: client was her daughter. And as Greenberg says, “Everything is a bigger deal when family.” Happily, however, the designer’s intimate knowledge of the client turned out an asset. Says the daughter now: “I can’t think of anything I would change.”
When a couple “downsized” into a five-bedroom townhome in West Orange, they clash with designer Molly Miller (page 14), but they did endorse a break with the The bright, airy look Miller gave their new abode is “totally different from what I before,” says one of the homeowners, “but it works.”
Speaking of pro designers, did you know there are some on staff at home-décor stores? Either free or for a modest fee, they will provide consultation about home design—you’ll find six of them listed on page 8. Maybe a painting is what you need to complete the look of a room. Also on page 8 you’ll find four places to browse fine art, much of it local and much of it for sale.
There’s more in this issue, of course. We tantalize you on page 36 with “stuffed” entrées perfect for springtime. Four places that will delight Mom for Mother’s Day, depending on what her passion is—they’re on page 7. Where to find authentic Lebanese cooking in Morristown? That’s page 54. On page 10, meet a mural artist whose work graces prominent walls around the world. A health article tackles stress and how to beat it—page 12. Finally, on page 34, read about five visit-worthy botanical gardens within an easy drive.
Whatever you’re doing with these delightful spring months of April and May— sprucing up your home, traveling or enjoying the many activities in busy Morris and Essex counties—may it be pure enjoyment.
Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com
Morris &Essex
Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA
Creative Director
STEPHEN M. VITARBO
Senior Associate Editor
DARIUS AMOS
Assistant Editor
KIRSTEN MEEHAN
Contributing Editors
RICHARD LALIBERTE
PAUL RANCE JR.
DONNA ROLANDO
NAYDA RONDON
Contributing Photographers
MARISA PELLEGRINI AIMEE RYAN
PRODUCTION
Production Manager
FERN E. MESHULAM
Production Artist
CHRIS FERRANTE
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Morris & Essex Magazine (Volume 24 Issue 2 April/May 2026) (ISSN# 3067-0888 USPS 25840) is published bimonthly (Feb./ March, April/May, June/July, Sept., Oct./Nov., Dec./Jan.) by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Dr., Ste. 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage pending at Mahwah, NJ, and additional mailing offices.
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Morris & Essex Buzz
OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTIES.
BREATHE EASY
Here comes allergy season, with the sneezing, congestion and watery eyes. You probably reach for over-the-counter antihistamines to ease those symptoms and glance at the pollen count to anticipate how much you’ll need them. But that’s not the only number to check. More and more common in North Jersey are air-quality alerts, issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and based on the U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI), a scale used with national monitoring. These alerts let us know when specific gases and particulate matter in our air reach an unhealthy level. Breathing that air can be detrimental to health.
What to do to prepare beforehand?
Here are tips:
• Know who’s at risk. Low air quality is an extra concern for certain populations. According to the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, children, teens, the elderly and pregnant women are at particular risk. People with lung or heart conditions or with asthma also should take special care.
• Install an air filter. An air purifier with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter can trap particulate matter and make the air in your home cleaner. It will also remove allergens and can help reduce those seasonal allergy symptoms.
What to do when an air-quality alert is issued?
• Stay indoors. Going out in warm weather may be tempting, but having walls between you and the outside during alerts is a good idea. Experts also suggest running air conditioning in both homes and vehicles, as this will draw out some of the harmful particles. If you must go outside, avoid strenuous activity or exercise there.
• Reach for a mask. If you need to venture outdoors when the air quality is poor—especially if you’re in one of those sensitive groups—wearing an N95 mask can help keep particulates out of your airways and lungs.
A DAY MOM DESERVES
Moms often work quietly behind the scenes, their efforts easy to overlook on an ordinary day. But Sunday, May 10, is anything but ordinary—that’s Mother’s Day. If you’re looking to go beyond the typical flowers and chocolates, here are some ideas to show Mom how much she truly means to you— tailored to her interests.
• For the outdoor enthusiast. Enjoy a morning with Mom and Mother Nature during a light hike through Montville’s Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area. The Turkey Mountain loop, with great views, will work up a sweat and an appetite. For comforting, post-hike bites, try the Black Rabbit Saloon (8 Main Rd., Montville, 973.588.3340; blackrabbitsaloon.com), which is known for treats like escargot, mussels, pasta dishes and burgers.
• For the shutterbug. Plenty of places boast Insta-worthy ops, but Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange is second to none. The site offers unobstructed views of NYC’s skyline. Stop by McLoone’s Boathouse (9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, 862.252.7108; mcloonesboathouse.com) afterward for a camera-friendly (and delicious) meal.
• For the green thumb. If she likes florals, Montclair’s Van Vleck House and Gardens will wow and inspire. Bonus: The North Jersey Symphony Brass Quintet stops by for a special Mother’s Day con-
KUDOS TO…
Thomas Johnson of West Orange, who has been nominatfor the Television Academy Foundation’s 45th College Television Awards. The awards honor outstanding student-produced projects nationwide. Johnson, senior at Montclair State University, is nominated in the news category for directing, producing and writing FOCUS: Our Mental Health, which explores different approaches to staying mentally well.
Newark Academy’s mock trial team, which took the win at the 2026 Essex County Championship. In this competition, student teams take on the roles attorneys, witnesses and jurors a case the New Jersey State Bar Foundation prepares. Newark Academy beat Livingston High School to win its fourth championship win in five years.
HOME DÉCOR HELP
Shopping for a new couch, coffee table or other piece of furniture is no stroll in the park. The sheer number of choices in showrooms can be overwhelming: Which one fits your needs? Which goes with your décor? But here’s good news: Many furniture and décor stores don’t just sell you great pieces, they have in-house interior designers available to answer many of your questions. Set up a consultation (either free or for a modest price) with the pros at one of the stores below. They can help you find things that meet your space, taste, budget and lifestyle requirements.
• Arhaus, 1200 Morris Tpke., Short Hills, 862.772.7790; arhaus.com
• Crate & Barrel, 1200 Morris Tpke., Short Hills, 973.379.9700; crateandbarrel.com
• Safavieh Home Furnishings, 442 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973.629.5800; safaviehhome.com
• Suburban Furniture, 10 Rte. 10 W., Succasunna, 973.927.7100; suburbanfurniture.com
• White House Home, 197 Rte. 206 N., Chester, 908.888.3109; whdesignsforlife.com
SPRING INTO ART
Looking for the finishing touch in a room refresh? A way to support local talent? An excuse to get out of the house and brush away those winter cobwebs? All over Morris and Essex counties, there’s art for you to browse and enjoy. Options:
• Morris Arts Atrium Gallery, Morristown. Always curated around a theme and featuring paintings, sculptures and photography, this space highlights emerging and established artists alike. In April, keep an eye out for the Blackwell Street exhibit, which spotlights the best high school artists in Morris. More info: morrisarts.org
• Great Brook Gallery, New Vernon. This fine-art gallery displays talent from all over the country; watch for locals like County College of Morris professor Todd L.W. Doney. More info: greatbrookgallery.com
• South Orange Performing Arts Center’s Herb + Milly Iris Gallery, South Orange. You’ll find a rotating cast of contemporary artists here. On display now: “Between Places” by artist Brian Wall, known for his abstract landscapes. More info: sopacnow.org
• Studio Montclair’s Academy Square Gallery and Leach Gallery, Montclair. This nonprofit has been dedicated to showcasing local talent since 1996, and you’ll always find something new at its two gallery spaces. Each exhibition is curated and juried, often with a tilt toward emerging and underrepresented artists. More info: studiomontclair.org
Owner: Jennifer and Adam Dubeck of Mendham Township
After losing their beloved Ginger, who lived 18 years, the Dubecks were unsure they were ready for another dog—until they came across Gidget on Petfinder in 2019. The deal was sealed when they met her in person. “We learned that she and her siblings were found abandoned under a bridge—on my birthday,” says Jennifer. “In that moment, we knew it was meant to be.”
Dallas entered the picture in May 2020. He was found roaming around a flea market in his namesake city, riddled with mange. He made a full recovery, and more than 100 people applied to give him a fur-ever home. The Dubecks were the lucky winners.
Both pups are affectionate—Dallas loves kisses and hugs, and has been known to nearly knock people off their feet in his enthusiasm. Gidget, meanwhile, adores being cuddled under a blanket, and can often be found on Jennifer’s lap.
“One of the cutest things about both Dallas and Gidget,” Jennifer says, “is that they think they’re cats! They often spend their afternoons lounging on the windowsill in our family room, watching chipmunks and squirrels tease them while plotting how they’ll catch them.”
Want to see your pet in an upcoming issue of MORRIS & ESSEX? Email a brief description and photo of your furry friends to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com!
CULINARY CORNER
You may have a favorite each for Italian, Chinese and new American cuisines, but sometimes a new eatery comes along that’s worth trying. For instance—
ITALIAN INDULGENCE
If you’re hankering for Italian that feels both timeless and a little unexpected, head to Cotto in downtown Morristown. The sleek new spot has already won praise for its thoughtful, ingredient-driven menu from Executive Chef Jordan Petriello. Expect house-made pastas, creative antipasti such as eggplant parm croquettes, and mains that honor Italian tradition with a modern twist.
• Cotto, 90 South St., Morristown, 973.206.1200; dinecotto.com
DUMPLINGS, ANYONE?
Get your chopsticks ready because popular Asian fusion chain Ugly Dumpling has opened in Morris Plains, the first location in our counties. The Shanghai-inspired dumpling house serves up signature xiaolongbao (soup-filled dumplings), creative dim sum, wok-tossed noodles and playful sides such as cucumber salad and salt-and-pepper popcorn chicken. With bold flavors and a menu designed for sharing, it’s an inviting stop for lunch, dinner or post-shopping bubble tea.
For premium steaks, seafood towers and show-stopping cocktails, try Blu Livingston, which at press time was scheduled to open in April. The new spot (Blu’s second— there’s also Blu on the Hudson in Weehawken) serves elevated contemporary American cuisine with a focus on world class seafood, Mediterranean inspired dishes and creative drinks.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Essex County Branch Brook Park’s Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of the largest and most varied collection of Japanese cherry-blossom trees in the United States (yes, more than in our nation’s capital!). Peak bloom is expected in April, and both Essex County Parks and the Branch Brook Park Alliance are preparing to go all out. Check out branchbrookpark.org for flower tracking information (including live webcams) and volunteer opportunities, and don’t miss out on these great events at Branch Brook (for more information, see essexcountyparks.org).
• Cherry Blossom Talks. Every Wednesday and Saturday in April, the park service is hosting informational talks at 11 a.m. on the history of cherry trees in the United States, the history of Branch Brook Park and how cherry trees grow.
• Cherry Blossom 10K Run. On April 12, race through the cherry-tree groves in this fun and challenging race, which begins at 10 a.m.
• Essex County One-Mile Fun Run. This event, set for April 18 at 10 a.m., will lead kids ages 6–14 on a noncompetitive run through the flowers.
• Essex County Family Day. Also on April 18, spend a spring afternoon outside with paddle boating, hands-on crafts, face painting, a bouncy house, local food vendors and all-day entertainment starting at 11 a.m.
• Bloomfest. The cumulating celebration of this half-century milestone includes Japanese cultural demonstrations, children’s programming, live music, a crafters marketplace and food vendors on April 19. The fun starts at 11 a.m.
FORECAST: HILARITY
April is National Stress Awareness Month (see page 12 for expert advice on managing stress), and sometimes the best medicine for stress is laughter. Happily, our counties are filled with comedy shows with both superstars and up-andcomers:
• Dojo of Comedy, Morris Plains. Laughs with local and regional comics abound almost every weekend at this club. NYC-based funnyman Luis J. Gomez stars in a special event April 18, while The Grifties, a satirical awards show with several top comedians, is April 25. More info: tiffscomedy.com
• Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. Entertainers who tell jokes while belting out songs drop by this stage regularly (Tony Danza appears April 18), as do more traditional comedians. On May 1, see Manhattan Comedy Night May, a standup series showcasing rising stars of comedy. More info: mayoarts.org
• New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark. Big names come to Newark every month. Headlining in April are showbiz royalty Jerry Seinfeld (April 11), witty funnymen Hasan Minhaj and Ronny Chieng (April 23) and international crowd pleaser Russell Peters (May 29). More info: njpac.org
• Wellmont Theater, Montclair. This iconic neighborhood stage attracts some of music’s biggest names, but also draws headliners from the comedy circuit. Don’t miss comedian and actor Aries Spears when he takes the stage April 24. More info: wellmonttheater.com
FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
Larger Than Life
Artist Layqa Nuna Yawar creates murals that tower above the viewer and connect people and communities.
Across the side of a two-story building, a woman with braids is in profile against the moon. A fox large enough to ride on pulls a wagon across a house’s exterior wall. In Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport, immense native flowers curl around giant human figures. These are works by Layqa Nuna Yawar, a public artist and muralist living in Newark.
Yawar was born in Cuenca, Ecuador, the youngest of six siblings. He immigrated to the United States at 14. Now 41, he has created more than 120 murals around the world—in Newark, New York City, Ecuador, Paraguay and South Korea, for example. A Rutgers University graduate, he teaches at Rutgers–Newark.
What are your early memories of art?
Cuenca, the city where I grew up, is a World Heritage Site. It’s beautiful, and the buildings are super-colonial—all very Renaissance, very well maintained. The city is a center of the arts, with festivals throughout the year. I’d see people using the street and public spaces for political speech—making murals, writing messages. It all came together. To me, that was just what people did: made art. Early memory of making art yourself?
The first time I made it for a reason that wasn’t just joy and fun was entering a school contest when I was 10 or 11. I painted the Virgin Mary—I told you, very colonial—and realized that I could make something outside myself that other people would react to.
When did you realize art could be more than a hobby?
When I moved to the U.S., I really didn’t understand that immigrants could be anything they wanted to be. My family was struggling, and I thought I needed to study law or medicine. I thought I would be a psychologist. But teachers at my New York City high school encouraged me to continue doing art. The school didn’t have much money, but it did have an unused photography darkroom, and I was
allowed to use it like a studio. That got me thinking it was possible—I knew it would be hard, but I wanted it. Tell us about immigrating.
In some ways, my early childhood feels like a time capsule, when I was in this wonderful, artistic place where people understood me. When I came here, I needed to learn English in a year. English became what I spoke in public, but to this day I still think in both English and Spanish. Sometimes I feel like I live in a hybrid reality between my public and private lives, and that can feel traumatic. But it can also be wonderful, because so many other people have the same experience. I can explore those feelings in my art. What themes are you drawn to?
I want to engage with and break down structures of power. I want to amplify the voices of marginalized people—indigenous, brown, immigrants—and focus on
joy and beauty while connecting past and present.
What’s it like making these huge murals?
It sometimes feels like a performance. If I’m painting a wall outside in New York or Atlanta, I need to engage with people. People ask me questions, and it becomes an educational moment—I explain that you need bigger brushes, that sometimes you use a projector or a grid to scale the art. It also shows people who look like me that doing what I do isn’t impossible for them. And it’s fun! I’m outside, high up, doing what I love.
Memorable murals or installations?
One in Jersey City, early on. I would work 9 to 5, then go out at night and paint. It took a long time, but I learned a lot making it. It actually got torn down for condos recently—I was sad to see it go. The other one is in Newark Airport. That’ll be up for at least 100 years.
Favorite artist?
Hidetaka Miyazaki, a video-game artist and director. I love the way interactive games are pushing the art space. I grew up playing a lot of games; I feel like I pull from them in my art.
Favorite video game?
From when I was a kid, “The Legend of Zelda.”
Favorite part of Newark?
It’s a radical, progressive city filled with Black and immigrant history.
Words of wisdom?
Anyone can take ownership of their space. Anyone can make a mural. All you need is three colors and a brush—you can get all that for less than $100.
Something you’re excited about?
I’m doing a project where I open my figure-drawing class to the public every Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m. It’s close to my heart because I’m working with younger students, people who don’t think they have talent and people who have talent but don’t feel they’re artists. I want to assure them that they are.
—Kirsten Meehan
HEALTH NEWS
STRENGTH
TRAINING CUTS DIABETES RISK
Doing three 20-minute strength programs lowered diabetes risk by 17 percent,
SLEEPING
SANS PILLOWS CUTS GLAUCOMA RISK
50% percentage of with do control.
—JAMA
THE ROLE OF NATURAL OVULATION IN IVF
ANTI-ACID USE MAY NOT HIKE CANCER RISK
The long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a class of drugs widely used to treat acid reflux and ulcers, may not be linked to any increased risk of developing gastric (stomach) cancer, finds a recent study.
BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING FOR MOMS
Breastfeeding, associated with lower risks of postnatal depression and anxiety, may actually have longer reaching benefits, lowering the risk of depression and anxiety for up to 10 years after pregnancy, according to the findings of a small observational study.
—BMJ Open
SURGERY OR CAST FOR ANKLE FRACTURES?
Wearing a cast for six weeks appears to be no less effective than surgery for healing unstable ankle fractures. Around two-thirds of all ankle fractures involve a break in the fibula— the outer ankle bone. Known as Weber B fractures, they may leave the ankle unstable, increasing the risk of misalignment. Surgery remains the main treatment for Weber B unstable ankle fractures, despite recent trials and guidelines supporting non-surgical options in certain patients.
—The BMJ
Natural ovulation before frozen embryo transfer is as effective as hormone treatment for achieving a healthy baby by vitro fertilization (IVF), finds a recent clinical trial. And it’s also linked to a lower risk of complications for the mother, such as pre-eclampsia (abnormally high blood pressure).
—The BMJ
—Compiled by Paul
Rance Jr.
—The BMJ
LIFE IN AN AGE OF STRESS
A CONSTANT DIET OF WORRISOME GLOBAL HEADLINES CAN BE AN ACTUAL HEALTH HAZARD. HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO BEAT IT.
Sarah Fajgenbaum Teslja, M.D., psychiatrist, Integrative Psychiatric Services
Do you find yourself taking on “the weight of the world”? These days it’s hard not to. Worry over society’s troubles, large and small, can follow us into the kitchen as we unload the dishwasher—linger in the traffic on Highway 22—hum quietly while we answer emails. The headlines may be global—politics, economics, climate—but the stress they generate often shows up in highly personal ways: irritability with a partner, difficulty sleeping, muscle tension or headaches.
This layering of stress is increasingly common, according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA). There is big-picture, or macro-level, stress—the strain of societal uncertainty—and then there are the routine pressures of deadlines, bills, family logistics and packed calendars. In a 2025 APA poll, more than two-thirds of respondents cited current events, personal safety and financial concerns as significant contributors to their anxiety.
“Humans are hard-wired for connection,” says Sarah Fajgenbaum-Teslja, M.D., a board-certified psychiatrist at Integrative Psychiatric Services in Montclair. “Our species evolved in tight-knit groups where what happened to other group members affected everyone’s chances of survival. Because of this, we naturally respond to such stories with emotion.”
Large-scale events can feel acutely personal, even when they do not directly alter day-to-day routines. From a neurobiological standpoint, humans are designed to detect and respond to threat. When the broader social or economic environment feels unstable, the body may activate a stress response similar to that triggered by more immediate dangers. Heart rate increases. Patience diminishes. Minor inconveniences can feel disproportionate.
“We live in an increasingly interconnected world,” Dr. Fajgenbaum-Teslja explains. “Even when an event doesn’t immediately affect us, we may intuitively sense that it could shape the future—social norms, policies, economic conditions or cultural attitudes—so we feel emotionally invested.”
One clinical indicator that macro-level anxiety is spilling into everyday life is when we overreact emotionally. A routine work email may feel catastrophic. A minor household oversight may spark frustration. Continuous exposure to news cycles and social media can further amplify this response, keeping the sympathetic nervous system activated well beyond the initial trigger.
WOE IS US!
Are things worse than ever? Objectively, the answer is clearly no. Americans are deeply divided, but we wouldn’t trade places with the Civil War generation in that respect. Financial troubles afflict some of us, but not like the Great Depression. There is monstrous evil in the
world, but what about the evil our grandparents faced— and some of them died to combat—in World War II?
Still, never before have we all been so constantly bombarded with troubling reports, as a hypercompetitive media world rewards and prioritizes the shrill and alarming, while the internet and social media amplify up-to-the-minute news accounts with grievances, conspiracy theories and half-substantiated, sensational scare stories. And it’s all within quick reach on our phones.
Staying informed matters, but so does protecting our mental bandwidth.
Try setting intentional limits to media consumption. Many apps, for example, can be programmed to monitor usage and duration. Consider banning the use of social media and the scrolling of news sources an hour before bed at night and an hour after waking up in the morning.
“Being selective about our news sources can help us stay informed while avoiding sensational, stressprovoking content,” Dr. Fajgenbaum-Teslja says. “Studies show that television and social media may be more triggering than other news sources. Social media is constantly vying for our attention, so we must be very intentional about when we use it. Turning off notifications can be helpful along with setting strict techfree times every day, such as mealtimes, during work and at bedtime. Some of my patients have invested in ‘bricks’, which restrict access to social media apps, while others have removed social media apps altogether.”
Another useful cognitive strategy involves distinguishing between concern and control. Asking, “Is this something I can directly influence?” helps clarify where energy is best directed. When the answer is no, channeling concern into small, meaningful action—volunteering locally, donating, helping a neighbor or engaging in constructive dialogue—can restore a sense of support. Perceived control is strongly associated with reduced anxiety and improved emotional regulation.
TOOLS FOR ACUTE STRESS
When stress escalates, simple physiological interventions can interrupt the cycle. Slow, paced breathing—such as inhaling for four counts and exhaling for six—activates the parasympathetic nervous system, signaling safety to the body.
Over the long term, foundational health behaviors play a central role in resilience. Adequate sleep, regular physical movement and consistent, face-to-face social interaction expand the “window of tolerance”—the range in which individuals can experience stress without becoming overwhelmed.
“Good sleep, exercise and social connection play a critical role in building our resilience to stress, but
there are many other helpful things we can do too,” our expert says. “During the pandemic, researchers in Spain surveyed thousands of adults and found that two-thirds of them reported anxiety or depressive symptoms. However, those who limited their exposure to COVID-related news and tried to eat healthy, along with pursuing hobbies and more time outdoors, were likely to experience less stress.”
WHEN TO SEEK SUPPORT
While stress is a normal physiological response, persistent or escalating symptoms warrant attention. Ongoing sleep disruption (getting too much or too little sleep), irritability, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating or recurrent physical complaints— such as headaches or gastrointestinal discomfort— may signal that additional support would be beneficial.
Reaching out for support is proactive healthcare. It’s important to talk with trusted friends or family about how you’re feeling. But if stress begins to impair your ability to function day to day—whether at work, at home or in your relationships—that’s a clear signal it’s time to seek professional guidance.
“If chronic stress keeps the ‘fight or flight’ response engaged in the long term, the results can be severely damaging: high blood pressure, heart disease, weakened immunity, chronic inflammation, cognitive changes, digestive issues and mental health disorders,” Dr. Fajgenbaum-Teslja says. “According to Harvard experts, the specific health risks of doomscrolling can include gastrointestinal problems, headaches, muscle tension, neck and shoulder pain, low appetite, difficulty sleeping and even elevated blood pressure.”
Ironically, stress often prompts withdrawal, even though social connection is one of the strongest buffers against anxiety. Reaching out need not be elaborate. A brief walk, a phone call or a shared cup of coffee can reinforce stability and belonging.
Community engagement—particularly helping others—also reinforces purpose, which improves psychological well-being, according to the American Journal of Public Health
The broader world may remain unpredictable. However, individual routines and interpersonal interactions still offer opportunities for regulation and steadiness. While we cannot control the headlines, we can influence how we respond. Look for positive news, for instance, Dr. Fajgenbaum-Teslja says.
“Focusing on what’s happening in our local community can reduce our sense of hopelessness. Local news tends to be less negative, and we can make a difference in our own community through volunteer work and activism.”
GRANDKIDS GALORE
When you think of empty nesters “downsizing,” how many bedrooms do you envision? For the owners of a West Orange townhome, the right answer was five.
Design by Molly Miller, Molly Miller Interiors
Photography by Aimee Ryan Text by Donna Rolando
The cheerful radiance of yellow connects a West Orange townhome’s bright new kitchen with a family room whose relaxed tone makes it a favorite haunt for grandkids. (There are six of them who come visit.)
When the spirit of change hit a couple of Montclair empty nesters, the metamorphosis had to be complete. Not only were they ready to trade their 100-plus-year-old colonial for a West Orange townhome, but they also welcomed an exodus from traditional décor to a new chapter in life.
“We lived in Montclair for many, many years in a large, older home, and it was now time to downsize,” says one of the homeowners, recalling what brought her and her husband to The Pointe at Crystal Lake. “I loved my house, but I said, ‘I’m going into something new and I want it to be a totally different vibe.’” While offering a simpler lifestyle—no yardwork, for example—this “downsize” left them with five bedrooms for family and friends.
Relaxation springs, the homeowner says, from the bright and airy design Molly Miller of the eponymous Maplewood firm completed in the spring of 2022, with a twist on traditional décor. “We kind of gave everything a facelift,” Miller recalls, “and it really transformed this beige box with fake maple-veneer cabinets and black countertops and black appliances into a more sophisticated and airy space.”
No more maple. The kitchen’s gutjob renovation brought creamy Shaker cabinets from Omega with a textured Zellige backsplash by Nemo Tile in dual sizes for added interest. Chosen for durability, Caesarstone quartz counters mimic marble, and Italian Ultra Slate is really porcelain flooring by Wayne Tile.
At the homeowners’ first big island, cone-shaped, polished-nickel pendants by Visual Comfort join navy-blue woven stools by Ballard Designs, which Miller describes as “grandchild-proof.” The stainless-steel hood by XO fits more cabinetry, which ties in with Miller’s
This page: The kitchen’s creamy Shaker cabinets stretch to the ceiling to optimize storage, as per the family’s wish list. Opposite: Adorned with nail heads, the dining room’s blue chairs are more than eye candy; their footprint seats the entire gang during the couple’s many gatherings.
mission: creating storage in a small footprint. Using “every square inch of space” meant reducing an oversized doorway, stretching cabinetry to the ceiling and maximizing island storage.
“I even have cabinets I haven’t used yet,” says the homeowner, an avid cook who values the “great workspace.”
With a burst of yellow from a runner, the kitchen connects visually to the family room, as Miller spreads this “happy color” to a favorite TV spot. Naturally, the couch by Restoration Hardware had to offer what she calls “the ultimate in comfort and relaxation,” joining a blue, softly upholstered ottoman and a John Robshaw fabric chair. Pro tip: Miller used custom pillows from brands like Schumacher for a “layered and unique feel.” The flatweave rug from Annie Selke is a fun mix of blue and zigzag stripes.
The dining room is as much about style as it is about accommodating three adult children, their spouses and their six kids. Brass nail heads and a diamond pattern wow the chairs by GJ Styles/ Kravet, whose slim yet comfortable profile fits the entire gang. The RH textured-grain table features two extension leaves, and its farmhouse style is elevated by other design elements, like the simple Thomas O’Brien lighting with a bronze finish echoed in the curtain rods. Above the oak console by GJ Styles, a new color is introduced: earthy green in Soicher Marin prints. Throughout her design, Miller was mindful that the living and dining rooms “needed to work together seamlessly and still feel like separate spaces.” Rugs can clash, but the dining room’s taupe Oushak “plays nicely” with the living room’s rug, both by Lulu and Georgia and offers wool—nature’s performance fabric. In addition, floral and striped draperies by Lee Jofa span a shared wall
This page: Highlights of the living room include a roughly 55-inch-square coffee table, an Absolute Black Granite fireplace and a blue striped rug. Opposite: To offset a double-height ceiling, Miller used patterns, texture and extra-tall draperies.
in a neutral elegance, extra tall to soften the double-height ceiling.
Before Miller’s wave of the wand, she says the living room was “an empty, huge, soaring box in beige.” The springboard for change, she says, was Benjamin Moore’s Paper White with a hint of blue. The right shade was key, as this room opens to several others.
“To make this huge box feel warm and cozy and inviting, we have a pair of Maiden Home sofas upholstered in a medium-blue performance fabric, and it’s all grounded by a really large, wool, striped rug,” she says. Rounding out the scene are a lacquered, grasscloth coffee table by Century, a Moroccan tea table and Ferrick Mason swivel chairs. Since the former fireplace “was not our cup of tea,” Miller shook things up with an Absolute Black Granite surround and beveled mantel. She balanced the artwork with a
Tyler Guinn abstract (immense to offset the room’s height), a Susan Hable/Soicher Marin print for the fireplace and original art-fair finds.
Envisioning the master bedroom as an oasis, Miller blanketed the floors in cushy, cut-pile carpet by Stark Carpet and the walls with Benjamin Moore’s Pale Smoke for a light and airy effect. She layered textiles on the RH king-sized bed, its Perennials Fabric headboard dotted with antique brass. Dark-stained bedside tables from Woodbridge Furniture embrace ceramic and silk lamps from Arteriors, while the sitting area is refreshed with a Rebecca Atwood weave. The result is “totally different than what I had before, but it works,” says the homeowner. “I have good feelings when I come into my home. I love the colors.”
This page: From the cushy carpet to the fabric headboard, the bedroom is a true oasis. Opposite: The expansive windows cried out for the right curtains, a pinch-pleat floral by Colefax & Fowler Miller placed below the arch and paired with polished nickel. Given the size of those windows, motorized blackout roller shades fell into the realm of necessity.
THE PRESSURE ON MOM
FOR A DESIGNER, A LIVINGSTON RENOVATION PRESENTED AESTHETIC AND FUNCTIONAL ISSUES—PLUS THE CHALLENGE OF PLEASING A CLIENT WHO WAS FAMILY.
Design by Amy Greenberg
Photography by Marisa Pellegrini
Text by Richard Laliberte
Amy Greenberg considers a recent renovation in the Bel Air neighborhood of Livingston one of the toughest projects of her career. It wasn’t style or structural issues that daunted the founder, president and head designer at Mason Barrister Inc. of Cedar Grove. It was that the client was her daughter.
This unusual situation “felt like more pressure on me,” says the designer. “If my daughter and her husband didn’t like what I did, it could be a problem. Everything is a bigger deal when it’s family.”
Her daughter, Jaime Glazer, was mindful of the tension. She thinks her mom “was worried about letting us down because she thought we’d talk about it forever. We’d all have to live with the results.”
For a designer, of course, these relationships can be tricky even when you haven’t given birth to your client. Greenberg had to toe a fine line between confidence in her own vision and deference to the homeowners. But Glazer and her husband, Josh, with their two boys, ages 7 and 10, relied on Greenberg’s experience and ideas, and benefited from having a designer who knew their family intimately.
“It was tough because we didn’t know what we wanted and
In the kitchen of a renovated Livingston home, a kid-friendly island now features freezer/fridge drawers from Signature Kitchen Suite along with additional storage and a microwave oven.
didn’t have a clear vision,” Glazer says. “She helped talk it through and get us where we wanted to be. She was able to think of things we wouldn’t have.”
Glazer’s husband occupied a middle ground. “He tried not to be involved—but also to be involved so we didn’t go crazy,” Glazer says with a laugh.
The project, which was completed in 2022 with G&D Contractors of Whippany, focused on the outdated kitchen in the home the couple had bought in 2019. Some of the family’s favorite features developed from Greenberg’s strong ideas about what needed to change. “The whole kitchen layout was terrible,” Greenberg says. Front and center was an island with an awkward triangular shape. “The kids had to climb to reach whatever was on the counter,” Greenberg says. “It was dangerous.”
Tandem enlargement of adjoining laundry and mudroom areas led Greenberg to suggest structural changes, including the removal of a
guest room, a butler pantry and a support column. “I knew what I wanted to do, and that column had to go,” Greenberg says. “We had to put a beam in the ceiling, and that was a little pricey—but it made the kitchen.”
The butler pantry became a wine refrigerator, flanked by new, floor-to-ceiling glassware cabinetry that makes innovative use of the space beside and behind the oven, all fronted by black-stained oak with a visible grain.
In a new, rectangular island, a Signature Kitchen Suite unit provides fridge and freezer drawers that can be switched with a setting and are easy for kids to reach. The designer “had specific suggestions knowing we had two small children,” Glazer says. “In the morning, when the boys want their frozen pancakes, they can help themselves. That helps them feel more independent, which we like as well.” An easily accessible microwave oven is also built into the island, and other kid-friendly
This page: Removing a pantry allowed the addition of a wine fridge and glassware cabinet. Opposite: Designer Amy Greenberg used a mix of materials, including cabinets of walnut, black-stained oak and mushroom-colored lacquer by Frank’s Custom Cabinets in Paterson; floor tile from Ideal Tile in Fairfield; quartzite counters from Everest Marble in Clifton, fabricated by Arena Granite & Marble in Passaic; and backsplash tile from Mediterranean Tile in Fairfield.
drawers hold plates. Bar seats have sturdy backs, feature easily cleaned vinyl—and don’t swivel, to minimize horseplay.
The kitchen’s main refrigerator and freezer hide behind two of several walnut panels along one wall. Panels open and close by pressing, so no handles break up the warm, sleek surface. Two middle panels pivot and slide back into pockets, revealing a coffee bar with shelves and distinctive tile. The tile is mirrored in a bar station with a sink near the wine fridge and glassware cabinet.
“We love how she did the coffee bar,” Glazer says. “It looks really nice with the doors closed. She knew things personal to us that help,” she adds, so that the kitchen “doesn’t look like a disaster when people come over.”
The couple had general notions about style. “At the time, everybody had white and gray, and we wanted something a bit different,” Glazer says. “We wanted a mix of light and dark.” Greenberg’s blend of materials
includes not only the intermingling of walnut, black oak and tile on different vertical surfaces but also counters of white-streaked black quartzite, light floor tile and some cabinets of mushroom-colored lacquer.
“We just wanted to enjoy the look and feel, and we landed on something that feels very calming and more like us,” Glazer says.
The mother-daughter collaboration turned out to be surprisingly smooth. “We trusted her and didn’t stress about anything,” Glazer says of her designer mom. After all, she grew up watching and sometimes helping her mother in the design profession, traveling with Greenberg to trade shows and even working for Mason Barrister with her husband during one summer in college. “I like to work on things with her,” Glazer explains.
In retrospect, it looks as if everything is indeed a bigger deal when it’s family—including one’s pleasure in a successful result. Says Glazer: “I can’t think of anything I would change.”
This page: A wet bar near the wine fridge mirrors the kitchen’s hideaway coffee bar, which is revealed by opening pocket doors that pivot back into the wall. Opposite: Functionality was the key to design choices throughout the kitchen, including chairs from Costantini Pietro that feature wipeable vinyl and sturdy backs. Greenberg opted for non-swivel seats to discourage horseplay by the family’s two boys.
CARIBBEAN QUEEN
ONCE PURELY TRADITIONAL, A MAPLEWOOD CAPE COD
TOOK ON A TROPICAL VIBE WHEN TRANSFORMED BY A STORM(S).
Design by Sarah Storms
Photography by Aimee Ryan
Text by Nayda Rondon
A Cape Cod colonial doesn’t typically whisper palm fronds and ocean breezes. But step inside this 1929 Maplewood home and a transformative story unfolds. What was once a stolidly traditional house now hums with color, pattern and personality, thanks to designer Sarah Storms of Maplewood-based Styled by Storms, who wove Caribbean soul and contemporary charm into every room.
“My clients wanted something contemporary, colorful and deeply personal,” says Storms. Newly returned to the East Coast after a decade in California’s Bay Area, the homeowners bought the 3,000-square-
Last year, a Maplewood Cape Cod underwent a daring but tasteful transformation. In the living room, subtle architectural tweaks made a major impact. Built-ins were adjusted to accommodate the wife’s record player and vinyls, shelves were enclosed with new doors to mirror the adjacent cabinetry and crown molding was added.
foot, four-bedroom, four-bath house in fall 2024. Storms—whom they discovered on Instagram—was the first through the door after closing. “The house was truly a blank slate,” she recalls. “It had great bones and had been well loved, but was ready for a new chapter.”
Through travel-inspired choices, Caribbean references tied to the wife’s heritage and an enthusiastic embrace of color, Storms crafted a vibrant narrative. Rather than altering the architecture, she amplified the existing layout, reimagining the entire first floor—save for the powder room—from foyer and dining room to kitchen, living room and game room.
A unifying wash of Benjamin Moore
Cloud White now bathes the once-muted interiors, illuminating them like tropical light after a passing rain, creating a crisp canvas on which layered elements shine.
Handled with intention and restraint, pattern and color flow seamlessly from room to room. “Pattern layering is a tricky thing to get right,” Storms notes. “There has to be variation in scale, pattern type or weave, but also a through line of color and texture.”
Comfort and performance were equally prominent, especially as the couple welcomed a baby during the project. Rugs throughout are pure wool. “It cleans easily, has natural antimicrobial properties and lasts,” says the designer. Upholstery and accent fabrics follow suit, chosen as much for durability as beauty.
Wallpaper sets the emotional tone. In the foyer, a Pierre Frey design that abounds in tropical flowers, animals and botanicals immediately signals that this is no ordinary colonial.
The game room embraces whimsy with Pierre Frey’s Jardins Parisiens, an imaginative design inspired by the Tuileries
This page: A faux horn sideboard imparts organic warmth; the vase with tropical fronds adds to the island feel. Opposite: A cherished, client-owned ballerina photograph by Mark Clennon inspired the dining room’s color story. Around it, the designer layered a white oak dining table and chairs with rattan-woven accents. Embracing the home’s entertainmentfriendly spirit, the table expands from a four-person round to an eight-seater oval.
This page: An underused corner of the living room transforms into a favorite perch. The existing built-in book cabinet was refreshed in warm white, while a wall-mounted gold lamp by Pooky Lighting adds a metallic accent and a movable ottoman offers extra seating. Opposite: In the sunny game room, island greens, beachy blues and collected art create a Caribbean rhythm that’s part getaway, part gallery and all easy elegance.
Garden and also featuring playful surprises such as ice cream cones and T-rex skeletons. “It’s kind of silly and fun to discover the elements,” Storms says.
Further enlivening the space, framed pieces like the limited-edition Nina print from Chambers Austelle Art create an artful gallery wall. A Made Goods game table is paired with blue leather Coley Home chairs trimmed in yellow velvet cording, alongside a CR Laine armchair upholstered in Old World Weavers yellow velvet. A Visual Comfort chandelier adds polish, while a Jaipur Living rug and woven wood shades by R. Garner Custom Designs impart textural warmth.
Enjoying the home’s best natural light, this bonus game room was designed to flex with the rhythms of daily life. “We wanted this room to be where you sat with your morning coffee and book, as well as where you played games or entertained,” says Storms. Blue swivel chairs on casters glide into conversation groupings or adjacent rooms whenever extra seating is needed, reinforcing an aesthetic rooted in adaptability and ease.
That same philosophy carries into the living room, where comfort, durability and beauty seamlessly intertwine. Layered with bespoke pillows in Walter G and Lewis & Wood linens, a custom CR Laine sofa upholstered in Romo fabric offers stylish seating, Flexible seating continues with a CR Laine swivel chair in Christopher
Farr fabric and a Palecek accent chair in Pollack bouclé, both chosen for their tactile appeal and everyday resilience. A Dovetail teak root coffee table and Bernhardt side tables provide balance, while custom ottoman side tables in Walter G linen introduce a lively blue print. An Accent Decor animal head lends personality and the original fireplace—freshly whitewashed—is topped with a Made Goods mirror. Steph
Brooke Studio’s Native Iris commands one wall. Below, a wall-hung media console, custom-made from reclaimed black walnut from Irvington-based Real Antique Wood, adds rich craftsmanship. Decorative plates from Anthropologie and West Elm, a Jaipur Living rug and custom shades complete the space.
In the dining room, an Arhaus table is surrounded by chairs custom-upholstered in Peter Dunham Textiles fabric, all set atop a custom Missoni area rug. Overhead, a Currey & Company chandelier has a sculptural presence. Client-owned photography personalizes the walls, and a Made Goods side server—styled with tropical fronds and topped with a Regina Andrew mirror—reinforces the home’s collected, travel-inspired spirit.
Started in January 2025 and completed in May, the project progressed with ease. “The house came to life beautifully, stage by stage,” says Storms. “What was once dim and neutral is now bright, layered and exuberantly joyful.”
FLOWER POWER ESCAPES
Why not celebrate springtime—and behold beauty—by visiting a botanical garden?
Spring is always joyous, but let’s be honest: This one is a particular relief, after an unusually cold winter and lots of stubborn, lingering snow. We’ve never been more ready to enjoy the sunshine, step into the warming air and celebrate new growth and outdoor beauty—and where better to do that than a garden?
You may already be plotting out colors and picking annuals for your own spring planting and landscaping, or planning a visit to one of our scenic local parks. But you also can venture out of Morris and Essex and check out one of our area’s celebrated botanical and formal gardens. Happily, these five are within a short drive:
NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN, NEW YORK, N.Y.
Within one of the most famous urban landscapes in the country is this cultivated oasis, which bills itself as a “plant museum, a center for learning and a plant science leader.” Located in the Bronx, it’s about an hour’s drive from our counties, if you don’t hit traffic (but we all know you should plan for traffic). The garden boasts roughly 250 acres, and at its heart is the Thain Family Forest, one of the last existing remnants of the original woodland that covered what is now New York City before the arrival of European settlers. Its trees are centuries old. In the spring, of course, crab apple and cherry trees are in full pink splendor, but don’t skip out on the stunning ornamental conifers, which take on a yellow-green hue this time of year. The indoor Enid A. Haupt Conservatory also gathers plants from all around the world. On display now? “The Orchid Show: Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle,” in which orchids collide with concrete in a dazzling display that reimagines the Big Apple. Beyond the blooms. NYBG offers near-constant events and programming, so there’s always something to do or something new to learn. Keep an eye out for lectures and Q&As from orchid experts throughout April, in addition to book talks, guided walks and guest speakers. Outside the garden, you’re a stone’s throw from Arthur Avenue’s famous Little Italy for incredible food, history and culture (including Mario’s, considered the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the Bronx). For even more nature, you’re minutes away from the Bronx Zoo, filled with animals from near and far. More information: nybg.org
NEW JERSEY BOTANICAL GARDEN, RINGWOOD, N.J.
In Ringwood State Park, about an hour from Morris and Essex, you’ll find the Garden State’s official botanical garden. Originally part of the historic Skylands estate, NY Botanical Gardens trustee Clarence MacKenzie Lewis purchased the site in 1922 as his summer home. The facility was commissioned in 1984, and today includes 96 acres of beautifully curated flowers for you to explore as you wander. The stunning Italianate Gardens is a must-see, with an octagon pool topped with classically inspired statues surrounded by a “magnolia walk,” which is lined with sweet bay magnolias that don’t usually thrive this far north. Other spring standouts include the lilac gardens, filled with the sweet smells of those blooms, and the Crab Apple Allée, which comes to life in the spring.
Beyond the blooms. Outdoor pleasures take center stage, and what a time to enjoy them— Ringwood State Park is filled with sights and sounds of the season. Easy, family-friendly hikes can take you past babbling brooks, serene lakes and budding trees (make sure you pause for photo ops). If historical buildings capture your imagination, stop by the gardens on select Sundays to tour the interior of the 44-guest room, Tudor Revival Skylands Manor, guided by an expert. For the more adventurous, the nearby Monksville Reservoir is a popular spot for kayaking. A bite to eat to close out your day? Try Artemio’s Prime and Proper for white-tablecloth Italian elegance, or the retro Lakeside Diner for more casual fare.
More information: njbg.org
UNTERMYER GARDENS, YONKERS, N.Y.
Once part of lawyer and civic leader Samuel Untermyer’s estate, this 43-acre space is truly transportive, known for an Indo-Persian-inspired design that includes a walled garden, an openair amphitheater and Ionic columns. It’s about an hour from Morris and Essex, and its location offers even more of a visual feast—it’s situated on a steep bank overlooking the Hudson, with fantastic views of the river and the Palisades.
The gardens had fallen into disrepair until a restoration project started in 2011 returned them to their former glory. Stroll the blooming rhododendron walk or take in the “Temple of Love,” an extended rock garden with terraced beds topped with a round temple. Beyond the blooms. If seeing the gardens has you craving the full estate experience, head to nearby Tarrytown and check out the Lyndhurst Mansion, a Gothic Revival country house filled with Gilded Age glamour and local history. (The annual Spring Crafts Market with more than 200 artisans and craftsmen kicks off May 1.) Stop by the Hudson River Museum on weekends and be transported out of this world with planetarium shows that show off our solar system. Want dinner with a view? Stop by Harvest on Hudson for Mediterranean fare and waterfront dining that faces the sunset. More information: untermyergardens.org
ELIZABETH PARK CONSERVANCY, HARTFORD, CONN.
About two-and-a-half hours from our counties, the 102 acres of these grounds and formal gardens, open to the public since 1897, are known for the early spring greenhouse shows. Here you’ll also find the Helen S. Kaman Rose Garden, America’s oldest municipal rose garden. Though those blooms won’t reach their full majesty until June, you’ll find much to love in the meantime—bright yellow daffodils bring the formal gardens to life, and the Robert A. Prill Tulip Garden features more than 11,000 of those flowers in every color of the rainbow. The perennial garden features a sprawling pergola where you can catch some shade, and the Sunrise Overlook and East Lawn sits on one of the highest peaks in Hartford, offering a stunning view of the city, the trees and the flowers in harmony.
Beyond the blooms. Rich in history and landmarks and with a thriving food culture, Connecticut’s capital offers much to explore. To sharpen your acquaintance with perhaps America’s greatest author, The Mark Twain House & Museum is a must. (And there are grounds and gardens to explore there too, if you’re itching for more horticulture.) Also worth a visit is the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, which has extensive collections of European Baroque and ancient Egyptian pieces. For a unique food experience, West Hartford’s GastroPark is an indoor/outdoor experience that merges an everchanging spread of food trucks with a top-notch selection of cocktails, craft beer and wine for a sampling of Hartford’s best. More information: elizabethparkct.org
LONGWOOD GARDENS, KENNETT SQUARE, PA.
Approximately two-and-a-half hours from Morris and Essex is a garden that should be on every horticultural enthusiast’s bucket list. Sprawling over 1,100 acres, it’s filled with both indoor and outdoor attractions—something is always in full bloom at Longwood. The 12,500-square-foot Bonsai Courtyard, filled with beautiful trees, is a sight in the spring months, filled with pink cherry blossoms and azaleas. The Large and Small Lake gardens are lined with bright daffodils and new greenery. The Italian Water Garden is an ode to architecture and symmetry, with 600 water jets and views of six pools and 12 pedestal basins. For a less formal experience, see the Meadow Garden, with expansive vistas and sweeps of stunning native plants, all coming to life in the April sunshine.
Beyond the blooms. Longwood also offers many classes and hands-on experiences, all carefully curated to the season. On April 18, for instance, learn about (and maybe catch a glimpse of) migrating birds and hear a lecture on spring foraging and local edible plants.
Outside of the garden, Kennett Square is a lively suburb with much of the vibe of nearby Philadelphia without the city’s frenetic pace. Every other Friday, the Kennett Square Farmers Market comes alive, rain or shine, filled with local goods, farmers and artisans. Also close is Braeloch Brewing, a bustling local taproom and craft brewery with an industrial aesthetic and an expansive menu of both food and sips. (Particularly tempting and popular are the slushies made with house hard lemonade.)
—Kirsten Meehan
TASTES
Surprise Inside
These dishes are stuffed, flavorful and impossible to resist. Who knew spring produce could be this indulgent?
LEMON RICOTTA ASPARAGUS RAVIOLI
Yields 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed
1 cup fresh basil
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup roasted pistachios, shelled juice and zest of 2 lemons kosher salt and pepper
40-50 circle or square wonton wrappers
White Wine Butter Sauce
4 Tbs. salted butter
2 Tbs. chives, chopped
1 Tbs. fresh thyme, chopped
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1 cup low sodium chicken broth pinch of crushed red pepper
DIRECTIONS
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and blanch until just tender, about 1-2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a food processor, combine 3/4 of the asparagus (reserve the remaining for serving), the basil, ricotta, Parmesan, pistachios, lemon zest and juice, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Pulse until combined and smooth.
Lay out about 6 wrappers. Spoon 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of each wrapper. Brush the edges with water. Lay a second wrapper on top of each ravioli. Press down the edges to seal, pressing out all the air. Crimp the edges with a fork. Alternately you can create triangles with the square wrappers if desired. Be sure to keep the raviolis covered as you work to prevent them from drying out.
To make the butter sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chives and thyme and cook 30 seconds to a minute or until fragrant. Pour in the wine and chicken broth and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Cook 5 minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Boil the ravioli in batches for 1-2 minutes or until they float. Drain.
Divide the ravioli among bowls and ladle the sauce over the ravioli. Top with the remaining asparagus.
“Asparagus is rich in fiber, folate and antioxidants, which supports digestion, heart health and overall immune function. For those people avoiding gluten, remember that traditional wonton wrappers contain wheat. You can substitute them for thinly sliced zucchini!”
—Sara Rivera, registered dietitian, Whole Nutrition Center, Rockaway
¹/³ cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream or canned full-fat coconut milk
4 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
DIRECTIONS
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain onto a paper towel. Add the broccoli and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the broccoli is crisping on the edges, 3 to 4 minutes. Toss the broccoli, add the olive oil and cook another 2-3 minutes, until crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet to a plate.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, cooking until the butter begins to brown, about 3-4 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the garlic, oregano, thyme and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Cook one minute, then pour in the wine. Simmer 2-3 minutes. Add the cream and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook 5 minutes, until thickened slightly. Stir in the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Toss in the tortellini and cook 2-3 minutes, then remove from the heat.
Divide the tortellini between plates and top with charred broccoli and bacon. Eat and enjoy immediately.
“Broccoli contains compounds called glucosinolates, which the body converts into diindolylmethane (DIM). DIM supports healthy estrogen metabolism, which may help promote hormone balance. Including cruciferous vegetables like broccoli in your diet can be a simple, natural way to support overall hormonal health.”
—Sara Rivera, registered dietitian, Whole Nutrition Center, Rockaway
SHAKE IT UP!
Toast to longer days and sunnier moods with this refreshing, herb-kissed sip.
CUCUMBER GIN FIZZ
Makes: 2 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 oz. cucumber infused gin
2 oz. triple sec
soda water
2 cucumber ice cubes
2 slices of cucumber, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add the cucumber infused gin and triple sec and shake for 10 seconds. Pour into a chilled martini glass. Add a cucumber ice cube and top up with soda water. Garnish with a slice of cucumber.
MORRIS COUNTY IS HOME TO SOME OF THE MOST SEASONED AND TALENTED REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS IN THE COUNTRY.
To help readers find the best agents to work with, Morris & Essex magazine contracted DataJoe Research of Boulder, Colorado to facilitate a multi-faceted research campaign. It consisted of an online survey delivered directly to agents across Morris County via email as well as internet research. In the survey, real estate agents were asked to provide sales volume ranges and also nominate their peers. In the internet campaign, DataJoe consulted a variety of websites to build richer knowledge of individual licensed real estate agents across the county.
DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at the time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If they were not able to find evidence of a real estate agent’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that real estate agent was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied results to Morris & Essex magazine for final review.
We recognize that there are many good real estate agents who are not shown on the representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the county.
BOONTON
GLEN BAKER
RE/MAX Select 518 Main St. Boonton, NJ 07005
973-727-8539 | 973-200-4800
CHATHAM
KAREN TORRENTE
Coldwell Banker Realty
205 Main St. Chatham, NJ 07928
973-476-7100 | 973-635-8200
MARY T. WEICHERT
Weichert Realtors 64 Main St. Chatham, NJ 07928
201-532-0788 | 973-635-5000
CHESTER
DEBRA BURKE
Coldwell Banker Realty
191 Main St., Suite 2 Chester, NJ 07930
201-230-4725 | 908-879-4900
FLANDERS
VICKI O’LEARY
RE/MAX Heritage Properties
293 Route 206 North Flanders, NJ 07836
973-598-1700 | 973-598-1700
FLORHAM PARK
TRACEY FRANCO
Coldwell Banker Realty 49 Main St. Madison, NJ 07940
JAVIER MILLAN Realty Executives 419 Route 10 East Randolph, NJ 07869 973-390-5361 | 973-598-1200
ROCKAWAY
TERESA DRAPCZUK
Century 21 Christel Realty 165 E. Main St. Rockaway, NJ 07866 609-220-0933 | 973-627-6800
NICOLE FLETCHER RE/MAX Select 20 W. Main St. Rockaway, NJ 07866 973-934-9095 | 973-625-0450
OLGA TSIAVOS RE/MAX Select 20 W. Main St. Rockaway, NJ 07866 973-219-5102 | 973-625-0450
SUSAN WADLEIGH Exit Classic Realty 1 Bank St. Rockaway, NJ 07866 201-936-8804 | 973-386-9900
SUCCASUNNA
ORIE FISCHETTI RE/MAX Town & Valley II 211 Route 10 East Succasunna, NJ 07876 973-229-0022 | 973-598-1008
RICK RUOTOLO RE/MAX Town & Valley II 211 Route 10 East Succasunna, NJ 07876 973-723-7777 | 973-598-1008
TOWACO
ERIC FUNK
Century 21 The Crossing 8 Whitehall Rd. Towaco, NJ 07082 551-587-2359 | 973-227-7000
WASHINGTON
MARK DUKE
ERA Duke Realtors 304 E. Washington Ave. Washington, NJ 07882 908-689-3500 | 908-689-3500
ESSEX COUNTY IS HOME TO SOME OF THE MOST SEASONED AND TALENTED REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS IN THE COUNTRY. To help readers find the best agents to work with, Morris & Essex magazine contracted DataJoe Research of Boulder, Colorado to facilitate a multi-faceted research campaign. It consisted of an online survey delivered directly to agents across Essex County via email as well as internet research. In the survey, real estate agents were asked to provide sales volume ranges and also nominate their peers. In the internet campaign, DataJoe consulted a variety of websites to build richer knowledge of individual licensed real estate agents across the county.
DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at the time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If they were not able to find evidence of a real estate agent’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that real estate agent was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied results to Morris & Essex magazine for final review.
We recognize that there are many good real estate agents who are not shown on the representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the county.
Realty Executives International 653 Franklin Ave. Nutley, NJ 07110 862-228-0554 | 973-846-0065
SHORT HILLS
SUE ADLER
Keller Williams Realty of Short Hills 518 Millburn Ave. Short Hills, NJ 07078 973-936-9129 | 973-376-0033
MUKTA BHATIA
Coldwell Banker Realty 545 Millburn Ave. Short Hills, NJ 07078 551-580-1182 | 973-376-5200
JILL MARDER BIRNBERG
Prominent Properties
Sotheby’s International Realty 555 Millburn Ave. Short Hills, NJ 07078
973-723-9888 | 973-376-8188
PETER DECICCO
Compass 1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078
973-420-4401 | 973-310-6816
SARITTE HAREL
Keller Williams Realty | The Saritte Harel Team 518 Millburn Ave.
Short Hills, NJ 07078
973-713-9464
VICTORIA HELLER
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 917-450-8358 | 973-310-6816
STAN KAY
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 908-209-4615 | 973-310-6816
LISA LANG
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 973-951-5729 | 973-310-6816
JEN LIEBERMAN
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 973-477-2301 | 973-310-6816
LARA LIQUORI
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 973-382-5386 | 973-310-6816
SUSAN PENNEY PARSELLS
Prominent Properties Sotheby’s International Realty
555 Millburn Ave.
Short Hills, NJ 07078 973-495-7921 | 973-376-8188
VISHAL PODDAR
Keller Williams Realty | The Saritte Harel Team 518 Millburn Ave. Short Hills, NJ 07078 646-589-2762 | 973-713-9464
DEBBIE RYBKA HOWARD
Coldwell Banker Realty 545 Millburn Ave. Short Hills, NJ 07078 908-591-4886 | 973-376-5200
ELYSE WOLFE
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 201-704-7747 | 973-310-6816
XIAOXING ZHAO
Compass
1200 Morris Tpke., Suite 3005
Short Hills, NJ 07078 908-868-3372 | 973-310-6816
MEILEE ZHENG
Weichert Realtors 505 Millburn Ave. Short Hills, NJ 07078 646-963-5177 | 646-376-4545
SOUTH ORANGE
ANGELA D’ARIES
Prominent Properties
Sotheby’s International Realty 6 Sloan St. South Orange, NJ 07079 973-650-8898 | 973-846-9220
FRAN LICHTMAN
Lichtman Rabney Group |
Hearth Realty Group
22 First St. South Orange, NJ 07079
646-734-3718 | 973-919-5055
WEST ORANGE
DAVID MOHAN
RE/MAX Solutions
99 Northfield Ave., Suite 8 West Orange, NJ 07052 973-731-1200 | 973-517-2278
GLORIA PEREZ
Berkshire Hathaway
Homeservice |
Jordan Baris Realty
50 Mount Pleasant Ave.
West Orange, NJ 07052
973-960-9640 | 973-736-1600
BLOSSOM VERNON
Berkshire Hathaway
Homeservice |
Jordan Baris Realty
50 Mount Pleasant Ave. West Orange, NJ 07052 973-900-4975 | 973-736-1600
GLORIA LAFORGIA, Sales Associate, CRS, ABR
Ranked among the top 1% of Weichert agents out of 4600 nationwide, #111 companywide, #19 regional. Gloria is a proud recipient of the NJ 5 Star Realtor Award from 2014-2026, and was recently featured in Fortune Magazine 2026 Market Leaders. This is an award which is voted on by past and present clients. She has also been a recipient of the NJ Circle of Excellence Sales Award for 27+ years.
Gloria launched her real estate career in 1994 and has since helped buyers and sellers across all price ranges, from first-time homebuyers to luxury clients. With over 500 homes sold and a total sales volume exceeding $250 million, she brings a wealth of experience to the industry.
As an expert in Morris and Essex Counties, Gloria is recognized as “The East Hanover Specialist” and has listed and sold more homes in her hometown than any other Realtor. She leads The La Forgia Group, which includes two buyer’s agents and an assistant, and has built a thriving business driven by referrals, repeat clients, and strong online visibility. In today’s dynamic market, having a seasoned agent is more important than ever. While low inventory continues to create a strong sellers’ market, Gloria’s expertise ensures a smooth and successful transaction for her sellers and buyers. Selling, buying, renting or just a simple real estate related question or consultation, contact Gloria for all of your real estate needs.
WEICHERT REALTORS
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
1625 Route 10 East, Morris Plains, NJ 07950
C: 973.477.4632 | www.glorialaforgia.com
NCJAR DISTINGUISHED SALES REP, CRS, ABR
ELVIRA GREEN, Realtor
Elvira Green is widely regarded as one of the most trusted and top-performing Realtors in Morris County. She has received the NJAR Circle of Excellence Sales Award for 12 consecutive years, from 2014 to 2025.
Elvira sets an unparalleled standard of professionalism and excellence, providing outstanding service to every client.
Elvira’s clients have full confidence in her expertise, efficiency and keen ability to identify potential issues before they arise.
As a lifetime resident of Florham Park and Madison, Elvira has deep-rooted connections to these highly sought-after communities, where she raises her family. Elvira’s clients find that there’s no substitute for her invaluable financial background, expert negotiating skills and proven track record of success.
Before becoming a Realtor, Elvira was a mortgage associate with Wells Fargo Mortgage helping borrowers understand their loan options. She also worked as a compliance specialist for Merrill Lynch & Co managing retirement investment plans for Fortune 500 companies. With a BA in Business from Caldwell University, Elvira’s extensive background only strengthens her ability to deliver exceptional results.
Coccia Real Estate Group 435 Ridgedale Ave., East Hanover, NJ 07936
Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Morris and Essex counties are home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.
Bloomfield Steak & Seafood House, Bloomfield
BELLEVILLE
Solar Do Minho
15 Cleveland St. 973.844.0500 solardominhobelleville. com
Topaz Thai
137 Washington Ave. 973.759.7425 topazthainj.com
BLOOMFIELD
Bella Napoli
1640 Broad St. 973.338.8500 bellanapolinj.com
Binh Duong
61 Belleville Ave. 973.680.8440
Bloomfield Steak & Seafood House
409 Franklin St. 973.680.4500 eatbeefgethooked.com
Stamna 1055 Broad St. 973.338.5151 stamnataverna.com
Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors.
1. COUNTY COLLEGE MORRIS
County College of Morris in Randolph was selected by the state as one of only two community colleges to partner with the AI Hub at Princeton University and NJ’s Community Colleges. The initiative trains the workforce to be proficient in artificial intelligence (AI).
2-3. DELBARTON SCHOOL
Delbarton School, an all-boys college prep school in Morristown, held its annual Disco Ball Gala at The Venetian in Garfield. The fundraiser, including performances, dances and dinner, welcomed current parents, past parents, alumni and their guests.
4-5. ROSE HOUSE
Rose House, a Morris Plains-based nonprofit, held a gala at The Grove in Cedar Grove. The program honored community leaders who support the nonprofit’s mission in supporting developmentally disabled adults.
6-7.
NEWARK PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Newark Public Library celebrated its 125th anniversary with its Booked for the Evening Gala. The event spotlighted volunteers and individuals whose leadership shapes literacy, innovation and community transformation.
8. NOURISH NJ
Staff from BASF Corporation in Florham Park volunteered at Nourish NJ’s Dover location. The BASF team helped pack 550 meals and sort fresh products for Nourish NJ, which provides hunger relief for Morris County residents in need.
9-10. SEEDS
Newark-based SEEDS held its annual Alumni & Friends New Year Celebration in Jersey City. The evening reconnected staff with alumni and welcomed friends and supporters into the SEEDS community, which prepares high-achieving, low-income students for higher education.
HAPPENINGS
Be There
From flower festivals and fundraisers to craft shows and concerts, there’s something for everyone happening this season in our counties.
APRIL 18
Celebrate spring with others during the Morris County 4-H Association’s ECO FAIR with Master Gardeners, scheduled at Lake Rickabear Girl Scout Camp in Kinnelon. Stop by for a hands-on experience while meeting local gardening experts. Visit morris4h. org for more details.
APRIL 19
Start the new season on the right foot during the SPRING FORWARD 5K AND 10K EVENT to benefit the Morris County Park Alliance. The runs kick off at North Cottage Street in Morris Plains and follow a trail over grass, pressed gravel, dirt and hills. Both races start at 9:30 a.m. Find registration details at runsignup.com.
MAY 23
MAY 29–31
Warm weather’s on the way, but the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown will be a winter wonderland as it presents DISNEY’S FROZEN on stage. The musical is filled with magic, humor and a memorable score. Multiple shows are available, including a sensory-friendly performance at noon on May 31. Get your tickets and find out all the particulars at mayoarts.org.
MAY 30–31
Everyone enjoys a parade, and the MORRIS PLAINS MEMORIAL DAY PARADE is always one to remember. This year marks the event’s 40th anniversary, and it will kick off at 9:30 a.m. from the intersection of Glenbrook Road and Mountain Way. Check morrisplainsboro.org for more updates.
Explore the goods of more than 175 arts and crafts makers at the 27th annual SPRING CHESTER CRAFT SHOW in historic downtown Chester. Presented by Rose Squared Art Shows, the event will allow visitors to discover works in apothecary, artisanal foods, ceramics, jewelry, woodcrafts, digital art and more. The event is held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. For admission fees and details, visit rosesquared.com.
for night
Arthur’s classic Holy at will weekend and at
APRIL 18–19
Is it even spring if you don’t see the cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park? It’s FAMILY DAY and the 50TH ANNUAL BLOOMFEST at the Newark park, featuring 5,300 cherry trees in 18 varieties. Saturday’s Family Day also includes a 1-mile run and family activities, while Bloomfest on Sunday has cultural presentations, demonstrations, vendors, food trucks and more. For a full schedule of events, head to branchbrookpark.org.
APRIL 23
Enjoy an evening of music and fundraising at New Jersey Symphony’s SPRING INTO MUSIC GALA & AUCTION, happening at 6 p.m. in West Orange’s Pleasantdale Chateau. The event includes a cocktail hour, three-course dinner and a private musical performance by the NJSO. T ickets and more details are available at njsymphony.org.
MAY 17
MAY 9
See man’s best friend perform spectacular stunts during MUTTS GONE NUTS at New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. The all-star canine lineup includes a Guinness World Record holder, an America’s Got Talent favorite and rescue dogs, and they’ll dance, flip and skip to the audience’s delight. Shows, suited for all ages, are offered at both 3 and 7 p.m. Get your tickets now at njpac.org.
in great ’90s music when THE WALLFLOWERS performs at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair.
The concert is part of the band’s “Bringing Down the House” 30th anniversary tour and will include hits like “One Headlight,” “6th Avenue Heartache,” “The Difference” and more. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the concert starts at 8. Tickets are on sale at wellmontheater.com.
If you’re looking for great crafts, delicious food and activities for kids, the MAPLEWOOD STREET FAIR & CRAFT SHOW (also known as MayFest) is for you! From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Springfield Avenue and Rutgers Street will feature all that plus live music, vendors and great community vibes. More details are available at springfieldavenue.com.
MAY 28
Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn celebrates opening day of WEST SIDE STORY, the classic tale of love and the clash between rival gangs the Jets and the Sharks. Performances are scheduled for 1:30 and 7:30 p.m., and additional shows take place Wednesdays through Sundays until June 28. Opencaptioned and American Sign Language performances are set for June 27 and 28, respectively. Visit papermill.org for tickets, showtimes and more.
RESTAURANT REVIEW
A Mediterranean Moment
With welcoming vibes and soulful Lebanese cuisine, Lyla is one of Morristown’s most exciting tables.
If you enjoy Mediterranean food, you know the drill: Many restaurants offer a broad tour of the region—Greek here, Turkish there, maybe a little Italian influence for good measure. The results can be delicious, but my girlfriend and I had been craving something a bit more specific: the bright, soulful flavors of Lebanese cooking. As it turns out, we didn’t have to travel far to find it. We discovered exactly what we were looking for at Lyla, right in the heart of Morristown.
From the moment you walk in, Lyla strikes a balance that many restaurants chase but few quite achieve: it’s lively and hip without being intimidating, polished without feeling stuffy. The room hums with energy, and there’s an unmistakable warmth to the hospitality that makes you feel instantly at ease.
My girlfriend and I arrived ready for a leisurely night out and decided to start with two mint lemonades. Bright, crisp and lightly sweet, they were exactly what you want at the beginning of a Mediterranean meal—cooling, invigorating and dangerously easy to drink. If there’d been a refill button on the table, I probably would have pressed it.
We took the shareable route for appetizers, ordering three dishes that quickly set the tone for the evening. First up was the sautéed dandelion, a dish that manages to turn humble greens into something deeply satisfying. Tender and vibrant, they were sautéed with garlic and finished with crispy onions and tangy pomegranate molasses that gave the dish a lively, almost addictive quality. It’s the kind of plate that makes you feel good for eating your greens while simultaneously wondering why all vegetables can’t taste this delicious.
Next came the roasted eggplant salad, silky and smoky in the best possible way. Eggplant has a magical ability to soak up flavor, and here it was perfectly balanced—rich yet bright, with a depth that kept us going back for another bite (and then another). If you’re someone who believes eggplant is merely “O.K.,” this dish may change your mind.
Rounding out the trio of starters was the fattoush salad, a Mediterranean classic done right. Crisp vegetables, toasted pita chips and a punchy dressing with just the right amount of tangy sumac made the dish pop. It delivered crunch, freshness
and a vibrant mix of textures that kept us happily busy between bites of the other dishes.
By the time our main courses arrived, we were already thoroughly impressed—but the kitchen wasn’t done showing off. I opted for the grilled salmon, which arrived beautifully cooked with a delicate char and bright Mediterranean flavors. The fish was tender and flaky, and the skin on the underside was crispy. Beneath the salmon was a bed of fresh bruschetta and olive oil, a reminder that simplicity can be satisfying when the ingredients are spot-on.
My girlfriend chose the char-grilled half chicken, and if there had been a polite way to ask your dining companion for half of her plate, I might have tried it. The chicken was juicy and flavorful, with that irresistible, smoky char from the grill that instantly elevates the dish. Every bite had depth and warmth, the sort of comforting yet refined flavor profile that Mediterranean cooking does so well. When our host for the night asked if we needed anything else, I requested the recipe for the chicken’s marinade. He laughed, sharing one ingredient: “I think it may have salt—the rest, my friend, is a secret!”
Of course, skipping dessert would have been both irresponsible and frankly impossible after such a delicious dinner. We shared the osmaliyeh, a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that quickly earned a spot among our favorite tastes of the night. The knafeh’s crispy, golden pastry strands gave way to decadent ashta cream, all topped with pistachios and just the right touch of sweetness. It was rich without being heavy—precisely the kind of dessert you want after a flavorful meal.
In a region where “Mediterranean” can sometimes mean a little bit of everything, Lyla delivers something more focused and memorable. The restaurant captures the warmth, freshness and layered flavors that make Lebanese cuisine beloved, all while pairing it with a stylish setting and welcoming service.
My girlfriend and I had finally found the Lebanese flavors we’d been searching for—and right here in Morristown. Which means, of course, that we’ll be back soon—probably starting again with those mint lemonades.
Since dispute resolution rarely happens overnight, Sandra Fava, founding partner at Fava Law, knows that her clients need a trusted and zealous advocate to help them navigate the complex and emotional process of family law issues. Sandra provides effective strategies, innovative solutions and compassionate counsel, all of which lead to an easier transition to her clients’ next phase of life.
As a leader in her practice area, Sandra has been named a Super Lawyer in Family Law and a Top 50 Women in law in NJ by Super Lawyers. She has been recognized by Best Lawyers and Chambers for her work in family law. Sandra has dedicated her legal career to the thoughtful and diligent representation of clients in divorce matters. She uses her experience to show clients that the divorce process does not have to be frightening or frustrating. With both an extensive knowledge of the law and the process to guide her clients, Sandra employs those tools to reduce the emotional distress that may accompany the experience. Sandra knows that every family’s situation is unique and works with clients to find appropriate solutions to fit their needs.
A MORRIS & ESSEX MOMENT
“Every year, my wife and I try to go see the cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park in Newark. They’re so beautiful, especially by the water. It was a great day with beautiful weather. I love taking photos in spring because it’s like nature is putting on a show. This picture was actually taken with a camera from the 1950s—I’m a professional photographer, but when I’m not working, I like to shoot on film. It makes me slow down and enjoy the process more.”
—William Wyckoff, Cherry Hill
Send us your Morris & Essex Moment! Email your photo and a short description to rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.
Photo courtesy of William Wyckoff. Instagram: @willwyckoff8mm
