Chef Armen Saqe, Jessica's Restaurant
Jumbo Lump Crab Meat Crepe
This menu staple created by Chef Armen is inspired by a dish he enjoyed in Lyon, France. A savory warm crepe that is rich and indulgent, filled with jumbo lump crab meat and the freshest, seasonal wild mushrooms. Everything about this dish is comforting. From the homemade crepe made with brown butter to the lobster sauce generously poured over to the aromatic herbs that bring it all together. Dip the homemade bread into the extra sauce and enjoy with a glass of Pinot Grigio.
Chef Nino Locascio, Grano
Paccheri Bolognese
Even with a new menu effective June 1st, this popular dish remains a familiar choice and favorite pick for Chef Nino and his loyal clientele. Large tubular pasta lies flat and collects all the saucy goodness from Nino's homemade bolognese made with beef and pork ragu. Fresh carrots, celery and bay leaves are added to his signature marinara sauce, a recipe he developed over the course of twenty years. The sauce is slow cooked, simmering for hours before adding a touch of cream for balance. Served with fresh basil and parmesan to taste. And a good glass of cab. Cheers!
Melody DeGaetano, Owner and Dietician, Blackdrop Coffee
Gluten-Free Vegan Blueberry Muffin and a hot latte
There is nothing better than a good cup of coffee to start your day, or to end your day for that matter! Melody starts with exceptional beans that she procures from Good Life Coffee Company, a roaster and distributor based in Red Bank. They have created a specific blend with a distinct flavor to make every specialty coffee an experience. The hot latte is a classic that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. As a registered dietician Melody loves to serve "delightful bites" that are also inclusive to the gluten-free and vegan community. The classic blueberry muffin is sweet and moist and filled with flavor. It tastes welcoming - just like the ambience throughout this favorite local coffee shop.
Erin Berdan, Foodie and Personal Chef to Berdan Family
Curried Squash Soup
As a busy mom, Erin has made it a point to keep her passion for cooking alive in the meals she lovingly prepares for her family and friends. This curried squash soup is love in a bowl, a perfect dish for a cool Fall day. It LOOKS cozy - and tastes even more so. The butternut squash delivers a smooth and silky texture with a hint of heat that comes from Thai red curry paste. Chopped onion, carrots and apple bring dimension to a mixture of pureed squash and heavy cream. Prep to Serve is 1 hour 15 mins. For the recipe visit Erin's Food blog at www.whiteplateblankslate.com or buy her a beer if you see her at Darby Road.