The reopening of an Essex County staple, a community-driven cafe, brunch and barbecue—check out what’s new in New Jersey restaurants.
RESTAURANT OPENINGS
The Highlawn • West Orange
Previously known as Highlawn Pavilion, this premier fine dining and special events destination reopened in early October. The Frungillo Family acquired the space last April, taking it over from the Knowles family, who had leased the venue since 1986. The Frungillos and executive chef Sam Hazen renovated the space and have launched a new food and drink menu. The Highlawn is located at the high point of Essex County’s Eagle Rock Reservation, with a view of the Manhattan skyline and a 9/11 memorial.
The Highlawn, 1 Crest Dr., West Orange; 973-731-3463
Bogota Press • Bogota
This café is set to open in late October or early November at The Atwater, a waterfront rental community in Bogota. Owned by locals Sherry and Eric Solomov, the cafe will occupy the ground floor and use locally sourced ingredients and vendors. Signature items include Italian Illy coffee, avocado toasts, overstuffed grilled cheese sandwiches and housemade soups. The Solomovs plan to provide employment opportunities to their neighborhood, and hope to create a scholarship program for local students.
Bogota Press, 1000 W. Fort Lee Rd. (The Atwater), Bogota; 201-340-1000
Milkweed Table + Market • Pitman
This new brunch spot opened in September. The petite menu includes brunch favorites such as avocado toast, Southern biscuits, salads and chicken and waffles. Pierogies are available in both sweet and savory renditions. Pancakes also come in flavors including pumpkin, sweet potato and apple pistachio. The spot is open from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. daily and is cash only.
Milkweed Table + Market, 134 S. Broadway, Pitman
All The Smoke • Clifton
This barbecue spot opened in September, mostly for takeout and delivery but with a few stools indoors and a seating area outdoors. The smoker runs on locally harvested wood. Dishes include ribs, pulled pork, smoked turkey and chicken wings, with sides such as mac and cheese, collard greens, root beer baked beans and vanilla sweet potato casserole. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday, 1:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
All The Smoke, 64 ½ Market St., Clifton; 973-864-3443