Amelia’s Bistro in Jersey City Lets You Make Your Own Hummus

Amelia’s Bistro is located off the beaten path in the historic Paulus Hook section of Jersey City and away from the hubbub of Grove Street and Newark Avenue. Keep it in mind if you are in the area—and plan on making your own hummus.

This is how it works. When seated a breadbasket along with a pestle and wooden mortar that contains chickpeas, olive oil and garlic are brought to the table. Patrons are instructed to mash all of the ingredients, add salt and pepper, if needed, and use the resulting hummus as a spread on the bread; a unique presentation and innovative way to have diners start their meal.

Depending on your hunger level you can eat lightly as the extensive menu lists small plates, tapas, appetizers, crostini and flat breads, sandwiches, soups and salads, or make a heartier more filling  choice with the option of entrée salads, pasta, fish, meat and poultry items.

We started with Kung-Pao cauliflower, which was coated with a slightly spicy ginger, mango, orange sauce. It was fabulous with a crunchy tempura-style coating. It will be on my best list of 2016. We were hungry and opted for entrees. Homemade gnocchi was tossed with tender short ribs in a beefy sauce that contained carrots, grape tomatoes and Parmesan. Grilled Applejack pork chops were cooked medium rare as requested and came with a lovely Applejack sauce that played off of the thinly sliced tart Granny Smith apples and sweet, dried cranberries; a beautifully balanced dish. Roasted potatoes were the accompaniment. Be forewarned that portions were big—we were too full for dessert, but options include: chocolate smore’s pot de crème; NY high cheesecake with mango puree and toasted coconut; warm cookies and milk; and homemade skillet apple cobbler.

The venue is forgettable with tile floors, wood tables, cloth napkins, a long bar with TV’s and an open kitchen. However, the service was extremely attentive and friendly. We were checked on frequently to see if we needed anything, and water glasses were refilled.

Amelia’s Bistro
187 Warren Street
Jersey City
201-332-2200
rosie

Amelia’s Applejack pork chops.

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