New Spice: Rebuilding Supply Chains for Equity, Traceability, and Flavor
Saturday, June 1, 3–5 pm
In an era where anything from chicken to hazelnut production can be morally problematic, maybe it’s no surprise to discover that even your old familiar spice cabinet has some built-in issues. But fear not, here’s a way to get quickly up-to-speed: join chef and activist Ethan Frisch in Jersey City as he discusses the Whats, Whys, and Hows of inequity and injustice in the global spice trade. Along with Ori Zohar, Frisch co-founded Burlap and Barrel, the first organization committed to bringing transparency and sustainability to the global spice supply chain, empowering spice farmers to participate in their own commercial welfare (and encouraging us to use our substantial buying power ethically). What this means for you—better spices, better value for your dollar, profoundly deeper satisfaction in every pinch and dash of spice that seasons your food. Bonus points: the event is totally free. Register here. Mana Contemporary Arts Center, 888 Newark Avenue, Jersey City; 201-604-2702
A Taste of South Jersey
Monday, June 3, 6-8 pm
This year’s Taste of South Jersey will be held at the Camden County Boathouse at Cooper River. Part of the County’s annual salute to the U.S. Military, and previously held on the Battleship New Jersey, the night will gather area restaurants and businesses for your tasting pleasure (FYI, there is a bar, it’s cash). Among the restaurants present will be Seasons 52, Caffe Aldo Lamberti, the Capital Grille, and Zallie’s Catering, with more likely to come in the next few days. Tickets are $40, $50 at the door (and $40 for members of the U.S. Military). Camden Boathouse, 7050 North Park Drive, Pennsauken; 856-667-1600
Kimchi Smoke in Franklin Lakes
Thursday, June 6, 5–9:30 pm
If you haven’t gotten a chance to taste Robert Cho’s Texas-Korean BBQ mash-up at Kimchi Smoke in Westwood, here’s a chance in Franklin Lakes. The chef will be guest chef at Naru Sushi & Hibachi for the evening. The regular sushi menu will be on offer, but barbecue fans can opt for things like Cho’s fusion-on-fusion Austin Cali Roll, with Smoked Brisket, Avocado, Rice, Bourbon Chipotle Sauce, Remoulade, and Scallions. There’s also just straight-up Korean BBQ Ribs (St. Louis style with a Gochujang Glaze). Naru Sushi & Hibachi, 754-B Franklin Avenue, Franklin Lakes; 201-904-2401
Four-Course Wine Dinner at Blue Morel
Friday, June 14, 7 pm
Cabernet sauvignon lovers, listen up! Yes, it’s almost summer, but Friday, June 14 is going to feature some luscious, full-bodied reds that might (almost) have you anticipating fall. The four-course Wine Dinner at Blue Morel features Round Pond Estate, a second-generation family winery from Napa Valley’s Rutherford AVA known for its so-called “Rutherford Dust” terroir and smooth, supple-tannin, full-bodied wines. Chef Dennis Mathews’ menu isn’t published yet (keep an eye on their events section), but he is promising to also highlight the Rutherford area’s olive oils and “artisan syrups.” Tickets are $99, with limited seating, so call for your reservation sooner rather than later. Blue Morel, 2 Whippany Road, Morristown; 973-451-2619