Openings:
Orchard Park by David Burke, East Brunswick
After the recent closure of David Burke at Orange Lawn, chef David Burke wasted no time launching a new project. Orchard Park by David Burke is located in the new Chateau Grande Hotel, both of which opened in early December. Including a large rectangular bar and lounge, dining area, and wine room, co-owner Joe Maurillo and chef Burke’s project is the state’s newest wedding destination. The menu, crafted by Burke with the help of team members Carmine Di Giovanni and Pedro Avila, has elevated dishes like spiced duck breast, tuna tartare parfait and roasted branzino. Also available are items like pizza (topped with chorizo, octopus and spicy lobster) and pastas (with lump crab, squid ink or short rib). Make reservations online to enjoy Burke’s newest space.
Orchard Park by David Burke, 670 Cranbury Road (Chateau Grande Hotel), East Brunswick; 732-307-8833
DiBartolo European Bakery, Haddonfield
What began as a 1969 family-owned business is growing. This bakery’s second location opened in early December, functioning as a storefront and production bakery like its sister location in Collingswood. You may recognize the family name from chef Al DiBartolo Jr., who was featured on the Food Network in shows like Holiday Wars and on TLC’s Next Great Baker. DiBartolo is a nice spot for a light lunch, with menu items like the Autostrada Panina, made with mortadella, coppa, soppressata, prosciutto cotta and more on a Tuscan loaf. Signature desserts include macarons, cupcakes and eclairs, and are all be available in their glass cases.
DiBartolo European Bakery, 115 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield; 856-869-3565
Closings:
Lorenzo’s, Woodland Park
The Italian restaurant of 35 years officially closed its doors in November, thanking the community for its long lasting loyalty. Owner Sam Stabile and his son Nico crafted an authentic Italian atmosphere with a mainstay staff in Woodland Park. Their menu consisted of homemade sauces, House Specials like shrimp risotto and made-to-order pizza. Also known for its catering menus and event space, Lorenzo’s was hit hard this year, and will be missed by the local Jersey community.
Lorenzo’s, 223 New Street, Woodland Park
Section 201, New Milford
This sports bar permanently closed after the summer rush. Owners Tony and Joey DeMiglio made the announcement on Facebook, thanking their family and friends and customers for their loyal patronage over the past 12 years. This year has created an enormous amount of difficult challenges within the restaurant sphere, and Section 201 was sadly another spot to succumb to those challenges. With a family oriented feel and a bar full of memories made, Section 201 sadly had to say goodbye to its New Milford community.
Section 201, 704 River Road, New Milford