A hipster honky-tonk on a lakefront that serves up Texas-style barbecue.

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At Strip House, the wet-aged, prime steaks star, with strong support from side dishes and “naughty” decor.

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GP (George Politis Jr.) traces his roots in hospitality to his Greek grandfather. But GP’s Italian classics are in his genes, too.

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In a renovated 1913 train station, chef/owner Michael Carrino hits his stride, gladly shifting from haute and formal to rustic and relaxed.

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Juan Placencia’s heritage, CIA training and work with top chefs (including his dad) combine to create a Peruvian restaurant of unusual refinement.

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Steve Christianson could have named his restaurant Steve's, but by splitting and punctuating his name he came up with something that sounds grander. St. Eve's, in Ho-Ho-Kus, has a wood-burning grill, rustic yet hip decor and a loyal following. Reviewer Karen Tina Harrison takes the measure of its food.

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Newark Mayor Cory Booker often orders lunch from the new Dinosaur Bar-B-Que restaurant in his city, and he's a vegetarian. But you don't have to stick to fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs and a smoked portobello sandwich to work up an appetite for Dinosaur's food, writes Karen Tina Harrison in her review. You may be surprised at which dishes she finds to be the best.

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Mayor Cory Booker and other Newark movers-and-shakers often talk business over lunch at Nico Kitchen + Bar (formerly Theater Square Grill) in the NJPAC lobby. Executive chef Ryan DePersio (of Fascino in Montclair) has created a new menu in the style he calls "Italian without borders." How goes dinner? Read Karen Tina Harrison's review.

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The Liberty House in Jersey City's Liberty State Park is situated right on the Hudson River, facing Lower Manhattan. Does the food and service live up to the view? Read Karen Tina Harrison's review for the answer.

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The former Copeland in the Westin Governor Morris Hotel is now Blue Morel. New executive chef Kevin Takafuji has introduced an eclectic menu including New American cuisine as well as sushi. Karen Tina Harrison reviews.

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