April 2020: Best Bakeries
[Editor’s note: This issue went to print in February 2020, before Gov. Murphy declared a state of emergency in New Jersey due to the coronavirus pandemic.]
The state is blessed with excellent examples of every kind of baking, as reflected in this month’s “Best Bakeries” cover story. New Jersey’s bakeries represent many international traditions and employ our great market basket of fresh berries and fruits. We also have specialty bakeries creating goods for every type of dietary need and philosophy—vegan, gluten free, nut free and allergen free.
So forget moderation and get ready to feast on the state’s Best Bakeries.
Garden Variety
Jersey’s Flower CSAs Yield a Bounty of Bouquets
And with florists closed due to the coronavirus, increased demand for fresh-cut flowers has moved to local farmers.
Read moreA Conversation with Songwriter Jimmy Webb
The artist discusses highlights from his life in music, from collaborating with Glen Campbell to hugging his favorite U.S. president.
Read moreThis All-Male Dance Company Wants to Quash Gender Stereotypes
10 Hairy Legs is one of only a handful of single-gender dance companies in the nation.
Read moreWheatonArts Celebrates 50 Years of Creativity
South Jersey’s glassmaking tradition is still going strong.
Read moreDocumentary Reveals Off-Road Threat to Pine Barrens
In “Pine Mud,” filmmaker Jared Flesher explores how a locally popular—and illegal—pastime damages the land and jeopardizes endangered species.
Read moreAn Author’s Abiding Love for the George Washington Bridge
For his book on the iconic span, Michael Aaron Rockland climbed to the top of the 604-foot-tall steel tower on its New York side.
Read moreThis Holmdel Teen is a Nationally Ranked Golfer
“I always see something to improve on,” 16-year-old Megha Ganne says of her dedication to the game.
Read moreMeet the Jersey-Bred Actor Starring in Broadway’s ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’
Rob McClure transforms himself (31 times, in fact!) in a new musical based on the 1993 Robin Williams movie.
Read moreStylephile
An Eco-Friendly Way to Restock Household Basics
Maplewood’s Good Bottle Refill Shop, the first of its kind in the state, offers refills on detergents, shampoos, soaps and more. (Bring your own empty containers—or buy them there.)
Read more5 Spring-Cleaning Essentials We’re Loving
When tidying up all around the house, the right tool makes each task a breeze.
Read more10 Spring Beauty Trends to Try
Welcome a new season with fresh ideas from local hair, makeup and skin-care experts.
Read moreSteve Adubato: Only in NJ
Why Jersey’s Move Toward Electric Vehicles Matters
Legislation signed by Governor Phil Murphy earlier this year should go a long way in reducing greenhouse gases.
Read moreGiving Back
Veterans Find Camaraderie, Calm in Fly Fishing
Raoul Cordeaux launched NJ’s chapter of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, a national nonprofit serving 8,000 disabled active military members and vets.
Read moreBest Bakeries
Your Guide to the Garden State’s Best Bakeries
Just the sight of a bakery can lift one’s spirits. We did the hard work of visiting and tasting so you can make a beeline for Jersey’s finest.
Read more6 Delicious Destinations for Pie
Foolproof spots around the state for flaky, fruit-filled gems.
Read moreOur 3 Favorite Spots for Crumb Cake
There’s no doubt about it: The Garden State knows its streusel.
Read more7 Bakeries to Visit If You Have Dietary Restrictions
If you’re vegan, have allergies, or are gluten free, you can still have your cake and eat it, too.
Read moreFeatures
Jersey’s Three Remaining Frank Lloyd Wright Houses
The owners share their experiences living in—and serving as reverent stewards of—a rare art form.
Read moreBehind New Jersey’s Last Drive-In Theater
The Garden State gave birth to the drive-in theater. The Delsea is alone in keeping the tradition alive.
Read moreOn Lake Hopatcong, Looking Ahead to Summer
Lake Hopatcong homeowners and businesses hope state programs and favorable weather can help quash last summer’s disastrous algae invasion.
Read moreHome & Garden
A Maplewood Home Teeming with Thrifted Treasures
For Amy Hughes, owner of vintage-furniture store Salvage Style, hunting for unique furnishings is not just a job—it’s a full-time vocation.
Read moreEat & Drink
Café Chameleon Reviewed: A Standout Eatery in a Small Town
This New American restaurant was fading into the background. Then it brought in chef Bryan Gregg.
Read morePharmacie Reviewed: A ‘Bar-First Feel’ with Really Good Food
“I just want people to be happy,” says chef Ken West.
Read moreIn West Orange, Bar Food and Irish Favorites
Head to Shillelagh Pub for wings and fries or bangers and mash. (A pint of Guinness can’t hurt, either!)
Read moreA Stylish Restaurant Serving Southern Indian Fare
Don’t miss the all-you-can-eat lunch special at Samudhra in Franklin Park.
Read moreTransportive Tex-Mex Fare in Mount Laurel
Ma & Pa’s Tex-Mex BBQ serves up tacos, burritos, tender brisket and more.
Read moreOlga’s Diner Reviewed: Hits & Misses at Marlton Reincarnation
The new Olga’s, about a half-mile north of the previous location, offers familiar comforts alongside dishes with room for improvement.
Read moreJockey Hollow Owner Launches Wine Collection
Under Cannoncru, his new label, Chris Cannon works with with makers worldwide to bottle lesser-known wines that are sustainable, organic and/or biodynamic.
Read moreExit Ramp
How a Crossword Puzzle Pro Landed His Dream Job
Sam Ezersky, associate puzzles editor for the New York Times, says his passion began at an early age.
Read more