fatcatbrew

Have they changed the menu at all since they first opened?

I have had several friends complain about Chakra lately, and specifically about the confusion with the hostess re: seating. Sounds like you had an aggravating experience. Most of the staff at Chakra seem to be inexperienced and not interested in gaining experience.

Rob and I will be attending. 7 or 7:30 works for us. Can someone give us directions from Wyckoff?

They only served ceviche and raw bar selections yesterday so I was unable to try anything other. The overall experience I had was nice and service was certainly attentive, so I certainly would be willing to go back and try something off their regular menu.

All the drinks were very good. It may have helped that one of my friends knew one of the bartenders formerly from AB&G. My husband had a cadillac margarita, a friend had a dirty martini, and I had a mojito. One of our favorite appetizers was the Smoked Salmon Tartar. P.S. The bar that is in the front of Blend is non-smoking and they also have a bar and outdoor patio in the rear that allows smoking. It is nice that they allow you to have a choice.

Went there early evening yesterday for martini's and ceviche during their pre-grand opening . Unfortunately, I did not look at the wine list, however I did browse their menus. They had some interesting selections on their menu. Blend has a very different atmosphere than any other restaurant in Ridgewood. I look forward to going there again and trying their food.

I went back to The Village Green last night for another wonderful meal. FYI, they just changed their menu to include some new seasonal choices.

Does anyone have comments about The Gaige House Inn in Glen Ellen? And is Glen Ellen a good location to all of the winery towns/areas?

I am asking for your opinions on the best places to stay in Wine Country. I am planning to travel there next month and would prefer smaller, boutique hotels over large and impersonal. I am looking for something in the upper middle class of price ranges. Thanks

sounds great to me too! Thanks for taking care of all these arrangements. Do you know if this restaurant have website?

I am looking for a restaurant specifically in Westwood or one of the towns right next to Westwood.

Any price range is fine. I would be interested in restaurants that serve one of the following food types: New American, Thai, Italian, or French.

I did look first. Didn't come up with anything that sounded worthy. I am looking for a restaurant for fine dining.

I am looking for dining recommendations in the Westwood area. Thanks

My friends at The Endless Vine said that it was Dynasty something and that they owned two or three other restaurants.

There will be new Pan Asian restaurant opening next to The Market Basket and Endless Vine in Franklin Lakes. It should be open by the end of the summer. I am sure it will be successful since the dining choices in Franklin Lakes are limited. Another restaurant that had their grand opening last Tuesday is in Suffern NY next to Cafe Dolce and across from Marcello's. The name of the restaurant is Wicky and is supposed to be a martini bar as well. If anyone has the chance to try Wicky, please post your comments and I will do the same since I may try it tonight. Speaking of new restaurants, does anyone have any idea what is happening at "Blend" in Ridgewood. I thought it would have been up and running by now, but the last time I walked by it is filled with construction debris and seems to have a long way to go.

Friday the 16th works for me.

July is pretty open for me. Any Thursday or Friday would be fine. Of course if we bring 17 bottles of wine again, I would prefer a Friday night so I can sleep in a little the next day Since I have already been to Cafe Matisee, I wouldn't mind trying a new place. Trattoria Fresco sounds good. Does anyone know what their outdoor seating arrangements are?

After reading the thread on Trattoria Fresco in Caldwell, my mouth is watering. I think this is a good option. When are you looking to do this dinner? I would be willing to contribute towards having Mark Skanga play for us again - He helped to make our Village Green dinner very enjoyable.

How does everyone feel about Cafe Matisse? It used to be one of my favorites. The last time I dined there was during the holiday season, and I was slightly dissapointed. Though it is possible that it was just an off night. I haven't been back since that time. They do have a beautiful outdoor patio.

Count me in! Do you have the photos taken from the last event?

I just came back from a long weekend in Newport. I stayed at the new Chanler Hotel. I wouldnt necessarily recommend staying here as they have allot of service kinks to work out, although it is a beautiful property. The Spiced Pear Restaurant is wonderful. They do a chef tasting menu which you can also pair with wines if you wish. The Chanler is also opening a Tuscan outdoor cafe soon which should serve italian fare. I also recommend eating at 22 Bowen's Wine Bar. Excellent Steaks and Excellent Wine List. One of my favorite places to eat in Newport is called "The Place" which is adjacent to Yesterday's. Very eclectic fare, interesting martini's and large wine and beer list. Have a great trip.

As I clear the cobwebs from my brain this morning (Could have been that dam Prosecco), I remember us all raising our candles to the sounds of Stairway to Heaven. China 46 sounds great - Just give me a day or two to work off last night's meal. The highlight of the dinner foodwise for me was the Swordfish.

I thoroughly enjoyed my first "egullet" dinner. I would love to participate in any upcoming events. It was a pleasure meeting everyone! The live music was a treat and the food was wonderful. I am still full!

7:30 is fine with me. Would everyone like to start the meal with some champagne?