[New strip mall]

I was there at 10:30 (not for the opening) and the parking lot was nearly empty. I didn't see a line.

[Smoking Ban]

I would think non-smoking tables would turn over faster. On the flip side, smokers at bars may stay and drink more.

[djon djon mushrooms?]

They can be purchased on the street in Brooklyn (Flatbush) according to what I've read. Have you done an internet search? I would contact people like this: http://www.kreyolkitchen.com/ and maybe they will sell you some. good luck!

[Church's Kitchen]

sounds great! reminds me of a place that used to be on bloomfield ave in montclair a while back.

[The One we have been waiting for]

He hit the nail on the head with Aunt Sandy!

[BYOB - What's Your Favorite Under $10 Wine]

Meridian pinot noir

[Papaya King comes to Jersey!]

Thanks for the info John. Rte 19 has easy access to 80W from Clifton.

[Good Italian places in NJ]

Well, it may be a "red sauce" place, but I like La Riviera in Clifton. Never eat red sauce there though.

Thanks for mentioning Fortunato. I've heard good things about it, but haven't gotten there yet.

[Best Take out Pizza in Clifton Area]

I make my own. Doesn't take long, and we like the crust thin and crisp, so that's how I make it. To me, any pie put into a box and allowed to "steam" tastes yucky!

[Le Crueset at Costco in NJ]

Timing is everything. Yesterday, I received a coupon, 30% off, for the LC outlet. ugh!

[Le Crueset at Costco in NJ]

QVC has some Staub at great prices. I think it's comparable to LC.

[Le Crueset at Costco in NJ]

Home Goods did at one time, but I haven't seen any in quite a while.

The LC outlet was a big disappointment. No bargains there any more either

[Le Crueset at Costco in NJ]

I'm going to the LC outlet tomorrow. Now that there are no more bargains on ebay, I'll resort to the outlet.

[whole foods coming to west orange?]

amazing! I didn't have enough time this trip to take it all in; it's a bit overwhelming. It could be the "Wegmans" of essex county I suppose. Huge selections, especially meats and seafood. Can't wait to return!

[Rutherford]

Thanks for the great reviews! Haven't been to either...yet!

[whole foods coming to west orange?]

I'd be happy if TJ's went in Montclair where WF is.

[The World's Best Coconut Cake]

thanks. that was my thinking also.

I haven't tried BF cupcakes, but I will soon. appreciate all the feedback.

[The World's Best Coconut Cake]

appreciate the feedback. I will be cutting it tomorrow! I'll then know more. I was thinking the cream of coconut was too much since the texture was somewhat "gooey." It does sound like a lot of liquid, but the batter wasn't thin; seemed ok. thanks again.

[The World's Best Coconut Cake]

I made a coconut layer cake yesterday and the layers were so sticky! I greased and floured the pan; it still stuck. I did manage to get it off (luckily used springform) but the cake has a sticky feel. I think the recipe has too much sugar. Could that be it?

ingredients:

2 3/4 cups all purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 3/4 cups sugar

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

1 cup canned sweetened cream of coconut (such as Coco Lépez)*

4 large eggs, separated

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

thanks for any help!

[whole foods coming to west orange?]

exactly bill70! Lots of cars stolen from that lot also. Hoping to see some positive changes, although I haven't heard anything.

[Linda's Chicken, West Caldwell - CLOSED]

Hadn't been there in years, but it was pretty good. Better than Boston Market.

[Dining in Bermuda]

We have wonderful memories of the Black Horse for lunch.  The fish for dinner were brought off boats and carried right through the restaurant to the kitchen.

Tim

←

I remember one evening dining at the Chancery Wine Bar (now Fresco's) a huge Bermuda fish was brought in, right through the dining room. Catch of the day! (or next day at least!)

[Dining in Bermuda]

Kevin, thanks for mentioning Fat Man's. I can't believe I've never heard of it! My friends are keeping a good secret from me I suppose.

Also like La Trattoria in Hamilton. My favorite fish chowder is the Hog Penny; never tried it at the Spot.

[Leone's in Montclair]

We used to go there quite often. The last time, a few months back, we were disappointed. Food was good, service fair at best. Haven't been back; probably won't return. There are way too many places to try.

[Dining in Bermuda]

Unfortunately, non-Bermudians may only spend a certain percentage of time on the island, whether they own or not. very sad indeed......