Mannyshapiro

I used to `love the ultimate in hot dogs, the best in the city and in the nation. Only one answer: the original Katz's on Houston St. From the time I was 13 until about 60, the pull of a hot dog at Katz's would take me from Brooklyn and later North Jersey to the lower Eastside. Unfortunately, a garlic allergy came along and I am not able to eat that wonderful dog any more. However, down here in cental Jersey, there is an Italian deli in Point Pleasant, Joe Leone's, that sells wonderful non-garlic sausage which is plump, juicy and has a spicy kick to it. Grilling it brings out all the mouth-filling satisfaction. Its an ethnic switch and a great delight.

Yes, PB, there is an underground gourmet world south of Routes 4, 46, and 3 in NJ. To meet the need for rodizio, take the trip to Newark to the Iberia Restaurant, a few blocks from Penn Station. The meats are juicy and spiced, and the rule is all you can eat (for under ฤ). The special sangria is also top-notch. There are other outposts for the gustacurious in central NJ. Three great restaurants which can kick up excitement to match some of NYC's best do a great take on American Nouvelle. In Red Bank there is Two if by Sea, in Ocean Township there is Bistro J, and outside of Princeton in Lawrencville is Acacia. The latter two are BYOB for extra enjoyment. Let's have some central Jersey gourmet dialogue in the future. Cordially, Manny Shapiro ----- mannyshp