Rosie

Would it be possible to have a pre-ordered dinner rather than a buffet?

So, I took Lowell to Sammy's and we had a fabulous dinner. I know---you either love or hate this place. We waited a half hour in the bar aka purgatory and then had their salad, red peppers with garlic, bread, steak, lobster and loin lamb chops. I must tell you that the lamb was better than anything I recently had in Australia and New Zealand and the lamb in those countries was extraordinary. Corn on the cob and french fries accompanied the meat. Dessert was apple pie with ice cream, apple crisp with ice cream and a brownie with ice cream. Did you go out? Be sure to give us a report. And Lou-- we know you had to work.

Thanks for the update.

If the date is open we would be interested. Will be away a few weekends in the summer. Would this be a buffet that the public would have or a pre-ordered dinner? Also, I personally prefer a late afternoon but am will ing to go with the flow. BTW Moghul in Edison is BYO.

Was at Il Vicolo a few years ago and it was ok. Not any different than any other Italian restaurant. However, it seems from the latest report (thank-you) that it has gotten better and is worth a return visit. Il Ripasso --been a few times. It's ok but not anything unusual either. Lulu's--did not like the food at all. I like Stretches for a mid-week casual dinner. The place is a dive but I like their food. Been going to Bella Rosa on Rt 10 in East Hanover for Italian if I want to stay in the area. Blue moon Cafe and Ritz is fine for lunch. Feng Shui--Chinese food in the American fashion. I like Hunan Cottage on Rt 46 for Chinese. Ask for the Chinese menu. Landmark Tavern --Never been. Should I go and what should I order. If it is not non-smoking I'm not going. Eppes Essen -- Fine for lunch. Been to Seymour's????---fine for breakfast or lunch but get their before the mom's and the kids.

Let's keep this on topic. Drugs and food or drugs with food or drugs instead of food in or out of the kitchen are ok. Drugs and politics give me a stomach ache and a craving for brownies. Thanks.

Going out or celebrating at home? I'm taking Lowell for steak.

It was my opinion that they should seat you but you are right that the restaurant can set their own policy.

If they don't take reservations they should have seated you at the 4 top. If a party of 4 came in they could have bought drinks at the bar and waited. I hate places that don't take reservations. Will you name the restaurant?

Albie--It's unfair to compare Serenade and Scalini as they serve two very different cuisines. Which Italian restaurant do you like better than Scalini?

I liked Gourmet Cafe but the menu was not as sophisticated as Chef Lo Pinto's dishes. Has the menu changed at Casa Di Amici?

Albie--Which other NJ restaurants do you feel have a worthwhile wine list?

Albie--Can you post the article you wrote about BYO's in NJ? Where was it published?

Be sure to go soon and give us a report. Also address, phone # and if it is BYO. Thanks!

I heard that the owner is cooking. Haven't been there but IMHO Anthony was the reason to go there. Will keep you updated if I hear anything else.

He is considering a few opportunities. Will let you know as I know he has a large following and I certainly want to partake in his cuisine.

I have found Diaz/Schloss to be very professional, timely in their answers to me and knowledgeable about the restaurant scene in NJ and NY.

is this the Doug who used to be at Due Amici in (West?) Orange? Yes. I think Doug is at Ruth Chris in Weehawken now.

Sorry to report that Anthony Lo Pinto is no longer at Casa di Amici, Denville. Doug has also left.

Try Rebecca's in Edgewater. BYO. Ask to sit in the side room which is quiet. I was at Azucar once and found the place to be smokey and noisey. Wasn't overly impressed with the food. Welcome to eGullet and be sure to give us a report on where you go.

I like Stretches better than Bice. Try Corso 98 in Montclair (they should be reopening soon) or Bella Rosa on Rt. 10 in East Hanover. All BYO.

indeed. and they apparently are planning on changing the name soon. To what?

It has a reputation as being a watering hole and pick up spot. I dined there once a few years ago and have never returned.

I have no objections. Everyone is welcome here and the more the merrier.

Hey JASON!!! There was a story about this on Table Hopping With Rosie 5/21.