FOR ALL MY FOODIES
I ended the year at Angeloni’s in Caldwell, and it felt like the perfect cozy wrap to a full dining year. Their signature “Thinny Thin” pizzas are exactly as described—ultra-crispy, light, and flavorful. I loved how the crust had just the right snap without feeling brittle, letting the cheese, sauce, and toppings shine through. The menu isn’t just pizza, though—there …
Aqua was one of the most unique dining experiences I had in 2024. The menu offered both Italian and Japanese dishes, which was the perfect fit for my picky husband and myself. That being said, I enjoyed the Italian side of the menu a lot more than I did the Japanese side. It can be difficult for one restaurant to …
Massara was such a lovely Italian dining experience in the city. The menu leaned into rustic, comforting flavors with a modern polish. The pastas were clearly the star—freshly made and perfectly sauced without being overly heavy. I especially enjoyed how each dish felt rooted in tradition while still offering something a little unexpected, which kept the meal exciting. The restaurant …
ORA Italian was such a lovely surprise in New Jersey. The menu had all the comforting Italian classics I love, but with a polished and modern touch. The pizzas were cooked beautifully, and the seafood dishes stood out with fresh, bright flavors. I will say the pasta’s could have been better, but there is definitely plenty to choose from on …
La Pecora Bianca was such a refreshing summer stop. The interiors are bright and airy, creating a stylish but relaxed vibe. The gramigna with sausage was a highlight—comforting yet still light enough for a warm evening. I also loved that the menu has plenty of variety, making it a great pick for any mood. What I appreciate most is how …
Carbone was pure energy and indulgence from the moment I walked in. The spicy rigatoni vodka absolutely lived up to its cult status—it was creamy, fiery, and instantly crave-worthy. Every dish felt like it came with personality, bold in both flavor and presentation. The restaurant itself had that buzzing, cinematic quality that makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto a …
Il Mulino has been a staple for us for the last 10+ years and always gives me that quintessential old-school New York Italian experience. The pastas were rich and indulgent, cooked perfectly al dente, and the veal parmigiana was everything I wanted—crispy, cheesy, and satisfying in a way that feels timeless. Even the antipasti before the main courses made it …