The Squirt: Great place for truly delicious Italian food in an eclectic intimate atmosphere.
Must Eats: Very Garlic Bread; Lasagna; Pork Osso Bucco
Prices: Moderate to Expensive

Catherine Lombardi, New Brunswick, NJ

Ren and I had an exceptional dinner at Catherine Lombardi located in the Theatre District of New Brunswick, NJ. It is a wonderful Italian restaurant with a really eclectic, upscale and elegant atmosphere. The two cozy fireplaces add a real cozy intimate feel to one’s experience. There is plenty of stone, cream painted moldings and red accents to keep you visually occupied for a while upon entering. They offer various types of seating including sofas, chairs and curved booths with high backs. There is also a small bar area in addition to the large dining room. Catherine Lombardi is located on the second floor, above their other restaurant, Stage Left. At the front entrance, there is a friendly attendant to open the door for you. For those not wanting to ascend the long staircase up to the second level, there is an elevator available. (more…)

Hotoke, Exterior, New Brunswick, NJ

A couple of nights ago we had a truly terrific exotic experience at Hotoke, in New Brunswick, NJ. Hotoke is an upscale and seductively exciting Asian influenced restaurant. The restaurant reminded us of Tao in Las Vegas with its captivating atmosphere. When you walk in, you see two big doors and do not really know what lies behind the closed doors. As soon as you open them, you are truly awstruck at the sight.  The sight is dramatic, chic and very cosmopolitan. This is the type of restaurant you would see in New York City or Las Vegas.  It’s nice to know we have such a chic and stylish restaurant nearby. (more…)

Sahara Restaurant, New Brunswick, NJ

Sahara Restaurant, New Brunswick, NJ

A few nights ago we went to Sahara, a wonderful Mediterranean restaurant located in New Brunswick, NJ. This is one of our favorite ethnic BYOB restaurants. It is also reasonably priced for the generous amount of food that you are served. We have always received a very warm hello upon entering, and have had very friendly and efficient service. That night was no exception. It was a beautiful warm sunny evening and the entire atmosphere made you feel like you were actually dining in the Mediterranean. The long windows were open, allowing a nice gentle breeze into the restaurant and there were people dining outside.  We did choose the inside dining room however, near the windows. That way, we had the best of both worlds. (more…)

Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que, New Brunswick, NJ

The other night, we went to one of our favorite restaurants, Famous Dave’s on US Rt. 1 in New Brunswick.  We definitely make sure that we “pre-balance” out before we eat there, because the portions are BIG. (more…)