WEST END – Although I always loved dining here at Roselli’s, I love it more than ever as several extra special attractions have been added. They have designed a new, carefully planned, diversified and more affordable menu with something for every individual flavor, all prepared by new creative chef Travis Murphy, who comes directly from Doris & Ed’s in the Highlands. He is very innovative and all of his creations are prepared using the highest quality of standards possible.
The restaurant is owned by Joseph Roselli, a Long Branch native who completely constructed the striking, contemporary restaurant and lounge to resemble a fine, Manhattan restaurant. Roselli’s is very dramatic with designer magenta booths and a flowing matching sheer curtain separating the dining room from the lounge. The modern décor was carefully chosen by professional designers. Recessed and suspended multi-colored ceiling lights complete the theatrical scene.
Although Roselli’s is the fun place to be, one of the most important aspects of the restaurant is the creative food which is second to none. I have dined here on many occasions and have found them to prepare one of the finest and tastiest steaks possible. That’s not all though, as the new menu offers something for every individual flavor. Not only is it in the taste, but every dish is unique and beautifully presented with designer serving dishes and utensils.
Be sure to sample the Crab Fondue to start – a colossal lump crabmeat enhanced with pancetta, gruyere, scallions, and dijon, and served with grilled pita. This was phenomenal, a great beginning!
Another sought after appetizer is a unique pasta, Broccolini & Sausage Pillows. I cannot remember tasting anything so delicious as this fantastic dish. Tender ravioli are stuffed with broccolini and a flavorful sausage placed over roasted tomatoes, white beans, spinach and roasted garlic. This unique appetizer had a pleasant touch of spice and could have been a meal it was so satisfying!
On another occasion I sampled an unusual starter, Veal Sliders, (three tasty veal sliders, served on petite brioche buns, with grain mustard, melted brie, tomato and greens). Another favorite of mine is the Lollypop Lamb Chops (two lamb chops, pan seared and served with tomato roast fennel compote, and drizzled with balsamic fig).
The salads at Roselli’s are also unique, and artistic, almost a meal in itself. Try the Cranberry Citrus Chicken Waldorf, Café Fresco or Parisian Shrimp, all very appealing!
My entrée selection Angus Steak Gorgonzola was delicious beyond expectations – a certified angus NY strip steak enhanced with red onion marmalade, gorgonzola cheese, a melt-in-your-mouth selection filled with an abundance of flavor!
For the seafood lovers, try Scallops Chardonnay (seared scallops with black truffle sacchetti, served with carmelized leeks, and a chardonnay saffron broth), a creative, succulent preparation of fresh tasting scallops, prepared by a creative, professional chef!
Whatever your choice I know that you will be completely satisfied. Enjoy!
ADDRESS: 115 Brighton Ave., West End, Long Branch
TEL./LINKS: 732-923-9393; http://www.rosellisnj.com www.rosellisnj.com
DAYS OPEN: 5 days (closed Mondays & Tuesdays
ENTRÉE PRICES: $17 for Pan Seared Tilapia,
$28 for Veal Porterhouse
PRIX FIXE MENU: three courses $28 (Sunday Only)
MARTINI LOUNGE: (open late)
HAPPY HOUR: Wed-Fri 4-7 & SAT. 10pm to closing
Happy hour pricing on all drinks including $6 house martinis