SOUTH STREET VICTORIAN RESTAURANT: ECLECTIC, SATISFYING CUISINE IN EXOTIC SETTING Lynn Azzolina,The Courier, Oct. 02 Posted:10/02/08
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FREEHOLD – Dining here is an extraordinary experience! Besides the gourmet gastronomic cuisine, the quaint Victorian ambiance will enhance your dining pleasure so much that once is not enough.
The historic house was built in 1863 during the Civil War by a judge for his bride and remained in the family until 1989 when it was purchased by Stanley and Jody Miles (a designer), who converted the main floor into a fashionable restaurant maintaining the structural elegance of the mansion.
She converted the stylish rooms into five elegant and unique dining rooms, three of them with fireplaces, and established The Parasol Café, which later became 75 South until two years ago when the South Street Victorian opened under Craig Gemo (a graduate of North Carolina Culinary School), who is the executive chef, partnering with his sister Lauren (Art Institute NYC), who is the pastry chef. It is a family affair as their parents Cathy and Lewis assist them on weekends.
They are known for their homemade soups and daily specials using the freshest seasonal ingredients, as well as hand cut free range steaks and chops, organic chicken, duck and fresh seafood, all made to order.
We found the food to be incredible, artistic and filled with an abundance of wholesome flavor. Everything served was so pleasing to me and my guests that we can hardly wait to return and sample more of their exquisite dishes.
Among the exciting appetizers, all beautifully presented, were crispy golden Fried Calamari; Clams Siciliano (little neck clams, crumbled sweet Italian sausage, sliced garlic, drizzled with a light pomadoro sauce; melt in your mouth Homemade Ravioli (filled with sweet lump crab, roasted red pepper, grilled asparagus, sliced garlic, and goat cheese enhanced with a parmesan cream sauce). Each one was better than the next, prepared by a creative chef!
The appetizing entrees were just as thrilling beginning with succulent Grilled Salmon Filet; Pan Seared Sea Scallops (served with a absolutely delicious fresh mozzarella croquette, prosciutto wrapped braised leeks, drizzled with garlic tomato oil), fork tender Pan Seared Veal Medallians served with Reggiano orzo, Madeira braised peppers and chipolini onions, and – last but not least – their famous Crabcakes made with fresh lump crabmeat, a culinary delight! All of the above were distinctive dishes made to satisfy anyone who knows and loves good, wholesome food.
Now for the grand finale, all created by Lauren. We absolutely loved the Burnt Cream, New York Style Cheese Cake and the Tempura Banana Split, all melt-in your-mouth delicacies to complete your gourmet meal which was second to none! Boun Appetito.
ADDRESS: 75 South Street, PHONE/WEB: 732-308-1599 Web: southstreetvictorian.com OPEN: 6 days lunch & dinner (closed Mondays) PRICES: $17 for Stuffed Chicken Breast to $30 for Filet Mignon BANQUETS & CATERING BYOB
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