New Jersey Eats

I've had the opportunity to try a couple of new restaurants in the past few weeks, along with revisiting a couple of old favorites.

First, there was Chakra in Paramus. The last time we visited, the restaurant had a definite Asian flair to the dishes and all were impeccably prepared.

The menu this time around was far more conventional, with a selections of steaks and seafood, but the fare was all prepared quite well. As always, the wine list was comprehensive and ranged from $35 to $900+ and the bar has its share of mixed drinks as well. The atmosphere on the Monday we visited was quiet and elegant and our waitress was quite engaging. I'd recommend Chakra, but wish that the conventional menu were upgraded to match a most dramatic and unconventional setting. Chakra regularly tops Zagats ratings for their decor.

Next, there was Natale's in Ridgewood. This small Italian BYO eatery may not have the largest seating area (it's best described as cozy), but it definitely holds its own in the foodie town against larger Italian restaurants like Marras, Radiccio, and Fratelli. Their pastas are all homemade and their soups can eat like a meal unto themselves. All the pasta preparations are quite good, and a farfalle with salmon in a light cream sauce was quite good as was a pesto chicken risotto. Definitely call ahead for seating, especially on Friday and Saturday.

Then, there's Fair Lawn's Hunan Empire, which sits hard against Route Four near where Route 208 splits off. Parking may be a bit tough, although the closure of Good Times across the street means that you can park in that unused lot. It's a fine choice for those who might want sushi and sashimi to go along with their Chinese food. The fare is quite tasty and prepared quite well. Nothing is too salty and the soups are quite light. This restaurant is BYO.

Finally, there's Arturo's of Midland Park, which provides a wide selection of solid Italian fare. Service is generally quite good and the wait staff are extremely well trained. There is a full selection of pastas, and there are always seafood specials, which included a wahoo. You'll definitely leave the restaurant fulfilled. A full bar awaits those who seek mixed drinks or wine.