On the Road in New Jersey: Stella G’s

I really didn’t have to travel far for this review as Stella G’s is within walking distance of my home, but it has become an every weekend must. The Chefs, Bruno and Maureen, having trained in Switzerland and winning acclaims, have much experience and it shows with their creativity in a menu that is drawn from what is available at the local farms. The main menu is loaded in culinary delights, but the daily specials is where Stella G’s really shines. For me it all started with Asparagus season and the many ways that Stella’s integrated it into the menu. My favorite was a special called “Green Eggs and Ham”. A shaped omelet of asparagus, spinach, green onions with a wonderful full flavored smoked ham diced in, piled high on a their unique Swiss-style potatoes. But enough about the past. It’s peach season and the corn is high and farm fresh. This weekend’s breakfast and lunch specials reflect this . Not being one for sweets usually for breakfast, I went for the Summer Squash Frittata. So light and fluffy with more zucchini and yellow squash then eggs, then topped with a mild salsa that tied everything together. The side of peaches was just that, nothing else added. Fresh, skin on, thin sliced, farm fresh, juicy Jersey peaches. The Frittata and the fruit played well together. Stella G’s is a true hometown favorite. I have yet to have anyone point me to a different place when I ask, “where do you recommend for breakfast?” During the early morning hours there is usually a small waiting line to get in. Never anything major, and the locals are all willing to wait to get a table here. On holidays it can be packed, but with outside dining as well and a good wait staff, waits are kept to a minimum. Another house special are scones. The board changes from time to time, and the staff will inform us of non-posted additions, like this weekend’s fresh blueberry and my now favorite peach scones. Fresh and still warm from the oven, they were a sweet delight to to finish off my coffee with. Oh, as a “don’t forget”, if you ever see their corned beef hash on the menu… GET IT ( see picture below)!!! I really don’t know what they do to it, but it will make all other hash taste like a bad canned version. Stella G’s has never failed me and that is rare in a restaurant for me.