Eating for Boston.

25 Apr
The tragic events that took place at the Boston Marathon shook our country and terrified those in Boston.  But like the strong Americans we are, we have come together to not only pray and think of those who are injured, healing, or who have passed, but to remember how tough we are.  Between natural disasters and acts of terrorism, we have been through so much.  It has been so powerful to watch our citizens pull for one another and become a team.  Together, we can overcome anything.
I’m sure by now you’ve heard of The One Fund, started to help those who were affected most.  Aside from donating directly, 13 Smash Burger locations will be contributing $1 for every “Jersey Burger” (which will be changed to “Boston Burger”)  sold from May 1-3.
So as we’re all going about our regular schedules while keeping Boston in our hearts, fill your stomach and satisfy your taste buds, knowing that you’ve helped when others needed it most.

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Standard Tap

3 Apr
A few weeks ago my sister and I ran the Phillies 5k!  While it was really cold, we had a great time and despite doubting our running capabilities, we did great!
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Later that evening my Mom watched my niece Leah, so it was double date night!
After much debate, we decided to head to Standard Tap.  Of course it is always a debate of where to go when I go out with anyone in the city, but my sister and I always spend a lot of time debating because we are both such food lovers.
We decided to try Standard Tap because we had heard such great things about it from other people and also because word on the street is that it is going to be featured on Diners, Drive – Ins and Dives soon!
Upon arriving we realized that downstairs is self seat, whereas upstairs you have to be put on a waiting list.  We lucked out and a table was leaving just as we arrived.
One of my favorite things to do before dining out somewhere is to look at the menu.  Not only can I dream about what I want to try, but it also saves whoever I’m with a great deal of frustration because I take so long to order!
Standard Tap not only doesn’t have their menu online, but it changes so frequently according to what ingredients they have on hand that it is simply written on a chalk board.  Definitely a unique experience!
We obviously had a lot of questions because the menu items were listed without any description. 
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Of course there are tons of local beers available, but I went for a Cabernet Syrah blend that I really enjoyed.
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To start we had an Eggplant Dip.  It was smooth and creamy like hummus and served with two big tortilla-like crisps, warm pita bread and pickled veggies.  I loved the flavor of the dip and it was unlike anything I’ve ever tried.  I especially liked the tortilla crisps and wished there had been a whole plateful!
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One of the items that was highly suggested to get was their chicken pot pie.  Ryan took the advice and I was jealous when it came out!  He let me try a bite and it tasted like Thanksgiving!  The chicken was mixed perfectly with veggies and sandwiched between light, fluffy crust.  Next time I am getting this!
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My sisters entrée was also really delicious.  She had Monkfish and Clams.  It was cooked in a savory garlic broth, topped with some thick, crusty bread.  I found myself dipping into the broth and enjoying the tender monkfish, bite after bite.
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I tried the Albacore Tuna Sandwich.  The tuna came on grainy bread with lettuce and sprouts.  I’m not quite sure if there was supposed to be some kind of sauce or spread but the sandwich really lacked something.  It just tasted bland and I kept thinking that it could have been brought up another notch with that “something” extra.
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Jay tried the Standard Burger, which was served with a side of fries.  Their burger also comes highly recommended and Jay said it was juicy and flavorful.  I can attest that the fries were crispy, salty and of course the perfect accompaniment to a burger.

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We all agreed on trying potato and cheese croquettes!  I mean, how can you go wrong with potato and cheese anything?  The croquettes were creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and a perfect side dish to share.

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There was a note on the board saying that sales from one of the desserts, a brownie sundae, would go to benefit Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.  Not that we really needed a reason to order dessert other than the fact that we wanted sweets, but this helped make us feel more inclined to do so.

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While we agreed that the sundae was tasty, we LOVED the smores pie.
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Not only was it covered in chocolate, but the toasted marshmallows were such a fun surprise.  Amazing!!!
Our experience at Standard Tap was fun and met our foodie standards.  If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in a comfortable, casual atmosphere, I’d highly suggest you check it out.  And if you’re anything like me, the menu anticipation alone is enough to make you give it a whirl!

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Zinburger Cherry Hill, NJ

14 Mar
What’s better then a big, juicy, melty burger? A big, juicy, melty burger complimented by a great glass of wine of course!
On March 5th, Zinburger in Cherry Hill, NJ, opened their doors and their guests opened their mouths and stomachs!
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Jay and I were lucky enough to be invited to try Zinburger before they opened and we were treated to a mouthwatering lunch. 
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Their concept is simple.  Fresh burgers served as a fancy or simple as you like, accompanied by sides with gourmet sauces, washed down with a crisp glass of wine or decadent ‘shake.  A unique twist on an ordinary burger joint, where you could come for a date or bring the whole family.
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As we scanned the menu our server told us about their daily specials, including a featured burger, wine, and milkshake.  She also explained that their beef is ground fresh several times throughout the day.  Talk about quality!
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I also noticed this great deal, as well as a daily happy hour.
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It was such a tough choice trying to chose which burger to try!  I decided to try the Zinburger, because it just seemed like the right thing to do!  How could you not try the item that has the restaurants name in it?!  It ended up being a delicious decision.087089
Zinburger – Manchego Cheese, Zinfandel Braised Onions & Mayo.
The burger was moist and dripping with flavor.  Topped with manchego cheese and sweet, wine-soaked onions, all on a buttery roll.  If I had to compare it to anything it would be french onion soup.  Picture that – french onion soup topped burger!!!  It was the melt-in-your-mouth experience any burger lover dreams of.   I very rarely eat burgers but this is definitely one I’d splurge on again!
I also enjoyed a glass of Malbec/Syrah wine that was the featured wine.  I loved the idea of having a great glass of wine accompany my burger.  Brilliant concept.
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Samburger – Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Bacon, American Cheese & Thousand Island Dressing.
Jay’s burger was equally as good.  Of course his involved bacon and cheese.  I could definitely taste the burger even more on his, and boy was it good.  I would consider getting this one next time as well.  Which really makes me feel like I’d like, well, anything at Zinburger.
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Of course we had to try their fries.  And by fries I mean 3 kinds.  Their zucchini fries were served with parmesan & ranch dipping sauce and sweet potato fries were served with a yogurt dipping sauce.  Each of the fries were crisp and full of flavor. 
I wish I could say that we ended our meal with a shake.  But by the time we were done with our burgers, fries, and drinks, I was more than satisfied.  Next time I will definitely save room for the Bars of Zin – Chocolate Ice Cream, Melted Chocolate & Praline Flakes. 
Whether you go to try the burgers, wine, sides, shakes, or fun atmosphere – you are in for a real treat. I highly recommend trying Zinburger for an upscale burger experience like you’ve never had before!

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Saucy Beans

28 Feb
    Growing up, my Mom never had a hard time getting us to eat vegetables.  Whether we had a big leafy salad filled with crunchy cucumbers, fresh zucchini seasoned with Italian spices, or my favorite, green beans, we gobbled them up.  I even remember her making lima beans and enjoying them!
    The first time I made this recipe was in the Outer Banks this past October.  It was an experiment that wound up working out beautifully.  Not only did everyone enjoy the beans, but my sister now makes them frequently as well.
    You will need:
    • 1 TBS olive oil
    • 1 pound green beans, washed with ends cut off
    • 1 package of baby bella mushrooms, washed and sliced
    • 2-3 garlic cloves
    • 2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce
    • Salt and pepper
        • -Begin by heating the olive oil on medium heat.  Add the garlic and be sure to keep it whole!  That is an important part because you want the garlic to become soft and flavorful, yet not overpower the other flavors.  Allow garlic to cook for 5 minutes.
        -Next, add the mushrooms, season with  salt and pepper, and cook until tender, 5-10 minutes.  Then add the green beans, cooking for another 5 minutes.
        -Lastly, add the marinara sauce.  Cover your pan and cook for 10 minutes, until sauce has thickened. 
        Serve as a side dish or top with fresh grated cheese, chicken, meatballs, turkey… the possibilities are endless!

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      These days I love veggies even more and rarely even turn one down.  This dish combines all my favorites and there is usually enough for leftovers.  But one thing is for certain – I’d take these green beans over lima beans any day!

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      Green Apple Tuna Melt.

      8 Jan
        Happy New Year!  I’ve been trying my best to be healthy recently, not only because of resolutions, but simply because I overindulged this holiday season. 
        I’m not one for skimping on meals.  I like delicious food, with lots of flavor and usually a lot of volume. If I’m eating something that is on the smaller side I’ll always bulk it up with some veggies or a salad.  That’s one of the Weight Watcher tricks that will always stick with me.
        While tuna is a lunch staple, this version has a twist! 
        Green Apple Tuna Melt
        You will need:
        • 1 can of tuna, chopped finely
        • 1-2 TBS light mayo
        • 1 TBS spicy mustard
        • 1/4 small onion, chopped
        • 1/2 stalk celery, chopped
        • 2 thin slices of green apply
        • 1 english muffin, sliced
        • 1/3 cup cheddar shredded cheddar cheese
        • salt and pepper
          First thing first… a whole can of tuna?!  Yes.  I told you I’m about volume.  I eat the whole can because it is high in protein, is healthy and I know it will keep me full for a long time.  I also love using the veggies in my tuna for crunch, but also because it makes a bigger portion.
          1.) Combine tuna, mayo, mustard, celery and onion. 
          2.) Toast english muffin, then place tuna salad on english muffin. 
          3.) Top each half with tuna salad.  It will seem like it is overflowing, but you can do it!  Then top with green apple and cheese.
          4.) Toast in toaster oven or oven until cheese is melted.  You MUST toast the english muffin prior to adding all of the toppings or it won’t be crunchy.
          5.) Top with salt and pepper. 
          Enjoy!

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