Lauren Dwyer spent years looking for the perfect spot in Maplewood for her restaurant, The Laurel. "I've wanted to own my own restaurant since I was 17," the 27-year-old told Patch in May, shortly before the place opened its doors. 

Now, just three months later, Dwyer's persistence -- and the talents of her father, Dennis, who helms the kitchen -- has paid off with a glowing review in The New York Times. 

"It's very exciting," said Ms. Dwyer. "We are all celebrating and preparing for busy weeks ahead."

Critic Fran Schumer called the restaurant "tiny but excellent" and noted that the food "shows an attention to detail that is especially impressive."  Schumer singled out the burger as "one of the best hamburger platters in Northern New Jersey." Nods were also given to the fried chickpeas ("an instant best-seller"), Scotch eggs ("a delicacy") and the meatballs ("light on the inside and moist and crunchy on the outside").

Meanwhile, the Dwyer duo is looking ahead. "We are also in the process of finalizing our fall menu which will be debuted in September," Ms. Dwyer said. "It will include some new menu items, more soups, some new desserts, and specials."