patching...
Breaking: New Trustees Join South Orange Government »
Welcome back, Patch Blogger!

Reindeer3

Monday, December 24, 2012

Seven Fishes is a New Jersey Tradition

The Seven Fishes Dinner says Christmas Eve, thanks to tradition and the Jersey Shore

Whether it represents the hills of Rome, the Catholic sacraments, or, as veteran home cook Rosella Vitale suggests, "lucky lottery numbers," the Seven Fishes dinner is synonymous with Christmas Eve for countless Italian-Americans, especially those with roots in New Jersey and Philadelphia. "Squid, smelts," says Reggie Delphin, owner of Freeman's Fish Market and purveyor of Eden Gourmet's fish, "clams, mussels, sardines, maybe they serve a seafood salad." He and fellow fishmonger Shawn McClure agree that, while every family's order is a little different, the Seven Fishes dinner makes for the busiest time of the year. It also means that the gleaming fish heaped on mounds of ice at the Eden Gourmet fish counter aren't the usual fare. "We get …

Friday, December 31, 2010

Editor's Notebook: Stories of South Orange, 2010

A look back at memorable stories of the year

As South Orange turns the corner on 2010, I look back at memorable stories of the past year.  I became editor in June, following the trail blazed by Cotton Delo. Thus many of the stories I remember best from the first half of the year are those favorite assignments that I took on as a freelancer.  During those months, I had the privilege of going inside closed doors, and seeing behind the scenes. I watched the cast of CHS's Big grow in confidence, and saw the "A Night on the Towns" adult performers sweat it out.  I lunched at the senior housing center at 110 Vose Ave., and celebrated the Savoia Club's anniversary. That story, in particular, led to coverage of South Orange's Special Olympics athletes, and the New Jersey Italian-American …

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Dining Out, South Orange Style

A look back at restaurants we reviewed in 2010 inspires plans for meals in 2011

From zesty Lalibela to spicy tuna rolls, South Orange has a lot on the menu. What follows is a look back at restaurants we visited in the past year.  We'd like to hear what you think, though. Tell us if you agree or disagree, and please send your suggestions for 2011 reviews.  Bon appetit! We were drawn to the Gaslight by burgers, and stayed for the Bavarian menu. Lalibela delighted us with veggies and homey service. Munchies has crunch and another homey vibe. Yum, yum we said to Yama Sushi. Take us to the river, no, make that the Reservoir. How about cold octopus on the next warm day? Portuguese BBQ , just over the border. A view of Above with Chef Fred Moro

Saturday, December 25, 2010

South Orange's Season in Photos

The community decked the halls this month: a photo gallery.

From Santa hats to a portable ice rink, from the town tree lighting to a Hanukkah parade, South Orange celebrated December's holidays. We visited local historic homes and learned how to make and bake festive treats. We bring you the best of December in a the gallery of photos below. We'd love to add your images to ours: please feel free to add photos or tell us about your South Orange holidays. 

Friday, December 24, 2010

Shop Local South Orange

Last Minute? Stay Local

As gift-giving season continues, here's a look at places we've previewed this fall.

Still looking for that perfect gift? You're not alone, not by a long shot. Many local shoppers are still making that list and checking it twice. In the spirit of the season, here's a helpful list of many South Orange shops and what they offer. Patch has previewed these businesses this fall, hoping to make reader shopping trips a little easier and a lot more interesting. Shopping local, after all, means getting the South Orange news, picking up the buzz, and seeing neighbors at every turn. For 2011, where should we go next? Tell us in the comments or get in touch: marciaw@patch.com. Stocking stuffers? You bet, at S&S Beauty Supply, especially if you're looking for sparkly hair accessories and designer-look pashminas. They also have …

Lauren Bright Pacheco

3:44 pm on Thursday, December 23, 2010

Happy to see so many of my profiles of such great shops in one spot! Thanks, Marcia!   more ›

Got a Hot Tip?
 
 

Videos