The big guy above is chef Jessie Jones. And it was his ribs that garnered him best entree — and best in show this week at the 6th annual Taste of Essex. Jones picked up two plaques that night, and my heart, with his mouth-watering ribs that defy description — believe it. Right now, the only way to taste them is through Heart & Soul Catering. In addition to doing events (backyard BBQ parties are a specialty), Jones also does private candlelight dinners, too. Jones, who lives in South Orange, is 
jonesing to open a restaurant. (How about putting that liquor license to good use, Steve…)
Jones wasn’t the only star that night. Montclair’s Palazzo walked away with best appetizer for perfectly prepared lamb chops. Sunrise Shoprite won for its desserts — decadent truffles, delicate petit fours and minature cheesecake cones. Cloverleaf Tavern won for its mojitos, which were perfect for washing down the eatery’s signature crab dip.
Other honorable mentions: Culinariane, for its cornmeal-crusted oysters praised here first. Fascino offered a marzipan-infused cake with pistachio ice cream that was heaven. Cricket Hill Brewery was the people’s choice for great brews all night. Another hit were Brinley rums — especially the coconut.
– Liz George
Jessie did have a restaurant, Heart & Soul, near the train station in South Orange…guess it’s closed. The space had all the charm of a take-out Chinese restaurant, including plastic lawn furniture for tables and chairs, but the food was wonderful and Jessie always came out to talk with his diners.
Chef Jesse Jones is the guest chef for a benefit on to raise money to send three wonderful yoga teachers to teach yoga to children and staff at the Sociedad Proctectora de la Infancia, an orphanage in Ecuador. The benefit is on Friday, April 13 at Harvest Table in Newark, http://harvesttablenj.com/, and a suggested $50 donation includes food, an open wine bar, live music and great company. For more details, see
http://www.lotusyogamontclair.com/Invitation2Rev.pdf
The link to Harvest Table didn’t work, so try http://harvesttablenj.com/default.aspx
Can’t wait to taste those ribs. As for Plofker, wasn’t his hold on that license supposed to run out months ago?
Found a great new eatery…Red Cat.
Next to Plock’s Nursery. Great martini bar and excellent food.
Thought you’d like to know. The owner’s name is Anna. She’s of Polish descent and also offers traditional polish dishes as well. Saturday night is Karaoke night (9 pm)
Mike