Gencarelli's Restaurant & Dessert Lounge opened quietly last week in the former Gaucho Grill, offering "simple Southern Italian dishes." Although we haven't had a chance to dine there yet, some of our readers have - read about their experience here. Expect tried and true family recipes, says owner Debbie Gencarelli, "your waiter won't be reciting an endless list of fancy specials here," she says. We like the idea of a coffee and pasticceria bar that's open late...and we hear they serve a mean hot chocolate. The official grand opening week is January 8-13, but they're dishing up now for lunch and dinner, and on New Years Eve with two seatings; open for coffee and dessert (and BYO bubbly, of course) 'till 1am with a DJ...381 Bloomfield Avenue. 973-744-8881.
Il Forno on South Fullerton is gone, Bistro 18 is going in. Chef Ricky tells us the menu is "American Eclectic" which we love, 'cause it means creativity in the kitchen. Contractors were there today working on the renovated space for a Dec. 28 opening - but don't hold them to it. Call first: 973-233-2800.
Baristaville has another new lunch and dinner option for slow Mondays. Next Door, a new eatery featuring comfort food favorites, is now open, seven days a week.
But...Next Door to who? Its right next to Blu, with whom it shares chef and owner, Zod Arifai. However, dont look for a "Baby Blu" - Next Door is casual, serving the food we grew up with. "It's at the other end of the spectrum from Blu," says Arifai. At the moment, there's one menu for lunch and dinner. You'll find soups like mushroom barley, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and cold weather faves like beef stew, meat loaf, and roast leg of lamb. Watch for Liz's review - coming soon. 556 Bloomfield Avenue, 973-744-3600.
Wet noodles have moved out to make way for slouvaki: the "Greek Kitchen Coming Soon" banner is hard to miss on the former Noodle House building (across from Lackawanna Plaza). Let us know if you've got any intel on this newbie, 'cause we don't...yet.
Meanwhile, Greek Delights is still planning to occupy the former Soda Pop Shop - and fans will be pleased to know they're upping seating capacity from the current 28 to 100. OUPA! They say they'll be at the new location in about 6 weeks.
Salute Brick Oven Restaurant on Glenridge Ave is still keeping us in suspense about the opening. It's been about4 months since the sign's been in the window - maybe those are hand-made bricks they're talkin' about...
And don't forget Fitzgerald's, opening soon in Glen Ridge. I've been watching the construction proceed from my next-door vantage point at The Costume Shop. The interior looks beautiful!