I wanted to let you know that I was recently at the James Beard Foundation for a dinner on Tuesday night, with much to my surprise, a local restaurateur was featured. Chef Carrino from Restaurant Passionne was the hosting chef and let me tell you, this meal was the best meal I've ever had at the James Beard House. My husband and I go twice a month and this just set us beside ourselves. The food paired w/ the wines couldn't have been better matched, truly spectacular. The chef was so humble to the attendees compliments and answered our questions without missing a beat. He had a great team with him from the Exec Chef at Montauk Country Club all the way to the Chef du Cuisine at the Williamsburg Inn. Seems as though his team was chefs and mentors he's worked with in the past. Listed below is the menu I brought home. Some of these items are staples on the restaurants menu I suppose, but every dish left me wishing it was full large portions, I've already made my next reservation.

I came here to put my two cents in about a vegetarian cafe and juice bar called The Energy Bar in the South End of Montclair. It is a truly fabulous restaurant. I was stunned to find that it isn't listed on Baristanet. They are just a cafe bar with a few outside seats but are expanding to have in house dining. The food is delicious and fresh and it isn't served anywhere else in montclair that I have found. Please add it to the list.