Bergen November 2023

Bergen VOLUME 22 ISSUE 11 | NOVEMBER 2023

Bergen HEALTH & LIFE | FOOD & FASHION | HOME & HAPPENINGS

NOVEMBER 2023 | $6.95 | BERGENMAG.COM | VOLUME 22 ISSUE 11

THE FOOD ISSUE

LOVE AT FIRST BITE

*

2 CHEFS OPEN THEIR COOKBOOKS

PALATE PLEASER AT CAFÉ PANACHE IN RAMSEY

BERGEN COUNTY’S TOP LAWYERS 8 CULINARY PROS DISH ON THEIR FAVORITES GROCERY GAMES SHOP RIGHT TO EAT RIGHT

+ BERG.1123.coverFIN.indd 2

SPECIAL REPORT: DO WE NEED SO MANY CONVENIENCE STORES?

10/23/23 8:58 AM

C3-New Era Dawning Opening April 2024 – Bergen Gatefold.qxp 10/10/23 10:52 AM Page 1

A New Era in Heal

April 14

THE VALLEY HOSPITAL,

Care Like No Other is Coming to Paramus! ®

Follow our progress at ValleyHealth.com/NewHospital

Untitled-2 1

10/10/23 1:59 PM

C4-New Era Dawning Opening April 2024 - Bergen Gatefold.qxp 10/10/23 10:54 AM Page 1

althcare is Dawning 14, 2024

AL, PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY

Untitled-3 1

10/10/23 2:00 PM

C2-New Era Dawning Opening April 2024 – Bergen_Gate Cover.qxp_April 2020 10/10/23 10:50 AM Page 1

A New Era in Healthcare is Dawning OPEN TO LEARN MORE

Care Like No Other is Coming to Paramus! ®

Untitled-2 1

10/10/23 1:59 PM

Untitled-12 1

10/20/23 9:05 AM

Untitled-4 21 Untitled-12

10/4/23 10/20/23 10:13 9:06 AM

Untitled-4 31 Untitled-12

10/4/23 10/20/23 10:13 9:06 AM

ENDS 11/30

SKI & BOARDSHOP

MOUNT EVEREST RIDGEWOOD | WESTWOOD

GIFT CERTIFICATES Purchase until 12/24. Use after 12/25

JUNIOR SEASONAL SKI/SNOWBOARD LEASE USED

GET

88 100

$

$

TAKE AN ADDITIONAL

RESERVE YOUR RENTAL APPOINTMENT ONLINE

155

FIVE4FREE

$

Untitled-12 1

USED

NEW

295

$

Sizes: 140cm - 180cm

All Kids 5 and under get a FREE Seasonal Rental.

Yeah, for real. We make it easy to get started!

Offer valid while supplies last. Security Deposit required.

RIDGEWOOD 15 S Walnut St 201.327.4561

ADULT SEASONAL SKI/SNOWBOARD LEASE

189

$

Sizes: 70cm - 139cm

IT’S BACK!

10% OFF CLOTHING

Jackets, Pants, Hats, Gloves, Socks, Underwear, etc. [$100 MIN.]

NEW PEAK XV

119

$

PAY

WESTWOOD

mteverest.com

318 3rd Ave 201.664.2500

10/20/23 9:08 AM

Bergen Mag Diabetes_Ad_9x10.875-2023 TO.pdf

Untitled-1 11 Untitled-12

1

10/12/23

4:43 PM

10/13/23 10/20/23 9:46 9:09 AM

Contents NOV 2023

36 Features A Dinner You’ll Remember 42

Shop Right To Eat Right 32 Your family’s healthy food choices for the week begin in the grocery cart. Here are experts’ tips.

The Truth About Diabetes 34 With proper care it can be managed successfully for years, but left untreat it can kill.

Chefs’ Choice 36 Who knows the tastiest places to shop and dine better than those who prepare Bergen’s restaurant meals?

Shrimp and grits, anyone? And pumpkin panna cotta for dessert? Let two top Bergen chefs help you prepare an unforgettable autumn repast.

The World Of ‘Grab-’N-Go’ 46

10 30 80 86

Editor’s Note Health News Where to Eat Be There

Convenience stores are proliferating in Bergen, selling the one or two items you want to pick up in a hurry. But, as one resident asks, “Do we really need so many?”

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 toc.indd 6

IN EVERY ISSUE

6

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:18 PM

Left to Right: EVAN BAIRD, MD, Assistant Clinical Professor, Mount Sinai Medical Center; RAFAEL LEVIN, M.D., M.S.C., Chief of Spine, HackensackUMC at Pascack Valley; JONATHAN LESTER, M.D., Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; NOMAAN ASHRAF, M.D., M.B.A., Assistant Clinical Professor, Mount Sinai Medical Center

WHERE OUR TEAM BELIEVES IN CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT FIRST. BOARD CERTIFIED SPINE SURGEONS AND PHYSIATRY SERVICES

WESTWOOD | CLIFTON | BRIDGEWATER EAST BRUNSWICK 201.634.1811 | COMPSPINECARE.COM

CompSpine_FP_1023.indd Untitled-12 1 1

NJ TOP DOCS 2014-2023

8/23/23 10/20/23 11:42 9:10 AM

Contents NOV 2023

50 28

26 Departments Bergen Buzz 15 Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Your Friends & Neighbors 22 John Diakakis is a sometime standup comic as well as a restaurateur, but he’s serious when he says that in 30 years he’s never spilled coffee on a customer.

Style Watch 26 Pleats are a universally forgiving (and flattering) trend this season.

Home Front 28

Restaurant Review 84

Special Advertising Section

Step up your holiday hosting with a chic tray that has guests going back for more.

At Koon Thai Eatery in Hillsdale, a revered national cuisine is where creativity begins.

The County’s Top Lawyers 57

Escapes 50

Gatherings 87

Five great world cities each favor a flavor you may at first be afraid of.

Bergenresidents always show up to support their friends and neighbors—especially when help is needed most.

Tastes 52 Sometimes you just need some comfort food to get you through the week. These breakfast or lunch dishes combine multiple floavor profiles and are easy to whip up at home.

A Bergen Moment 88

ON THE COVER Pumpkin panna cotta by Chef Michael Matonti, Café Panache, Ramsey.

Photo courtesy of Café Panache.

After a soccer game, a Westwood family enjoys the scenic view at Pascack Brook County Park.

Bar Tab 78 Toast to the season with a sweet and spicy take on a classic Moscow mule.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 toc.indd 8

8

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 1:23 PM

Experience the Next Level of Shopping & Dining

Saks Fifth Avenue Hermès Dolce & Gabbana Ferrari Mulberry Elegant Prosper Anne Fontaine Saint Laurent Alexander Wang Couture Kids Tiffany & Co. Watches of Switzerland Rolex Cartier Carpaccio Jonathan Adler Opening Soon: Gucci Balenciaga Gentle Monster Canada Goose TimeVallée Amouage Zadig & Voltaire and more...

Receive a Gift Card up to $500 with your purchase* Dec. 2nd–Dec. 16th

Untitled-12 1

10/20/23 9:11 AM

EDITOR’S NOTE

Whet Your Appetite It’s an editor’s cliché, but like many clichés it has its truth. One shouldn’t edit a food piece or a restaurant review right before lunch, lest hunger pangs become distracting. A kindred caution may be appropriate for readers here. If you’re settling down to read this issue just before mealtime, your taste buds may begin dancing the tarantella in anticipation. You’ve been warned.

This is our Food Issue, you see, and before you protest, “Well, so is every other issue, in a sense!” (and you’d be right), let me explain that this month we’ve taken extra pains to tantalize. We’ve persuaded each of two stellar Bergen restaurant chefs (page 42) to share a favorite recipe—they offer a curry shrimp-and-grits entrée and a pumpkin panna cotta dessert—so that you can create a dinner your diners will be talking about for a long time.

And speaking of chefs, we’ve tapped the expertise of eight of these knowledgeable pros (page 36) about which Bergen eateries and shops they like to visit when they treat themselves to a night off. After all, who knows better?

It doesn’t even begin to stop there. Besides our usual Culinary Corner in Bergen Buzz (page 18; this time we welcome three new spots that sell scrumptious desserts—mmmm!) and our monthly restaurant review (page 84, where you’ll encounter the mouthwatering crispy duck and “Holy Beef ” of Koon Thai in Hillsdale), we offer a primer on healthy food shopping (page 32) and an Escapes piece (page 50) that challenges the daring traveler to sample distinctive native foods from five great world cities—foods whose deliciousness is, well, unexpected.

Perhaps you’ve stepped away for a snack by now, but I’ll keep writing this column anyway. On page 22, you’ll meet blind John Diakakis of the famous Bendix Diner in Hasbrouck Heights. Stop by there, and neither his handicap nor his lofty status as owner will prevent his filling your coffee cup himself—and he promises not to spill. Those convenience stores you visit on impulse for a quick bite? Our Special Report (page 46) explores them and how their corner of the retail biz is faring. (Ketchup, they say, is a “representative item.”) Diabetes is an illness that shines a spotlight on healthy eating, but there are misconceptions about it—read the truth on page 34.

Can it be? I’ve said all this about food in November without yet mentioning the word “turkey.” Of course, this month gives Americans the excuse to put food at the center of their consciousness for the year’s most celebrated day of eating. On page 15 we offer eight tips for cooking the big bird safely. On the same page, we on BERGEN’s staff share our families’ favorite Turkey Day traditions. What are yours?

Eat healthy—but eat hearty. And don’t forget to take time to savor every single bite.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com

BERG.1123 memo.indd 110 085_BERG_1123.indd

10/20/23 9:40 1:10 AM PM

Discover the Power of a 1031 Exchange Strategy

Sell your property, defer your capital gains tax, and purchase a passive, institutionally managed investment by utilizing DSTs in your 1031 Exchange.

We are a family-owned and operated, SEC-registered investment advisor.

Since 1982, Kolinsky Wealth Management has serviced high-net-worth clients and business owners throughout the US. To request a free consultation with Chad, Jason or Steven, visit kolinskywealth.com or call (201) 474-4011 today!

Chad Kolinsky

Jason Kolinsky

Steven I. Kolinsky

CFA

CFP®

CLU, ChFC

500 North Franklin Turnpike, Suite 104, Ramsey, NJ 07446 201.474.4011 | www.kolinskywealth.com “Advisory services offered through appropriately registered representatives of Kolinsky Wealth Management, LLC an independent registered investment adviser. Securities offered through appropriately registered representatives of The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA), member FINRA/SIPC which is otherwise unaffiliated with Kolinsky Wealth Management, LLC and Kolinsky Financial Group, Inc. Supervisory Office: 678.954.4000.”

Kolinsky_FP_11.23_V1.indd Untitled-12 1 1

10/12/23 10/20/23 11:30 9:12 AM

Bergen Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

STAY WARM THIS WINTER SCHEDULE YOUR FURNACE TUNE-UP & SAFETY CHECK

Creative Director STEPHEN M. VITARBO Senior Associate Editor DARIUS AMOS Lifestyle Editor HALEY LONGMAN Contributing Editors LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF PAUL RANCE JR. DONNA ROLANDO PRODUCTION Production Manager FERN E. MESHULAM Production Artist CHRIS FERRANTE

BE SOCIAL Join our online community!

LIKE us on Facebook: BergenMag FOLLOW us on Twitter: @BergenMag SEE our photos on Instagram: @BergenMagNJ VIEW our boards on Pinterest: HealthandLife

KEEP YOUR HOME COMFORTABLE AND SAFE WITH OUR MAINTENANCE PROTECTION PLAN

BERG.1123.masthead.indd 085_BERG_1123.indd 1 12

SEND YOUR FEEDBACK AND IDEAS TO: Editor, BERGEN, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656; fax 201.746.8650; email editor@wainscotmedia.com.

BERGEN assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts or art materials.

BERGEN is published 12 times a year

by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. This is Volume 22, Issue 11. © 2023 by Wainscot Media LLC. All rights reserved. Subscriptions in U.S. outside of Bergen County: $14 for one year.

Single copies: $6.95. Material contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. If you have medical concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.

10/18/23 10/20/23 12:19 1:10 PM

Publisher THOMAS FLANNERY Associate Publisher MARY MASCIALE ADVERTISING

Senior Account Executive MARY LIMA Account Executives CHRISTIE COLVILLE, PEARL LISS Director, Special Programs LAURA A. DOWDEN MARKETING, DIGITAL & OPERATIONS

Director of Marketing and Digital Media NIGEL EDELSHAIN Director of Operations CATHERINE ROSARIO Director of Advertising Services JACQUELYNN FISCHER Chief Finance Officer STEVEN RESNICK Assistant Controller URSZULA JANECZKO Accounts Receivable Manager KASIE CARLETON Accounts Receivable Specialist BRUCE LIBERMAN Office Manager PENNY GLASS BOAG PUBLISHED BY WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman CARROLL V. DOWDEN President & CEO MARK DOWDEN Senior Vice Presidents LIZETTE CHIN RITA GUARNA Vice Presidents NIGEL EDELSHAIN THOMAS FLANNERY NOELLE HEFFERNAN MARIA REGAN STEVEN RESNICK

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Please contact Thomas Flannery at 201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com.

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES To inquire about a subscription, to change an address or to purchase a back issue or a reprint of an article, please write to BERGEN, Circulation Department, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656; telephone 201.573.5541; email fern.meshulam@wainscotmedia.com.

BERG.1123.masthead.indd 085_BERG_1123.indd 1 13

10/18/23 10/20/23 12:19 1:11 PM

Bergen Magazine (USPS 025-351) Published 12 times/year by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Drive, Suite 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Publisher; Thomas Flannery, Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Drive, Suite 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, Editor; Rita Guarna, Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Drive, Suite 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Subscription Price: $14.00 US. Filing Date: 10/2/2023; Owner: Carroll V. Dowden, 13 Cameron Road, Saddle River, NJ 07458; Mark Dowden, 180 Washington Valley Rd., Morristown, NJ 07960; Lebhar Friedman, Inc., 241 Central Park West, New York, NY, 10024. Known Bondholders, Mortgages, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None.

Issue Date for Circulation Data: September 2023. Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: Total # of copies: 38,966; Outside County paid/requested mail subscriptions: 0; In- County paid/ requested mail subscriptions: 27,626; Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other paid or requested distribution outside USPS: 0; Requested copies distributed by other mail classes through the USPS : 0. Total paid and/or requested circulation: 27,626; Outside County nonrequested copies: 0; In- County nonrequested copies: 11,041; Nonrequested copies distributed through the USPS by other classes of mail: 0; Nonrequested copies distributed outside the mail: 0. Total nonrequested distribution: 11,041; Total distribution: 38,667; Copies not distributed: 299; Total: 38,966; Percent paid and/ or requested circulation: 71,5%; No. Copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: Total # of copies: 38,184; Outside County paid/requested mail subscriptions: 0; In-County paid/requested mail subscriptions: 25,418; Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other paid or requested distribution outside USPS: 0; Requested copies distributed by other mail classes through the USPS:0; Total paid and/ or requested circulation: 25,418; Outside County nonrequested copies: 0; In-County nonrequested copies: 12,582; Nonrequested copies distributed through the USPS by other classes of mail: 0; Nonrequested copies distributed outside the mail: 0. Total nonrequested distribution: 12,582; Total distribution: 38,000; Copies not distributed: 184 Total: 38,184; Percent paid and/ or requested circulation: 66.9%. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions and/or civil sanctions. Mark V. Dowden, Owner, 9/29/2023

ARE YOU A BERGEN COUNTY RESIDENT? SUBSCRIBE FREE TO BERGEN MAGAZINE! 22

ISSUE

22 ISSUE 10

5| | $6.9

HEA LTH

HO ME ISS UE 2

OCTO BER

2023

| $6.95

| BERG ENM AG.C OM

| VOLU ME

22 ISSUE

10

*

TERS E CA S OM N IN Y H ATIO THEIR EW T L MSE ER RA 3 GEN VEA RETS ’S N TMEN EA TO OS RE SEC WHATTRREADERS SHARE THEIR N NG 5 PR ORI CS O CER TIMELESS FALL TRADITIONS FLO 4 DO ST CAN EA A RIDGEWOOD CLAN’S BR

+

indd

& HA PPE NIN GS

DC W OOLA KE

BLAC WHITK & E

IN OD LAK CLI FF E

WO

AM

RAMS EY TO 3 GE HOME NERA CA 5 PR BERG TIO TERS .1023 .cove FLOOOS RE NS rFIN.i ndd RING VEAL 2 HOME AWAY FROM HOME TH 4 DO SECRET EIR S BREA CS ON ST CA WHA SPECIAL REPORT: NCER T’S NE GOING DOWNTOWN IN BERGEN TREA W IN TMEN T /23 9/25

BERG.0923.coverFIN.indd 2

FAS HIO N | HO ME

UE

TH E

*

AT SANDUCCI’S TRATTORIA IN RIVER EDGE

| FOO D&

ISS

K& BLACHITE F W IN LIF

COFFEE & COCKTAILS FOOD & FASHION GYMS & JEWELRY AND MUCH MORE!

FINE FARE

HO ME

*

YOUR FAVES IN 120+ CATEGORIES

& LIFE

HO STYME LE

THE

2023

ME HOTYLE S

en

SEPTEMBER 2023 | $6.95 | BERGENMAG.COM | VOLUME 22 ISSUE 9

MAG GEN BER

of

THE READERS’ CHOICE ISSUE

OBER | OCT

OD FO

VOLU ME

ME VOLU

E| & LIF

2023

n rge Be

ALTH HE

ION SH & FA

ME | HO

E 10 ISSU

M | HOME & HAPPENINGS HEALTH & LIFE | FOOD & FASHION .CO

R 2023 OBE OCT

INGS EN PP & HA

22

| OCTO BER

rgThe Be Best 2023

UME | VOL

10

VOLUME 22 ISSUE 9 | SEPTEMBER 2023

Ber gen

Bergen

Bergen Ber en g +

9:14

+

8/23/23 9:15 AM

9/25/2

3 9:14

AM

TO SIGN UP, VISIT: FIN.

over

23.c

G.10

BER

BERGENMAG.COM/SUBCRIBE

Bergen WHAT YOU CAN FIND ON BERGENMAG.COM RIGHT NOW

WHAT’S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? Now that you’ve switched out tees and shorts for sweaters and flannels, it’s time to soak up everything the season has to offer. But with so many activities from which to choose, where should you start? Here are a few ideas from our fall bucket list: Taste the flavors. There’s more to fall than apple cider and pumpkin spice (though we can’t resist apple cider donuts), and many Bergen restaurants roll out updated menus that feature seasonal ingredients.

Raise a pint. Oktoberfest season has ended, but Bergen’s craft breweries are still celebrating. In addition to special Oktoberfest beers, you’re also certain to find seasonal flavors at places like Hackensack Brewing Co., Alementary Brewing in Hackensack, Five Dimes Brewery in Westwood and more!

Peep the leaves. Leaves in Bergen County are still showing great colors, so be sure to see them before it’s too late. You can admire the fall hues of the trees outside your window, but you can catch a bigger show at many Bergen County parks.

Visit bergenmag.com/7-fun-fall-activities-in-bergen for more fall fun ideas!

CARE FOR YOUR KIDS The temperature is dropped, meaning you’ll be spending more and more time indoors. It’s prime time for flu season, especially for children, so parents should be sure to get kids in a good routine to stay healthy, according to Christopher Nicpon, M.D., a pediatrician at Valley Pediatric Associates in Ho-Ho-Kus and Ramsey.

BERGEN spoke with Dr. Nicpon, who recommended tips such as staying up to date with vaccines and loading up on fruits and vegetables. Want to read more? Visit bergenmag.com/5-tips-to-care-for-your-kids-this-fall.

To read more stories like this from our Bergen Buzz e-newsletter, visit bergenmag.com.

Follow us: BERGENMAG.C0M

Bergen_1.3S_Subscribe_1123.indd 1 BERG.1123.webpage.indd 085_BERG_1123.indd 1 14

10/20/23 1:56 PM 10/18/23 10/20/23 12:21 2:05 PM

Bergen Buzz

OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTY.

SAFE COOKING THIS SEASON

More house fires occur on Thanksgiving Day than any other day on the calendar in the U.S. Chalk that up to the multiple dishes cooking at once as well as the distractions of the day (who just scored in the football game?). But Peter Rocco, captain of the Hackensack Fire Department, advises residents to follow these tips to avoid a disaster at home on Turkey Day (or any day of the year, really): wooden utensils, food wrappers or curtains, our expert says.

Be careful as well if you’re wearing long sleeves or loosefitting clothing while prepping.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy. Not only that, the captain says, but make sure you know how to use it too!

Install smoke detectors. This is an all-year-round tip, but ensure that your home has working smoke detectors installed in the kitchen and throughout the house. Rocco says to test them regularly—before Thanksgiving is as good a time as any—and replace batteries as needed.

Discuss an emergency plan with your guests. In the case of a fire, make sure your dinner guests know how to exit the house safely and where to gather outside.

Of course, call 9.1.1 as soon as possible.

Never leave the kitchen while cooking. They say a watched pot never boils, but we’ll let that slide when safety is involved.

“It’s important to stay in the kitchen while cooking, especially when using stovetops, ovens or deep fryers,” Rocco says.

“Many house fires start when cooking food is left unattended, and a small issue can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation.” Make sure kids and pets stay out of the kitchen.

Use timers to keep track of cooking times. It’s easy to get distracted when prepping a holiday meal, so Rocco suggests “setting timers or alarms to remind yourself to check on food and to help you stay focused on your cooking responsibilities.”

Clear your cooking area, particularly of flammable items such as oven mitts,

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS

What does your family do each year to make Turkey Day special? We checked in with our own editorial family here at BERGEN by asking each person to fill in the blank: It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without _______:

“Nonna’s stuffing. It’s a made-from-scratch, bread-based stuffing with eggs, cheese and sausage.

There’d be mutiny without it.”

—Rita Guarna, editor in chief

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 buzz.indd 15

“The annual release of Beaujolais nouveau vintages. As a wine lover, nothing says holiday like this sip. The young yet complex red simply screams celebration.”

—Stephen Vitarbo, creative director

15

“Running a turkey trot.

Doing a 5K or 5-miler is fun way to burn a few calories before the big dinner, especially when you’re doing it in a full turkey costume with friends.”

—Darius Amos, senior associate editor

“Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV. I like to see the Broadway stars and pop singers perform, and my son enjoys the big character floats. Maybe one day we’ll make it there in person!”

—Haley Longman, lifestyle editor

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:21 PM

CHARCUTERIE RULES

incorporate items with scents reminiscent of the season. Pumpkin, balsam and chestnut work, says Elias, as do peppermint and marshmallow.

• Keep it toasty. No one wants to eat chilled foods in the winter. Elias says your board should include smoky cheese as well as smoked meats such as coppa and prosciutto, which will exude a warm flavor. Since fresh fruit isn’t in season now, fill out the board with dried fruits, olives and nuts instead.

Jam and honey are nice extras.

• Incorporate decorative items. Though Elias likes to keep her boards “98 percent edible,” she offers a few ideas for nonedible items. “Try decorative bowls for your spreads, festive cookie cutters and holiday toothpicks so guests can grab and pick.”

Not sure what to serve at your next gathering—or to give your holiday hostess? A charcuterie board always gets the party started. BERGEN asked Dylan Elias, owner of Plated by D, the new charcuterie board specialty store in Paramus, to share her tips on assembling the perfect board for this festive season: • Choose your equipment. Elias loves kitchenware—it’s part of her job, after all—and for holiday charcuteries she prefers a big, round, wooden board. This shape, she says, makes it “so much easier to get creative.”

• Tap into the senses. You want your board to look pretty, sure, but aroma and color are two other musts for a holiday board, says Elias. Once you settle on your overall flavor profile—sweet, savory, crunchy or soft—try to

PUPPY LOVE

PASTA TO DIE FOR

Picking up a box of pasta from the grocery store is convenient and inexpensive—the product usually tastes great too. But there are benefits to buying artisanal pasta from companies such as Nicola’s Marketplace, a New York City-based online Italian grocer that cuts and shapes pasta using a bronze die and organic ingredients imported from Italy. Another reason to try Nicola’s: This fall, owner and chef Nicola DiGiorgio is donating 1 pound of his pasta to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) for every order placed.

“We will donate pasta every couple of months for orders placed during that period,” DiGiorgio tells BERGEN. “This is a way to provide a large amount at once.” (At press time, there were 200-plus pounds to be donated.)

Why try bronze-die pasta? It’s the way fettuccine, orecchiette, pappardelle, radiatori, bucatini and classics like spaghetti and rigatoni are made in Italy, as the bronze-die product “grips” sauce better than pasta found in big-chain grocers. “Most pasta you find on supermarket shelves is cut with a Teflon die and massproduced,” the chef says. “This compromises the texture and the mouthfeel of the pasta, and it’s not the way they do it in Italy.”

Find out more about Nicola’s Marketplace and its initiative to support CFBNJ at nicolasmarketplace.com.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 buzz.indd 16

16

Dog: Rosie, 2-year-old goldendoodle Owners: Robin and Justin Straus of Teaneck Rosie was being fostered at a home in Teaneck shortly after arriving from a shelter in Alabama. Justin, a friend of the foster family, met the rescue pup that same day and couldn’t get enough of the cute goldendoodle. “He came home and told me I had to meet this sweet dog,” says his wife, Robin. “I had no idea he was thinking of giving her a new home.”

Rosie officially joined the Straus family in August, and she adapted quickly. The “sweet as sugar” dog is a great companion for the couple’s almost 16-year-old dog Nelly, says Robin, and she’s “very gentle and loving with my grandsons, who are 2 and 4.5 years old.” Her owner exclaims: “It was love at first sight!”

Want to see your pet featured in a future issue of BERGEN? Send a photo and a brief description of him or her to rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com, or DM us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:22 PM

KNOWING WHERE TO GO FOR CANCER TREATMENT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE. When you’re treated at Hackensack Meridian John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, you’re being cared for at NJ’s #1 cancer center and the state’s only NCI-designated Cancer Consortium.

While most cancer centers have general oncologists, our leading subspecialists are globally recognized cancer experts. We offer our patients tomorrow’s treatments today, with one of the nation’s strongest drug discovery programs and most rapidly growing Phase I clinical trial programs. And only at JTCC will you find the cancer center performing the most stem cell transplants in the state.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. SCAN THE QR CODE OR CALL 833-CANCER-MD.

JTCC-6562-WhereToGo-9x10.875-BM-23.indd Untitled-12 1 1

10/11/23 10/20/23 4:11 9:12 PM AM

FEEDIN’ A VEGAN?

Maybe it’s ill-timed that World Vegan Month is November, a month we mostly dedicate to an over-thetop turkey feast. But in 2023 there are Thanksgiving options for those who don’t eat meat, eggs or any other animal products—and we mean beyond a packaged, defrostable tofurky. These Bergen restaurants can cater to your vegan needs this Nov. 23, albeit with some slightly unconventional options:

CULINARY CORNER

Three newly opened businesses offer opportunities to grab a sweet treat: SNACK WHILE YOU SHOP Directly across from the Apple store at Garden State Plaza is the brand-new Woops! Macarons & Gifts kiosk, from a French company now bringing its treats to North Jersey. Choose from more than 15 flavors of macarons (red velvet, strawberry lemonade and dark chocolate, to name a few), or opt for a Cremebello or Argentinian alfajores, a dulce de leche sandwich cookie. These cuties make great gifts too—you can build your own box with flavors of your choosing, or go big with Woops’s popular stacks or “fall pyramid.”

• Alt Eats Café (622 N. Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201.444.1300) has a holiday catering menu featuring tasty seasonal offerings such as stuffed acorn squash, garlic mash and a winter salad with farro and pecans that’ll keep vegans satiated and happy.

• Green Fusion (22 Oak St., Ridgewood, 201.670.7502) is entirely vegan and vegetarian, so you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. But for Thanksgiving, may we suggest the cauliflower and potato gratin, the pear and gorgonzola flatbread or the truffle mushroom burger with a side of garlic truffle mash?

• Simply Green (25 N. Spruce St., Ramsey, 201.661.8905) offers a Thanksgiving catering menu, perfect if you have a handful of vegan diners at your table. The turkey platter contains vegan chicken, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy; other options include mac and cheese, lasagna or “beefless” shepherd’s pie.

• True Food Kitchen (390 Hackensack Ave., Suite 186, Hackensack; 551.295.740). The menu here changes seasonally,

and all year round there are plenty of gluten-friendly and vegan options. Add tofu or smoked tempeh to a seasonal harvest salad on the fall menu, or try the vegan double cheeseburger if you’re missing “meat” at your meal.

• Veggie Heaven (473 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201.836.0887) has “meat” made of bean curd and wheat gluten, and even a carnivore will appreciate the taste (and the innovation!). Most of the menu is Asian-inspired, but good American options for Thanksgiving are the garlic-herbed “chicken” with mashed potatoes or veggie chicken drumsticks or ribs.

• Woops! Macarons & Gifts, 1 Garden State Plaza Blvd., Paramus, 551.288.3059; bywoops.com

DESSERTERY 2.0 We were bummed to hear that Zai’s Dessertery closed shop in Bergenfield, but another yummy dessert spot is taking its place. Frosty Café & Dessertery has officially moved in, offering similar fare. The menu includes European snacks such as macarons and crepes, slushies and other blended drinks, ice cream and acaí bowls as well as baked goods. No matter what you’re craving, this place has it covered.

• Frosty Café & Dessertery, 108 N. Washington Ave., Bergenfield; frostycafenj.com

REWARD YOURSELF Another place that’ll hit the spot? Time Dessert Café, a new outpost in Palisades Park. This Korean-inspired business is stocked with desserts such as pastries, top-notch coffee and cookies and cakes, but you can also enjoy a light meal here too. Sandwiches, pasta and even wine and cocktails are available.

• Time Dessert Café, 42 Broad Ave., 2nd Floor, Palisades Park; @timedessertcafe

SEE YA, STYROFOAM!

Styrofoam (polystyrene foam) isn’t as easily recyclable as, say, cardboard or cans. But now there’s a solution. This fall, Bergen County and Ridgefield Park teamed up to purchase and install a new EPS (expanded polystyrene) Densifying Machine, through which residents can recycle their Styrofoam. Rather than occupying space in landfills, Styrofoam can be melted in a densifying machine and reused to make things like crown molding and wall panels. This drastically improves our area’s sustainability efforts and makes it easier for households to safely dispose of this unwanted material. Drop off your Styrofoam at the Ridgefield Park Recycling Center Monday through Saturday (except holidays).

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 buzz.indd 18

18

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Just in time for holiday entertaining and shopping, let’s welcome two new locally owned businesses to Bergen.

One is the 3,500-square-foot Maharaja Hypermarket, a specialty grocery store located on Main Street in Hackensack. The other is Market House in Westwood, a popular home foods and plant shop that recently reopened its storefront at 475 Broadway, having moved across the town from Center Street. Here you’ll find plants, housewares, candles, pottery and other gifts, as well as a selection of iced tea.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:22 PM

Seigel Bergen Top Lawyers 9 x 10.875.qxp_2023 9/26/23 1:27 PM Page 1

Selected to Bergen County Top Lawyers

Selected to Bergen County Top Lawyers

JAN K. SEIGEL

JONAS K. SEIGEL

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S A L L 2 0 2 3 BERGEN COUNTY TOP LAWYERS HONOREES

505 GOFFLE ROAD | 2ND FLOOR | RIDGEWOOD, NJ 07450 2 0 1- 4 4 4 - 4 0 0 0 | WWW. S E I G E L L A W. C O M

Untitled-3 11 Untitled-12

10/20/23 9/26/23 2:13 9:13 PM AM

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT

Nothing makes a kid smile more than unwrapping a present.

During this season of giving, add a few extra toys to your virtual cart and give the gift of fun to kids in need for the holidays. One of these local toy drives is a good place to start: • The Bergen County Chanukah Toy Drive, now in its 30th year, is accepting new and unwrapped toys for boys and girls of all ages. Local Jewish schools and synagogues will have donation bins in their lobbies, or you can drop off at 95 Norfolk St. in Bergenfield now through Nov. 27. (Hanukkah this year begins on Dec. 7.) Learn more at bctoydrive.com.

• Operation Toy Train is collecting donations for Toys for Tots, and will be in our area on Saturday, Dec. 9. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at various spots around Rochelle Park, Midland Park, Wyckoff and Oakland that have not been revealed as of press time. For specific drop-off locations, visit operationtoytrain.org as the date approaches.

• The Police Benevolent Association Toy Drive year after year is a joint effort among police departments across Bergen County. For 2023, “Santa’s Response Team” is at it again— residents may drop off new, unwrapped toys at their local police or fire stations or other participating businesses. The toys will be distributed to children at Tomorrows Children’s Fund, Sanzari Children’s Hospital, The Valley Hospital Pediatric Center and U.S. military families.

Follow @santasresponseteam_srt on Instagram for updates and drop-off locations in your neighborhood.

’TIS THE CRAFTING SEASON

ALMOST FAMOUS Renown has recently touched two Bergenites whose names you may recognize: • Rocco Commisso, Saddle River resident and CEO of Mediacom, has been named New Jersey’s richest man and one of the 400 richest Americans by Forbes. The money magazine says the 73-year-old Italian immigrant is worth an estimated $8 billion.

• Maria Trice of Teaneck was among the contestants on ABC’s debut season of The Golden Bachelor. The 60-year-old self-proclaimed “health and wellness director” didn’t make it too far on the show, as bachelor Gerry Turner sent her home on the first episode. (You could say she was gone in a trice as he turned elsewhere.) But a brush with fame can’t hurt.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 buzz.indd 20

It’s that time of the year when towns hold local holiday craft shows that both support local causes and help customers get through their gift-shopping lists. Here are four such shows on upcoming Sundays: • Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fall Boutique 2023 at Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, Tenafly • Nov. 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Craft Fair 2023 at Paramus High School, Paramus

20

• Dec. 2, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Cozy Craft Fair at New Milford-Teaneck Elks Lodge, New Milford • Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., St. Joseph Craft Fair at St. Joseph Regional High School, Montvale

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:22 PM

Extraordinary styles, brands, selection & service

SKI, SNOWBOARD GEAR & APPAREL September – March

SKIBARN.COM

Untitled-12 1

PARAMUS

PREMIUM OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS April – August

WAYNE (open Sun)

LAWRENCEVILLE (open Sun)

SHREWSBURY (open Sun)

10/20/23 9:13 AM

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

He’ll Serve You Blind

“How many people do you know who literally cannot see anything?” John Diakakis wants to know. While you’re contemplating that, remember the shiny Bendix Diner on Route 17 in Hasbrouck Heights, a Bergen institution that has appeared in several movies and TV shows.

Sightless from birth, the 56-year-old Diakakis has owned the diner—and worked there— for more than 30 years to provide for his three now twentysomething sons, Tony, Dimitri and Michael. Last year the diner and the family were the subjects of director Anthony Scalia’s award-winning 26-minute documentary, Bendix: Site Unseen.

How has business changed since Bendix: Site Unseen came out?

Starting last summer there has definitely been a major uptick on Saturdays and Sundays. I’ve had people come in for the first time from Staten Island.

So is there a crazy wait on weekends?

I’m such a Type A personality that I want people served, boom boom boom! I feel like I’m the one who’s rushing it. It’s not that big of a wait unless there’s three tables of six, seven or eight in the dining room and we’ve got to push tables together. There’s just enough room in the parking lot. There’s banter and a little kidding around because I have done stand-up comedy. For me, it’s like a performance every Saturday and Sunday.

What are your sons’ roles at the Bendix?

I’ve been working overnight since 2013 with my kids as my “eyes.” Tony is a Harvard graduate; Dimitri is at the Culinary Institute of America and Michael is at Rider University. Tony is up in Boston, but I suck him in about once a month. He’ll cook, bus tables,

wash dishes—wherever he is needed. Dimitri works the dinner shifts and does some cooking in the afternoon, the burgers and a fettucini alfredo or a chicken parm. He bakes the cheesecakes and some danishes, and he does most of the soups on the weekend.

Michael comes here every weekend to help me on the floor when it becomes chaotic. He’ll say, “There are three people at your table on the grill side.” He also brings coffees to the table, but I bring about 90 percent of the coffees. And in my 30-year streak, I’ve never dumped it on anybody.

Do you find that customers try to help you once they figure out you’re blind?

It’s amazing how aggressive some people try to get.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.friends.indd 22

22

“Oh, he’s blind, let me get up and help him.” Well, we’re going to collide. Stay in your seat. That’s the better option.

And you’ve said you have heightened hearing. What types of things do you hear at the diner?

What causes me to go neurotic is when there’s too much excess noise at the counter or by the grill, or from the old people that argue about politics. That drives me crazy. I can hear a person with footsteps and say, “OK, they’re two people and they stopped at the second table.” I rely on my kids to help me, but I like to figure it out too.

What’s your favorite dish at the diner?

I don’t ask Dimitri for it a lot because it requires more cooking, but pasta with vodka sauce. I’m more of a carbs person. I’m not a meat eater or an eggs person. I don’t think I’ve had an omelet or eggs over easy in close to 10 years, even though I’m serving it all day long.

Of course the Bendix has done cameos in lots of shows and movies. What celebrity would you like to stop by?

Ed Sheeran, when he plays The Meadowlands. I would love to have a conversation with him.

Besides working about 70 hours a week, what do you do with your minimal spare time?

I was at a Neiman Marcus fragrance counter for over an hour yesterday. Since I was in high school, I’ve been collecting cologne bottles. I’ve complimented both men and women [at the diner], asking what cologne they’re wearing.

I heard you have a sneaker collection too.

Actually, I sold two-thirds of my sneakers collection when my kids got to driving age. I got a decent amount of money, went down Route 17 and bought a brand-new Nissan Murano for Tony, who was in his sophomore year at Harvard. Now the other two brothers drive it here.

—Haley Longman

Photo courtesy of Bendix Diner

John Diakakis is a sometime standup comic as well as a restaurateur, but he’s serious when he says that in 30 years he’s never spilled coffee on a customer.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:23 PM

Untitled-1 11 Untitled-12

10/13/23 10/20/23 9:46 9:15 AM

Bergen County Divorce & Family Law Attorneys

CADICINA LAW, LLC From Left to Right: Pasqua S. Cadicina, Thomas R. McConnell, Joseph P. Cadicina, Carly DiFrancisco CADICINA LAW, LLC IS A DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW FIRM LOCATED IN WYCKOFF AND MORRISTOWN,NJ BERGEN COUNTY OFFICE: 279 FRANKLIN AVE., WYCKOFF, NJ 07481 | TEL: 201-354-2880 36 CATTANO AVE., 6TH FLOOR | MORRISTOWN, NJ 07960 | TEL: 973-270-9166 | WWW.CADICINALAW.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION / ADVERTISEMENT HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED BY THE SUPREME COURT.

TAYLOR LUCYK a n d

T h e

T a y l o r

L u c y k

G r o u p

Work with the Leaders of Bergen County Real Estate

Featured Listing:

Featured Listing:

10 High Meadow Road | Saddle River

25 Terry Court | Montvale, New Jersey

All information provided herein has been obtained from sources believed reliable, but may be subject to errors, omissions, change of price, prior sale, or withdrawal without notice.

Christie’s International Real Estate and its affiliates make no representation, warranty or guaranty as to accuracy of any information contained herein. *As per NJMLS as of 10.14.22.

Untitled-12 1

688 Paramus Road, Paramus, New Jersey 07652 | O: 201.975.4141

10/20/23 9:51 AM

Neuropathy Breakthrough!

“It’s as though I’m stepping from razor blade to razor blade.” “It feels like my feet are under attack by fire ants.” “Like I’m walking on wet paint and rolled up socks.” And you’re in this kind of pain all the time.

‘It’s relentless, keeping you up at night and preventing you from doing even the most mundane tasks. Things that I used to take for granted, like wearing shoes and going grocery shopping. Two of my three children were getting married last year and wasn’t even sure I was going to be able to attend their weddings,” shares Barbara W. Barbara was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in 2015, a degenerative condition affecting almost 5% of people over the age of 55.

“My doctor sat me down and said ‘Barbara I’m so sorry to tell you this but you have neuropathy. I’m going to prescribe you Gabapentin to manage the discomfort but overall, neuropathy is untreatable.’ My first thought was ‘we can cure cancer but you can’t stop my feet from hurting?’ It felt like a cruel joke.

While neuropathy can be caused by a number of things including diabetes and chemotherapy, over 23% of neuropathy

cases are classified as idiopathic. In layman’s terms, the cause is unknown. This was the case with Barbara. Eventually she was forced to quit her job because numbness started to set in and prevented her from driving.

Fortunately, Barbara saw an article on Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine and the work they were doing to treat neuropathy.

“I thought it had to be a sham. After so many specialists told me there was no hope here was this Doctor saying she had a 72% success rate in treating it! I just had to call, and I can’t even begin to tell you how grateful I am that I did.”

Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM founder of Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, says that cases like Barbara’s are incredibly common. “Almost all of my neuropathy patients have been told at one point or another that there is no hope. I like to think I specialize in hope.”

To quote the New York Times, “Chinese medicine proves itself where Western medicine fails”. Dr. Aleksandra elaborates, “Acupuncture has been treating complicated, chronic conditions like neuropathy for thousands of years. I start with a foundation based on this time-tested science and my

more than a decade of clinical experience.

I then tailor treatments based on several factors including the severity of your neuropathy, how long you’ve had it, whether or not there are any underlying factors, things of that nature. It’s because of these personalized treatment programs that we’re seeing such incredible results!”

Five months later Barbara is back at work and thriving! “Working isn’t even the most exciting part,” exclaims Barbara. “Not only was I able to attend my son’s wedding but I could walk down the aisle! It was the most magical moment and I have Dr. Aleksandra to thank for it.

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with neuropathy, it’s time to call Dr. Aleksandra and the staff at Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine. Call (973) 444-8932 to schedule your very own comprehensive consultation and visit SashaAcupuncture.com to take advantage of their new patient offer, a $49 consultation (normally $240).

Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine 119 Grove Street, Montclair, NJ 07042 | 973.444.8932 | www.SashaAcupuncture.com

SashaAcupunture_FP_1123_V2.indd 1

SPECIAL PROMOTION

10/20/23 11:07 AM

STYLE WATCH

Rosalie Cotton-Silk Top Banana Republic, Paramus, 201.291.0855

Free People Eleanor Sweatsuit Dress Free People, Paramus, 201.587.9070

A.L.C Tracy Vegan Leather Skirt Hartly, Westwood, 201.664.3111

Delfi Collective Convertible Pleated Midi Dress Anthropologie, Woodcliff Lake, 201.391.4321

Pleats, And Thank You

Try this universally forgiving (and flattering) trend this fall.

Milly Rosemary Dress Hartly, Westwood, 201.664.311

Patisserie Pleated 3D Croissant Clutch Kate Spade, Paramus, 201.368.0693 BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 style watch 2.indd 26

26

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 11:57 AM

Discover hope and empowerment at The Madlyn Borelli Multiple Sclerosis Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital.

Under the expert guidance of Medical Director Christopher Langston, MD, a fellowship-trained neurologist, our center offers the most advanced diagnostic imaging technology, cutting-edge treatments, infusion center, access to clinical trials, and rehabilitation services. Recognized as a Comprehensive Center by the National MS Society, we offer unwavering support and education every step of the way.

Live Life Beyond MS

Your Journey to Wellness Starts Here

The Madlyn Borelli Multiple Sclerosis Center

Untitled-12 1

845-348-8880 montefiorenyack.org/MS

10/20/23 9:16 AM

HOME FRONT Olivia & May Set of 3 Metal Enamel Round Serving Trays Target, Paramus, 201.881.7660

Scully & Scully Gold Hummingbird Trellis Lacquered Tray scullyandscully.com

Terracotta Classic Kuba Cloth Serving Tray stfrank.com

You’ve Been Served Step up your holiday hosting with a chic tray that has guests going back for more.

Round Serving Tray in Stainless Steel and Gold katom.com

Wade Logan Ayanti Leather/Faux Leather Tray Walmart, Teterboro, 201.375.4002

Michael Aram Love Knot Serving Tray Bloomingdale’s, Hackensack, 201.457.2000

Jayson Home Tumbling Block Trays jaysonhome.com BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 home front.indd 28

28

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 11:58 AM

Special Promotion

TANYA L. FREEMAN, ATTORNEY AT LAW CALLAGY LAW P.C.

Bergen Office: 650 From Road, Suite 240, Paramus, NJ | 973.939.0100 | www.tanyafreeman.law For more than 10 years, clients and adversaries have seen Tanya L. Freeman’s family law experience and trial strategies at work. As a tireless and successful advocate, Tanya helps clients navigate some of the most important issues in their lives.

Tanya successfully represents clients in every aspect of family law, including divorce, child and spousal support, child custody, interstate custody, relocation disputes and domestic violence matters. Tanya has represented clients in matters involving business owners, corporate executives, professional athletes,television personalities and high-profile celebrities. Early in her career, Tanya led corporate audit teams for a national healthcare insurance corporation.

With her strong litigation skills and her auditing experience, she can analyze, interpret and summarize complex financial and business matters. This unique combination of skills and experience allows her to provide solid representation in high-profile cases with closely-held assets. Tanya is well respected in the legal community, frequently asked to lecture on divorce, custody, child support and relocation law for the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Institute for Continuing Legal Education and other organizations.

Tanya and her team provide thoughtful legal advice, planning, and strategic thinking on a wide range of family law matters.

TaynaF_FP_113.indd Untitled-12 1 1

10/17/23 10/20/23 10:55 9:17 AM

HEALTH NEWS LONG COVID, SLEEP WOES

A new study has shown that 40 percent of people with long COVID suffer from moderate to severe sleep problems.

—Journal of General Internal Medicine

40

The percentage of women in their 30s who froze their eggs, in a process called cryopreservation, who were able to have babies later in life.

— European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology

1,000

THE GUT/HEART CONNECTION

The estimated number of daily asthmarelated deaths in the world.

—The Global Asthma Report

PROBIOTICS FOR PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal problem that affects many females of reproductive age, is linked to obesity. Researchers have found that probiotic supplementation may be one way to manage PCOS in adolescents with obesity.

— Nutrients

Researchers have discovered a link between certain bacteria, including the genus Streptococcus, living in the gut and coronary atherosclerotic plaques. Plaque, formed by the build-up of fat and cholesterol deposits, is a major factor in heart attacks.

—Circulation

Ds MAY PREVENT HEART ATTACKS

Vitamin D supplements may reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks among people aged 60 and older.

—BMJ

1 IN 50

The estimated number of people in the U.S. who have nasal polyps.

—National Library of Medicine

—Compiled by Paul Rance Jr.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.healthbits.indd 30

30

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 11:59 AM

At CFS we are always giving back to our communities and hoping to make a difference in the world. We are always looking for new opportunities to serve and support those in need. We invite you to join us in our mission and help us spread kindness and compassion.

Our Team is Expanding

Community

Achieve Financial Balance

Protection First

Inclusive

Holistic Planning

Diverse

Engaging Culture

Learn More Certified Financial Services (CFS) is an Agency of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. Securities products and advisory services offered through Park Avenue Securities LLS (PAS), member FINRA, SICP. OSJ: 52 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652. 201-843-7700. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. CFS is not an affiliate or subsidiary of Guardian or PAS Guardian will never ask you to provide sensitive personal information, including SSN/DOB, nor login via QR codes 2023-152451 eexp 3/2025

52 Forest Ave. Paramus, NJ 07652 201-843-7700 www.cfsllc.com

LEADERS IN GIVING BACK SPECIAL PROMOTION

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES At CFS, we believe in making a positive impact in the lives of others through our charitable initiatives. We have been involved in various causes that are close to our hearts for many years. Here are some of the highlights of our philanthropic activities: - CFS’ Tee Off for the Kids benefiting Make A Wish NJ: This golf outing started 37 years ago and is the longest golf outing benefiting Make A Wish NJ. We are proud to have raised over 2 million dollars for this amazing organization that grants wishes to children with critical illnesses.

- Center for Food Action Thanksgiving Drive: We started working with this local food bank 21 years ago and have been providing hot meals to families in need every Thanksgiving. We are grateful to be able to share the spirit of gratitude and generosity with our community.

- Salvation Army Angel Tree: Over the past 21 years we have been able to help provide a wonderful holiday experience for over 1500 families by providing them with gifts and essentials. We have seen the joy it brings to both the givers and the receivers.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL SERVICES GIVING BACK

Certified Financial Services (CFS) is an Agency of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. Securities products and advisory services offered through Park Avenue Securities LLS (PAS), member FINRA, SICP. OSJ: 52 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652.

201-843-7700. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. CFS is not an affiliate or subsidiary of Guardian or PAS Guardian will never ask you to provide sensitive personal information, including SSN/DOB, nor login via QR codes. 2023-162619 exp 10/2025

LeadersInGiving_SS_FP_v6_1123.indd Untitled-12 1 1

10/17/23 10/20/23 9:56 9:19 AM

Shop Right To Eat Right YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTHYFOOD CHOICES FOR THE WEEK BEGIN IN THE GROCERY CART. HERE ARE EXPERTS’ TIPS. OUR EXPERTS:

Janet Brancato, registered dietitian nutritionist, Valley Dining at Valley Health System, Ridgewood

Robin DeCicco, certified holistic nutritionist, Power of Food Education, Ramsey

Sharon Wieder, registered dietitian nutritionist, Start Smart Nutrition, Bogota

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 health shopping.indd 32

32

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:24 PM

Grocery shoppers know that their art requires a certain savvy. It calls for a sharp eye for bargains and the budget, for the freshness of perishables, for appropriate product quantities and for what’s really going to be consumed rather than wasted. And—oh yes—you want to buy healthy food; stuffing your home with sugary donuts, salty chips and greasy fries and then expecting to deny yourself their pleasures is a recipe for a big fat failure. Fortunately, there are tactics you can use to make your food shopping both health-smart and realistic. Below, three Bergen dietitians share tips.

• Come prepared. Walking into a grocery store without a plan can result in overspending and buying food that will go to waste. Our experts recommend planning out a weekly menu before you get to the store, and only buying items on your list. “Take a quick look in your pantry to make sure you’re stocked up on staple foods you regularly use,” says Sharon Wieder. Another Wieder tip: Include your family members in the planning process. “They may be more likely to try new, healthier foods if they have a say in the menu,” she says.

A good rule of thumb, says Janet Brancato, for each week when you’ll be home (and not out) for most of your meals, is to aim to buy “six choices for vegetables, five fruits, four starches/grains, three proteins, two fat sources and one type of herbs/spices/seasonings.”

• Start at the perimeter. The outer edges of the grocery store are where you’ll find fresh produce, protein and the generally less-processed items, so shop the perimeter first. “The more you fill up on produce, poultry, seafood, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and healthy oils, the less room in your stomach (and your pantry!) for pre-packaged foods,” says Robin DeCicco. Brancato says to start in the produce area, get meal inspiration by seeing which fruits and veggies are in season, and take it from there.

Another tip that grocery-shelf stock boys might not want you to know? Items placed at eye level are what the store especially wants you to buy. “Look for savings and coupons for items above or below eye level,” says Brancato.

• Purchase lots of protein. Proteins are often the most expensive part of a meal. But there’s a wide array of affordable, healthy, tasty options that you can easily incorporate into your family’s lunches and dinners. DeCicco likes organic ground turkey with which to make a bolognese

sauce or burgers, organic chicken breast or frozen or fresh wild fish such as cod, flounder, sole or salmon. Enjoying healthy fish doesn’t have to break the bank, either. “My favorite quick protein option that requires no cooking at all is canned wild salmon,” says DeCicco. “It’s full of omega-3 fats for heart/brain health and can be eaten straight out of the can or mixed with spicy mustard, red onion and pickles for a salmon salad to throw into a wrap or over veggies.”

There are healthy, relatively inexpensive vegetarian protein options as well. Nuts and seeds, for example, “are high in protein and can be added to any salad, pasta dish or casserole,” says DeCicco. Brancato likes peanut butter and eggs as solid protein choices, and canned legumes and beans are a smart choice too. “Add them to salads, make bean burgers, turn them into hummus, make a bean salad, mash them up like mashed potatoes or add them to ground meat dishes to lessen the intake of meat,” DeCicco says.

• Read the labels. It’s nearly impossible to buy exclusively “natural” unprocessed foods, but make sure the packaged stuff you’re bringing home is relatively good for you. When reading the labels, “always look for at least five grams of fiber and protein and less than eight grams of added sugar per serving,” Brancato advises. These macronutrients are what keep us full and stabilize blood sugar.

Additionally, says DeCicco, “look for as few ingredients as possible, reading the label to make sure it doesn’t contain additives, a lot of added sugar, shelf stabilizers, food dyes and chemicals you can’t pronounce.”

• Shop the sales. Shopping healthy doesn’t have to be expensive—you just need to know how to shop for the discounts. First things first, Brancato suggests checking the sales online or in catalogs before heading to the store, and creating meals with those discounted items. DeCicco says foods in their “natural form” are less expensive than processed items, and these should be prioritized.

“For example, avocados are cheaper than pre-packaged guacamole, and fresh eggs are cheaper than pre-cooked, hard-boiled eggs,” she notes. And, says Wieder, don’t assume that buying in bulk is necessarily more cost-efficient.

“You should know the price per ounce or pound,” she says.

“Items on sale at your local supermarket may actually turn out to be less expensive than larger packages of the same item in box stores.” That’s especially true, of course, if the contents of the big containers don’t all get used.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 health shopping.indd 33

33

3 BONUS TIPS Further practical suggestions from Bergen dietitians about healthy food buying: • Don’t shop hungry.

Research has shown that shopping while hungry leads people to buy more food than they normally would, especially less nutritious foods that weren’t on their grocery list. Plus, notes Sharon Wieder, “one study showed that shoppers who were hungry bought more non-food items and spent 60 percent more than less hungry shoppers.”

• Be smart about fresh vs. frozen vs. canned.

It’s not true that canned foods are always to be avoided, says Janet Brancato. “Frozen or canned veggies and fruits can be just as healthy as fresh and will definitely last longer, which minimizes waste.”

But there are caveats, notes Wieder: “Make sure there’s not a lot of added sugar or sodium in the frozen and canned fruits and vegetables you purchase.” She adds that frozen may work better if you’re making soups or smoothies, whereas you’ll want to go fresh for salads.

• Save with store brands. Robin DeCicco says Whole Foods’s 365 is an example of a brand that’s more affordable than some national names. For greater economy, she advises, buy the store brand for items such as condiments, jarred sauces, cans of tuna and pasta.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:25 PM

The Truth About Diabetes WITH PROPER CARE IT CAN BE MANAGED SUCCESSFULLY FOR MANY YEARS, BUT LEFT UNTREATED IT CAN KILL.

Are you one of the Americans who have diabetes and don’t even know it? That’s more likely than you may think—according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 8.5 million such people. Key signs of the disease include persistent hunger and thirst and frequent urination. See your doctor or another healthcare provider for an evaluation if you’re unsure.

Diabetes, which affects how the body turns food into energy, is a treatable, manageable condition some 37.3 million U.S. citizens have— that’s about one in every nine. If left untreated,

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 health diabetes.indd 34

34

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:25 PM

says the American Heart Association, it can lead to potentially fatal medical problems, including cardiovascular disease. The CDC lists diabetes as the nation’s eighth leading direct cause of death, but that understates its danger because of its underlying role as a contributor to deaths officially chalked up to heart disease, kidney disease and stroke. And almost 100 million Americans have prediabetes, with blood-sugar readings that suggest that they are at risk for the disease.

Recognizing risk factors and keeping up to date with regular screenings are key defenses against prediabetes and diabetes, says Ginine Cilenti, executive director of the Diabetes Foundation in Mahwah. To commemorate National Diabetes Month in November, BERGEN sought insights from Cilenti and Dima Yeshou, M.D., chief of endocrinology at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center.

Are you prediabetic?

In type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes, the body can’t make the hormone insulin, which helps convert sugars from food consumed into energy.

Type 2 diabetes typically (though not always) develops in adulthood. It’s marked by the body’s failure to use insulin properly. Without insulin, or when it isn’t used sufficiently, too much glucose remains in the blood. Prediabetes occurs when a person’s blood-sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Says Cilenti: “Prediabetes is often considered a warning sign or precursor to type 2 diabetes.”

Folks should be wary of the risk factors, as physical symptoms of prediabetes (such as darkened skin on the neck, armpits and groin) usually don’t present themselves, Dr. Yeshou says. A person’s odds of becoming prediabetic increase if he or she has any of these factors: obesity, physical inactivity, a diet with large amounts of red and processed meats, high blood pressure, high levels of triglycerides, low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), or

polycystic ovary syndrome.

“Being overweight is a primary risk factor for prediabetes,” Dr. Yeshou says. “The more fatty tissue you have, especially inside and between the muscle and skin around your abdomen, the more your cells become resistant to insulin. The risk of insulin resistance goes up for men with waists 40 inches and above and for women with waists larger than 35 inches.”

While there’s no clear indication why certain races and ethnic groups are more susceptible to prediabetes, Dr. Yeshou says the condition is more prevalent among the Black, Hispanic, Asian American and American Indian communities.

When to test?

If you’ve determined that you have one or more risk factors of prediabetes, it’s important to consult a physician for testing, including A1C screening, which measures average blood-sugar levels over the past three months. “Based on risk factors, a person should be screened if he or she is 45 or older, has a family history of diabetes, is overweight or physically inactive or has high blood pressure or high cholesterol,” Cilenti says.

Unlike prediabetes, type 2 diabetes does show common, recognizable symptoms. Dr. Yeshou advises that you should also contact your doctor if you are showing signs of type 2 diabetes. Besides heightened thirst and hunger and frequent urination, they include fatigue, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in the feet or hands, frequent infections, slow-healing sores and unintended weight loss.

How is diabetes treated?

Prediabetes can be treated and managed through a series of lifestyle changes. “Eating healthy foods, being physically active daily and staying at a healthy weight can help bring your blood sugar level back to normal,” Dr. Yeshou says. Medications, too, can be prescribed to control cholesterol, high blood pressure and body weight. “Progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes isn’t inevitable.”

Type 1 diabetes patients and a minority of those with type 2 take insulin to regulate their blood sugar. Insulin is added to the body using a needle and syringe, insulin pen, or insulin pump. Inhalers and insulin jet injectors are less common ways to take insulin.

“Diabetes is a progressive disease,” Dr. Yeshou explains. “And over time, even if you are doing all you can to stay healthy, you may need medicine to keep your blood sugar within your target range.”

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 health diabetes.indd 35

35

4 MYTHS—BUSTED Diabetes is one of those conditions we all think we understand, but sometimes that understanding is flawed. Below, Ginine Cilenti, executive director of the Diabetes Foundation in Mahwah, and Dima Yeshou, M.D., chief of endocrinology at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, debunk four common but erroneous notions about the condition.

Myth: Diabetes is not a serious disease.

Fact: “Diabetes causes more deaths a year than breast cancer and AIDS combined,” says Cilenti. “If not managed properly, it can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and blindness.”

Myth: Only overweight people get diabetes.

Fact: “While it’s true that being overweight is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, people of all sizes can develop the condition,” Cilenti says. “Many people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight.”

Myth: People with diabetes can never eat sweets.

Fact: “You don’t need to cut sugar totally from your diet if you have diabetes,” says Dr. Yeshou. “You just need to be aware of its impact on your blood sugar and health and use moderation, following the guidelines given to you by your provider.”

Myth: People with diabetes have to eat a special diet.

You don’t need special food, according to the American Diabetes Association. In fact, the organization says many foods with “diabetesfriendly” claims may still raise blood glucose levels and can contain sugar alcohol levels that can have a laxative effect. “Understanding how foods affect you and what foods are better choices for your condition is part of managing your diabetes,” says Dr. Yeshou. Like any healthy eating plan, consider non-starchy vegetables, whole grains and a limited amount of highly processed foods.

Myth: It’s not safe to exercise with diabetes.

Fact: “While you should always consult your provider before starting or changing an exercise routine generally, exercise and daily activity are beneficial to those with diabetes,” says Dr. Yeshou.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:26 PM

C C

HEFS’ HOICE

WHO KNOWS THE TASTIEST PLACES TO SHOP AND DINE BETTER THAN THOSE WHO PREPARE BERGEN’S RESTAURANT MEALS? It goes without saying—or should—that restaurant chefs believe in the dishes they prepare. But whose horn do they toot when they’re not tooting their own? BERGEN sought to find out, asking chefs from eight top Bergen eateries to reveal in their own words the places, other than their own establishments, where they like to dine or purchase treats. This is insiders’ knowledge your taste buds will surely appreciate.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.chefs.indd 36

36

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 11:59 AM

TASTES DAVID BURKE, CULINARY DIRECTOR, VENTANAS RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE, FORT LEE Favorite pizza: Baggios in Fort Lee. I tend to prefer an unfussy spot delivering great hospitality and offering well-prepared dishes made with prime, seasonal ingredients. I like very good, uncomplicated authentic dishes.

Favorite deli: I don’t have a favorite deli but the Duran family, who owns Ventanas in Fort Lee and Son Cubano in West New York, say their favorite is Cuomo & Sons in North Bergen for a quick breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Favorite bakery: Paris Baguette, which has locations in Fort Lee, Hackensack, Northvale, Ridgewood and more.

Favorite romantic restaurant: For a romantic dinner I like Grissini in Englewood Cliffs. It’s a favorite Northern Italian restaurant with a classically elegant Italian dining experience.

Elegant dining at Grissini

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.chefs.indd 37

37

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:00 PM

JOSHUA LEE DORRAS, OWNER/OPERATOR, FIRE & OAK RESTAURANT, MONTVALE, AND THE OAK HOUSE, ORADELL. Favorite pizza: “Honestly, we don’t go out much for pizza, but when we do we go to Anthony’s Coal Fire Pizza in Ramsey. I like the well-done crust there.”

Favorite deli: “I grew up next to Ted’s North Delicatessen in Paramus

by Van Saun Park. Classic sandwiches done right.

Great fries too!”

Favorite bakery: “A Little Cake in Park Ridge. We always recommend them for events that require a cake, and no one’s ever disappointed. They also have one of the best breakfast croissants I’ve ever had. Seriously good.”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “We live close to the Saddle River Inn and try to go there once a month.

It’s relaxing there due to the level of service and the rustic barn ambiance.

The food is consistently good and it’s a BYO, so we get to bring cool wines we like a lot. It never disappoints.”

Ambiance at Saddle River Inn

Pizza at Song E Napule

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.chefs.indd 38

38

BEN POLLINGER, CHEF/ OWNER, THE HILL, CLOSTER. Favorite pizza: “Song E Napule in Rutherford. This is a real taste of Italy.”

Favorite deli: “Great Foods in Oradell. They have a wonderful selection of great home-cooked foods as well as the fixings to cook yourself if you choose.”

Favorite bakery: “Sook Pastry in Ridgewood. Absolutely delicious, whether the decadent chocolates and pastries or the soulful breads.

Top-notch macarons.”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “Brasserie Memere in Closter. It transports me back to Paris with its authentic style and charm. It captures the real brasserie vibe, and the food is delicious. What’s more romantic than a taste of Paris?”

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:00 PM

Chops at Mantra MICHAEL MATONTI, CHEF, CAFÉ PANACHE, RAMSEY. Favorite pizza: “Kinchley’s Tavern in Ramsey. I grew up in Mahwah, and it was always the go-to spot.

The thin-crust pizza is second to none. It’s got a great atmosphere, friendly staff—and there’s a horse on the roof so you can’t miss it.”

Favorite deli: “Cosmo’s Italian Salumeria in Hackensack. It’s family-run and no-frills, with the best mozzarella around. You feel like you are at home.”

Favorite bakery: “Rispoli in Ridgefield is an authentic Italian bakery with cannolis to die for. They’ve catered many events over the years, and when someone would bring a cake or pastries from there, they were always top-notch.”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “My wife and I love Mantra in Paramus. That’s our datenight spot. We cozy up on the couches in the lounge, have cocktails and enjoy some amazing Indian cuisine.”

ANTONIO DE IESO, CHEF/ OWNER, FIORENTINI, RUTHERFORD. Favorite pizza: “I love Song E Napule’s pizza. I’m lucky to have them next door. It makes me feel like I’m back at home [in Italy].”

Favorite deli: “I often find myself ordering sandwiches from Matera’s Italian Market here in Rutherford.

They have the best mortadella!”

Favorite bakery: “Erie Bakery in Rutherford. You can’t get anything there that’s not delicious. And it’s always fresh.”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “Honestly, I used to live in New York and I’m still discovering the romantic restaurants here, but I recently enjoyed a nice dinner at BLOOM in Verona.

My absolute favorite romantic restaurant though is Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Tarrytown, NY.”

Sandwich at Matera’s Italian Market

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.chefs.indd 39

39

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:00 PM

STEVE CHRISTIANSON, CHEF/OWNER, ST. EVE’S, HO-HO-KUS. Favorite pizza: “Uncle Louie’s in Franklin Lakes. The ‘Grandma’s pizza’ is by far my favorite.”

Favorite deli: “Italian Riviera in Waldwick. Warm mozzarella, roasted peppers, olive oil and balsamic make a great sandwich.”

Favorite bakery: “Sook Pastry in Ridgewood. The best late-night dessert and cappuccino. It’s the best way to finish a day.”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “First Restaurant in Hawthorne. It’s nice to see Adam Weiss, the chef, back at what he does best. They have high-quality food and service.”

Grab a slice at Uncle Louie’s

Fine Meats at Bartolomeo

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.chefs.indd 40

40

LINDA DICKSTEIN, CHEF, ANDIAMO RESTAURANT AND BAR, HAWORTH. Favorite pizza: “There is a wonderful pizzeria that I enjoy frequenting—Rino’s in New Paltz, NY. I enjoy their great selection of pizza by the slice. If you enjoy Grandma’s pizza, you will have a choice of so many wonderful toppings. Whatever I decide, it’s a crispy delight in every bite.”

Favorite deli: “Bartolomeo in Englewood. It always has a great variety of ready-to-go items, as well as a wonderful variety of Italian meats and cheeses. I always have difficulty deciding what sandwich I want, but I have never been disappointed with my choice.”

Favorite bakery: ”My choice is Balthazar in Englewood. They have wonderful breads, savory and sweet French pastries and cookies. I have so much respect for a bakery that’s able to be so consistently fabulous, especially at such a large scale.

Try the croissants—you won’t regret it!”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “River Palm Terrace in Edgewater equates a special evening for us. We enjoy this favorite restaurant, whether we are celebrating as a couple or as a family. The sushi is always fresh, and the rolls are extremely creative.

The bar and wait staff are attentive, and the vibe is always great.”

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:00 PM

MO TH. l o’s in lection oy ave a erful ecide, very

omeo s has to-go rful

y have oice.” hazar

tries for ntly cale. t!” r Palm ial

TARYN CLAYTON, CHEF/OWNER, SOJ UNDERGROUND SUPPER CLUB, CARLSTADT. Favorite pizza: “S. Egidio in Ridgewood! Their pizza is diiiii-vine, Neapolitan style.

Good sauce makes a pie for me—you can taste their quality ingredients through and through. Not to mention that they also serve pillowy soft gnocchi, and their seared vegetable platter is unassumingly delicious.”

Favorite deli: “Rutherford Bagel & Deli. Bagels are classic. Crunchy outsides, soft and fluffy insides. If you’re looking for a solid Jersey bagel, this is your place.”

Favorite bakery: “Sook Pastry. I mean, talk about bread! The absolute best crunchy, perfect baguette or soft and airy olive bread. Pair it with a bottle of good olive oil and you’re set.”

Favorite romantic restaurant: “Osteria Crescendo in Westwood.

A great excuse to get dressed up and swooped away by elegant food and enchanting atmosphere.

They’re always busy, but they take great care of you. Nothing like feeling the restaurant around you buzzing while enjoying a glass of wine and plate of pasta with candlelight, tucked away in a cozy corner with your date.”

Sweet treats at Sook Pastry

ng as lways ative. nd the

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.chefs.indd 41

41

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:27 PM

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.recipes.indd 42

42

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 1:59 PM

A Dinner You’ll Remember

Shrimp and grits, anyone? And pumpkin panna cotta for dessert? Let two top Bergen chefs help you prepare an unforgettable autumn repast.

Jonathan Broadwater and Michael Matonti have at least three things in common: They’re restaurant chefs in Bergen County, they were trained at the former French Culinary Institute in Manhattan and they’re both about to delight your family’s taste buds—if you follow their recipes below.

The meal, fitting for the season and as rich in color as in taste, is a hearty shrimp-and-grits entrée followed by a dessert of pumpkin panna cotta with pumpkin-seed brittle. But first, a bit of culinary bio.

Broadwater, executive head chef of Czen in Englewood, draws on his

Bahamian upbringing to create modern Caribbean dishes with an Asian flair to please customers at his restaurant next door to the Bergen Performing Arts Center. In the kitchen he’s a performing artist himself, and so is Michael Matonti of Café Panache in Ramsey. Matonti’s background includes stints at the Saddle River Inn and the River Vale Country Club as well as prior service at New York’s Judson Grill, where he was influenced by chef Bill Telepan’s zeal for the discerning use of locally sourced ingredients.

Here are the recipes our two Bergen chefs are sharing:

CURRY SHRIMP AND GRITS

From chef Jeff Broadwater at Czen in Englewood Serves four to six

Jamaican Curry Sauce for Tiger Shrimp INGREDIENTS: n 1 lb. medium or jumbo shrimp n ½ cup coconut milk n 1 cup heavy cream n 2 Tbs. spicy Jamaican curry n 1 Tbs. sugar n salt and pepper, to taste n 2 Tbs. minced garlic n 3 sprigs of thyme n 1 scallion, chopped

Grits INGREDIENTS: n 1½ cups stoneground grits n 3 cups water n 4 cups house-made vegetable stock n 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar n ½ Tbs. granulated garlic n 1 cup heavy cream n salt and pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS: Prepare the Jamaican curry sauce: In a mediumsized saucepan, combine the coconut milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Add flavorful ingredients: Stir in the Jamaican curry, sugar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to stir until the sauce begins to simmer.

Infuse with aromatics: Add the minced garlic, thyme sprigs and chopped scallion to the sauce. Stir well to incorporate these aromatic ingredients into the sauce.

Simmer and thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently. Stir occasionally and allow it to thicken to your desired consistency. This should take about 10–15 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

INSTRUCTIONS: Cook the grits: In a large pot, bring the water and vegetable stock to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20–25 minutes or until they are tender and creamy.

Add cream and seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream to make the grits even creamier. Season with granulated garlic, salt and pepper to taste.

Adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.recipes.indd 43

Prepare the shrimp: While the sauce is simmering, prepare your tiger shrimp. You can marinate them briefly in a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper for added flavor.

Sauté the shrimp: Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once hot, add the shrimp and sauté them until they turn pink and opaque, typically about two to three minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the heat.

Toss with the sauce: Place the sautéed shrimp into the simmering curry sauce.

Toss them gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the flavorful sauce.

Allow them to simmer together for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.

Assemble the dish: To serve, ladle a generous portion of the creamy grits onto each plate. Arrange the Jamaican curry shrimp on top of the grits. Drizzle some of the curry sauce over the shrimp and grits.

Garnish: Consider garnishing your dish with a fresh sprig of thyme or some chopped scallions for a burst of color and added aroma.

43

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:20 PM

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.recipes.indd 44

44

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 2:00 PM

PUMPKIN PANNA COTTA

From chef Michael Matonti at Café Panache Serves six, depending on the size of the glass INGREDIENTS: n ¼ oz. envelope unflavored powdered gelatin n ¼ tsp. ground ginger n ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg n ¼ tsp. ground cloves n ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon n 1 cup milk n 2 cup heavy cream n ¼ cup dark brown sugar n 1 tsp. salt n ½ tsp. vanilla extract n 1 cup canned unsweetened pumpkin purée

INSTRUCTIONS: To start, let the gelatin soak in ¼ cup of milk for 15 minutes.

In a medium-sized pot on medium low heat, whisk together milk with gelatin, remaining milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt and canned pumpkin purée.

mixture to 205–210°F but not boiling.

Remove from heat and divide the mixture into six wine glasses. Tap on the table once or twice to remove any air bubbles.

Stir in ground ginger, clove, nutmeg and cinnamon.

While whisking, bring the

Refrigerate to set (about three to four hours, wrapping them in plastic wrap as soon as they cool).

INSTRUCTIONS: In a medium pot, stir together sugar, water, corn syrup and salt, being careful not to splash it up the sides.

Cook to golden brown caramel. It should be amber-colored. It should not still look yellow.

Pumpkin-Seed Brittle INGREDIENTS: n ¾ cup sugar n ½ cup water n 10 Tbs. light corn syrup n ½ tsp. salt n 1 cup pumpkin seeds, raw n 1 Tbs. butter n ¾ tsp. baking soda

Bring mixture to a boil. If sugar crystals do splash up the sides, run a clean pastry brush or paper towel dipped in cold water around the sides until they are clean.

Be sure to do this just as the mixture comes to a simmer so as not to risk crystallizing the cooking sugar with the side granules.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.recipes.indd 45

Remove from heat, whisk in butter followed by baking soda, then pumpkin seeds.

Pour onto a nonstick silicone baking mat. You can also pour it onto parchment paper.

Spread with an offset spatula sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Allow to cool. Break into pieces for garnish.

45

NOVEMBER 2023

10/19/23 1:20 PM

Special Report

THE WORLD OF ‘GRAB-’N-GO’ Convenience stores are proliferating in Bergen, selling the one or two items you want to pick up in a hurry. But, as one resident asks, “Do we really need so many?” BY LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF On a Sunday of drenching rain, the Wawa on Essex Street in Lodi is an oasis of light and bustle. Outside, cars line up for gas, while inside, customers are equally intent on refueling. A frazzled mom looks to assuage her restive brood with salty snacks, while a middle-aged man with serious bed head is taking deep draughts of his supersized coffee even before he’s paid for it. Three young men are waiting at the soup and sandwich bar for an early lunch or maybe a late breakfast.

The scene is likely being repeated at the hundreds of Wawas, QuickCheks, 7-Elevens and independently owned convenience stores across Bergen County. Brick-and-mortar retail may be in decline overall, but convenience stores appear to be bucking the trend, especially in northern New Jersey.

In fact, according to the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), from 2009 to 2018, the number of convenience stores in the state rose 20 percent, from 2,695 to 3,229. Their number dipped slightly between 2018 and 2022, reflecting the dampening effect of the pandemic. But last year the stores began to rebound: Across the country, the number of grocery stores fell by 0.7 percent and drug stores by 1 percent, but the number of con-

venience stores was up 1.5 percent. Though there are no statistics specific to Bergen County, David Townes, managing director at the global real estate company JLL and a specialist in retail real estate throughout northern New Jersey, says convenience stores in the county “are thriving, and were, even through the uncertainty of the pandemic.”

Alana Friedman, a vice president at JLL, notes that in Bergen and elsewhere in northern New Jersey these stores are opening in malls, office buildings and even residential high-rises. And while landlords may balk at renting space to smoke shops, they’re rarely averse to leasing to convenience stores, even though those stores may also sell cannabis-related paraphernalia.

If you’ve never thought, “Gosh, I wish there were more spots in Bergen County selling lottery tickets, cigarettes and sweet, slushy drinks,” you’re not alone. Few of us long for another convenience store in the neighborhood, but given their proliferation, they must be filling a need. And according to Carol Rauscher, president of the North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, the need is explained in the name: “The term ‘convenience’ sums it up,” she says, noting that in bad weather, for examp-

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 special report.indd 46

46

le, most of the stores go out of their way to offer ice melt and window scrapers. Rauscher herself frequents one or another of a series of convenience stores along River Road in Edgewater when she’s on her way home from work or the gym. “When I’m coming back from Pilates,” she says, “I stop at a convenience store for a cup of coffee, and maybe I buy a Powerball or Mega Millions ticket.” Like Rauscher, most of us chronically run short of one commodity above all—time—and convenience stores are designed with time-saving in mind.

“If I just need milk or eggs, I’ll stop at the 7-Eleven,” says Fair Lawn resident Lisa Lovermi.

“I don’t go to the ShopRite for one or two items.”

CUSTOMIZED COFFEE If you’ve been to a convenience store lately, you know that such stores sell more than milk and eggs. Want bagged ice, a flavored vape, a chili dog or some extra cash from the ATM? You’ll likely find it at any one of Bergen’s convenience stores.

Gone are the days of the so-called mini-marts, which, in addition to everyday necessities, were famous for their no-frills, 50-cent cups of coffee.

Today, at one of the convenience chains, that coffee

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 9:39 AM

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 special report.indd 47

47

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 2:01 PM

will likely cost you at least twice as much and, at many of the stores, it’s available at a self-serve coffee bar offering a variety of brews, bean options and flavorings. 7-Eleven, for instance, advertises “3,000 ways to customize your coffee,” and plenty of convenience stores, such as the QuickChek on South River Street in Hackensack, offer lattes and frozen cappuccinos—though Hackensack resident Gigi Hudson prefers hers without the bells and whistles. She pops into a Wawa at least twice a week for a cup of coffee with milk and sugar and says she’s “very glad” the store is located on her regular route.

“If it weren’t here,” says Hudson, “I guess I’d have to make my own coffee”—a prospect she clearly doesn’t relish.

QuickChek also offers an ample selection of salads, wraps, sourdough melts and freshly made hoagies. And earlier this year, to the delight of its fans, Wawa rolled out pizza, which aficionados say is at least as good as the pies served at chains like Domino’s and Little Caesar’s.

“Food service has really grown,” says Jeff Lenard of NACS, who notes that 36 percent of the stores’ profits derive from food and beverages prepared on-site. “Convenience stores evolve as the customer redefines ‘convenience,’” he adds. In 2018, QuickChek opened its first “millennial-friendly” store at Hackensack Avenue and University Plaza Drive in Hackensack. It was designed to draw in younger, hipper customers, with free WiFi, charging stations, indoor and outdoor seating for 20 and a large selection of freshly prepared food items, including the offerings at a stand-alone soup bar.

Willie W., who didn’t want his last name published but said he was from “South Philly,” was at that soup bar recently, looking for a light lunch.

The 20-something often visits the store on his way to see his cousin in Rochelle Park and usually treats himself to soup and a hoagie, but “I’ve been putting on weight,” he says. He’s a Wawa stalwart, like many from Pennsylvania, where the chain originated. Of all the convenience store chains, Wawa may have the most ardent fans, some of whom have etched their love onto their bodies in the form of Wawa goose-logo tattoos. Beryl Fein, who lives in a section of Hackensack that lacks a Wawa, says she hasn’t been to a convenience store in several years and is just fine with that. “But if there was a Wawa nearby, I’d definitely go there,” she says. She was trained for her current job as a corporate travel agent in Pennsylvania, and her hotel was down the block from a Wawa. “They have great stuff,” she says, waxing nostalgic. “Their flavored coffee is a lot cheaper than Dunkin’, and their sandwiches and salads are really, really good.”

A NEW DEFINITION As convenience stores—or C-stores, as they’re sometimes called—redefine themselves to meet customers’ needs, it may be hard to distinguish them from other retail outlets. According to NACS, to be called a convenience store, a retail operation must provide easy access, either by car or foot; extended hours of operation and offerings that include at least some of what the trade organization calls “representative items” such as ketchup and pet food. “But the short answer,” says Lenard, “is that a convenience store is whatever people call convenience, and if you’re not convenient, you’re not a convenience store.”

THE BIG DRAWS Like any retail enterprise, these small shops need to attract customers, and food prepared on-site has become a magnet for younger shoppers. More traditional draws continue to be tobacco products and fuel. According to NACS, the former represents the stores’ largest source of sales dollars, in part because tobacco products are so expensive. The potential income from controversial habits has also enticed some of the stores to break the law. In April, for instance, six Teaneck convenience store owners were charged with selling vape products to minors.

Another customer attraction is lottery tickets, though some stores won’t sell them because of the long lines that often accompany big jackpots, lines that can deter regular customers. “When you’re selling convenience, those lines make it more difficult for that customer looking to simply get a cup of coffee to get in and out of the store quickly,” says Lenard. On the other hand, the lines allow the stores to showcase their expanded offerings to new customers who may not have realized that they could pick up a salad and a smoothie with their scratch-offs.

One of the biggest enticements to shop convenience is gasoline. Across the country, nearly 80 percent of C-stores also sell fuel, cognizant that, after gassing up, customers are likely to stop in for a drink or a snack—or both. (That’s even more likely with EV charging stations, since it currently takes more time to charge an electric vehicle than to fill a tank with gas; currently, you can only charge your EV at a handful of convenience stores in the state, but that’s likely to change as the market for electric vehicles continues to grow.)

Jack Ricci, a limo driver who stops at a Wawa or 7-Eleven three times a day to refuel, also inevitably buys at least one cup of coffee, and sometimes a sandwich. Born in Italy, he finds the coffee “too weak—like water,” he says, but he appreciates the hard-working staff at all the stores.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 special report.indd 48

48

The percentage of stores selling fuel is a little lower in New Jersey, where drivers can’t pump their own gas, necessitating the hiring of more employees. Currently, some 45 percent of the state’s convenience stores sell fuel, but that number is likely growing. Townes notes that potential convenience-store owners looking for sites in Bergen increasingly want to open free-standing stores with gas stations attached.

TOO MUCH CONVENIENCE? As new stores continue to roll out throughout the county, some residents are scratching their heads.

Diane Palmer of Maywood, for instance, wouldn’t complain if a QuickChek or Wawa were to open nearby, but, she says, “You drive along the highways here and all you see are fast food, gas stations and convenience stores—do we really need so many?”

In fact, some municipalities are asking the same question, worried, among other things, about potential traffic snarls. This spring, for example, the Paramus planning board held up approval for a new convenience store in town until the board’s concerns about traffic could be addressed.

Lenard notes, however, that most C-stores don’t create traffic tie-ups because of the way they’re usually sited, especially in suburban areas. Again, it comes down to convenience. Owners know that potential customers don’t want to make left-hand turns off the highway if they don’t have to, so the owners choose locations along well-traveled routes that entail only right-hand turns—and right-hand turns are far less likely to disrupt the flow of traffic.

(That’s why it’s common to see two convenience stores, sometimes belonging to the same chain, virtually across the highway from each other.)

Another thing some people consider a downside of the stores, which stay open late and often hold large amounts of cash, is their reputation as a magnet for crime. According to FBI data, convenience stores are, in fact, the country’s fourth most common location of violent crime. In August of 2022, for instance, a gang of robbers held up five C-stores in Bergen County, all in the pre-dawn hours. And earlier this year, a man was arrested for robbing three of the stores—in Fair Lawn, Paramus and Mahwah—at gunpoint.

The Bergen residents we spoke with for this article, however, don’t seem overly worried about their safety in a convenience store. “Honestly,” says Lovermi, “I can’t think of a single negative thing about the 7-Eleven I go to. It’s on a well-traveled street around the block from my house, and I pass it practically any time I go anywhere. I’m glad it’s there when I need it.” In an on-the-go world, it seems, convenience rules.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:01 PM

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 special report.indd 49

49

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 2:02 PM

ESCAPES

DINING FOR THE Five great world cities each favor a flavor you may at first be afraid of.

Eating popular local delicacies is part of the fun of international travel. But where do you draw the line when a prized national dish is—to your mundane New Jersey tastes, anyway—kind of gross? The great cities here cry out for places on your lifetime travel itinerary whether you’re an adventurous diner or not. But if you’re emboldened, you can enrich your experience of each foreign culture by tasting the unlikely dish its citizens swear by, even if at first you secretly suspect that they’re insane.

Who knows? Anticipatory disgust may turn to culinary delight. And how cosmopolitan you’ll become— if you dare!

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

Scotland is the birthplace of golf, and you shouldn’t miss playing a couple of rounds at St. Andrews Links. But there’s much more to see and do here. Culture and Gothic architecture reign supreme in cobblestone street-rich Edinburgh, the capital city. It’s highly walkable, so take a stroll to historic Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Sir Walter Scott Monument. When you’re done seeing the sights, head to The Royal Mile, a stretch of memorable architecture where visitors can enjoy street performers, shops, pubs and eateries.

Taste the flavor: If you’re up for trying something that isn’t for the faint of heart, how about a heart? A sheep’s heart, that is. Those who sample haggis are doing just that—this national dish of Scotland is made of mutton offal, organ meats such as heart, lungs and liver as well as onion, oatmeal, spices and stock. The ingredients are mixed into a grayish pudding that’s crammed into a round natural sausage casing. When it’s time to eat, haggis can be boiled or steamed, then served as an open crumble of meat with a side of potatoes and rutabaga. When fried, haggis can be sliced and eaten as part of a filling breakfast.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 escapes.indd 50

50

PARIS, FRANCE

To make the most of your visit to Paris, don’t feel pressured to see everything in a short time. Iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum will probably be on your agenda, but consider saving time to visit the Paris Pantheon, Paris Opera and Paris Catacombs. And no trip to the French capital is complete without shopping the swanky boutiques of the Champs-Élysées and soaking up the Parisian café culture in the Le Marais neighborhood.

Taste the flavor: The briny taste of scallops is difficult for many diners to pass up, and most Americans will happily pull mussels from their shell. But what is it about a snail (alias escargot), another shell-toting French delicacy, that makes some people squirm? In preparation, snails are often removed from their shells, dried, cooked in a broth, then placed back into their shells and slathered in something tasty (garlic butter, for instance). If you can remember that escargot is meaty like a clam and takes on the flavor of the broth in which it’s cooked, you won’t have a problem eating one.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:02 PM

DARING

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

With its natural beauty and access to once-in-alifetime opportunities, the capital of this chilly island nation is a hotbed for tourists. Hiking along the rugged coast, which was shaped by the ocean, glaciers and volcanic activity, attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Nonadventure-seekers can enjoy some R&R along the black sand beaches or in one of many hot springs. All visitors, however, are awed by the colorful lights of the aurora borealis, which appear when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field near the North and South poles. The best time to view Mother Nature’s light show is September through March, when nights are longest. Just be sure to check the lunar schedule, as a bright full moon can light up the night and spoil your aurora borealis moment.

Taste the flavor: Like many countries, Iceland is known for delicious seafood—but one truly is an acquired taste. Hákarl, Iceland’s national dish, is fermented Greenland shark that has been hung to dry for as long as five months. It’s unassuming at first glance, but you may be startled when one of the cubes is under your nose. Each chewy piece has such a strong ammonia aroma and flavor that many first-time tasters hold their breath when they try it.

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

If you’re a fan of four seasons, Korea’s capital is right up your alley. Summer can be hot and humid (it’s also monsoon season), and winter is just as frigid as New Jersey’s, so many first-time visitors find spring and fall the best times to explore. And there’s plenty to see. Families can spend time in the Jamsil neighborhood, home to Korean baseball leagues and Lotte World, a massive recreation complex with both indoor and outdoor theme parks. For those seeking high-end shopping and delicious street food, the Myeongdong and Dongdaemun shopping districts are can’t-miss destinations.

Taste the flavor: On the streets of Seoul, people enjoy cups of beondegi, which looks like large coffee beans and, when cooking, sounds like steaming veggies. Alas, this snack food served in paper cups and eaten with a toothpick is silkworm pupae that’s been boiled or steamed. Market vendors cook it in large pots over an open flame and toss on salt and spices to add flavor to the chewy outer shell as well as the soft and juicy insides. (Careful, the hot juices can squirt!) Prefer your insects sweet? Beondegi is available in candied versions too.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 escapes.indd 51

51

TOKYO, JAPAN

With streets that rival the busiest in New York City, the world’s largest metropolis can be overwhelming to first-time visitors. But don’t fret: Safe and reliable public transportation (or a series of pedestrian-friendly corridors) can get you to your destinations. (Invest in a Tokyo Pass to make subway travel a breeze.) Shibuya Crossing is Tokyo’s version of Times Square, where businessmen and shoppers fill the sidewalks beneath massive video boards. Hustle and bustle of a different kind, as well as Mickey Mouse and friends, can be found at Tokyo Disney Resort. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is an oasis in the city, with the pondside Taiwan Pavilion as the centerpiece of the 144-acre park.

For more beauty, visit this garden in late March, when different varieties of the famed cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Taste the flavor: If you thought you were daring the first time you tried sushi, consider testing your bravery by sampling fugu. Also known as pufferfish or porcupinefish, fugu can be lethal for human consumption because it contains potent neurotoxins. Only qualified chefs are permitted to serve fugu, as they’re trained to remove the fish’s toxic parts to avoid contaminating the meat. Those who’ve dared to try it say the white, fleshy meat is similar in texture to squid, with a unique, sweet flavor.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 12:02 PM

Sweet & Savory

Sometimes you just need some comfort food to get you through the week. These breakfast or lunch dishes combine multiple flavor profiles and are easy to whip up at home.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.tastes.indd 52

52

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 2:03 PM

TASTES

CHIPOTLE HONEY CHICKEN AND WAFFLE SLIDERS Yields 8 servings INGREDIENTS n 11/2 lb. frozen crispy chicken strips n 2 boxes (81/2 oz. size) corn muffin mix n 2 large eggs n 4 Tbs. butter, melted n 1 cup buttermilk n 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced n 3/4 cup honey n 2 Tbs. chipotle adobo, or more to taste n 1 Tbs. lime juice n 3 Tbs. water n 1 clove garlic, pressed n 1/2 tsp. salt

DIRECTIONS Heat oven to 400° F. Place frozen chicken strips on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until crispy.

While strips are in the oven, heat a waffle iron. In a large bowl, combine corn muffin mix, eggs, butter, buttermilk and diced jalapenos. Mix until well combined.

Spray waffle molds with nonstick spray. Pour ¼ cup of batter in the center of each waffle mold. Close waffle maker and cook until steaming stops. Using a chopstick or skewer to lift the waffles out of the waffle maker. The waffles will crisp as they cool.

Set aside to cool.

In a small saucepot, combine honey, adobo, lime juice, water, garlic and salt. Bring to a boil, lower heat and let simmer for 2 minutes. Toss chicken strips with honey sauce.

Build sliders using chicken strips and waffles.

“A great way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan is to sub out the crispy chicken for crispy tofu.

Tofu is a great source of plantbased protein.”

—Tory Stroker, registered dietitian nutritionist, Tory Stroker Nutrition, Ridgewood

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.tastes.indd 53

53

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:29 PM

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.tastes.indd 54

54

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 2:03 PM

TASTES

MONTE CRISTO SANDWICH Yields 2 servings INGREDIENTS n 3 slices white bread n ¼ lb. ham or turkey n ½ cup grated Gouda cheese n 2 tsp. mayonnaise, optional n 1 large egg n 2 Tbs. milk n 1 tsp. paprika n salt and pepper, to taste n 2 Tbs. butter, for cooking n ½ cup raspberry jam

DIRECTIONS Lay out three slices of sandwich bread. Split grated cheese between two slices of bread. (You can sub smoked Gouda if you want.) Top cheese with sliced ham.

Lightly spread mayo on both sides of the third piece of bread.

Place the mayo piece of bread on top of one of the two sides.

Then flip the other ham/cheese side on top so the mayo piece of bread is in between the two sides, creating a two-layer sandwich.

The cheese should be on the outsides of the sandwich.

Slice the ends off the sandwich and press it with some weight to really compact the layers. You can just cover it with a flat plate or cutting board and press on it gently for a few seconds. Whisk together the egg, milk, paprika and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Heat butter in a small skillet over medium heat. When butter is melted, dredge pressed sandwich in the egg mixture, coating all sides. Immediately move sandwich to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until sandwich is golden brown. Also, upend the sandwich to cook on the ends for about 15 seconds per side.

Sandwich is done cooking when it’s a dark golden brown and cheese is completely melted. Cut sandwich in half and serve with raspberry jam.

“Try substituting white bread with Ezekiel bread, which is much richer in nutrients and fiber. Use olive oil instead of butter to add some healthy fats to this dish, and add nutritional yeast, which is a savory seasoning packed with potassium, vitamin B, fiber and power antioxidants.”

—Azi Ahmadi, registered dietitian nutritionist, Ridgewood

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.tastes.indd 55

55

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:29 PM

Pictured representatives of the Bergen County office from top left to right: Richard C. Szuch, Ryan P. Mulvaney, Former Sen. Bob Gordon, John N. Visconi, Aliza L. Sherman, Robert P. Donovan, Edward D. Ricchiuto and Salvatore A. Giampiccolo; bottom left: Claudia E. DiGirolamo, Nicole DiBello, Stephanie Lopez, Kelley M. Brogan and Shirley D. Moreno.

Community Ties and a Regional Reputation for Client Service Excellence STEVENS & LEE’S BERGEN COUNTY OFFICE

S

tevens & Lee is proud to be a part of the Bergen County community. Established locally in May 2020, the Bergen County office has since experienced substantial growth through the addition of local lawyers and professionals in our affiliate Stevens & Lee Public Affairs, a New Jersey-focused public affairs firm. Our Bergen location provides a complete range of high-end legal services to local, regional and national clients.

Working with clients in this region for decades, our Bergen County team has a well-established reputation for tireless client advocacy and value-driven service. We believe that helping local clients to achieve their goals and utilize relationships we’ve fostered through Bergen’s business networks serves to strengthen our community and contributes to a more vibrant business market.

Our highly experienced professionals have long represented clients in a wide range of industries operating here, in neighboring

www.stevenslee.com | 201.857.6760

New York, across the country and internationally. They provide counsel in transactional, tax and other corporate matters, as well as in litigation and intellectual property, including specialized services, such as patent law. With each representation, we partner with clients to assist them in advancing their business goals.

Given the talent, expertise and sense of community instilled in our Bergen County team, Stevens & Lee is uniquely positioned to serve business clients within this key market. With 16 offices – including those in Bergen, Princeton and New York City – and 190 lawyers, Stevens & Lee is among the 250 largest law firms in the country.

Stevens & Lee is the cornerstone of The Stevens & Lee Companies, a platform of affiliated professional service firms which provides a full range of legal, investment banking, financial advisory and government consulting services.

Congratulations to our Stevens & Lee lawyers recognized as “Top Lawyers” in Bergen County!

BERGEN

COUNTY’S

TOP

LAWYERS 2023

Stevens & Lee is a Pennsylvania Professional Corporation. Thomas B. Lewis and Salvatore A. Giampiccolo, NJ Managing Attorneys. Attorney Advertising. This publication is intended only as a general guide. It does not constitute legal advice of Stevens & Lee or any member of the firm with respect to the legal issues described. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the firm.

StevensLee_FP_1123_final.indd Untitled-12 1 1

10/18/23 10/20/23 1:06 9:41 PM AM

SPECIAL SECTION

BERGEN

COUNTY’S

TOP

LAWYERS 2023

TO HELP YOU FIND SOME OF THE BEST ATTORNEYS IN BERGEN COUNTY, across 35 different specialties, BERGEN magazine commissioned Professional Research Services (PRS) of Troy, Michigan to conduct a peer-review survey of hundreds of practicing and active lawyers across the county. They were asked to select peers whom they deem are the best within their specialty areas and whom they would seek out for particular legal needs.

PRS checked with the New Jersey state bar to make sure that those attorneys receiving the highest vote totals within each specialty area are active and practicing before finalizing the Top Lawyer list. Inclusion in the Top Lawyer list cannot be purchased; it is solely based on the attorney’s standing among their peers.

We recognize that there are many good attorneys who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within Bergen County.

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 67

10/18/23 4:13 PM

TOP LAWYERS LISTINGS

ADMIRALTY & MARITIME

BANKING

GINO A. ZONGHETTI Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck LLP 25 Main St., Suite 500 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-708-8240

JOSEPH L. BASRALIAN Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1100

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

THOMAS J. CANGIALOSI, JR. Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1050

ROBERT P. CONTILLO Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110 PETER E. DOYNE Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110 JEFFREY FIORELLO Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 JOSEPH A. MAURICE Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 BONNIE J. MIZDOL Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110

ANTITRUST JENNIFER R. SCULLION Seeger Weiss LLP 55 Challenger Rd. Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660 212-584-0700

APPELLATE PRACTICE DAVID J. ALTIERI Galantucci & Patuto 21 Main St., Suite 151 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-646-1100 DAVID N. CINOTTI Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-270-4901

RICHARD R. KAHN Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1001 THOMAS LOIKITH Harwood Lloyd, LLC 130 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-359-3551 ADOLPH A. ROMEI Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2104 WILLIAM I. STRASSER Strasser & Associates, P.C. 7 E. Ridgewood Ave. Paramus, NJ 07652 201-445-9001

BANKRUPTCY KENNETH L. BAUM Law Offices of Kenneth L. Baum LLC 167 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-853-3030 MICHAEL BOYD Law Office of Boyd & Squitieri 157 Engle St. Englewood, NJ 07631 201-277-0177 JOHN P. DI IORIO Shapiro, Croland, Reiser, Apfel & Di Iorio, LLP 411 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-3900 MERCEDES DIEGO Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

ERIN J. KENNEDY Forman Holt, Attorneys at Law 365 W. Passaic St., Suite 400 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-857-7109 JOHN MURANO Murano & Roth, LLC 800 Kinderkamack Rd., Suite 202N Oradell, NJ 07649 201-265-3400 CASSANDRA NORGAARD Norgaard, O’Boyle & Hannon 184 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 609-439-4070 KARL J. NORGAARD Norgaard, O’Boyle & Hannon 184 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 609-439-4070 JOHN O’BOYLE Norgaard, O’Boyle & Hannon 184 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 609-439-4070 GLENN REISER Shapiro, Croland, Reiser, Apfel & Di Iorio, LLP 411 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-3900

STEVE M. KALEBIC Law Offices of Steve M. Kalebic 167 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-853-1500 ROCCO J. LABELLA Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110 JOSHUA M. LURIE Lurie | Strupinsky, LLP 15 Warren St., Suite 36 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-270-0050

DAVID L. STEVENS Scura, Wigfield, Heyer, Stevens & Cammarota, LLP 3 University Plaza, Suite 207 Hackensack, NJ 07601 973-870-0434

MICHAEL N. MOREA Morea Law, LLC 555 Goffle Rd., Suite 202 Ridgewood, NJ 07452 201-345-5412

BUSINESS, CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL BRUCE J. ACKERMAN Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-270-4933 MICHAEL A. AUSTIN Conte Clayton & Austin, P.A. 666 Godwin Ave., Suite 320 Midland Park, NJ 07432 201-904-2007 ANDREW PHILIP BOLSON Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

PETER J. GALLAGHER Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110

JEFFREY W. HERRMANN Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

JOSEPH ( JAY) B. BROWN Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

MICHAEL E. HOLT Forman Holt, Attorneys at Law 365 W. Passaic St., Suite 400 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-857-7110

PAUL M. ELIAS Bittiger Elias Triolo & Diehl P.C. 12 Route 17 North, Suite 206 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-438-7770

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 68

MIRIAM W. HERMANN Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110

RAYMOND F. MILLER Law Office of Raymond F. Miller, LLC 637 Wyckoff Ave., Floor 2, Suite 4 Wyckoff, NJ 07481 201-891-1405

BRIAN G. HANNON Norgaard, O’Boyle & Hannon 184 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 609-439-4070

IRA E. WEINER Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2151

SALVATORE A. GIAMPICCOLO Stevens & Lee, PC 669 River Dr., Suite 201 Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 201-857-6767

MICHAEL D. SIROTA Cole Schotz P.C. 25 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-525-6262

ANDREW T. FEDE Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8538

GAIL L. PRICE Price, Meese, Shulman & D’Arminio, P.C. 50 Tice Blvd., Suite 380 Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677 201-730-4848

MATTHEW F. GATELY Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

GIANFRANCO A. PIETRAFESA Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8559 DAVID POLAZZI Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434 MICHAEL STERNLIEB Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2145

CHANCERY PRACTICE MICHAEL D. CAMARINOS Camarinos Law Group, LLC 411 Hackensack Ave., Floor 2 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-564-5291 PETER J. GALLAGHER Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110 SCOTT D. JACOBSON Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110

10/18/23 4:13 PM

LAWRENCE N. MEYERSON Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 GEOFFREY D. MUELLER Geoffrey D. Mueller, LLC 610 E. Palisade Ave. Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-569-2533 MATTHEW M. NICODEMO Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8558 GARY S. REDISH Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1048 CHRISTOPHER L. WEISS Ferro Labella & Weiss LLC 27 Warren St., Suite 201 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-9110

CIVIL LITIGATION MATTHEW F. GATELY Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 EVAN L. GOLDMAN Goldman Davis Krumholz & Dillon, P.C. 3 University Plaza Dr., Suite 410 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-2600 YOONKI KIM Kim and Feliz Attorneys at Law 2125 Center Ave., Suite 209 Fort Lee, NJ 07024 201-585-2250 JAN MEYER Law Offices of Jan Meyer & Associates, P.C. 1029 Teaneck Rd., 2nd Floor Teaneck, NJ 07666 201-862-9500 MYLES M. MISSIRIAN Guaglardi & Meliti, LLP 365 W. Passaic St., Suite 130 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-947-4100 EVAN A. OSTRER Guaglardi & Meliti, LLP 365 W. Passaic St., Suite 130 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-947-4100 STUART REISER Shapiro, Croland, Reiser, Apfel & Di Iorio, LLP 411 Hackensack Ave Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-3900

DOUGLAS V. SANCHEZ Cruser, Mitchell, Novitz, Sanchez, Gaston & Zimet, LLP 50 Tice Blvd., Suite 250 Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677 201-474-7100 JAMES L. SONAGERI Sonageri & Fallon, LLC 411 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-646-1000

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION MICHAEL A. AUSTIN Conte Clayton & Austin, P.A. 666 Godwin Ave., Suite 320 Midland Park, NJ 07432 201-904-2007 EVA K. CAREY Bertone Piccini LLP 777 Terrace Ave., Suite 201 Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-483-9333 AUDRA DEPAOLO Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 MATTHEW F. GATELY Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 SALVATORE A. GIAMPICCOLO Stevens & Lee, PC 669 River Dr., Suite 201 Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 201-857-6767 MICHAEL S. HORN Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8529 LEONARD Z. KAUFMANN Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 WALTER M. LUERS Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 PETER S. PEARLMAN Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 GERALD R. SALERNO Aronsohn Weiner Salerno & Kaufman, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 100 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-4747

CONSTRUCTION LEVI W. BARRETT Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 69

ROBERT S. DOWD, JR. Law Offices Of Robert S. Dowd, Jr. LLC 100 Challenger Rd., Suite 100 Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660 201-489-3900

ERIC J. SARRAGA Foy & Seplowitz, LLC 105 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-457-0071

BRUCE D. MELLER Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434

LAURA C. SUTNICK Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law 21 Main St., Suite 200W Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4532

PETER E. MORAN Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434

WARREN S. SUTNICK Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law 21 Main St., Suite 200W Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4532

GERARD J. ONORATA Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434

CRIMINAL: WHITE COLLAR

ROBERT S. PECKAR Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434 JASON SHAFRON Shafron Law Group, LLC 2 University Plaza Dr., Suite 400 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-343-7200 LEE M. TESSER Tesser & Cohen 946 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-343-1100 NICHOLAS J. ZAITA Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434 MICHAEL S. ZICHERMAN Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434

CRIMINAL: NON-WHITE COLLAR MICHAEL J. BEATRICE Michael J. Beatrice, P.C., Attorney at Law 1 International Blvd., Suite 600 Mahwah, NJ 07495 201-228-0966 LOUIS G. DE ANGELIS III Law Office of Louis G. DeAngelis, LLC 346 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 201-254-8484 CHRIS M. DI LORENZO DiLorenzo & Rush 1 University Plaza Dr., Suite 210 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4027 JASON E. FOY Foy & Seplowitz, LLC 105 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-457-0071 OMID S. IRANI Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law 21 Main St., Suite 200W Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4532

PAUL BOYTON BRICKFIELD Brickfield & Donahue 70 Grand Ave., Suite 100 River Edge, NJ 07661 201-574-7919

TOP LAWYERS LISTINGS

KENNETH K. LEHN Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1090

JOSEPH A. HAYDEN, JR. Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-639-2004 OMID S. IRANI Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law 21 Main St., Suite 200W Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4532 S. EMILE LISBOA IV Galantucci & Patuto 21 Main St., Suite 151 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-646-1100 BRIAN J. NEARY Law Offices of Brian J. Neary 21 Main St., Suite 305 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-0544 AIDAN P. O’CONNOR Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-270-4940 JAMES B. SEPLOWITZ Foy & Seplowitz, LLC 105 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-457-0071 LAURA C. SUTNICK Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law 21 Main St., Suite 200W Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4532

CUSTODY DANIEL BARLI Barli & Associates, LLC 19 Phelps Ave. Tenafly, NJ 07670 973-638-1101 ALEXANDRA M. COGLIANESE Bremer & Buckner LLC 2 University Plaza Dr., Suite 312 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-2141 MARA L. DOOSKIN Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group, LLC 21 Main St., Suite 354 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-641-2000

10/18/23 4:13 PM

TOP LAWYERS LISTINGS

KERI L. GREENE Bremer & Buckner LLC 2 University Plaza Dr., Suite 312 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-2141

GEORGE M. PANGIS The Pangis Law Firm 184 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 201-210-8850

ROSANNA M. FOX LePore Taylor Fox LLP 61 S. Paramus Rd., Suite 422 Paramus, NJ 07652 908-873-1800

EVELYN NISSIRIOS Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

EDUCATION

TREVOR S. JADOO Jadoo & Zalenski 100 S. Van Brunt St., Suite 5 Englewood, NJ 07631 201-568-5510

ERIKA R. PICCIRILLO Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 LYNDA PICINIC Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 MARC J. POLES Sherwood, Johnson & Poles, LLC 666 Wyckoff Ave. Wyckoff, NJ 07481 888-224-1218 STEVEN PONTELL Verde, Steinberg, & Pontell, LLC 19 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-0075 MARIANNE QUINN Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

ROBERT M. JACOBS Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1020 MARLA WOLFE TAUS Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1063

ENVIRONMENTAL DANIELE CERVINO Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2125 LEONARD Z. KAUFMANN Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 CHRISTINA N. STRIPP Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

HEALTH CARE

JASON ROTH Murano & Roth, LLC 800 Kinderkamack Rd., Suite 202N Oradell, NJ 07649 201-265-3400

ROBERT A. BLASS Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2136

CARRIE S. SCHULTZ (MFR) Men’s & Fathers’ Rights Divorce Lawyers/Schultz & Associates 55 Hudson St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-340-9036

GINA L. CAMPANELLA Campanella Law Office LLC 289 Godwin Ave., Suite B Midland Park, NJ 07432 201-891-3726

JASON C. TUCHMAN Kelly, Kelly, Marotta & Tuchman, LLC 25 E. Spring Valley Ave., Suite 320 Maywood, NJ 07607 201-368-7713

DEBTOR & CREDITOR JOSHUA DENBEAUX Denbeaux & Denbeaux 372 Kinderkamack Rd., Suite 5 Westwood, NJ 07675 201-970-6534 FREDERIC C. GOETZ Frederic C. Goetz, Esq., LLC 167 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-313-4500 JENNIFER M. MENDELSOHN Law Offices of Jennifer M. Mendelsohn LLC 55 Harristown Rd., Suite 106 Glen Rock, NJ 07452 201-957-0515 MARK E. NORGAARD Norgaard, O’Boyle & Hannon 184 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 609-439-4070

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 70

KEVIN P. KELLY Kelly, Kelly, Marotta & Tuchman, LLC 25 E. Spring Valley Ave., Suite 320 Maywood, NJ 07607 201-368-7713 JEREMY S. PICCINI Bertone Piccini LLP 777 Terrace Ave., Suite 201 Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-483-9333 MICHAEL LEBSON PRIGOFF Lebson & Prigoff, LLC 560 Sylvan Ave., Suite 1205 Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-568-4000

IMMIGRATION MARTIN V. ASATRIAN Asatrian Law Group, LLC 15 Warren St., Suite PH E-2 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-663-3164 CAROLINA T. CURBELO The Law Office of Carolina T. Curbelo, LLC 45 N. Broad St., Suite 203 Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-379-4040

DAVID H. NACHMAN NPZ Law Group, P.C. 487 Goffle Rd., Viaserve Plaza Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-670-0006 JOHN S. ONAL Onal Gallant & Partners PC 619 River Dr., Suite 340 Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 201-508-0808 WILLIAM J. QUIRK William J. Quirk, Esq., LLC 354 State St., Suite 202 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-968-0800 JEFFREY B. STEINFELD Jeffrey B. Steinfeld P.C. 27 Warren St., Suite 302 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-343-3500 PRERAK A. ZAVERI Zaveri Law Firm P.C. 167 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-289-5393

INSURANCE BRIAN R. ADE Rivkin Radler LLP 25 Main St. Court Plaza North Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-287-2461 MARIO A. BATELLI Foster & Mazzie LLC 10 Furler St. Totowa, NJ 07512 973-200-8619 MICHAEL J. COHEN Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1088 PETER E. MUELLER Harwood Lloyd, LLC 130 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-359-3542 VALERIE A. VLADYKA Schenck Price Smith & King, LLP 115 W. Century Rd., Suite 100 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-225-2729

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT ADAM S. ABRAMSON Cleary, Giacobbe, Alfieri & Jacobs, LLC 169 Ramapo Valley Rd. Upper Level 105 Oakland, NJ 07436 973-845-6700 GINA L. ANTON Cleary, Giacobbe, Alfieri & Jacobs, LLC 169 Ramapo Valley Rd. Upper Level 105 Oakland, NJ 07436 973-845-6700 BRUCE L. ATKINS Deutsch Atkins & Kleinfeldt, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 352 Hackensack, NJ 07601 551-245-8894 GREGORY R. BEGG Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434 CHRISTOPHER J. CARCICH Carcich O’Shea 401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 707 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-431-7360 ADAM J. KLEINFELDT Deutsch Atkins & Kleinfeldt, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 352 Hackensack, NJ 07601 551-245-8894 KENNETH K. LEHN Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1090 MICHAEL MALATINO Meredith Malatino Law LLC 411 Hackensack Ave., Suite 407 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-518-1914 CARLY SKARBNIK MEREDITH Meredith Malatino Law LLC 411 Hackensack Ave., Suite 352 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-518-1914 MICHAEL N. MOREA Morea Law LLC 555 Goffle Rd., Suite 202 Ridgewood, NJ 07452 201-345-5412 JONATHAN I. NIRENBERG Rabner Baumgart Ben-Asher & Nirenberg, P.C. 135 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Suite 230 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-777-2250

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

KEVIN J. O’CONNOR Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434

DAVID S. GOLD Cole Schotz P.C. 25 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-525-6305

SHEILA O’SHEA-CRISCIONE Carcich O’Shea 401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 707 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-431-7360

ROBERT J. KLEEBLATT Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1075

ALEX PISAREVSKY Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

10/18/23 4:13 PM

AARON C. SCHLESINGER Peckar & Abramson, P.C. 70 Grand Ave. River Edge, NJ 07661 201-343-3434 SAM SMITH Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. 135 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Suite 200 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-254-3470

LITIGATION ARTHUR N. CHAGARIS Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2122 DENNIS G. HARRAKA Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1059 COREY P. MORANO The Morano Law Firm, LLC 54 Route 17 North Paramus, NJ 07652 201-598-5019 CHRISTOPHER NUCIFORA Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck LLP 25 Main St., Suite 500 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-708-8207 VICTORIA R. PEKERMAN Shapiro, Croland, Reiser, Apfel & Di Iorio, LLP 411 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-3900

JOSHUA T. BUCKNER Bremer & Buckner LLC 2 University Plaza Dr., Suite 312 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-2141 MARILYN J. CANDA DAME Legal 345 Union St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-231-7580 DANIELLE J. CARDONE Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A. 473 Sylvan Ave. Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-500-8914 EMILY R. CARSTENSEN Snyder, Sarno, D’Aniello, Maceri & da Costa, LLC 401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 706 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-3366 BRUCE EVAN CHASE Chase and Chase LLC 1 Atlantic St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-343-6555 JOSHUA P. COHN Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 ASHLEY TATE COOPER Weinberg & Cooper, LLC 1 University Plaza, Suite 516 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-580-3934 JHANICE V. DOMINGO Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-584-3077

R. N. TENDAI RICHARDS Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1099

MARA L. DOOSKIN Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group, LLC 21 Main St., Suite 354 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-641-2000

KELLY A. ZAMPINO Hartmann Doherty Rosa Berman & Bulbulia, LLC 433 Hackensack Ave., Suite 1002 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-649-8029

ANNE M. FOX Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

MATRIMONIAL & FAMILY SHELLEY ALBERT DAME Legal 345 Union St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-231-7580 JAY R. ATKINS Atkins, Tafuri, Minassian, D’Amato, Beane & Miller, P.A. 887 Kinderkamack Rd., Suite 3 River Edge, NJ 07661 201-967-5060 KEVIN L. BREMER Bremer & Buckner LLC 2 University Plaza Dr., Suite 312 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-2141

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 71

CARLYE L. GOLDSTEIN O’Cathain Law Group 21 Main St. West Wing, Floor 2, Suite 250 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-1161 ROSEMARY NAOMI GUSHIKEN The Law Office Of Rosemary Gushiken, LLC 45 Essex St., Suite 3 West Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-375-6996 WILLIAM JOHN HEIMBUCH Heimbuch & Solimano 21 Main St., Suite 151 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-489-0300 LUTHER GRIFFIN JONES IV Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

BARRY L. KAUFMAN Aronsohn Weiner Salerno & Kaufman, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 100 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-4747 ANGELA G. KIM Hartmann Doherty Rosa Berman & Bulbulia, LLC 433 Hackensack Ave., Suite 1002 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-649-8026 ANGELA G. KIM Hartmann Doherty Rosa Berman & Bulbulia, LLC 433 Hackensack Ave., Suite 1002 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-649-8026 PAUL C. LOMBERG Lomberg Del Vescovo & Pollak, LLC 2 University Plaza, Suite 602 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-342-8100 BRIAN C. MARTEL Torchin Martel Orr, LLC 95 Route 17 North, Suite 109 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-308-0383 MADELINE M. MARZANOLESNEVICH O’Cathain Law Group 21 Main St. West Wing, Floor 2, Suite 250 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-1161 EVELYN F. NISSIRIOS Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 LAURA A. NUNNINK November & Nunnink 16-00 Route 208 South, Suite 201 Fair Lawn, NJ 07410 201-612-1005 FRANCES OLIVERI Guaglardi & Meliti, LLP 365 W. Passaic St., Suite 130 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-947-4100 SCOTT W. ORR Torchin Martel Orr, LLC 95 Route 17 North, Suite 109 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-308-0383 LYNDA PICINIC Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 MARC J. POLES Sherwood, Johnson & Poles, LLC 666 Wyckoff Ave. Wyckoff, NJ 07481 888-224-1218 CATHY J. POLLAK Lomberg Del Vescovo & Pollak, LLC 2 University Plaza, Suite 602 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-342-8100 SILVANA D. RASO Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A. 473 Sylvan Ave. Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-500-8914

KENNETH R. RUSH DiLorenzo & Rush 1 University Plaza Dr., Suite 210 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-212-4027 AMY L. SAUTER Pescatore & Sauter, LLC 60 Court St., Suite 3 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-343-7700 STEVEN SEGALAS The Segalas Law Firm 80 Broadway, Suite 101 Hillsdale, NJ 07642 201-212-6523 BRIAN E. SHEA Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 GERI LANDAU SQUIRE Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

TOP LAWYERS LISTINGS

SAMUEL J. SAMARO Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-270-4908

VICTORIA TOMASELLA Tomasella & Vacca, LLC 401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 707 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-885-6240 DAVID TORCHIN Torchin Martel Orr, LLC 95 Route 17 North, Suite 109 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-308-0383 AMANDA S. TRIGG Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 COURTNEY VACCA Tomasella & Vacca, LLC 401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 707 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-885-6240 RICHARD H. WEINER Aronsohn Weiner Salerno & Kaufman, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 100 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-4747 AMANDA M. YU O’Cathain Law Group 21 Main St. West Wing, Floor 2, Suite 250 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-1161

MEDIA DOUGLAS C. ANTON Law Offices of Douglas C. Anton, Esq. 3 University Plaza Dr., Suite 407 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-2055 CJ GRIFFIN Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, East Wing, Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-270-4930

10/18/23 4:13 PM

TOP LAWYERS LISTINGS

MUNICIPAL WILLIAM J. BAILEY Huntington Bailey, LLP 373 Kinderkamack Rd. Westwood, NJ 07675 201-666-8282 ELSBETH J. CRUSIUS Law Office of Elsbeth J. Crusius 267 Summit Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-857-4224 ANDREW T. FEDE Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8538 CHRISTIAN HIBINSKI Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A. 473 Sylvan Ave Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-500-8914 DANIEL L. STEINHAGEN Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2128

NEGLIGENCE ALBERT F.A. CARILLI Albert F.A. Carilli Esq., LLC 75 Summit Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-906-5681 MICHAEL J. EPSTEIN The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. 340 W. Passaic St. Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-231-7847 RICHARD A. SCHNOLL Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600

PERSONAL INJURY JEFFREY I. AMTMAN Law Offices of Jeffrey I. Amtman 157 Engle St. Englewood, NJ 07631 201-292-0601 JOSEPH ARIYAN Joseph M. Ariyan, Esq., LLC 594 Valley Health Dr. Paramus, NJ 07652 201-880-6560 E. DREW BRITCHER Britcher, Leone & Sergio, LLC 175 Rock Rd., Suite 4 Glen Rock, NJ 07452 201-444-1644 BRANDON J. BRODERICK Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Attorney at Law 65 Route 4 East River Edge, NJ 07661 877-640-5612 KATE CARBALLO Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. 135 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Suite 200 Montvale, NJ 07645 866-971-0927

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 72

KELLY CASTOR Castor Law, LLC 173 Washington Pl. Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-257-8797

JONAS K. SEIGEL Seigel Law 505 Goffle Rd., Suite 204 Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-444-4000

LAUREN A. CAMARINOS Camarinos Law Group, LLC 411 Hackensack Ave., Floor 2 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-564-5291

KELLY ANALIESE CONLON Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. 375 Cedar Ln. Teaneck, NJ 07666 833-464-0078

SHERWIN TSAI Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. 375 Cedar Ln. Teaneck, NJ 07666 833-464-0078

CHRISTOPHER J. CASLIN Cole Schotz P.C. 25 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-525-6285

PAUL K. DEGRADO DeGrado Law 250 Moonachie Rd., Suite 200 Moonachie, NJ 07601 201-678-9007

JORDAN D. YUELYS Law Offices of Jordan D. Yuelys 505 Main St., Suite 304 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-996-0056

RICHARD JOSEPH CONTE The Law Offices of Richard J. Conte, Esq. 178 Dayton St. Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-226-1000

CHRISTOPHER DIGIROLAMO Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi P.C. 201 Columbia Ave. Fort Lee, NJ 07024 201-585-9111

PRODUCT LIABILITY

FRANK A. COPPA Law Offices of Frank A. Coppa, LLC 234 Morse Ave., Suite A Wyckoff, NJ 07481 201-485-8170

BARRY D. EPSTEIN The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. 340 W. Passaic St. Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-231-7847 CHRISTINA M. GALARZA Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq 9 Kansas St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-857-8100 JORDAN S. GOLDSMITH Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 CHRISTOPHER T. KAROUNOS Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Attorney At Law 65 Route 4 East River Edge, NJ 07661 877-640-5612 LAWRENCE HERMAN KLEINER The Law Offices of Lawrence H. Kleiner 294 Harrington Ave., Suite 2 Closter, NJ 07624 201-584-9780 ADAM LEDERMAN Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. 375 Cedar Ln. Teaneck, NJ 07666 833-464-0078 LISA A. LEHRER Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Attorney at Law 65 Route 4 East River Edge, NJ 07661 877-640-5612 PAUL J. MILLER DeCotiis, FitzPatrick, Cole & Giblin, LLP 61 S. Paramus Rd., Suite 250 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-928-1100 LEONARD P. ROSA Hartmann Doherty Rosa Berman & Bulbulia, LLC 433 Hackensack Ave., Suite 1002 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-649-8033 JAN KEARNEY SEIGEL Seigel Law 505 Goffle Rd., Suite 204 Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-444-4000

MARC C. SAPERSTEIN Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. 375 Cedar Ln. Teaneck, NJ 07666 833-464-0078

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY ROBERT A. BERNS Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck LLP 25 Main St., Suite 500 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-708-8231 MICHAEL J. EPSTEIN The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. 340 W. Passaic St. Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-231-7847 GINA A. MAKOUJY Tesser & Cohen 946 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-343-1100 SCOTT B. PIEKARSKY Offit Kurman 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, Suite 158 Hackensack, NJ 07601 973-245-9887 IRAM P. VALENTIN Kaufman Dolowich & Voluck LLP 25 Main St., Suite 500 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-708-8233

REAL ESTATE RUSSELL F. ANDERSON, JR. Bertone Piccini LLP 777 Terrace Ave., Suite 201 Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-483-9333 JACOB J. AWAD Law Office of Jacob J. Awad 241 Main St., Suite 202 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-724-3163 FRANCIS J. BATTERSBY The Law Office of Francis J. Battersby 4 Ramapo Valley Rd. Oakland, NJ 07436 201-337-4104 RICHARD JOSEPH BRADY Richard J. Brady Law 112 Franklin Tpke.

Waldwick, NJ 07463 201-652-6521

ROBERT M. DIPISA Cole Schotz P.C. 25 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-525-6225 MATTHEW Z. EARLE Kates Nussman Ellis Farhi & Earle, LLP 190 Moore St., Suite 306 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-7211 LISA D. FISCHBERG Lisa D. Fischberg, Esq. 16 Seneca Trce.

Haworth, NJ 07641 201-385-7024 GARY GIANNANTONIO Giannantonio & Roth, LLC 201 W. Passaic St., Suite 104 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-853-0100 JONATHAN GOODELMAN Cole Schotz P.C. 25 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-525-6275 KURT HARTMANN Hartmann Doherty Rosa Berman & Bulbulia, LLC 433 Hackensack Ave., Suite 1002 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-649-8088 RENATA A. HELSTOSKI Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2126 MARTIN W. KAFAFIAN Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2101 IAN S. KLEEBLATT Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1078 SUSAN M. MARRA Newman, Simpson & Cohen, LLP 25 Main St. Court Plaza North, Floor 6 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-4744

10/18/23 4:13 PM

BETH LAUREN BARNHARD Harwood Lloyd, LLC 130 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-359-3571

ROBERT A. KNEE The Knee Law Firm, LLC 21 Main St., Suite 150 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-996-1200

JEREMY S. PICCINI Bertone Piccini LLP 777 Terrace Ave., Suite 201 Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-483-9333

GRACE C. BERTONE Bertone Piccini LLP 777 Terrace Ave., Suite 201 Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 201-483-9333

JONATHAN KUKIN Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1010

ANDREW ROTH Giannantonio & Roth, LLC 201 W. Passaic St., Suite 104 Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-853-0100

ANDREW PHILIP BOLSON Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

SHARON RIVENSON MARK Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

MICHAEL G. STINGONE Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1033

DORIS BRANDSTATTER Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1083

BARBARA MARTIN Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2133

MELISSA SUAREZ Law Office of M. Suarez 473 Sylvan Ave., Floor 2 Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-569-1166

ANDREW J. CEVASCO Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8501

JONATHAN L. MATE Newman, Simpson & Cohen, LLP 25 Main St. Court Plaza North, Floor 6 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-0200

MERYL CONTE CLAYTON Conte Clayton & Austin, P.A. 666 Godwin Ave., Suite 320 Midland Park, NJ 07432 201-904-2007

GEOFFREY D. MUELLER The Law Offices of Geoffrey D. Mueller, LLC 610 E. Palisade Ave. Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-569-2533

ALLEN SUSSER Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 201-845-9600 RICHARD D. WOLLOCH Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1066

TAXATION KENNETH S. APFEL Shapiro, Croland, Reiser, Apfel & Di Iorio, LLP 411 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-3900 ARTHUR I. GOLDBERG Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1082 PATRICK A. MULLIN Patrick A. Mullin, Attorney at Law 400 Kelby St. One Parker Plaza, Suite 1700 Fort Lee, NJ 07024 888-700-1555 JEFFREY H. SCHECHTER Cole Schotz P.C. 25 Main St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-525-6315

TRUSTS & ESTATES, WILLS & PROBATE NIMA ASHTYANI Stratton Ashtyani Law Group 795 Franklin Ave., Suite 206 Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 201-464-2040 PETER J. BAKARICH, JR. Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1007

TopLawyersListings_BER_1123_Final.indd 73

MELANIE R. CONSTANTINO The Law Offices of Melanie R. Costantino 411 Hackensack Ave., Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-580-2913

BRIAN E. SHEA Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202

MARTIN J. DEVER, JR. Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1080

NICHOLAS A. STRATTON Stratton Ashtyani Law Group 795 Franklin Ave., Suite 206 Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 201-464-2040

EMERY C. DUELL Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2117

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

EIMI S. FIGLIO Archer & Greiner, P.C. 21 Main St. Court Plaza South, West Wing, Suite 353 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-498-8543 CAROL A. HAWK Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 ABIGAIL DENBEAUX KAHL The Law Offices of Abigail Denbeaux Kahl, LLC 372 Kinderkamack Rd., Suite 5 Westwood, NJ 07675 201-664-8855 IRA J. KALTMAN Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2136 PEGGY SHEAHAN KNEE The Knee Law Firm, LLC 21 Main St., Suite 150 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-996-1200

DANIEL BUCHHEISTER Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. 375 Cedar Ln. Teaneck, NJ 07666 833-464-0078 STEVEN H. COHEN Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. 375 Cedar Ln. Teaneck, NJ 07666 833-464-0078 CHRISTOPHER DIGIROLAMO Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi P.C. 201 Columbia Ave. Fort Lee, NJ 07024 201-585-9111 APRIL M. GILMORE The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. 340 W. Passaic St. Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201-231-7847 GREGORY LOIS Lois Law Firm LLC 66 Route 17 North, Suite 200 Paramus, NJ 07652 201-880-7213

CHRISTOPHER JOSEPH METCALFE Seigel Law 505 Goffle Rd., Suite 204 Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-444-4000

ZONING, PLANNING & LAND USE JOHN A. CONTE, JR. Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. 1 Paragon Dr., Suite 240 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-802-9202 ANTIMO A. DEL VECCHIO Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2107 CHRISTIAN HIBINKSI Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A. 473 Sylvan Ave Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-500-8914

TOP LAWYERS LISTINGS

ANDREW J. NAIDECK Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A. 473 Sylvan Ave. Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-500-8914

MICHAEL B. KATES Kates Nussman Ellis Farhi & Earle, LLP 190 Moore St., Suite 306 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-488-7211 ANDREW S. KOHUT Wells Jaworski & Liebman, LLP 12 Route 17 North Paramus, NJ 07653 201-587-0888 JOHN J. LAMB Beattie Padovano, LLC 200 Market St., Suite 401 Montvale, NJ 07645 201-799-2173 GREGORY D. MEESE Price, Meese, Shulman & D’Arminio, P.C. 50 Tice Blvd., Suite 380 Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677 201-730-4848 GAIL L. PRICE Price, Meese, Shulman & D’Arminio, P.C. 50 Tice Blvd., Suite 380 Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677 201-730-4848 BRUCE R. ROSENBERG Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1070 JOHN A. SCHEPISI Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A. 473 Sylvan Ave. Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201-500-8914 MARLA WOLFE TAUS Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 21 Main St., Suite 101 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-562-1063 BENJAMIN T. F. WINE Prime & Tuvel LLC 1 University Plaza Dr., Suite 500 Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-883-1010

10/18/23 4:13 PM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Aronsohn Weiner Salerno & Kaufman P.C. Court Plaza South-East Wing, 21 Main St., Suite 100, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.487.4747 | www.aronsohnweiner.com ARONSOHN WEINER SALERNO & KAUFMAN P.C. IS A PREMIER HACKENSACK LAW FIRM that has a long-standing tradition of providing high quality legal services to clients in a wide range of practice areas. As specialized as it is diverse, the Firm has built cornerstone groups that represent all major practice areas of law including all aspects of divorce and family law, commercial litigation, real estate, commercial lending, land use, and general litigation.

Richard H. Weiner was recently recognized and acknowledged for his excellent legal work by earning the Top Tier in Chambers High-Net-Worth 2023: Family/Matrimonial ranking for high-net-worth individuals, families and business owners.

The Firm’s partners, Richard H. Weiner, Gerald R. Salerno, and Barry L. Kaufman, have all been selected for inclusion in the New Jersey Super Lawyers List and to the Best Lawyers in America publication issued by Woodward/White, Inc. Super Lawyers* recognizes outstanding attorneys who have attained a highdegree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Super Lawyers recognize no more than 5% of New Jersey attorneys.

The Firm’s commitment to detail, understanding, and knowledge of the legal process is well recognized in the legal community by their clients and peers. The Firm’s main goal is to provide clients with unparalleled service, utilizing creative and cost-effective solutions while maintaining its mission of bringing compassion and integrity to every client engagement.

*The Super Lawyers lists are issued by Thomson Reuters. A description of the selection methodology can be found at Super Lawyers Selection Process. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 64

10/20/23 9:36 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Christopher T. DiGirolamo, Managing Partner Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, PC, Counsellors at Law 201 Columbia Ave., Fort Lee, N.J. 07024 | 201.585.9111 | www.Maggianolaw.com CHRISTOPHER DIGIROLAMO, MANAGING PARTNER AT MAGGIANO, DIGIROLAMO & LIZZI, is honored to be chosen as a Top Lawyer in both the Personal Injury and Worker’s Compensation categories. He has worked diligently to master the complexities of both classifications, and is proud that his peers have recognized his efforts to help injured clients, especially men and women who have lost their careers because of a work-related injury.

An accomplished trial lawyer, Mr. DiGirolamo protects the rights of New Jersey’s labor force as well as victims of car accidents, fall downs, construction accidents, and on-the-job injuries. He has helped union workers for over three decades in various types of litigation including construction accidents, product defects, dangerous workplaces, employment disputes, and worker’s compensation claims. He has achieved many multi-million-dollar verdicts and recoveries for workplace accident victims and their families, including serving as co-counsel in the Tropicana Garage Collapse case, the largest personal injury recovery ($101 million) in a construction accident in United States history, as well as co-counsel with Senior Partner Michael Maggiano, on the Route 208 Bridge Collapse case in Hawthorne.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 65

Mr. DiGirolamo also finds fullfillment in being a public servant and has spent the majority of his 33-year legal career giving back to the community by volunteering to mentor local law students, judging high school and law school moot court competitions, speaking at local high schools and colleges about the pursuit of a career in law, and originating and teaching a class at Bergen Community College for many years called the People’s Law School. He and his firm established a scholarship fund given annually to a New Jersey high school student who shows a desire and aptitude to pursue pre-law studies in college. He lectures throughout New Jersey and all around the country to lawyers about multiple personal injury topics. Mr. DiGirolamo has also served on numerous nonprofit boards, and he is currently serving as a Councilman in his hometown of Saddle River, where he is also the Fire Department Commissioner, Council Chairman for Affordable Housing, Council Chairman for the Ordinance Review Committee, and Council Liaison for multiple historical projects in town.

Call Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, to consult with Chris DiGirolamo, a public servant for public justice.

10/20/23 9:36 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Brandon J. Broderick Christopher T. Karounos Lisa A. Lehrer Brandon Broderick Personal Injury, Attorney At Law 65 East Route 4, River Edge, N.J. 07661 | www.brandonjbroderick.com | 877.909.1238 BRANDON BRODERICK IS DEVOTED TO HELPING INJURED INDIVIDUALS AND THEIR FAMILIES move their lives forward after sustaining injuries and damage caused by another’s negligence.

The firm has decades of experience fighting insurance companies and other at fault parties to right the wrongs done to the firm’s clients.

Brandon J. Broderick, the firm’s founding attorney, is a highly accomplished New Jersey trial lawyer focusing on personal-injury law. He is well known for his notable and successful verdicts and settlements throughout his career. Mr. Broderick graduated from the Widener University Delaware Law School. After litigating cases for other prominent firms, Mr. Broderick opened his own practice in 2012. What truly sets Mr. Broderick apart is his dedication to staying in touch with clients in a timely and efficient manner.

Christopher Karounos, who holds a Juris Doctorate from Rutgers School of Law-Newark, is one of the rare attorneys (less than 3 percent in the state) who has been Certified by the

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 66

Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney.

Mr. Karounos represents individuals who are seriously injured by the negligence of others.His personal-injury settlements and jury verdicts have resulted in over 45 million dollars being awarded to his clients.

Lisa Lehrer also is part of the small, elite group of Civil Trial Attorneys Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Ms. Lehrer holds a Juris Doctorate from the Mississippi College School of Law. Her specialties include slip and falls, vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, toxic exposure, product liability, construction defect, insurance coverage, and discrimination. She has successfully obtained multi-millions of dollars for her clients by way of jury verdicts and settlements.

The firm’s attorneys are familiar with the tactics used to make injured victims settle for less money than they deserve. If you need someone on your side and by your side, contact a nearby office of Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Attorney At Law, for a consultation.

10/20/23 9:36 AM

Anne M. Fox

John A. Conte, Jr.

Hon. Harry G. Carroll, J.A.D. (Ret.)

Sharon Rivenson Mark

Marianne Quinn

Carol A. Hawk

Evelyn F. Nissirios

Michelle J. Marose

Brian E. Shea

Andrew P. Bolson

Lynda Picinic

Janet B. Lurie

Christine H. O’Donnell

Luther Griffin Jones, IV

Steven R. Rubenstein

Sandra Lomenzo

Christine R. Smith

Erik Topp

Adrienne M. Bonds

Kyle D. Whittle

Richard Kilstein

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Lawrence N. Meyerson

Meyerson, Fox & Conte One Paragon Dr., Suite 240, Montvale, NJ 07645 | 201.802.9202 | www.mfmclaw.com THE MEMBERS OF THE FIRM OF MEYERSON, FOX & CONTE congratulate 11 of their attorneys for being named as Bergen County’s Top Lawyers: Lawrence N. Meyerson, Anne M. Fox, John A. Conte, Jr., Sharon Rivenson Mark, Marianne Quinn, Carol Hawk, Brian E. Shea, Andrew P. Bolson, Evelyn F. Nissirios, Lynda Picinic, and Luther Jones.

The firm’s family law department devotes their practice to divorcerelated litigation, mediation and arbitration. We specialize in all matters of divorce and family law, including issues involving alimony, complex asset valuation, the distribution of business interests and all other property, child support, child custody, relocation matters and domestic violence cases.

Our elder law, guardianship law and disability law attorneys have extensive experience in Medicaid planning, nursing home planning and protecting the rights of the elderly, who may be

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 67

physically or emotionally challenged. We represent individuals with special needs, including children and adults who are developmentally disabled.

The civil litigation department handles commercial litigation matters, including breach of contract cases, personal injury and construction disputes, among others.

The firm’s real estate and land use attorneys handle the purchase and sale of residential and commercial properties, represent clients before land use boards with variance and development applications.

Our business law attorneys provide legal services, ranging from corporate formation, to negotiating commercial transactions, such as franchise agreements, contract issues, acquisition of commercial property, shareholder agreements, operating agreements, confidentiality agreements and employment agreements.

10/20/23 9:37 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Victoria Tomasella & Courtney Vacca Tomasella & Vacca, L.L.C

401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 707, Hackensack, NJ 07601 | 201.655.7004 | www.tomaselladivorce.com VICTORIA TOMASELLA AND COURTNEY VACCA of Tomasella & Vacca, LLC, are trusted family and divorce lawyers consistently recognized in their field. As is evident in their client testimonials, they genuinely fight for the rights of every client, meticulously balancing legal, financial and personal needs during some of the most difficult of times. Victoria and Courtney are dedicated advocates handling complex divorces, post-judgment litigation, custody and domestic violence cases.

Well respected in her field, Victoria has been practicing family law for over 31 years. She was an adjunct professor at Pace University and worked as legal counsel for the Alternatives to

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 68

Domestic Violence Agency. A mom of three, Victoria navigated through her own divorce and is well aware of the emotional toll it can take on a family if handled carelessly. Courtney Vacca is a tough and fearless advocate, yet honest and compassionate.

She was nominated as a Rising Star attorney for her skillful and effectiveness in the courtroom.

Understanding that family law issues impact nearly every aspect of life, Victoria and Courtney guide and inform their clients while providing reasonable and practical solutions. They often combine their expertise working strategically and collaboratively whether to resolve a case through settlement or in the courtroom.

10/20/23 9:37 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

John A. Schepisi Silvana D. Raso Danielle J. Cardone Andrew J. Naideck Christian M. Hibinski Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A.

473 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 | 201.569.9898 | www.schepisi.com SINCE 1978, SCHEPISI & MCLAUGHLIN HAS BEEN A MAINSTAY of the Bergen County legal community, providing trusted and experienced counsel. The firm consistently achieves results that pair large firm skill with small firm attention to detail and superior client service in a way that is cost efficient and highly effective.

Founder and President John A. Schepisi and Managing Partner Silvana D. Raso help their clients find real solutions through skilled advocacy and compassionate guidance. John has more than fifty years of experience in all aspects of real estate development as well as civil and commercial litigation. Silvana, a certified Matrimonial Law Attorney, a designation granted by the New Jersey Supreme Court to only the most skilled, educated and knowledgeable lawyers

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 69

explains that “Our clients immediately know that we take their worries seriously, and that we handle each case the way we would want our own matters handled, no exceptions.”

The firm has decades of experience in civil and commercial litigation, divorce and related issues such as child custody, alimony and property division, as well as real estate transactions, commercial and residential property development and business disputes. This rare combination of experience, efficiency, individualized attention and proven results are among the many reasons that John A. Schepisi, Silvana D. Raso, Danielle J. Cardone, Andrew J. Naideck and Christian M. Hibinski have all been named Top Lawyers.

10/20/23 9:37 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Brian J. Neary Law Offices Of Brian J. Neary 21 Main St., Court Plaza South, Suite 305, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.488.0544 | www.nearylaw.com THROUGHOUT HIS 47 YEARS PRACTICING LAW, Brian J. Neary has learned that “To be a good criminal trial lawyer, one must be part scholar and part warrior.” Designated by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney, Brian’s criminal defense practice covers a wide range of cases including fraud, political corruption, murder, sex assault as well as local issues like driving while intoxicated.

While attending New York University School of Law, Brian began honing his skills and gaining a broad understanding of the criminal legal system through his participation in a Criminal Defense Clinic in the New York Criminal Courts. After graduating, Brian served as an Assistant Prosecutor in both Bergen and Hudson counties.

Throughout Brian’s prestigious law career, he has been a highly regarded member of the New Jersey Bar Association and an active member of numerous state committees, currently serving as a Trustee of the New Jersey State Bar Association. Brian was

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 70

a past president of the Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey as well as the Hudson County, New Jersey Bar Association. He sits on the New Jersey State Criminal Sentencing and Disposition Commission reviewing sentencing laws and recommending reforms. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the preeminent organization of trial lawyers in North America, dedicated to maintaining and improving the standards of trial practice, professionalism, ethics and the administration of justice.

Brian has held academic positions at some of the finest legal institutions knowing that an important part of his work involves teaching others about the law. For over three decades, Brian was an Adjunct Professor at Rutgers School of Law and now is a visiting faculty at Notre Dame Law School in Indiana, his undergraduate alma mater. He enjoys teaching continuing education studies in his pursuit of professional development for practicing lawyers.

10/20/23 9:37 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Torchin Martel Orr LLC – Family Law Services 95 N. State Rt. 17, Suite 109, Paramus, NJ 07652 | 201.971.4866 | www.tmolawfirm.com

TORCHIN MARTEL ORR LLC (“TMO”) provides you, our client, with personal, comprehensive, compassionate and dedicated service and support. We are privileged to guide you during a difficult time in your life—helping you for your new life after. Our attorneys and staff are skilled, intelligent and responsive, offering you your own strategic expertise in every aspect of family law. Our Paramus based firm is made up of decades of combined legal experience. Our lawyers are continually recognized as the top practitioners in our field by our peers and the public and TMO as a firm was named and awarded as one of the top family law firms in the area. In addition to all pre-and postfamily law matters, TMO is one of just the few family law firms that offers you all four options for divorce resolution–litigation, mediation, arbitration, and collaborative. We pride ourselves on the fact that the majority of our clients come to us as referrals; a testament that we are a client-first firm working for and with you to help you achieve your best outcome for today and tomorrow. We encourage you to call us at 201.971.4866, email us at admin@tmolawfirm.com or visit us on the web at tmowlawfirm.com for more information and to read what some of our clients have to say.

Kate Carballo Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman P.C. 135 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Suite 200, Montvale, NJ 07645 201.391.7000 | www.kgglaw.com KATE CARBALLO HAS OVER FOURTEEN YEARS OF EXPERIENCE in handling personal injury and medical malpractice matters. As a New York and New Jersey trial attorney, she devotes her practice to helping those who have been seriously injured due to no fault of their own.

In 2022, Kate joined the multi-state firm of Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman (KGG) as a Partner to expand the firm’s personal injury department in New Jersey through her proven advocacy, successful trial skills, and long-standing relationships in the community. Handling over 100 cases, Kate is a passionate and strong champion for her clients giving each one her utmost attention and getting to know their personal stories.

Kate was one of the youngest attorneys in the state to become certified by the Supreme Court of the State of New Jersey as a Certified Civil Trial Attorney, a distinction currently held by only 2% of all attorneys in New Jersey as highly qualified specialists in their field of the law. With an extensive background in personal injury litigation and medical malpractice and a personalized approach in working with clients, Kate adds a new dimension to KGG’s established history and reputation for obtaining outstanding results for their clients.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 71

10/20/23 9:37 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Gino Zonghetti, Robert Berns, Christopher Nucifora, Iram Valentin 25 Main St., Suite 500, Hackensack, NJ 07601 | 201.488.6655 | www.kaufmandolowich.com HACKENSACK’S KAUFMAN DOLOWICH, LLP IS ONE OF THE FIRM’S 17 NATIONWIDE OFFICES. Partners Gino Zonghetti, Robert Berns, Christopher Nucifora and Iram Valentin enjoy stellar reputations for successfully representing diverse clientele in complicated litigations in state and federal court. They provide outstanding service to clients in matters, including commercial litigation; construction; professional liability specializing in defending various professionals including attorneys; employment practices; directors & officers liability; commoninterest realty associations; food, drug & cosmetic; and transportation matters including maritime and trucking interests. The firm is recognized nationally for its commitment to diverse and inclusive employment strategies. Contact them at (201) 488-6655.

Kevin P. Kelly Kelly, Kelly, Marotta & Tuchman, LLC 25 East Spring Valley Ave., Suite 320, Maywood, N.J. 07607 201.368.7713 | www.kkmtlegal.com KEVIN KELLY IS A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL ATTORNEY, with Kelly, Kelly, Marotta & Tuchman. He has substantial experience as a civil litigator, handling complex cases in municipal, government, real estate, land use, corporate, and commercial law.

During his distinguished career, Mr. Kelly has been appointed to various complex Superior Court matters, including Plenary and Emergency Medical Guardianships, as an Arbitrator in the New Jersey Superior Court Mandatory Arbitration Program, and as a Condemnation Commissioner. Mr. Kelly has also served as the attorney to municipalities and the Land Use Board in Bergen County, including the Borough of New Milford, Borough of Saddlebrook; the Planning Board for the Township of Teaneck, and the Land Use Board of the Borough of Bogota.

A former Councilman of the Borough of New Milford, Mr. Kelly continues to be involved in his community and various pro bono programs. He formerly served as a Trustee of Bergen County Legal Services and on the New Jersey State Bar Association Emergency Task Force. He is currently a Trustee of the Bergen County Bar Association.

Mr. Kelly is a graduate of Fordham University and Seton Hall University School of Law. Mr. Kelly is licensed in New York and New Jersey.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 72

10/20/23 9:37 AM

Foy & Seplowitz, LLC 105 Main St., Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.457.0071 | www.foyseplowitz.com JASON FOY AND JAMES SEPLOWITZ have each practiced criminal law throughout their legal careers. Sharing a philosophy of proactive advice and relentless advocacy, the attorneys founded Foy & Seplowitz LLC in 2013. In 2020, the firm welcomed associate attorney Eric Sarraga, who previously worked as an Assistant Deputy Public Defender in the Division of Mental Health and as a Judicial Law Clerk in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey.

The firm focuses on individualized attention and comprehensive legal representation. Located in Hackensack, the firm is well-situated to handle any criminal matter at the state and federal levels in both New Jersey and New York.

Jason Foy is the Immediate Past President of the Bergen County Bar Association (BCBA) and serves as Chairperson of the BCBA Nominating Committee. Furthermore, Foy was appointed by the New Jersey Supreme Court to serve on both its Criminal Practice Committee and its Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement Committee. James Seplowitz currently serves on the Executive Board of the BCBA and is slated to become the BCBA’s 128th president in a couple of years. He also just completed his term as Chair of the District II-B Ethics Committee in Bergen County. The vast experience and knowledge of the firm’s attorneys enables the firm to effectively represent its clients’ rights and interests.

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Jason E. Foy James B. Seplowitz Eric J. Sarraga

Melissa Suarez 473 Sylvan Ave., 2nd Floor, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 201.569.1166 | www.msuarezlaw.com FOR TOP LAWYER MELISSA SUAREZ AND HER TEAM OF THREE, it’s all about real estate and caring for their clients. As she says it best, “Real estate is what we do.” Melissa has been practicing since 1999 and has successfully represented her clients in thousands of real estate transactions including the purchase and sale of commercial and residential properties, cooperatives, condominiums and related litigation.

Knowing the personal and financial benefits of buying a home, Melissa decided to go solo in 2004 creating an intimate, boutique firm to represent her client’s best interests with individualized attention. She likes to think of servicing her clients as a family affair with confidentiality, kinship and trust.

Since 2020, Melissa has been named a Lawyer of Distinction recognized for her excellence in the practice of law. Her many years of experience include an appointment by the New Jersey Supreme Court to the New Jersey District 11B Attorney Ethics Committee and an active member of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals. She takes pride in sharing her knowledge, experience and the latest trends lecturing other real estate professionals and home buyers when making one of the most important purchases of their lives.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 73

10/20/23 9:38 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Shelley D. Albert Marilyn J. Canda Dame Legal 345 Union St., Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.968.5800 | www.damelegal.com BUILT ON THE FOUNDING PRINCIPLE OF EXCELLENCE, Dame Legal is a full-service firm specializing in family law, criminal defense, personal injury matters and general litigation.

Top Lawyers Shelley Albert and Marilyn Canda each handle family law matters. Shelley, an extremely experienced litigator, also focuses her work on criminal litigation including domestic violence, international disputes, Hague jurisdictional matters, international parental kidnapping and abductions and Title IX. Well respected in her field, Marilyn practices exclusively in the area of family law specializing in high conflict cases involving child custody, relocation, support, pre-marital agreements and equitable distribution.

With years of experience handling a wide variety of cases with a broad range of legal issues, the talented legal team understands that every case is unique and takes a personal, goal oriented approach. “After all, facts matter,” says Shelley. “We spend a lot of time getting to know our clients, understanding the specific facts of the case and meeting objectives with an honest and open dialog.” By incorporating a foundation where value, efficiency, focus, creativity and connections are rooted into every aspect of the practice, the attorneys deliver impactful, purposeful service that clients expect and deserve.

Michael E. Holt

Erin J. Kennedy

FORMAN HOLT

FORMAN HOLT

365 West Passaic St., Suite 400, Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201.845.1000 www.formanlaw.com

365 West Passaic St., Suite 400, Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 201.845.1000 www.formanlaw.com

MICHAEL HOLT IS A THOROUGH & NONONSENSE, bankruptcy attorney and commercial litigator. Skilled in crisis management & problem solving, Mr. Holt represents businesses and individuals in federal and state insolvency cases and workouts, both in court and outside of court.

Mr. Holt regularly handles commercial disputes and litigations matters in the New Jersey courts, and also represents debtors, creditors, asset purchasers, and others in bankruptcy court.Forman Holt is honored to have partner Michael E. Holt recognized for his outstanding service to members of the community. For more information visit www.formanlaw.com. If you would like a consultation or to discuss an issue you have, please call 201857-7110.

ERIN KENNEDY HAS MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, in the field of bankruptcy. She helps individuals and businesses solve financial difficulties and move forward with their lives. Small and mid-sized businesses rely on her guidance for reorganization or liquidation.

Ms. Kennedy is well known for her experience representing both debtors and creditors in bankruptcy. She has considerable experience in cases with complex lien and title issues, matrimonial issues, and tax problems. She frequently handles litigation in the bankruptcy courts to resolve these and other disputes. Forman Holt is honored to have partner Erin J. Kennedy recognized for her outstanding service to members of the community. For more information visit www.formanlaw.com.

If you would like a consultation or to discuss an issue you have, please call 201-857-7109.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 74

10/20/23 9:38 AM

KATES NUSSMAN ELLIS FARHI & EARLE, LLP

190 Moore St., Suite 306, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.488.7211 www.katesnussman.com FOUNDED IN 1913, Kates Nussman Ellis Farhi & Earle has a long history of delivering successful results as a general practice firm specializing in real estate (including tax appeals), community association, general corporate, litigation, estate planning and municipal and land use law. Over the years, the firm has been successful in reported cases that set precedent in condo/ co-op, real estate tax appeal and other fields of the law.

Matthew’s area of expertise is in condominium and coop law and litigation and Michael focuses his work on land use and other municipal law matters. Together, the firm’s 14 attorneys share a mutual philosophy on delivering excellent legal counsel by being available and responsive to every aspect of their clients’ needs and objectives.

Sheila O’Shea-Criscione Christopher Carcich Carcich O’Shea LLC 401 Hackensack Ave., Suite 707, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.988.1308 www.carcichoshea.com CARCICH O’SHEA REPRESENTS EMPLOYEES AND SMALL BUSINESSES in employment issues, including sexual harassment, whistleblowing, discrimination (age, race, pregnancy, etc.), schoolrelated matters, non-compete and non-solicitation clauses, arbitration claims, updating handbooks, and wideranging administrative issues, including OSHA, DCR, and EEOC. The Firm assists small businesses in developing proactive guidelines to keep their workplaces free from discrimination and retaliation and providing anti-discrimination and sensitivity training.

HEIMBUCH & SOLIMANO P.C.

Law Offices of Jennifer M. Mendelsohn, LLC

Court Plaza South, 21 Main St., Suite 155 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 201.489.0300 wjh@h-slawfirm.com

55 Harristown Rd. Suite 106 Glen Rock, NJ 07452 201.796.7700 www.jennifermendelsohnlaw.com

EXCELLING IN FAMILY LAW means more than being a great lawyer, and that’s what William J. Heimbuch loves about his job.

“I help people in very tangible ways. In family law, you need to be more than just a legal technician.” Bill has more than 30 years of experience in family law, including work in custody cases and complex financial matters, which includes working with experts in various fields. Bill provides personal attention to each client.

His determination and wealth of knowledge allow him to consistently obtain the best possible results for his clients.

JENNIFER M. MENDELSOHN IS A TOP LAWYER, in the debt collection category but the generations of families she serves will say that she is an outstanding, seasoned civil trial attorney who also excels in landlord/tenant law, juvenile and criminal defense, and traffic defense. Since opening her firm as a solo practitioner in 2011, Ms. Mendelsohn has become well-known as a zealous advocate who listens exceedingly well and has a keen instinct for knowing exactly when to tenaciously fight and negotiate for her clients. Reach out to Ms. Mendelsohn when you need resultsdriven legal counsel.

William J. Heimbuch, Esq.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 75

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Matthew Z. Earle, Michael B. Kates

10/20/23 9:38 AM

TOP LAWYERS Profiles

Jacob J. Awad

David H. Nachman, Esq.

241 Main St., Suite 202, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201.724.3163 | www.awadlegal.com

NPZ LAW GROUP—VISASERVE— US AND CANADA IMMIGRATION LAWYERS

JACOB J. AWAD IS PROUD TO BE CELEBRATING A DECADE IN PRIVATE PRACTICE. When Jacob opened up shop, he dabbled in a bit of everything from asset purchases and litigation to corporate work and real estate. But when the real estate aspect of his practice flourished, it was an easy decision to focus his efforts there. Jacob is well versed in all aspects of real estate law working with buyers, sellers and developers on both residential and commercial transactions including closing procedures, contracts and title work. Always taking a hands-on, friendly and collaborative approach with clients, working with Jacob and his team is easy and effortless.

Visaserve Plaza 487 Goffle Rd. Ridgewood, NJ 07451 201.670.0006 www.visaserve.com DAVID H. NACHMAN, is the Founder and Managing Attorney of Nachman Phulwani Zimovcak (NPZ) Law Group. NPZ provides counsel to organizations and individuals worldwide on complex U.S. and Canadian immigration and nationality law issues. David’s ongoing contributions to the field make him sought after as a top lawyer. NPZ’s focus is on working with organizations to bring the most highly skilled talent from all over the world to our country to increase our global competency and economic infrastructure and to ensure that North America remains globally competitive. The work of NPZ has helped organizations including Fortune 500 companies, academic and non-academic organizations, not-for profits, families and individuals to achieve their “American Dream.”

Taste OF THE REGION & Business Showcase MONDAY

November 13, 2023

6:00–800 PM Crowne Plaza Suffern-Mahwah

Join us for a delicious exploration of the region’s best food and drink.

TopLawyers_SS_1123_final.indd 76

mrcc.biz

10/20/23 9:40 AM

JLP102303P-Bergen MagazineAd-Cropmarks.pdf

2

10/11/23

9:47 AM

2023 RANGE ROVER SPORT

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Untitled-12 1

10/20/23 9:26 AM

BAR TAB

Spice It Up

Toast to the season with a sweet and spicy take on this classic fall cocktail.

GINGER APPLE MOSCOW MULE Yields: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS n 2 oz. vodka n juice from 1/2 of a lime n ¹/³ cup apple cider n 1 Tbs. apple butter n 1-2 tsp. ginger, fresh grated n ginger beer, for topping n pomegranate arils and cinnamon sticks, for serving DIRECTIONS Fill a cocktail glass with ice.

Combine the vodka, lime juice, apple cider, apple butter and ginger in a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and shake until combined, about 1 minute.

Strain into your prepared glass. Top with ginger beer and garnish with apple slices, pomegranate arils and cinnamon sticks.

Recipe courtesy of halfbakedharvest.com

“A mule is such a great drink to riff on, especially in the fall. Try swapping the vodka with a fall-friendly spirit like bourbon; now you have a Kentucky mule. Cheers!”

—Jackie Pinsky, mixologist, Spark Style Sips, Wyckoff

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.bar tab.indd 78

78

NOVEMBER 2023

10/20/23 2:40 PM

Of f ices in

Offices Florham Clif t on in • Florham Park •Park, Fort Lee Fort Lee, Hackensack, Hackensack • Oakland & Oakland (Clifton coming NYC (coming soon) soon) • Individual & Family Counseling

Counseling • Int ernal Medicine Internal Medicine • Pediat rics Pediatrics • Psychiat ry Virtual && ›› Virtual Psychiatry • Child and Adolescent Psychiat ryIn-Person In-Person Addiction Medicine • Addict ion Medicine Transcranial Magnetic • Transcranial Magnet ic ›› 7adays a 7 days week Stimulation St imulat ion(TMS) (TMS) week with with evening Nutrition evening • Nut rit ion other services availability • Ketrelated amine t herapy/t reat ment availability • Ot her relat ed services

www.tri-america.com www.tri-america.com 877.959.8180 877.959.8180

Untitled-12 1

Tri-America_1.4_Berg_1023_final.indd 1

9/6/23 12:48 PM 10/20/23 9:29 AM

ON THE TOWN

Where To Eat

Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Bergen County is home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.

Villa Amalfi 793 Palisade Ave. 201.886.8626 villaamalfi.com

Foschini’s 21 E. Madison Ave. 201.387.9998 foschinis.com

Fleming’s Steakhouse 90 The Promenade 201.313.9463 flemingssteakhouse.com

CLOSTER Brasserie Memere 107 Vervalen St. 201.660.8822 brasserie-memere.com

Grant Street Café 25 Grant Ave. 201.385.1705 thegrantstreetcafe.com

Greek Taverna 55 The Promenade 201.945.8998 greektavernausa.com

La Taberna 31 W. Madison Ave. 201.374.1661 latabernanj.com

Haven 2 Main St. 201.943.1900 havenedgewater.com

EAST RUTHERFORD Al Di La 1 Hoboken Rd. 201.939.1128 aldilaitalianbistro.com

Original Pancake House 15 The Promenade 201.366.4065 ophedgewater.com

Locale Café and Bar 208 Piermont Rd. 201.750.3233 locale208closter.com Sear House 411 Piermont Rd. 201.292.4612 searhouse.com

Samdan, Cresskill

ALLENDALE Allendale Bar & Grill 67 W. Allendale Ave. 201.327.3197 allendalebarandgrill.com

ALPINE Kiku 385 Rte. 9 W. 201.767.6322

Allendale Steakhouse 95 W. Allendale Ave. 201.962.9797 allendalesteakhousenj. com

BERGENFIELD Chapala Grill 52 S. Washington Ave. 201.387.2107 chapalamexican grill.com

Mezza Luna 96 W. Allendale Ave. 201.327.6556 mezzalunabistro.com

Nihon Kai 41 S. Washington Ave. 201.384.3000 nihonkaijapanese.com

Nirvana Indian Kitchen 29 W. Allendale Ave. 201.818.2300 nirvanaindiankitchen.com

Tommy Fox’s Public House 32 S. Washington Ave. 201.384.0900 tommyfoxs.com

Savini 168 W. Crescent Ave. 201.760.3700 savinirestaurant.com

CARLSTADT Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. 201.933.4000 biggies.com Il Villaggio 651 Rte. 17 N. 201.935.7733 ilvillaggio.com CLIFFSIDE PARK 354 Steakhouse 354 Lawton Ave. 201.941.0499 354steakhouse.com Avo’s Grill 720 Anderson Ave. 201.945.9038 orderavos.com Rudy’s Restaurant 591 Anderson Ave. 201.943.9252

BOGOTA Luka’s Italian Cuisine 10 River Rd. 201.440.2996 lukasitaliancuisine.com

*Editor’s note—Patrons are encouraged to confirm individual restaurant hours as well as policies regarding reservations and curbside service.

Sedona Taphouse 679 Anderson Ave. 201.943.2300 sedonataphouse.com

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.wte.indd 80

Stern & Bow 171 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.750.3350 sternandbowrestaurant .com CRESSKILL Delvina Restaurant 172 Piermont Rd. 201.816.0239 delvinarestaurant.com Hanami 41 Union Ave. 201.567.8508 hanamirestaurant.com Samdan 178 Piermont Rd. 201.816.7343 samdanrestaurant.com DEMAREST Yasou Mykonos 134 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.768.8500 yasoumykonos.com DUMONT Fink’s BBQ Smokehouse 26 W. Madison Ave. 201.384.3210 finksbbqsmokehouse. com

80

Annabella’s House of Mozzarella 900 Paterson Plank Rd. 201.804.0303 annabellasmozz.com Blarney Station Pub 258 Park Ave. 201.531.0001 blarneystation.com Caffé Capri 119 Park Ave. 201.460.1039 caffecaprirestaurant.com EDGEWATER Baumgart’s Café 59 The Promenade 201.313.3889 baumgartscafe.com Brownstone Pancake Factory 860 River Rd. 201.945.4800 brownstonepancake factory.com De Novo European Pub 1257 River Rd. 201.496.6161 denovoeuropeanpub. com Emma Bistro 2 Hilliard Ave. 201.402.7719 emmabistronj.com

Pier 115 115 River Rd. 201.313.2155 pier115barandgrill.com Rebecca’s 236 Old River Rd. 201.943.8808 rebeccasedgewater.com River Palm Terrace 1416 River Rd. 201.224.2013 riverpalm.com Roberto’s II 936 River Rd. 201.224.2524 robertosii.com Seak 725 River Rd., #30 201.402.3400 seaknj.com ELMWOOD PARK Taverna Mykonos 238 Broadway 201.703.9200 tavernamykonos.com Royal Warsaw 871 River Dr. 201.794.9277 royalwarsaw.com EMERSON Pimaan Thai 79 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.967.0440 pimaanthai.com

Photo courtesy of Samdan

The Hill 252 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.899.4700 thehillcloster.com

NOVEMBER 2023

10/19/23 1:20 PM

ENGLEWOOD Akai Lounge 11 N. Dean St. 201.541.0086 akailounge.com Baumgart’s Café 45 E. Palisade Ave. 201.569.6267 baumgartscafe.com Bennie’s 54 E. Palisade Ave. 201.894.5700 benniesofenglewood. com Cassie’s 18 S. Dean St. 201.541.6760 cassiespizzeria.com CZEN Restaurant 36 N. Van Brunt St. 201.431.9199 czenrestaurant.com Hummus Elite 39 E. Palisade Ave. 201.569.5600 hummuselite.com La Fonda Paisa 95 W. Palisade Ave. 201.871.3544 lafondapaisausa.com La’Mezza 63 Nathaniel Pl. 201.569.2662 lamezzarestaurant.com Las Maravillas de Tulcingo 84 W. Palisade Ave. 201.568.1980 Noches De Colombia 90 W. Palisade Ave. 201.567.4950 nochesdecolombia.com Pintxo y Tapas 47 N. Dean St. 201.569.9999 englewoodtapas.com

Photo courtesy of Lido Restaurant

Rose’s of Englewood 126 Engle St. 201.541.0020 rosesplacenj.com Sofia 36 Engle St. 201.541.8530 sofiaenglewood.com Tani Sushi & Asian Grill 44 E. Palisade Ave. 201.567.7888 taniofenglewood.com

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS Brownstone Pancake Factory 717 E. Palisade Ave. 201.945.4800 brownstonepancake factory.com

Patsy’s 344 Old Bergen Blvd.

201.943.0627 patsysbistro.com FORT LEE aquarius 230-234 Main St. 201.592.8338 aquariusrestaurant nj.com

Café Italiano 14 Sylvan Ave. 201.461.5041 cafeitaliano.net Cliff’s Steakhouse 18 Sylvan Ave. 201.944.0233 cliffssteakhouse.com

Baggios 212 Main St. 201.585.7979 baggiospizzarestaurant. com

Lefkes Estiatorio 495 Sylvan Ave. 201.408.4444 lefkesnj.com

Big Red Tomato 1205 Anderson Ave. 201.224.6500 brtnj.com

Grissini 484 Sylvan Ave. 201.568.3535 grissinirestaurant.com

Cap’t Loui 210 Main St. 201.461.7080 captloui.com

FAIR LAWN Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza 2101 Promenade Blvd.

201.796.2625 acfp.com

Chillers Grill 2191 Fletcher Ave. 201.461.0075 chillersgrill.com

Kimchi Mama 7-09 Fair Lawn Ave. 201.703.2905 kimchimamafairlawn.com Oceanos Oyster Bar & Sea Grill 2-27 Saddle River Rd. 201.796.0546 oceanosrestaurant.com Rose’s Place 32-01 Broadway 201.475.8800 rosesplacenj.com RP Prime Steakhouse 41-11 Rte. 4 W. 201.267.0702 rpprime.com Sage Restaurant 17-15 Broadway 201.797.0500 sagefairlawn.com FAIRVIEW Noches de Colombia 172 Broad Ave. 201.840.8428 nochesdecolombia.com

Maggiano’s Little Italy 70 Riverside Sq. 201.221.2030 maggianos.com

Sushi Cocoro 856 Franklin Ave. 201.560.1333 sushicocoro.com

HACKENSACK Casual Habana Café 125 Main St. 201.880.9844 casualhabanacafe.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse 1 Riverside Sq. 201.487.1303 mortons.com

The Cheesecake Factory 390 Hackensack Ave. 201.488.0330 thecheesecakefactory. com

The Oceanaire 175 Riverside Sq. 201.343.8862 theoceanaire.com

Goodfellas 661 Midland Ave. 973.478.4000 goodfellasristorante.com La Cambusa 517 River Dr. 973.272.8739 cambusanj.com La Fortaleza 361 Midland Ave. 973.928.4470 lafortalezamexrestaurant .com GLEN ROCK Glen Rock Inn 222 Rock Rd. 201.445.2362 glenrockinn.com

Kuba Restaurant 2139 Hudson Ter. 201.585.1601 kubarestaurant.com

Stone & Rail 175 Rock Rd. 201.345.0709 stoneandrail.com

Pho Today 2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.585.8818

The Crow’s Nest 309 Vincent Ave. 201.342.5445 crowsnest.com Hot Fish 450 Hackensack Ave. 201.881.0180 hotfishhackensack.com Houston’s 1 Riverside Sq. 201.488.5667 houstons.com Lido Restaurant 701 Main St. 201.487.8721 thelidorestaurant.com LT Bar & Grill 390 Hackensack Ave. 551.287.6333 ltbarandgrill.com

P.F. Chang’s 390 Hackensack Ave. 201.646.1565 pfchangs.com The Picco Tavern 160 Prospect Ave. 201.880.8750 piccotavern.com Rosa Mexicano 60 Riverside Sq. 201.489.9100 rosamexicano.com HARRINGTON PARK Donatella Ristorante 12 Tappan Rd. 201.767.4245 donatellasitalian. restaurant HASBROUCK HEIGHTS Bensi 459 Rte. 17 S. 201.727.9525 bensihh.com

Pomodoro 795 Abbott Blvd.

201.224.0800 pomodoro1.com Prime & Beyond 501 Main St. 201.461.0033 primeandbeyond.com Punta Cana 2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.849.5556 puntacanarestaurante. com Ventanas 200 Park Ave. 201.583.4777 ventanasatthemodern. com Lido Restaurant, Hackensack

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.wte.indd 81

Tani Sushi & Asian Grill 206 Rock Rd. 201.612.1188 taniofglenrock.com

GARFIELD The Firehouse 42 Plauderville Ave. 973.478.2226 firehouse-restaurant.com

In Napoli 116 Main St. 201.947.2500 inapoli.com

Fair Lawn Diner 13-48 River Rd. 201.791.2895 fairlawndiner.com

FRANKLIN LAKES The Chef’s Table 754 Franklin Ave. 201.891.6644 tctnj.com

81

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:30 PM

ON THE TOWN The Heights Bar & Grill 163 Boulevard 201.288.9338 Ivy Inn 268 Terrace Ave. 201.393.7699 ivyinn.com Sofia’s 220 Boulevard 201.462.0123 sofiasmediterranean grill.com

Catchy Café 614 N. Maple Ave. 201.445.6400 thecatchycaterer.com Ho-Ho-Kus Inn 1 E. Franklin Tpke.

201.445.4115 hohokusinn.com Ho-Ho-Kus Sushi Café 29 Sheridan Ave. 201.670.7677 hohokussushicafe.com

Tom Yum Koong 305 Boulevard 201.288.3840 tomyumkoong.net

St. Eve’s 611 N. Maple Ave. 201.857.4717 stevesnj.com

HAWORTH Alessandro’s 157 Terrace St. 201.385.8544 alessandrosnj.com

LEONIA Café Mignon 332 Broad Ave. 201.292.1992

Andiamo 23 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.384.1551 andiamorestaurant.net Naturoll Sushi 165 Terrace St. 201.387.7655 naturollsushi.com HILLSDALE The Cornerstone 84 Broadway 201.666.8688 thecornerstonenj.com Domani 387 Washington Ave. 201.722.8881 domanirestaurants.com Fig & Tomato 100 Park Ave. 201.722.8880 figandtomatoeatery .com Matsu Sushi & Grill 140 Broadway 201.722.9388 Osso Buco 343 Broadway 201.664.1600 ossobucogrill.com HO-HO-KUS Alt Eats 622 N. Maple Ave. 201.444.1300 alteatscafe.com

Dante’s Place 373 Broad Ave. 201.592.9071 dantesplace.com Fontana Tritone 248 Fort Lee Rd. 201.242.9040 LITTLE FERRY Segovia Steakhouse 217 Main St. 201.814.1100 segoviasteakhouse.com LODI Kaya 334 N. Main St. 973.779.1128 kayalodi.com ReBar & Kitchen 132 Essex St. 201.368.8181 rebarkitchen.com Sergio’s Missione 2 Mercer St. 973.778.4545 sergiosmissione.com LYNDHURST Angelo’s 263 Ridge Rd. 201.939.1922 Foschini’s Brick Oven Pizza 298 Ridge Rd. 201.460.7600 foschinis.com

MAHWAH Jun Lung 180 Franklin Tpke.

201.529.9898 junlungnj.com Mahwah Bar & Grill 2 Island Rd. 201.529.8056 allendalebarandgrill.com Nagoya 1007 MacArthur Blvd.

201.818.9933 nagoyacuisine.com Nonna’s 11 Franklin Tpke.

201.529.1151 nonnasmahwah.com Roxanne’s 150 Franklin Tpke.

201.529.0007 roxannes restaurant.com

Rosario’s Trattoria 29 Central Ave. 201.445.3335 rosariostrattoriamenu. com MONTVALE Delpino Restaurant 108 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.391.6866 delpinorestaurant.com Bellissimo 12 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.746.6669 bellissimonj.com Fire & Oak 100 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.307.1100 fireandoak.com

Sangria 1033 MacArthur Blvd.

201.962.3310 sangriamahwah.com

Gen Sushi & Hibachi 14B Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.930.9188 gensushimontvale.com

State Line Diner 375 Rte. 17 N. 201.529.3353 statelinediner.com

Hearth & Tap Co. 125 N. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.307.6300 hearthandtap.com

MAYWOOD Angelo’s Greek Taverna 245 Maywood Ave. 201.845.4278 angelosgreektavernanj. com

Yuki 2 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.9877 yukimontvale.com

Maywood Inn’s Twin Door Tavern 122 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.843.8022 twindoortavern.com Maywood Pancake House 92 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.880.7842 maywoodpancake house.com The Seafood Gourmet 103 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.843.8558 seafood-gourmet.com MIDLAND PARK Arturo’s 41 Central Ave. 201.444.2466 arturos.co

Michael’s Riverside 528 Riverside Ave. 201.939.6333 michaelsriverside.com BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.wte.indd 82

Fiona’s Ristorante 118 Godwin Ave. 201.857.5800 fionasristorante.com

MOONACHIE Bazzarelli 117 Moonachie Rd. 201.641.4010 bazzarellirestaurant.com Bistro 107 107 Moonachie Rd. 201.440.3339 bistro107nj.com Segovia 150 Moonachie Rd. 201.641.4266 segoviarestaurant.com NEW MILFORD Barrel & Brew 872 River Rd. 201.483.3329 barrelandbrews.com Casual Habana Café 200 Main St. 201.576.0400 casualhabanacafe.com

82

Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn 105 Old New Bridge Rd. 201.692.7700 sanzaris.com NORTHVALE Biddy O’Malley’s 191 Paris Ave. 201.564.7893 biddyomalleys.com The Greek Village 254 Livingston St. 201.750.8570 greekvillagenj.com Madeleine’s Petit Paris 416 Tappan Rd. 201.767.0063 madeleinespetit paris.com Olar Noso 493 Tappan Rd. 201.402.9355 OAKLAND Cenzino 589 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.337.6693 cenzinos.com Trovato’s Due 4 Barbara Ln. 201.337.0813 trovatosduenj.com Yuki 350 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.337.8889 yuki-oakland.com OLD TAPPAN Bosfa Italian Restaurant 183 Old Tappan Rd. 201.649.8730 bosfaitalianrestaurant. com PALISADES PARK So Moon Nan Jip 238 Broad Ave. 201.944.3998 so-moon-nan-jip.com PARAMUS Biagio’s Ristorante 299 Paramus Rd. 201.652.0201 biagios.com The Capital Grille 1 Garden State Plz. 201.845.7040 thecapitalgrille.com Grand Lux Cafe 1 Garden State Plz. 201.909.0399 grandluxcafe.com

Kiku 365 Rte. 17 S. 201.265.7200 Mantra 275 Rte. 4 W. 201.342.8868 mantranj.com Suburban Diner 172 Rte. 17 N. 201.261.2605 suburbandiner17.com PARK RIDGE 103 Prime At Valentino’s 103 Spring Valley Rd. 201.391.2220 103prime.com Esty Street 86 Spring Valley Rd. 201.307.1515 estystreet.com The Park Steakhouse 151 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.930.1300 theparksteakhouse.com Peppercorns 176 Colony Ave. 201.391.2818 peppercorns176.com Ridge Diner 125 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.4242 ridgediner.com RAMSEY Anthony Franco’s 128 E. Main St. 201.236.8000 afpizza.com Brady’s at the Station 5-7 W. Main St. 201.327.9748 bradysatthestation.net Café Panache 130 E. Main St. 201.934.0030 cafepanachenj.com Kinchley’s Tavern 586 N. Franklin Tpke.

201.934.7777 kinchleyspizza.com The Shannon Rose 1200 Rte. 17 201.962.7602 theshannonrose.com Smyrna 21 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.934.7990

NOVEMBER 2023

10/19/23 1:21 PM

Tawara 53 W. Main St. 201.825.8712 Varka Estiatorio 30 N. Spruce St. 201.995.9333 varkarestaurant.com RIDGEFIELD Café Tivoli 533 Shaler Blvd.

201.941.5561 cafetivoli.com 88 Rice Shop 88 Rte. 46 W. 201.840.8688 88riceshop.com

Armando’s Grill 688 Westwood Ave. 201.722.5820 armandostuscangrill.com

Lisa’s Mediterranean Cuisine 28 Oak St. 201.251.8686 lisasmediterranean cuisine.net

Let’s Meat Steakhouse 625 Rivervale Rd. 201.660.7960 letsmeatsteakhouse.com

Park West Tavern 30 Oak St. 201.445.5400 parkwesttavern.com

ROCHELLE PARK Nanni 53 W. Passaic St. 201.843.1250 nanni.com

Pearl 17 S. Broad St. 201.857.5100 pearlridgewood.com

RUTHERFORD Café Matisse 167 Park Ave. 201.935.2995 cafematisse.com

Raymond’s 101 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.445.5125 raymondsnj.com

Finch’s 801 Rutherford Ave. 201.231.3141 finchsdining.com

Thai Palace 218 E. Main St. 201.441.9119 thaipalacenj.com

Roots 17 Chestnut St. 201.444.1922 rootssteakhouse.com

Paisano’s 132 Park Ave. 201.935.5755 paisanos.com

RIDGEWOOD Cafe 37 37 S. Broad Ave. 201.857.0437 cafe-37.com

S. Egidio 17 N. Broad St. 201.389.3525 segidiopizza.com

The Risotto House 88 Park Ave. 201.438.5344 therisottohouse.com

Steel Wheel Tavern 51 N. Broad St. 201.882.1800 steelwheeltavern.com

Volare’s 7 Station Sq. 201.935.6606 volaresrestaurant.com

Delhi Accent 37 Chestnut St. 201.444.4910 delhiaccentnj.com

Village Green 36 Prospect St. 201.445.2914 villagegreenrestaurant. com

SADDLE BROOK Midland Brew House 374 N. Midland Ave. 201.797.0070 midlandbrewhouse.com

Felina 54 E. Ridgewood Ave. 551.276.5454 felinarestaurant.com

White Maple Café 47 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.447.1953 whitemaplecafe.com

Que Pasta 326 Market St. 201.712.1900 qpitalian.com

Green Fusion 22 Oak St. 201.670.7502 greenfusionnj.com

RIVER EDGE Mado Restaurant 570 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.265.3629 madorestaurant. business.site

The Plank Pizza Co. Beer Parlor 383 Market St. 201.843.2426

RIDGEFIELD PARK MK Valencia 228 Main St. 201.373.0228 mkvalenciarestaurant. com

Cravings Tapas Bistro 8 Wilsey Sq. 201.857.8533 cravingstapas.com

It’s Greek to Me 21 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.612.2600 itsgreektome.com Photo courtesy of Midland Brew House

Latour 6 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.445.5056 latourridgewood.com

La Lanterna 29 W. Ridgewood Ave. 201.444.5520 lalanternaof ridgewood.com

Sanducci’s 620 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.599.0600 sanduccis.com RIVER VALE Ammata Thai Kitchen 184 Rivervale Rd. 201.664.2299 ammata.com

B V Tuscany 368 Cedar Ln. 201.287.0404 bvtuscany.com

Limoncello 32 Franklin Tpke.

201.652.5577 limoncellonj.com

Etc. Steakhouse 1409 Palisade Ave. 201.357.5677 etcsteakhouse.com

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP Bacari Grill 800 Ridgewood Rd. 201.358.6330 bacarigrill.com

Noah’s Ark 493 Cedar Ln. 201.692.1200 noahsark.net Regina’s 827 Teaneck Rd. 201.862.1996 reginassteakhouse andgrill.com TENAFLY Axia Taverna 18 Piermont Rd. 201.569.5999 axiataverna.com Brasserie 4 Washington St. 201.266.6400 tenaflybrasserie.com Sayola 50 Prospect Ter. 201.871.2182 sayolarestaurantnj.com

SADDLE RIVER The Saddle River Inn 2 Barnstable Ct. 201.825.4016 saddleriverinn.com

TPR Restaurant 38 W. Railroad Ave. 201.871.0444 tprrest.com

TEANECK Amarone 63 Cedar Ln. 201.833.1897 amaroneristorante.net

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.wte.indd 83

Midland Brew House, Saddle Brook

WALDWICK Andrea’s Ristorante 20 E. Prospect St. 201.670.0275 andreasrestaurantnj.com

83

WOOD-RIDGE Al Toro 187 Hackensack St. 862.243.3850 al-toro-restaurant-bar. negocio.site Gus’ Last Word 191 Valley Blvd.

973.939.5608 guslastword.com

WESTWOOD Caffé Anello 11 Madison Ave. 201.786.8137 caffeanello.com

WYCKOFF Aldo’s 640 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.2618 aldosofwyckoff.com

Downtown Dhaba 266 Center Ave. 201.664.0123 dhabadowntown.com

Benares 327 Franklin Ave. 201.904.2222 benaresnj.com

The Iron Horse 20 Washington Ave. 201.666.9682 theironhorse.com

Blue Moon Café 327 Franklin Ave. 201.891.1331 bluemoonmexicancafé. com

Osteria Crescendo 36 Jefferson Ave. 201.722.1900 osteriacrescendo.com Phoenician Lounge 284 Center Ave. 201.722.8600 phoenicianlounge.com WOODCLIFF LAKE Bareburger 455 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.746.9275 bareburger.com

T.S. Ma Chinese Cuisine 637 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.8878 tsmachinesecuisine.com Wyckoff Thai 314 Franklin Ave. 201.485.8855 wyckoffthai.com

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 2:05 PM

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Thai With A Twist Though Hillsdale doesn’t boast as many dining options as some of its neighbors, it’s the new home to one of the county’s leading teams for Thai cuisine. Koon Thai Eatery has taken over the highly visible storefront at the corner of Broadway and Park Avenue, serving modern takes on traditional Thai dishes.

The owners have a tough act to follow, as they occupy the spot that once housed an always-active Starbucks and, most recently, the fan-favorite Reilly’s Rib Cage barbecue joint.

But they have a pedigree of culinary success and a large following: The team also operates popular eateries Gao Thai Kitchen in Ramsey and Ammata Thai Kitchen in River Vale.

Named for Thailand’s national flower (Ratchaphruek or Dok Khoon), Koon offers a menu that differs from those of its sister restaurants. While the Ramsey and River Vale locations have seemingly endless selections of traditional go-to dishes such as pad Thai and a variety of curries, Koon has a shorter list featuring more creative plates (though it does have one option each for curry, pad Thai and fried rice).

A friend and I tried the imaginative menu on a surprisingly busy Tuesday night. Our cheerful server, Kayla, had plenty of patience as we contemplated our order. Drinks were an easy choice—a regular Thai iced tea for me and a Thai iced lychee tea for my friend. If you’re a fan of sweet lychee, I recommended this beverage, which comes with several fresh pieces of the fruit.

Selecting appetizers required a little more thought. Some options are atypical for a Thai menu—spaghetti and fish tacos, for instance— but were enticing nonetheless. We went a different route, however, starting with crispy vermicelli and an app called “chicken bomb.” The first dish included a bed of fried vermicelli noodle topped with a coconut milk sauce, sliced green apples, lump crab, calamansi, fried and fresh shallots and other herbs. This was a joy for my sweet-and-savory taste buds, the crab meat and coconut milk meshing for a flavorful combo.

The chicken bomb arrived overflowing with pieces of fried chicken thigh, each of which was delicious on its own. To get the true

KOON THAI EATERY 126 Broadway, Hillsdale, 551.246.3646; koonthaieatery.com BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 restaurant rev.indd 84

84

flavor explosion of the “bomb,” be sure each bite of the juicy chicken includes some of the accompanying corn and shallot and is dipped thoroughly in the tamarind lime fish sauce. You won’t be disappointed, trust me.

For our main course, we decided to share two entrées from Koon’s “Main Plate” options, which included a rib-eye steak, garlic butter shrimp and sautéed “mock” duck. First on our list was simply called “duck,” a crispy half bird served with garlic, chilis, fried shallots and other spices. The serving comes pre-sliced (other than the leg), making the juicy white and dark meat easy to pick off the plate. There are plenty of fatty pieces too, so you’ll be in heaven if you love the buttery flavor and texture of duck fat.

Speaking of the divine, our second shared dish was “Holy Beef,” a large platter of sauteed sliced Angus beef rib-eye in a magnificent sauce made of garlic, chili, oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce and other spices and served with corn and jasmine rice. The beef was cooked to perfection, and each piece absorbed all of the flavors of the sauce so that it was a delight to eat on its own or with a forkful of rice. As we downed almost every morsel of food, my friend and I reflected that the only thing missing from both entrées was an abundance of greens. Perhaps other dishes include more veggies, but a choice of Thai vegetables as a side (as of this writing, three types of rice were the only side orders available) would have made the dinner a 10/10.

Full of meat and rice, we thought dessert was out of the question until we peeked at the selections—and then we mustered the strength (and space in our stomachs) to share a dish of coconut sticky rice, mango ice cream and fresh sliced mango. The fresh fruit was all I needed to cap the delicious meal, but the smooth ice cream was a nice touch as well, especially when it softened next to the warm sticky rice.

Koon takes risks with its modern Thai cooking. But while some dishes may be out of the ordinary in terms of a traditional menu, the flavors are extraordinary and worth trying once, maybe twice—or more!

—Darius Amos

Photos by Darius Amos

At Koon Thai Eatery in Hillsdale, a revered national cuisine is where creativity begins.

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:31 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HOLIDAY FOOD & DINING SHOWCASE BLUE MOON MEXICAN CAFÉ

for your office or home.

Turn your holiday party into a true Fiesta with Blue Moon Catering and Parties. Our Wyckoff location is perfect for Holiday Parties or we offer full service catering to the North Jersey area and beyond

BLUE MOON MEXICAN CAFÉ BLUE MOON CATERING MARKETPLACE WYCKOFF, NJ TEXT 201-563-3594 TO START YOUR PARTY WWW.BLUEMOONMEXICANCAFE.COM

THE MARKET BASKET

CAFÉ PANACHE

813 FRANKLIN LAKE RD. FRANKLIN LAKES, NJ 300 SICOMAC AVE., WYCKOFF, NJ 201.891.2000 | MARKETBASKET.COM

130 E. MAIN STREET RAMSEY, NJ 07446 201.934.0030 | CAFEPANACHENJ.COM

The Market Basket opened its doors in 1960 as a family-run gourmet market and catering company. More than 60 years and three generations later, The Market Basket is still recognized as one of New Jersey’s best gourmet grocery stores. Open seven days a week, customers can treat themselves to store-made prepared foods, hand selected produce, an expansive deli, prime meat, fresh seafood, store-made baked goods and so much more.

Café Panache, is a multi-awardwinning, true farm-to-table restaurant, showcasing only the finest quality ingredients throughout its menu. Using hand-picked local produce and dishes crafted according to seasonal availability since the restaurant's inception in 1985, the flavorful signature plates, have made Café Panache a favorite dining destination amongst food critics and loyal patrons.

Standouts include house-made filet mignon ravioli with truffle butter, crispy confit duck with citrus-ginger gastrique, and panko crusted halibut with wasabi-sake sauce, over black forbidden rice.

holidayfoodsection_SS_1/2h_1123.indd 1

10/20/23 9:53 AM

Full Restaurant & Bar * Live Music Take-Out & Free Local Delivery

Turn Your Holiday Party into a Fiesta with Blue Moon Catering & Parties.

Since 1976

OPEN 24 HOURS Now Delivering with DoorDash, UberEats & Grubhub!

Full Service Catering & Private Parties Text: 201-563-3594 to start your party!

MAGAZINE

Denville, NJ

www.BlueMoonMexicanCafe.com

085_BERG_1123.indd 1

A

D

R

D

StateLineDiner.com

RE

Wyckoff, NJ

Home & Office Catering “Pharma Specialists”

S

2023

WINNER ER

S’ C

H O IC E A

W

A

375 State Rt. 17 Mahwah, NJ 201.529.3353 n

n

10/20/23 9:57 AM

ON THE TOWN

Be There

From casino nights and craft fairs to 5Ks and fundraisers— there’s something for everyone this month in Bergen.

NOV. 11 It’s a CASINO NIGHT for a cause at Bergen County HarleyDavidson! Join fellow bikers and other neighbors at this fun night of playing cards and board games from 5 to 9 p.m. at the HarleyDavidson dealership in Rochelle Park. Proceeds will go toward The 200 Club of Bergen County, which supports our local first responders. Learn more at bergenharleydavidson.com.

NOV. 13 Aruba, Jamaica…Englewood, New Jersey? THE BEACH BOYS are on the road with their “America’s Band” tour, which celebrates their more than 50 years of making music, and it’s coming to bergenPAC. Of course, Mike Love and the gang will belt out all their biggest hits from the last five decades, including “Surfin’ USA” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “I Get Around.” Tickets run from $65 to $165, depending on your seats, and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Bergenpac.org has more details and a link to buy tickets.

NOV. 15 Care for strays? Prove it at the CARING ABOUT THE STRAYS ANNUAL TRICKY TRAY FUNDRAISER, the Westwood-based nonprofit’s biggest fundraising event of the year.

Guests will enjoy food, a tricky tray, a 50/50 raffle and more at this event held at Seasons in Washington Township from 6 to 10 p.m.

Tickets are $85 and include hors d’oeuvres and a sit-down dinner.

Learn more—including how to donate a prize for the raffle—at care4strays.org.

NOV. 19 To mark the 247th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution, enjoy a war reenactment at HISTORIC NEW BRIDGE LANDING in New Milford.

From 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., visitors can walk with generals Washington and Greene at the Bergen County Historical Society’s reenactment of the patriots’ Retreat to Victory across the bridge that saved a nation. While there, you can also visit the houses, barn and out-kitchen and get in some early holiday shopping too. Want more info? Check out bergencountyhistory.org.

NOV. 19 There’s no such thing as too many turkeys this time of year. But if you have some extra birds lying around or simply want to help, donate a frozen turkey and all the trimmings to HELPING HAND FOOD PANTRY in Hillsdale at their annual turkey drive. Donations will be accepted at the Hillsdale Methodist Church. More info is available at helpinghandfoodpantry.com.

NOV. 23 Before you stuff yourself with Thanksgiving fare, lace up your sneaks and grab some cold-weather gear for the THANKSGIVING DAY UPPER SADDLE RIVER 5K RUN. Hosted by the Upper Saddle River 5K Run Committee in conjunction with the Borough of Upper Saddle River and the Bergen Highlands Rotary Club, this run raises money for local organizations and is a good way to get in some exercise on the biggest food day of the year! The race is $35 per runner and starts and ends at Cavallini Middle School. Check-in is at 7:30 a.m., the race starts at 9 a.m. and an awards ceremony will conclude the festivities. Race details and more can be found at usr5k.org.

NOV. 26 Kick off the holiday gifting season by shopping small at the PARAMUS HIGH SCHOOL CRAFT FAIR. DIY-ers from the tri-state area will display and sell their homemade items here from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., from jewelry to pottery to handpainted décor to apparel. Admission is $3 to shop ’till you drop. Head to 10times.com for the full scoop.

NOV. 26 You are cordially invited to a Bridgertonthemed brunch at THE FIESTA in Wood-Ridge, inspired by the third season of the hit Netflix series. Experience food, music and dance of the Regency Era in this immersive experience, a must-see for fans of the show. Admission is $60 per person, food included, and it runs from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

And yes, you’ll want to dress to impress! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

NOV. 28 ’Tis the season for holiday music—even better when it’s performed live. Multi-platinum Irish singing sensation CELTIC WOMAN will bring their holiday cheer to bergenPAC in Englewood, where the four ladies will perform their favorite holiday songs backed by a full orchestra. Tickets for the 8 p.m. show start at $75. Intrigued? Visit bergenpac.org to reserve your seats.

*Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, all events are subject to cancellations or changes. Attendees are encouraged to observe local safety guidelines.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 be there.indd 86

NOV. 25 Once Thanksgiving has passed, it’s fair game to get into the Christmas spirit. And you and your crew will definitely do that at WINTERFEST, a free, family-friendly event held at Van Neste Square in Ridgewood. Enjoy music, ice sculptures, stories and meet-and-greets with elves from The Ridgewood Guild, as well as Santa! There will also be complimentary candy, baked goods and hot chocolate at the event which begins at noon. Learn more at ridgewoodguild.com.

86

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:32 PM

Gatherings

Bergenites always show up to support their friends and neighbors.

1

2

3

6

8

7 5

1. BERGEN NEW BRIDGE MEDICAL CENTER New Jersey’s elected officials recently toured Bergen New Bridge Medical Center’s facilities, including the Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program.

1 Deb Visconi, Anthony Accurso, M.D., Sen. Cory Booker, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Jim Tedesco, Tracy Silna Zur, Rafael Marte

9

2 & 3. CARE ONE CareOne, a familyowned senior care provider, concluded its Summer of Sharing charitable program by raising $60,000.

2–3 CareOne events at each of its buildings raised donations for the summer charity program.

4 & 5. THE COMMUNITY CHEST The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County held its third annual Golf Outing at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale.

4 John Wilkens, Michael Horn 5 Greg Davidson, Adam Riker, Wayne Loranger, Thomas Arabia, David Arabia

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123 gatherings.indd 87

87

10

6. ALLENDALE WOMAN’S CLUB The Allendale Woman’s Club welcomed its new executive team during the group’s annual installation dinner.

6 Liz Simendinger, Medy Murphy, Marci Guzman

7. NJ SHARING NJ Sharing Network recently presented Volunteer Recognition Awards to five residents for their outstanding efforts in supporting its mission. 7 Tom Gano, Divakaran Manimaran, Anika Bhatnagar, Delia Perretta, Dawn Burke

8-10. BOYS GIRLS CLUB The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lower Bergen County attended the grand opening of The Children’s Place at American Dream.

The event featured a private performance by the Jonas Brothers.

8–10 Scenes from The Children’s Place grand opening

Bergen New Bridge Medical Center (1), CareOne (2–3), Terrence Lynch (4–5), Allendale Woman’s Club (6), NJ Sharing Network (7), Boys & Girls Clubs (8–10)

4

NOVEMBER 2023

10/18/23 12:32 PM

A BERGEN MOMENT

“We took a walk on a Sunday through Pascack Brook County Park right after my son’s soccer game. We had just moved to Westwood from Turkey about two months before this photo was taken, and it was nice to discover this beautiful park near our home and to see how it looked for the fall season.”

Send us your Bergen Moment! Email your photo and a short description to rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

BERGEN Magazine Volume 22, Issue 11 (ISSN# 2573-8151 and USPS 025-351) is published 12 times a year by Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Postmaster: Send address changes to Subscription Department, Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage paid at Park Ridge, N.J., and additional mailing offices.

BERGENMAG.COM

BERG.1123.moment.indd 88

88

Photo courtesy of Hasan Avna, Instagram @hasanavna

—Hasan Avna, Westwood

NOVEMBER 2023

10/16/23 1:59 PM

Untitled-1 11 Untitled-12

10/16/23 10/20/23 12:52 9:25 AM PM

The best prostate cancer care offers many treatment options.

And more personal attention.

Everything medicine can do. A few things medicine can’t.

Is it enough to provide a team of specialists working together to determine the best treatment options for you?

Is it enough to reduce radiation treatments from 45 down to only 5? We don’t think so. That’s why our experts in prostate cancer care design personal treatments around you, remain committed long after treatment has ended, and provide a nurse navigator to guide you every step of the way.

To find the approach that’s best for you, call 201- 634-5567 or visit ValleyHealth.com/ProstateCancer

Untitled-7 1

10/20/23 10:14 AM