Bergen September 2023

The Best of 2023

YOUR FAVES IN 120+ CATEGORIES

COFFEE & COCKTAILS

FOOD & FASHION

GYMS & JEWELRY AND MUCH MORE!

FINE FARE AT SANDUCCI’S TRATTORIA IN RIVER EDGE

READERS SHARE THEIR TIMELESS FALL TRADITIONS A RIDGEWOOD CLAN’S HOME AWAY FROM HOME

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Contents

Features

That Other Allergy Season 42 Spring’s not the only culprit. Right now, as the leaves begin to fall, you may hear lots of people telling you “gezundheit.”

Joint Custody 44

They’re marvels of anatomical engineering, those parts of your body where bones meet to allow movement. Here’s how to protect them while leading an active life.

Readers’ Choice 47

The ballots were counted, and readers chose the top local businesses in 120+ categories. Are your favorite spots among the winners?

It Happens Every Fall 66

Ten Bergenites share the autumn traditions they cherish each year.

Keeping Downtowns Vital 72

To maintain its distinctive quality of life, Bergen County must tackle the problem of empty storefronts. Some towns are trying imaginative solutions.

Setting The Scene 76

Nestled in the catskills, a Ridgewood family’s vacation home invited a redesign that would showcase nature in all its glory, from apple orchards to majestic mountains.

Fall Hues 82

Chocolate brown, rust orange and beige are the colors of the season. Build your wardrobe with autumn’s “in” palette with these classic looks from Bergen boutiques.

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

Contents

Departments

Bergen Buzz 25

Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Your Friends & Neighbors 32

What’s it like to preside over the reopening of the county’s preeminent show venue?

Style Watch 34

Caught red handed—the most stylish fall pieces in the season’s fiery hue.

Home Front 36

Acrylic decor is the clear winner when it comes to accessorizing your home.

Escapes 88

Five great beach towns can help you see the season out in style, and they’ve got more to them than just sand.

Tastes 90

Who says turkeys are the only food that should be stuffed this season? Fill your favorite vegetables with the perfect fillings for a satisfying, nutritious meal.

Bar Tab 138

This sweet sip will have you and your guests buzzing with excitement no matter what time of day you celebrate tea time.

Restaurant Review 154

Saigon Bistro fills the void for new Asian flavors in Fair Lawn.

Gatherings 158

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

A Bergen Moment 136

Waldwick Borough Park proves to be the perfect spot for a birthday photoshoot—and some exploring.

ON

THE COVER

Sanducci’s Trattoria in River Edge, Readers’ Choice winner, Best Italian Restaurant. Photo courtesy of Sanducci’s Trattoria.

Our Readers, Our Experts

BERGEN often quotes authorities— physicians explaining autumn allergies, for example (see page 42), or healthy joints (page 44). Or an economic development official discussing empty storefronts in our county’s downtowns (page 72). Or a dietitian telling whether it’s really OK to drink that fall classic, hot chocolate (page 26). And on pages 47–64, we list the county’s top shops, eateries, vendors and service providers. Only this time you, the readers, are the experts.

Each year, our online Readers’ Choice poll tells us what businesses are standouts in some 120 categories. Check those pages to see how your favorites fared—or to discover new places to try. (If you feel a worthy spot has been omitted, let us know—maybe it will be a future winner.)

Then join us Oct. 5 at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale for our Bergen Wine & Food Experience. There you’ll enjoy food tastings from some of the winning restaurants; wine, beer and cocktail samples; gifts and live music. (Get your tickets at bergenmag.com.)

There’s much more in this September issue. Our home-design article illustrates how resourceful our area’s interior designers are. Jeannie Fulton of Ridgewood-based Ulrich Inc. reimagined a Ridgewood family’s vacation home (page 76). Nestled in New York’s Catskills, the redesign showcases nature in all its glory, from apple orchards to majestic mountains.

Of course, it’s one of our county’s glories that so many other great spots are within an easy drive. On page 88, we highlight five scenic beach towns that are perfect for a late-season weekend jaunt—a sentimental goodbye to summer and hello to autumn. Enjoy the golden sunshine on the beach when the crowds have diminished—or, if the weather’s gone iffy, check out these towns’ many other attractions.

Who knows? Maybe making such a fall kickoff trip will become an annual family custom. Such rituals help us mark the season while honoring continuity amid change. On page 66, you’ll read how 10 readers describe their families’ own cherished autumn traditions. (Yes, pumpkins and apples are involved, but also Bruce Springsteen and Stranger Things.)

Learn to dance in the style of your choice (page 28). Take in a show at the reopened bergenPAC (page 32). Or find a serene spot to remember the victims of 9/11 in this anniversary month (page 25). Here at BERGEN it’s our job—and our pleasure—to present some of the manifold activities that make up the good life here in our much-blessed county. Just which ones will you choose? You’re the expert on that.

Enjoy!

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

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Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

Creative Director

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BERGEN is published 12 times a year by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. This is Volume 22, Issue 9. © 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.

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WHAT YOU CAN FIND ON BERGENMAG.COM RIGHT NOW

2023

VEIN SPECIALISTS

Dr. James Geuder and Dr. Gary Nackman are vascular surgeons, certified by the American Board of Surgery, who specialize in vein treatments for Varicose Veins, Spider Veins, leg pain and swelling.

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WE’LL TOAST TO THAT

The Bergen Wine & Food Experience is back and better than ever, featuring dishes and drinks from the area’s best restaurants and breweries as well as dozens of other vendors and exhibitors. Tickets for the Oct. 5 event at the Edgewood Country Club in River Vale are on sale now. Get yours today at bergenmag.com.

MAC AND CHEESE…TO THE MAX!

Going out to eat with kids can be frustrating—some are ready to head home before the food arrives. The key is choosing the right restaurants where the little ones’ meals can be enjoyed by adults too! If your kid (or big kid, aka your spouse) orders mac and cheese, consider one of these Bergen eateries—recently featured in our weekly e-newsletter—where the pasta-and-meltedcheese combo isn’t your typical stuff from a box. This way, the kids can get what they want, but you can enjoy a few bites of their leftovers.

The 130 Club, 130 County Rd., Tenafly, 201.431.2427. If your son or daughter has a sophisticated pasta palate, make sure they try the truffle mac and cheese. It’s corkscrew-shaped pasta, cheddar cheese, truffle oil and breadcrumbs.

Biddy O’Malley’s Bistro and Pub, 191 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201.564.7893. This Irish pub has a killer chorizo mac and cheese on its menu, featuring corkscrew-shaped pasta, peppers, pretzel crumble and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.

Le Bon Choix, 11 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, 201.879.6157. Their mac and cheese is baked to perfection with three different types of cheese. It can be a meal for your kiddo or a satiating side dish for you.

Paula’s Soulfood Café, 331 Main St., Hackensack, 201.880.6888. While you indulge in the fried chicken, beef short ribs or seafood entrées, your kid will feel full on just a side of their delicious mac and cheese.

ReBAR and Kitchen, 132 Essex St., Lodi, 201.368.8181. Kids and their grown-ups will love the mac and cheese, topped with toasty parmesan breadcrumbs. Choose from small or large, depending on the family’s appetites.

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

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Fostering Healing and Wellness in Your Community

Since 1911, it has been our mission to offer a listening ear, a helpful hand, and steady, supportive guidance throughout your wellness journey. Through our comprehensive continuum of mental health services, communities for older adults, and rehabilitation, we work diligently to foster physical health and also nourish the spirit.

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Bergen Buzz

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

WE WILL NEVER FORGET

Twenty-two years have passed since the fateful day in 2001 when more than 3,000 people, including 147 Bergen residents, lost their lives in the terrorist attacks. Local memorials and memorial gardens honor those who perished on 9/11; you’ll find them in these places for quiet, personal reflection:

• CONSTITUTION PARK, FORT LEE (2018 FLETCHER AVE.)

• COOPER’S POND PARK, BERGENFIELD (115 W. CHURCH ST.)

• CRESTWOOD LAKE, ALLENDALE (WEST CRESCENT AVENUE)

• EAST RUTHERFORD (1 EVERETT PL.)

• FINCH PARK, RAMSEY (CHURCH STREET)

• FIREMEN’S MEMORIAL/9-11 MEMORIAL PARK, HASBROUCK HEIGHTS (BOULEVARD CIRCLE)

• LODI HIGH SCHOOL, LODI (99 PUTNAM ST.)

• ORADELL (335 KINDERKAMACK RD.)

• PARK RIDGE TRAIN STATION, PARK RIDGE (PARK AVENUE AND BROADWAY)

• REFLECTION POND, UPPER SADDLE RIVER

• REMEMBRANCE PARK, CLOSTER (295 OLD CLOSTER DOCK RD.)

• TENAFLY PEACE PLAZA, TENAFLY

• VAN NESTE SQUARE MEMORIAL PARK, RIDGEWOOD (SOUTH WALNUT STREET)

• VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK, RIVER VALE (RIVERVALE ROAD)

• WESTWOOD TRAIN STATION, WESTWOOD (365 BROADWAY)

• WYCKOFF STATUE AND ETERNAL FLAME, WYCKOFF TOWN HALL, WYCKOFF (FRANKLIN AVENUE)

DITCH FALL-SIPS GUILT

Autumn’s timely sips—such as hot chocolate, apple cider and pumpkin-spice anything—are delish, but can make you feel guilty. Yet dietitians (who understand temptation as well as nutrition) say that, when consumed in moderation, these seasonal treats aren’t so bad:

• Hot chocolate can be made using the dark variety, which “is a great source of antioxidants, magnesium and iron. It’s also high in fiber and lower in sugar,” says Angela Langner, a registered dietitian and nutritionist from the Nutrition Center of Bergen County.

• Sweet apple cider also contains antioxidants in the form of polyphenols, Langner says. It may even “help the body to fight against free radicals and cell damage, which can lower the risk of certain types of cancers and heart disease,” she adds.

• As for pumpkin-flavored drinks, provided they’re not loaded with sugar, they can be beneficial too. Pumpkins, says Tory Stroker, a Ho-Ho-Kus-based registered dietitian and certified intuitive eating counselor, are “a great source of vitamin A” (209 percent of your daily requirement), which aids eye health.

Looking for some of these drinks or fresh ingredients? Secor Farms in Mahwah offers visitors freshly pressed apple cider as well as a seasonal pick-your-own pumpkin patch. And at Demarest Farms in Hillsdale, you’ll find more than two dozen varieties of apples that you can pick yourself, as well as an autumn pumpkin patch.

WHY NOT TAILGATE HEALTHY?

No knocking wings and dogs, but this fall’s tailgate parties can be an opportunity to up the nutritional score while still scoring a taste touchdown. These alternative game-day snacks are delicious, lower in calories—and won’t leave you feeling bloated and unbuttoning your jeans under your jersey by halftime:

Instead of chips and salsa…try baby carrots, sliced peppers or cucumbers dipped in hummus. The chickpeas are a healthy, satiating fat. If you must have a carb, keep on hand some whole-grain crackers or wheat pretzel crisps in lieu of tortilla or potato chips.

Instead of hot dogs…try chicken

sausage, a leaner protein with fewer additives and calories. Bonus: You can still dress this up with mustard, kraut and a bun!

Instead of wings…try grilled chicken breasts topped with seasonings or dipping sauces of choice (honey mustard and a Greek-yogurt-based ranch are options). If you’re grilling in the parking lot this is handy, because thin cutlets grill to perfection in minutes.

Instead of pasta salad….try a green salad heavy on the lettuce and veggies but with some protein pasta made of chickpeas, lentils or rice mixed in. Mayo-centric dressings are loaded with fat, so opt for a vinaigrette or olive-oil based dressing to top it off.

Instead of just cookies and cakes…try interspersing chocolate desserts on a platter with fresh fruit such as berries, melon slices and in-season peaches or apples.

Instead of beer…try—just kidding! We won’t tell you not to drink beer; that would be unAmerican. But try to alternate cans of brewski with 16-ounce servings of water. Staying hydrated and full from H20 helps you avoid noshing on empty calories.

PUPPY LOVE

Dog: Mikey, 9-monthold mutt (presumably a black mouth cur and golden retriever)

Owners: Lesley and Jason Whyard (and their daughter, Elizabeth) of Westwood

The Whyard family already had one dog and three cats (all with Star Wars -themed names) when they started fostering puppies and kittens. They knew they’d probably want to adopt one of their fosters one day, and the lucky guy they took home forever is Mikey from King’s Pack Rescue in Paramus.

“He’s so goofy, lovable and affectionate,” his “mom” tells BERGEN of the family’s 13th foster pet. “He was with us for almost two months and had two potential adoptions fall through, and it just seemed meant to be.”

Mikey loves watermelon, carrying things like stuffed animals in his mouth and his boxador sister, Leia. “Mikey brings out her playful side, and I think she enjoys the companionship,” Whyard adds. “He leans up against her at night. He also lies on top of the back couch cushions and looks out the window like a cat.”

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

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CULINARY CORNER

You can’t go wrong with American pub grub. These three new kids on the block are welcome additions to Bergen’s bar-food scene:

RAISING THE BAR

Beam up to the brand-new Scotty’s Bar & Grill in Cresskill, which debuted this summer. Taking the spot of Moo Moo’s Italian Steakhouse, Scotty’s is a new neighborhood joint with elevated pub grub and a vast list of specialty adult beverages. Burgers, tacos and pizzas (including a cauliflower-crust option) are on the menu, in addition to salads and sandwiches.

• 172 PIERMONT RD., CRESSKILL, 201.222.1100; SCOTTYSBARANDGRILL.COM

ON THE HOUSE

Another highly anticipated opening is that of The Oak House in Oradell, which takes over the long-vacant Charlie Brown’s space. Like its sibling eatery, Fire & Oak in Montvale, the new restaurant serves American classics such as burgers, steak frites and specialty pizzas. And don’t tell the kids, but each item on the children’s menu features a serving of veggies. While they’re chowing down on broccoli, you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails or one of 12 draft beers, either at your table or at the designated bar area.

• 2 KINDERKAMACK RD., ORADELL, 201.277.4892; OAKHOUSENJ.COM

A PLACE OF MANY PARTS

When you can’t decide if you want a little snack, a full meal or just a culinary experience, try Fantastic Food and Flavors, a new concept restaurant in Norwood. Details were scarce at presstime, but FFF says it’s “part street-food alley, part café, part lounge, part restaurant, part specialty import shop, part artisanal market, part cooking school.” Stay tuned for more on the opening.

• 521 LIVINGSTON ST., NORWOOD, 833.827.8333; TASTEFFF.COM

GOT RHYTHM?

Need to learn to dance for an upcoming event—or just want to get in on the TikTok trends? Dance lessons can benefit anyone—even those with “two left feet.” To mark National Dance Day on Sept. 16, here’s where to learn the dance style of your choice:

• FOR BALLET, TRY NUNBETTER DANCE STUDIO, BERGENFIELD, 201.385.9638; NUNNBETTER DANCE.COM

• FOR MODERN/CONTEMPORARY, TRY HEART IN MOTION, RIDGEWOOD, 201.857.4472; HEARTINMOTIONSTUDIO.COM

• FOR TAP, TRY DDA DANCE ACADEMY, PARAMUS, 201.819.7989; DDADANCE.COM

• FOR BALLROOM, TRY

ARTHUR MURRAY DANCE STUDIO, RIDGEWOOD, 201.389.6980; ARTHURMURRAYDANCENOW.COM/ LOCATIONS/RIDGEWOOD

• FOR LATIN DANCING (THINK THE CHA CHA AND THE SALSA), TRY DANCE WITH ME STUDIOS, GLEN ROCK, 201.447.4200; DANCEWITHMEUSA.COM/ STUDIO/GLEN-ROCK-NEWJERSEY-DANCE-STUDIO

SPOT A BUTTERFLY

We still consider ourselves lucky when we see a butterfly, and luck these days seems to favor the Teaneck Creek Conservancy, DeKorte Park in Lyndhurst and maybe a garden near you.

That’s because the Canada-to-Mexico migration of monarch butterflies begins in September. course, the best New Jersey to brilliant, orange-red-winged creatures is Cape weather systems the “southern tip ern-facing peninsula against the Mid-Atlantic coast,” says Brett M. Ewald, director of Cape May Bird Observatory and NJ Audubon

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Society. “It’s a migration, but it’s a unique migration,” he adds, as monarchs migrate individually

are efficient plant pollinators as well as food for many predators, but their habitats are dwindling. Habitats containing milkweed, plants with nectar and native species are disappearing because of agricultural methods, Wade Wander, charter member and president of the Butterfly Club, says. insecticide use native flowering milkweed, Garden can help prethese lovely

but work together to survive as they wait for winds to carry them across water. As they migrate, the butterflies

“We’re benefiting the whole suite of nature by promoting monarchs,” Ewald says, “and they are an incredible story.”

The season of indulgence is upon us, and you’re invited to kick it off right at the Bergen Wine & Food Experience. Join the BERGEN magazine staff at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale for an evening of food tastings from local restaurants and caterers; samples of beer, cocktails and wine; live music and free swag from some of our vendors. Learn more and get your tickets (they’re going to sell out!) at bergenmag.com or on Instagram @bergenwineandfoodexperience.

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YOUR FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Bringing Back BergenPAC

What’s it been like to preside over the reopening of the county’s preeminent show venue?

First it was the pandemic, then a much-needed renovation. In September 2022, when Alexander (Alex) Diaz became executive director of the Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC), the theater was preparing to reopen after a long period of being shuttered. Promoted from artistic director of education at the facility’s Performing Arts School, Diaz oversaw completion of a $10 million restoration of the 97-year-old, 1,367-seat auditorium, which now boasts enhanced lighting and sound systems, new seats and carpeting and an expanded lobby and bar. The 38-year-old Ringwood resident and father of two chats with BERGEN about realizing his vision, grabbing a mic and wielding a hammer.

It’s been a year since you took the helm of bergenPAC. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Successfully reopening the theater. When I learned that we had a sold-out show scheduled for early October, I knew I couldn’t afford to delay the opening, even though the idea was floated. The success of the reopening was a collective effort, and I am grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing our vision to life.

Any regrets?

Anyone who knows me knows I am constantly moving forward with positivity, so no regrets here!

What’s something you do in your job that would surprise people?

I’m very handy with tools and technology. With an old building comes the constant breakdown of a ceiling tile here, a leak there, or something else. I enjoy fixing these small things and making the theater and offices feel like home. I also made technology upgrades to our offices, and sometimes I have to troubleshoot issues. It makes me feel like Batman coming to the rescue.

What advice do you have for would-be performers?

Hone your craft, be persistent and resilient, embrace versatility, build a strong support system, network and

collaborate, create your own opportunities, be professional and reliable, take care of yourself and others, be open to feedback, believe in yourself, celebrate small victories and always stay true to your artistic vision. Who would you most like to see perform at bergenPAC?

Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban. I sing in both their styles, and I would love to share the stage with them. You used to give voice and acting lessons.

Are you a performer too?

I began my life in the arts through my voice as an eighth grader at New Milford High School. I have sung and performed professionally. I played Billy Bigelow in Carousel at NJPAC [New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark] years ago. So if opportunities come up to sing on big stages, I take them. If ever I had the opportunity to sing with Andrea Bocelli or Josh Groban, it would truly be a dream come true.

But you’re on the business side now.

I always had an admiration for the actual business of theater and music. When I went to the University of the Arts, I majored in theater management, produc-

tion and directing with a minor in musical theater. It was the best of all worlds.

Have you ever been starstruck by a performer?

I was starstruck by Yankee great Bernie Williams when I had the opportunity to announce him from backstage. He walked by me, put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Great job, man.”

What were the most memorable shows you’ve seen at bergenPAC?

Willy Chirino, Freestyle Flashback, Les Misérables. And The Price is Right Live, because it was our first show back in October 2022. Tell us about your family. What do you do when you’re not working?

My beautiful wife Desere is a nurse and an amazing mother and wife. My daughter Delilah is 8; my son Alexander is 6; and our yellow lab retriever, Max, is 2. My daughter and son love the arts and love that Papa is “the boss” of the theater. They both play the violin, are active with sports and love to perform. When we are all together, we enjoy swimming, hiking, driving and eating—and playing with Max.

Describe your perfect day when you’re not at work. Playing a round of golf with my family and taking a drive up the mountains. That would be topped off with a great dinner at a Spanish or Cuban restaurant.

What’s in store for 2024?

Continued growth in programming and for the school. I want bergenPAC to be the Bergen County and northern New Jersey destination for world-class entertainment and professional arts education programs.

Why are the arts a valuable asset to a community? They’re more than entertainment; they are a fundamental pillar of a thriving community. By fostering creativity, diversity, empathy and cultural understanding, the arts contribute to a society that is enriched, educated and emotionally connected. Creating a more vibrant and resilient society for generations to come is a legacy worth investing in.

—Rita Guarna

Photo courtesy of Alexander Diaz

Seeing Red

Lisa Linen Midi Dress Banana Republic, Paramus, 201.291.0855 Single-Breasted

Wide-Leg Linen-Blend Pants H&M, Paramus, 855.466.7467

Frances Valentine Barbara Gathered Midi-Skirt Neiman Marcus, Paramus, 201. 291.1920

Brahmin Caroline Melbourne Embossed Leather Satchel Nordstrom, Paramus, 201.843.1122

Rag & Bone Rio Fiery Red Heeled Boots Hartly, Westwood, 201.664.3111

Leather Red Moto Jacket fanjackets.com

Lunar New Year Cashmere-Silk Neckerchief Macy’s, Paramus, 201.843.9100

201.261.2552

HOME FRONT

Clearly Chic

Acrylic décor is the clear winner when it comes to accessorizing your home.

Rechargeable Led Table Lamp lumens.com

Bernhardt Tahlia Side Chair Jennifer Furniture, Paramus, 201.289.5757

Kartell Max-Beam Monolithic Stool/Table West Elm, Paramus,

Vienna Iridescent Storage Cart curahome.com

Regina Andrew Bubbles Chandelier Wostbrock Home, Ridgewood, 201.445.6689

Safavieh Couture Gianna Acrylic Coffee Table Safavieh, Paramus, 201.291.0200

Bellhop

Chelsea House Acrylic Handle Tray perigold.com

A Tradition of Excellence in Vein Care

Two Accredited Entities Under One Roof

Our patients choose ease and expertise

At Chuback Vein Center and Chuback Vascular Imaging you will find the latest technologies in diagnosing and treating spider and varicose veins.

Experience comprehensive care and 18 years of expertise in revitalizing vein health.

Trust our experienced team of specialists, led by board-certified heart and vascular surgeon, John A. Chuback, MD, FACS, RPVI, RVT, RPhS. Our integrated and collaborative approach to vein care streamlines your path to healthier legs.

If you're experiencing symptoms such as swelling, leg pain, restless legs or unsightly veins, don't wait any longer. Take the first step towards healthier veins and schedule your appointment today.

John A. Chuback, MD, FACS, RPVI, RVT, RPhS CMO Chuback Vein Center

Mazin Radwan, RVS, RPhS. Chuback Vascular Imaging Director

oral

HEALTH

A REASON TO CONTROL STRESS

If you’re having trouble concentrating and remembering things, stress might be to blame. A recent study found that 37 percent of people were more likely to experience a decline in cognitive function due to high levels of stress.

—JAMA Network Open

THE COST OF ASTHMA CARE

Americans with severe asthma spend approximately $9,175 per year for their healthcare.

—Journal of Asthma and Allergy

1 IN 5

The number of deaths in the U.S. from alcohol use, including liver disease, alcohol poisoning and auto accidents.

—JAMA Network Open

GETTING PREGNANT AFTER IVF

One in five women conceived naturally after having had a baby using fertility treatment such as IVF. Findings were based on data from 11 studies of more than 5,000 women worldwide.

is expanded

Human Reproduction women older who type of disorder, which can cause bladder leaks, frequent urination and other symptoms.

—Journal Obstetrics & Gynecology

DIABETES RISK

More than 1.3 million Americans with diabetes rationed their insulin in the past year, according to new research, in part due to the increasing prices of insulin and supply chain issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that there are 37.3 million people with diabetes in the U.S.

—Annal of Internal Medicine

air passage and nasal air passage

Bella’s Beauté Studio

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY BREAKTHROUGH!

What do all of these people have in common? They suffer from Peripheral Neuropathy. It is estimated that more than 20 million people in the United States have Peripheral Neuropathy. Unfortunately, this figure may be significantly higher as the disease is often misdiagnosed because of its wide array of symptoms.

Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, LAc of Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Montclair, shares this belief. “I’ve been treating Neuropathy, in all its various forms for over a decade and so often my patients come to me because of the symptoms, not because of a diagnosis. They saw one of my newspaper articles or read the testimonial of another patient and say to themselves, ‘hey, I feel the same thing.’”

Doris M. of Little Falls testified to this, “I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood. I was so envious—I just kept thinking, ‘I would give anything just to walk again.’ My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription. I was so depressed.”

Fortunately, Doris would eventually see Dr. Aleksandra in a local newspaper talking about similar symptoms and how she offers a real solution. “I just knew I had to see her. She was my last hope.”

“Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Doris’. They’ve been everywhere else. They’ve been told there’s no hope. They’ve been told ‘it’s just part of getting older’.” Shares Olivia, a Patient Care Coordinator. “It just breaks my heart, but I know how much we can help people like Doris, so I’m always so happy when they walk through our door.”

Those diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy often face a very grim reality: Western medicine declares that there is no solution. Which is why Dr. Aleksandra and the staff at Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine pride themselves on being ‘the last resort with the best results.’

Peripheral Neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves and this damage is commonly caused by lack of blood flow in the hands and feet. A lack of blood flow results in a lack of nutrients: the nerves then begin to degenerate and die which causes pain ranging from discomfort to debilitating. Because Neuropathy is a degenerative condition, once those nerves begin to deteriorate, they will continue to do so until they are completely expired, leaving those suffering with crippling balance issues. “In this case, the absence of pain is not necessarily a good thing.” explains Dr. Aleksandra. “This usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread.”

So how exactly is Dr. Aleksandra able to reverse the effects of this degenerative disease? “Acupuncture improves your chances of a full recovery. has been used to increase blood flow for thousands of years which helps to get the necessary nutrients to the affected nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance Bio Therapy™. This is tech that was originally developed by NASA to expedite recovering and healing.”

“I just can’t say enough about Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine,” Doris shared through tears of joy. “My husband and I moved here 3 years ago, and he’s gone for a hike or a walk in the park almost every day since. I always stayed home because of the pain and discomfort.

Yesterday I walked through the park with him! And next week we’re starting

ballroom dancing lessons. I am truly living life these days.”

“According to Doris’ test results, she has seen a 71% improvement in pain and functionality, which is on par with a majority of our patients,” shares Olivia.

“But more important than those test results is the joy she’s expressed being here and hearing about all the amazing things she’s able to do because she feels great!”

By seamlessly blending the ancient science of acupuncture with modern medical solutions Dr. Aleksandra has achieved a 88% success rate in reversing the effects of Neuropathy. She starts each patient with an initial consultation during which a sensory exam is performed. “This not only aids in making a proper diagnosis but it helps to define just how much nerve damage has occurred. This is important because if a patient has suffered more than 95% damage, there is little that I can do to help them. I am familiar with the medical miracle, but I know my limits as a practitioner and the limits of my medicine.”

When it comes to treating Peripheral Neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of a full recovery.

If you or someone you love are suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling, pins and needles or you have recently been diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy, it is important to know that there are options. There is hope.

Call 973-444-8932 to schedule an initial consultation or to read more incredible success stories visit www.SashaAcupuncture.com.

119 Grove Street, Montclair | 973-444-8932 www.SashaAcupuncture.com

“My feet feel like they’re on fire.”

“Each step feels like I’m walking through wet paint.”

“I live in constant fear that I will fall.”

“I can’t sleep, my hands and feet tingle all night.”

That Other Allergy Season

SPRING’S NOT THE ONLY CULPRIT. RIGHT NOW, AS THE LEAVES BEGIN TO FALL, YOU MAY HEAR LOTS OF PEOPLE TELLING YOU “GEZUNDHEIT.”

It’s not only springtime when sneezin’ and wheezin’ are in season. Fact is, fall can be just as bad symptom-wise for some sufferers, as the ragweed, weed pollen and outdoor mold that accumulate on fallen leaves make themselves at home. Here on the East Coast in recent years, experts say, fall allergies have been getting worse.

“In the past few years, Bergen County has been having milder winters, which in turn leads to the ragweed and weed pollen persisting into late November,” says Sima Mithani, M.D., who practices adult and pediatric allergy and immunology at ENT and Allergy Associates in Hackensack.

But you needn’t entirely hide from the joys of pumpkin picking, Oktoberfest drinking and pie eating during the fall allergy peak in September and October. Heed these tips from Dr. Mithani:

• Close windows and avoid peak allergen times. Keeping windows shut during high-pollen times of the year can help reduce exposure to those allergens, says our doc. She says that you may also want to stay inside during peak times when possible; pollen levels tend to be at their worst during the morning hours and on windy and warm days, while mold is more prevalent on days with high humidity. You can also check the pollen count before heading out for the day on the news, apps or on the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) website.

• Prepare your home. Just as you’ll use a humidifier in the winter to increase the moisture in the air, fall is the time to whip out that air purifier. “Air purifiers with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are helpful for removing allergens from the air such as dust mites, pollen and pet dander,” says Dr. Mithani. If you have a dust-mite allergy, consider a few small lifestyle changes, such as “washing bedsheets and pillow covers in hot water frequently and removing curtains and drapes which may collect dust.” And when entering your home, take off your shoes to prevent pollen from circulating everywhere, and shower and wash your hair as soon as possible.

• Treat your symptoms. Runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing and itchy and watery eyes are common symptoms of allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies), says the doctor, but “the type and severity of symptoms can vary in each person and with each season.” Common over-the-counter treatment options include antihistamines (pills), intranasal steroids and intranasal antihistamines (both nose drops), but what works best for you depends on your specific needs.

• Seek help from a specialist. If your symptoms don’t improve with medications or avoidance measures, or they’re interfering with your daily life, book an appointment with an allergist. He or she will perform environmental allergen skin testing to see what your allergens are, and then “tailor a treatment plan that is best to manage your allergy symptoms and to improve your quality of life,” says Dr. Mithani. For some patients, a good option is allergen immunotherapy—aka allergy shots that desensitize you to an allergen. “This helps reduce allergy symptoms, which in turn reduces the need to use allergy medications over time,” she adds.

IF YOU HAVE SPRING ALLERGIES, DO YOU HAVE FALL ALLERGIES TOO?

Not necessarily, says Sima Mithani, M.D., an allergist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Hackensack, as the culprits in spring are entirely separate from the fall culprits, which are primarily ragweed, weed pollen and mold. The only way to know for sure what you’re allergic to is to undergo environmental allergen skin testing at an allergist’s office—and, of course, to follow your (sniffly) nose.

Joint Custody

THEY’RE MARVELS OF ANATOMICAL ENGINEERING, THOSE PARTS OF YOUR BODY WHERE BONES MEET TO ALLOW MOVEMENT. HERE’S HOW TO PROTECT THEM WHILE LEADING AN ACTIVE LIFE.

If you’re like most people, you enjoy the time of year that allows you to get outside and be active. Brisk physical activity is good for your circulation, muscle tone, mood and longevity too. Unfortunately, spending time playing sports, paddling on the water or even doing chores around the house can put you at an increased risk of injury—especially to your joints.

Specialized orthopedic care can help treat such mishaps when they occur, but you can avoid some injuries altogether by being smart about your activities.

BERGEN spoke with Rami Alrabaa, M.D., orthopedic surgeon at Englewood Health, and Anthony Delfico, M.D., orthopedic surgeon and director of sports medicine at The Valley Hospital, about common autumn activities that often lead to orthopedic injuries—and tips for how to protect your joints when you’re…

• Getting your steps in. With its cool and crisp air, fall is an excellent time for running or fast walking, but this beneficial exercise can lead to injury, or trigger pain if joints are already damaged or fragile.

Prevention: If you’re new to running, start slowly and use common sense. To help avoid anterior knee pain, such as patellar tendinitis, begin with a short distance and increase it gradually, advises Dr. Alrabaa. “For example, start with a mile,” he says, “and increase one-quarter mile with every run. Don’t increase more than 50 percent of the last run.” For those not ready to run or jog, Dr. Delfico suggests walking. “If you want to run and are just beginning, start with an easy 30-minute walk. That’s the most efficient way to build stamina for your lungs and joints.” Proper footwear is important, so invest in a pair of good running sneakers.

Treatment: Acute pain from sore muscles and joints will go away on its own with rest and over-the-counter pain medications. Long-term joint damage and arthritis may eventually require joint replacement surgery.

• Volleying and serving. Lower humidity and cooler days also make tennis courts more inviting at this time of year. And with the rise in popularity of pickleball, an increasing number of participants of all ages and skill levels are taking the court. Even if you’re just casually hitting the ball over the net, the repetitive motion can take a toll on joints.

Prevention: Proper stretching and equipment are necessary to safely enjoy racquet sports. Injuries such as tennis elbow can be

avoided by stretching forearm muscles before play and by ensuring that racquet handles are long enough and have ample cushioning. Muscle soreness can come through overuse, Dr. Delfico says, so he suggests you “ease into a sport.” “Don’t play for four hours if your body isn’t used to it,” he says. “Sports with sudden bursts of movement can lead to injury, so don’t overextend your body all at once.”

Treatment: Use the RICE method (rest, ice, compression and elevation) to address the inflammation of tennis elbow. “You can treat the area by stretching and with ice and massage,” Dr. Alrabaa says. “It can take up to a month of rest and ice for recovery. If you have any loss of function or mobility of the joint, seek medical attention immediately.”

• Making a splash. High-speed jet skiing and waterskiing aren’t the only water sports that can cause injury; even slow-pace paddling in a canoe or a kayak or on a paddleboard has its risks.

Prevention: Overuse and incorrect paddling motion are common contributors to shoulder pain related to canoeing and kayaking. If you’re just starting out, learn proper form and “take it easy” while on the water so you don’t overextend your shoulders, Dr. Delfico says. And just as with other sports, warm up your body before heading out on the water by simply “rolling your shoulders or flexing your elbows,” Dr. Alrabaa says. “Know your limits, and don’t overexert yourself paddling.”

Treatment: Inflammation of the shoulder joint can be treated with heat or ice and over-the-counter pain medication. See your doctor if pain persists or gets worse more than three days after it was first detected, as it could lead to other ailments such as “frozen shoulder.”

• Cleaning the yard. You may be most susceptible to injuries in your own home, especially if your list of chores requires you to climb ladders or wield heavy power tools. For example, about half a million Americans are treated for ladder-related injuries every year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Summer and fall are prime times for these accidents, which often occur while repairing roofs or cleaning gutters.

Prevention: “Always make sure a ladder has good footing and is on solid, flat ground,” advises Dr. Delfico. “While you’re up there, don’t overreach, which can impact your shoulder or simply cause you to lose balance.” He adds that staying fit and having a strong core help with balance and can prevent related back injuries caused by simple acts such as picking up roofing material or raking leaves. “Stretching first isn’t just a rule for sports,” adds Dr. Alrabaa; it’s especially important for tasks that may require muscles to accelerate or decelerate quickly (pulling a cord to start a lawn mower or leaf blower, for instance). “Warm up and loosen muscles around the shoulder to decrease strain from explosive movements or heavy lifting.”

Treatment: Minor shoulder pain and back strain require a few days of heat or ice and plenty of rest. A fall off a ladder may result in more serious damage, such as broken bones, that will require medical attention and possible surgery.

READERS’ CHOICE

THE BALLOTS WERE COUNTED, AND READERS CHOSE THE TOP LOCAL BUSINESSES IN 120+ CATEGORIES. ARE YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS AMONG THE WINNERS? READ ON TO FIND OUT.

BEST CHINESE

T.S. MA CHINESE CUISINE IN WYCKOFF

BREAKFAST

1. Willow & Whisk, 319 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201.425.993, willowandwhisk.com

This homey eatery has had one thing in mind since opening three years ago: starting your day off with a great meal. Willow & Whisk does both breakfast and lunch well. For instance, pair traditional eggs benedict with perfectly prepared mimosas, or try the show-stopping brioche French toast and an organic matcha latte to satisfy your breakfast cravings. The options are endless!

Photo courtesy of Willow & Whisk

RESTAURANTS AND FOOD

BAGELS

1. Bagel Nosh 799 Franklin Ave. Franklin Lakes 201.847.9455

24 E. Prospect St. Waldwick 201.652.9746 bagelnoshofwaldwick.com

2. Goldberg’s Famous Bagels of Wyckoff 327 Franklin Ave. #16 Wyckoff 201.847.9199 gfbwyckoff.com

3. Ronnie’s Hot Bagels 118 Broadway Hillsdale 201.664.4543 ronnieshotbagelsexpress. com

BAKERY

1. Rispoli Pastry Shop

23 Emerson Plaza E. Emerson 201.265.4009

824 Broad Ave. Ridgefield 201.943.6002 rispolipastryshop.com

2. B&W Bakery 614 Main St. Hackensack 201.342.5577 bandwbakery.com

3. Sook Pastry 24 S. Broad St. Ridgewood 201.493.2500 sookpastry.com

BARBECUE

1. Fink’s BBQ Smokehouse 26 W. Madison Ave. Dumont 201.384.3210 finksbbqsmokehouse.com

2. Brothers Smokehouse 900 Rte. 17 Suite 2 Ramsey 551.264.9073 brotherssmoke housenj.com

3. Kimchi Smoke Barbecue

2 Godwin Ave. Ridgewood 201.447.6653 kimchismoke.com

BEER SELECTION, CRAFT BREWERY

1. Hackensack Brewing Company 78 Johnson Ave. Hackensack 201.880.1768 hackensackbrewing.com

2. Brix City Brewing 4 Alsan Way Little Ferry 201.440.0865 brixcitybrewing.com

3. Alementary Brewing Co. 58 Voorhis Ln. Hackensack 201.968.1290 alementary.com

BEER SELECTION, RESTAURANT/BAR

1. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

2. The Shannon Rose 1200 Rte. 17 N. Ramsey 201.962.7602 theshannonrose.com

3. Miller’s Ale House 270 Rte. 4 E. Paramus 201.342.4800 millersalehouse.com

BOWLS

1. Playa Bowls Multiple locations playabowls.com

2. Blended Bowls 100 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.934.3220 facebook.com/blendedbowls

BREAKFAST

1. Willow & Whisk 9 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.425.9931 willowandwhisk.com

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

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

BRUNCH

1. Farmhouse Cafe & Eatery 301 Center Ave. Westwood 201.664.8424

15 E. Madison Ave. Cresskill 201.266.8931 farmhousecafenj.com

2. Park West Tavern 30 Oak St. Ridgewood 201.445.5400 parkwesttavern.com

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

BURGERS

1. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

2. Shake Shack 479 Rte. 17 S. Paramus 201.241.2381

CANDY/ CHOCOLATE

1. Conrad’s Confectionery 107 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.2895 conrads1928.com

1 Garden State Plaza Blvd. Level 2 Paramus 201.576.8096 shakeshack.com

3. Steve’s Burgers (TIE) 506 Rte. 46 W. Garfield 973.772.1770 68 Passaic St. Garfield 973.955.2882

3. Bareburger (TIE) Multiple locations bareburger.com

BUTCHER

1. Westwood Prime Meats 190 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.0069 westwoodprimemeats. com

2. Steve’s Market 41 W. Main St. Ramsey 201.327.9466 stevesmarket.com

3. Wyckoff Prime Meats 384 Main St. Wyckoff 201.447.3340 waldwickprimemeats.com

BYO RESTAURANT

1. Sanducci’s Trattoria 620 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.599.0600 sanduccis.com

2. Café Matisse 167 Park Ave. Rutherford 201.935.2995 cafematisse.com

3. Fino Ristorante 114 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale 201.995.1100 finoristorantenj.com

CANDY/CHOCOLATE

1. Conrad’s Confectionery 107 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.2895 conrads1928.com

2. Critchley’s Candies 812 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.967.1800 critchleyschocolates.com

3. Mrs. Hanna Krause Candy 89 Westview Ave. Paramus 201.843.0337 hannakrausecandy.com

CHEESE SHOP

1. Market Basket 813 Franklin Lake Rd. Franklin Lakes 201.891.2000 marketbasket.com

2. Jerry’s Gourmet and More 410 S. Dean St. Englewood 201.871.7108 jerryshomemade.com

3. Chez Cheeze 10 Washington St. Tenafly 201.568.2050 chezcheeze.com

CHINESE RESTAURANT

1. T.S. Ma Chinese Cuisine 637 Wyckoff Ave. Wyckoff 201.891.8878 tsmachinesecuisine.com

2. Hanami 41 Union Ave. Cresskill 201.567.8508

301 Center Ave. Westwood 201.666.8508 hanamirestaurant.com

If you’re looking for sweets just like grandma used to make, be sure to head to this longtime dessert destination in downtown Westwood. You may already know that their chocolate treats and ice cream are both made from scratch, but they don’t stop there. Conrad’s has been making whipped cream, hot fudge and caramel in house since they first opened in 1928—and they’re not stopping any time soon.

3. Vanessa’s Dumpling House

1 American Dream Way East Rutherford 201.881.0180 americandream.com/ venue/vanessasdumpling house

COFFEEHOUSE

1. Ridgewood Coffee Company 90 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.493.1002 ridgewoodcoffee company.com

2. American Bulldog Coffee Roasters 4 N. Spruce St. Ramsey 201.574.8070

31 N. Broad St. Ridgewood 201.857.4176 americanbulldog coffeeroasters.com

3. NJ Caffeine 360 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.599.8149 facebook.com/ NJCaffeine/

CUPCAKES

1. Kara Kakes 799 Franklin Ave. Franklin Lakes 201.485.8889 kara-kakes.com

For a quick trip to cupcake heaven, simply take one bite of the morsels served at this bake shop. With a menu that changes every day, Kara’s treats are always fresh, tasty and trendy. Mini cupcakes by the dozen are a popular choice, but you also can’t go wrong with their everyday options like vanilla, red velvet, chocolate or Funfetti flavors.

3. Anchor Seafood 10 S. Kinderkamack Rd. Montvale 201.930.9170

FRENCH RESTAURANT

1. Café Panache 130 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.934.0030 cafepanachenj.com

2. Latour 6 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.445.5056 latourridgewood.com

3. Madeleine’s Petit Paris 416 Tappan Rd. Northvale 201.767.0063 madeleinespetitparis.com

GLUTEN-FREE GOODIES

GOURMET SUPERMARKET

1. Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace 10 Triangle Plz. Ramsey 201.995.6800 uncleg.com

2. Trader Joe’s Multiple locations traderjoes.com

3. Wegmans 100 Farm View Montvale 551.249.2200

GREEK RESTAURANT

1. Varka Estiatorio 30 N. Spruce St. Ramsey 201.995.9333 varkarestaurant.com

CUPCAKES

1. Kara Kakes 799 Franklin Ave. Franklin Lakes 201.485.8889 kara-kakes.com

2. Cupcakes by Carousel 192 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.389.3090 cupcakesbycarousel.com

3. Mr. Cupcakes * 684 Lafayette Ave. Hawthorne 973.949.5300 mrcupcakes.com

CUSTOM CAKES

1. Palermo’s Bakery 399 Liberty St. Little Ferry 201.641.1654

187 Main St. Ridgefield Park 201.641.1654 palermobakery.com

2. Carousel Cakes* 5 Seeger Dr. Nanuet 845.627.2323 carouselcakes.com

3. Carlo’s Bakery* 95 Washington St. Hoboken 201.659.3671 carlosbakery.com

DINER

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

2. River Edge Diner 516 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.262.4976 riveredgediner.com

3. Chit Chat Diner 515 Essex St. Hackensack 201.820.4033 chitchatdiner.com

DONUTS

1. Glaze Donuts Multiple locations glazedonuts.com

2. Demarest Farms 244 Wierimus Rd. Hillsdale 201.666.0472 demarestfarms.com

3. Abma’s Farm 700 Lawlins Rd. Wyckoff 201.891.0278 abmasfarm.com

FARMERS MARKET

1. Ramsey Farmers Market 2 W. Main St. Ramsey 201.675.6866 ramseyfarmersmarket.org

2. Paramus Farmers Market Petruska Park 475 Farview Ave. Paramus 917.863.7897

3. Westwood Farmers Market 40 Crest St. Westwood 201.723.8807

FISH MARKET

1. Maywood Seafood Gourmet 103 W. Pleasant Ave. Maywood 201.843.8558 seafood-gourmet.com

2. Peter’s Fish Market 190 Godwin Ave. Midland Park 201.444.3331 petersfishmarket.com

1. Sweet Avenue Bake Shop 153 Park Ave. Rutherford 201.935.2253 sweetavenuebake shop.com

2. Alt Eats Café 622 N. Maple Ave. Ho-Ho-Kus 201.444.1300 alteatscafe.com

GOURMET GROCERY

1. Market Basket 813 Franklin Lake Rd. Franklin Lakes 201.891.2000 marketbasket.com

2. Maywood Marketplace 78 W. Pleasant Ave. Maywood 201.843.8361 maywoodsmarket place.com

3. Steve’s Market 41 W. Main St. Ramsey 201.327.9466 stevesmarket.com

2. It’s Greek to Me Multiple locations itsgreektome.com

3. A Taste of Greece 935 C Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.967.0029 atasteofgreecenj.com

ICE CREAM

1. Van Dyk’s 145 Ackerman Ave. Ridgewood 201.444.1429 vandyksicecream.com

1. Cranberry Junction Ice Cream 19 Temple Ave. Hackensack 201.546.8966 cranberryjunctionice cream.com

3. Conrad’s Confectionery 107 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.2895 conrads1928.com

INDIAN RESTAURANT

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

2. Downtown Dhaba 266 Center Ave. Westwood 201.664.0123 dhabadowntown.com

Photo courtesy of Kara Kakes

FRENCH RESTAURANT

1. Café Panache, 130 E. Main St., Ramsey, 201.934.0030, cafepanachenj.com

This Ramsey staple has been serving high quality food for three decades, with today’s staff perfecting a carefully curated menu in honor of the late Chef Kevin Kohler. Regulars love dishes like filet mignon ravioli, but every plate is exceptional thanks to fresh ingredients and handpicked local produce.

Photo courtesy of Cafe Panache

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

1. Sanducci’s Trattoria

620 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge

201.599.0600

There’s no wondering why this River Edge eatery is a repeat Readers’ Choice winner: Its extensive menu has something for everyone, and its in-house wine list and BYOB option ensures you’ll always have your preferred sip. Pair your favorite vino with a dish like fan favorite black squid ink linguine for a memorable meal with a significant other or with your entire crew!

Photo courtesy of Sanducci’s Trattoria

3. Tabla 16 S. Broad St. Ridgewood 201.444.4011 tablafinedineindian.com

ITALIAN DELI

1. Jerry’s Gourmet and More 410 S. Dean St. Englewood 201.871.7108 jerryshomemade.com

2. A&S Italian Market 525 Cedar Hill Ave. Wyckoff 201.447.0800 aandsitalianmarket.com

3. Casa Del Sole 115 Broadway Woodcliff Lake 201.391.5671 casadelsole.biz

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

1. Sanducci’s Trattoria 620 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.599.0600 sanduccis.com

2. Savini Restaurant & Lounge 168 W. Crescent Ave. Allendale 201.760.3700 savinirestaurant.com

3. Andiamo Restaurant 23 Hardenburgh Ave. Haworth 201.384.1551 andiamorestaurant.net

JAPANESE RESTAURANT

1. Kiku Restaurant 365 Rte. 17 S. Paramus 201.265.7200

2. Hanami 41 Union Ave. Cresskill 201.567.8508

301 Center Ave. Westwood 201.666.8508 hanamirestaurant.com

3. Sakura Bana 43 Franklin Ave. Ridgewood 201.447.6525 sakurabana.com

JEWISH DELI

1. Kosher Nosh 894 Prospect St. Glen Rock 201.445.1186 koshernosh.com

2. Tenafly Kosher Deli & Caterers 22 Washington St. Tenafly 201.567.3033

3. Foster Village Kosher Delicatessen 469 S. Washington Ave. Bergenfield 201.384.7100 fostervillagekosher deli.com

JUICE BAR

1. The Raw Squeeze 1033 River Rd. New Milford 201.357.2774 therawsqueeze.com

2. Beets Juice Bar Multiple locations beetsjuicebar.com

KOREAN RESTAURANT

1. Spring Restaurant 221 Closter Dock Rd. Closter 201.767.8830 springrestaurant closter.com

2. Dong Bang Grill 1616 Palisade Ave. Fort Lee 201.242.4485 dong-bang-grill.com

3. So Good 190 Closter Dock Rd. Closter 201.750.5190 sogoodkbbq.com

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

1. Mezza Mediterranean 22 Jefferson Ave. Westwood 201.722.8822 mezzawestwood.com

2. Sofia’s Mediterranean Grill 220 Boulevard Hasbrouck Heights 201.462.0123 sofiasmediterranean grill.com

3. Samdan 178 Piermont Rd. Cresskill 201.816.7343 samdanrestaurant.com

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

1. Blue Moon Mexican Café 327 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.891.1331 bluemoon mexicancafe.com

2. Pancho’s Burritos 214 Main St. New Milford 201.225.2554 panchosburritos togo.com

3. El Azteca Mexican Restaurant 91 Park Ave. Park Ridge 201.391.4422 elaztecapark ridgenj.com

115 Franklin Tpke. Mahwah 201.252.8875 elaztecamahwah.com

MOZZARELLA

1. Uncle Giuseppe’s 10 Triangle Plz. Ramsey 201.995.6800 uncleg.com

2. Annabella’s House of Mozzarella 900 Paterson Plank Rd. East Rutherford 201.804.0303 annabellasmozz.com

3. Jerry’s Gourmet and More 410 S. Dean St. Englewood 201.871.7108 jerryshomemade.com

NEW RESTAURANT

1. Jarana Peruvian

1 American Dream Way East Rutherford 551.777.8020 jaranarestaurant.com

OUTDOOR DINING

1. Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar

2 Main St. Edgewater 201.943.1900 havenedgewater.com

PIZZA

1. Kinchley’s Tavern 586 Franklin Tpke. Ramsey 201.934.7777

kinchleyspizza.com

Your neighborhood pizzeria may satisfy your craving for a cheesy bite, but when you want the best pie, make Kinchley’s your destination. Founded as a tavern in 1937, Kinchley’s added pizza to their menu a decade later—and, wow, are we glad they did. Their ultra thin-crust pizza (plain or with any combo of 20 toppings) is a must-try for every Bergenite. Just don’t forget to hit up the ATM before visiting: Kinchley’s is cash-only!

2. Pier 115 Bar & Grill 115 River Rd. Edgewater 201.313.2155 pier115barandgrill.com

3. Café Matisse 167 Park Ave. Rutherford 201.935.2995 cafematisse.com

PIZZA

1. Kinchley’s Tavern 586 Franklin Tpke. Ramsey 201.934.7777 kinchleyspizza.com

2. Brooklyn’s Coal Brick Oven Pizza 161 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack 201.342.2727

15 Oak St. Ridgewood 201.493.7676 brooklynspizza.net

3. Ray’s Pizza 6-02 Berdan Ave. Fair Lawn 201.797.7117 rayspizzafairlawn.com

ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

1. Saddle River Inn 2 Barnstable Ct. Saddle River 201.825.4016 saddleriverinn.com

2. Café Panache 130 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.934.0030 cafepanachenj.com

3. Esty Street 86 Spring Valley Rd. Park Ridge 201.307.1515 estystreet.com

SEAFOOD

1. Oceanos 2-27 Saddle River Rd. Fair Lawn 201.796.0546 oceanosrestaurant.com

2. Varka Estiatorio 30 N. Spruce St. Ramsey 201.995.9333 varkarestaurant.com

3. Segovia Restaurant 150 Moonachie Rd. Moonachie 201.641.4266

STEAKHOUSE

1. River Palm Terrace 1416 River Rd. Edgewater 201.224.2013 riverpalm.com

2. Allendale Steakhouse 95 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale 201.962.9797 allendalesteakhouse nj.com

3. The Park Steakhouse 151 Kinderkamack Rd. Park Ridge 201.930.1300 theparksteakhouse.com

SUSHI

1. Hanami 41 Union Ave. Cresskill 201.567.8508

301 Center Ave. Westwood 201.666.8508 hanamirestaurant.com

2. Masa Sushi & Grill 81 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale 201.934.6616 masasushiandgrill.com

TAPAS

1. Sangria Tapas Restaurant

1033 MacArthur Blvd. Mahwah 201.962.3310 sangriamahwah.com

In just nine years, this Mahwah spot has become the go-to for residents all over the county. That’s because their small plate tapas are the perfect dishes to share among family, friends, significant others, co-workers, teammates—just about everyone! And authentic Spanish ingredients in all their offerings (paella vegetariana is a must!) will make you come back for more.

ENTERTAINMENT BOWLING

1. Montvale Lanes 14 W. Grand Ave. Montvale 201.391.3400 montvalelanes.com

2. Bowlero 22-22 Maple Ave. Fair Lawn 201.797.5400

299 Paterson Ave. Wallington 973.773.9100 bowlero.com

3. Bowler City 85 Midtown Bridge St. Hackensack 201.343.3545 nationwidebowling.com

CATERING (OFF-PREMISE)

1. Market Basket 813 Franklin Lake Rd. Franklin Lakes 201.891.2000 marketbasket.com

3. Matsu 140 Broadway Hillsdale 201.930.1896 matsusushibest.com

TAPAS

1. Sangria Tapas Restaurant 1033 MacArthur Blvd. Mahwah 201.962.3310 sangriamahwah.com

2. Cravings Tapas Bistro 8 Wilsey Sq. Ridgewood 201.857.8533 cravingstapas.com

3. Pintxo y Tapas 47 N. Dean St. Englewood 201.569.9999 englewoodtapas.com

TEA SHOP

1. Harmony Tea Room 224 Fairview Ave. Westwood 201.664.2608 harmonytearoom.com

2. Rolling Pin Café 341 Broadway Westwood 201.666.4660 therollingpincafe.com

3. Village Tea Shop 2 S. Maple Ave. Ridgewood 201.857.0230 villageteashop.net

VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

1. Veggie Heaven 473 Cedar Ln. Teaneck 201.836.0887 veggieheaventeaneck. com

2. Simply Green Café 25 N. Spruce St. Ramsey 201.661.8905

3. Green Fusion 22 Oak St. Ridgewood 201.670.7502 greenfusionnj.com

WATERFRONT DINING

1. Chart House* 1700 Harbor Blvd. Weehawken 201.348.6628 chart-house.com

2. Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar 2 Main St. Edgewater 201.943.1900 havenedgewater.com

3. Waterside Restaurant & Catering* 7800 B River Rd. North Bergen 201.861.7767 watersiderestaurantand catering.com

WINGS

1. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

2. Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza 2101 Promenade Blvd. Fair Lawn 201.796.2625

984 Rte. 17 N. Ramsey 201.818.2625 acfp.com

3. Peck Peck Chicken 250 Degraw Ave. Teaneck 201.530.5858 peckpeckchicken.com

2. Blue Moon Mexican Café 327 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.891.1331 bluemoonmexicancafe. com

3. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

HAPPY HOUR

1. Fire & Oak 100 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Montvale 201.307.1100 fireandoak.com

2. Biggie’s (TIE) 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

2. The Cornerstone (TIE) 84 Broadway Hillsdale 201.666.8688 thecornerstonenj.com

2. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

3. The Brownstone* 351 W. Broadway Paterson 973.595.8582 thebrownstone.com

CIGAR SHOP

1. Casa de Montecristo by JR Cigar 184 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.261.7988 casademontecristo.com

2. The Tobacco Shop of Ridgewood 10 Chestnut St. Ridgewood 201.447.2204 tobaccoshop.com

3. Cigar World 735 Rte. 17 S. Ramsey 201.934.1142 njcigarworld.com

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

1. Fire & Oak 100 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Montvale 201.307.1100 fireandoak.com

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

HIKING TRAIL

1. Ramapo Valley County Reservation 608 Ramapo Valley Rd. Mahwah 201.327.3500

2. Palisades Interstate Park Alpine 201.768.1360 njpalisades.org

3. Celery Farm Franklin Turnpike Allendale 201.818.4400 fykenature.org/celeryfarm. php

Photo

WINGS

1. Biggie’s, 430 Rte. 17 S., Carlstadt, 201.933.4000, biggies.com

Family-owned Biggie’s hasn’t changed its winning wings formula since opening in 1946, but they’ve expanded the offerings over the years. With 10 varieties of breaded, naked, grilled and more, there’s a wing flavor for just about every palate. And if you don’t fill up on wings, Biggie’s serves some of the best burgers in town too!

Photo courtesy of Biggie’s

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

1. Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood. 201.227.1030, bergenpac.org

Grammy Award winners, comic legends and children’s favorite characters— they all take the stage throughout the year at Bergen Performing Arts Center. With state-of-the-art sound and lighting and seating for 1,367 spectators, this venue is the perfect setting to see the best and latest live entertainers.

Photo courtesy of bergenPAC

IRISH PUB

1. The Shannon Rose 1200 Rte. 17 N. Ramsey 201.962.7602 theshannonrose.com

2. P.J. Finnegan’s 274 Fairview Ave. Westwood 201.664.7576 pjfinnegans.com

3. Davey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant 5 Park St. Montvale 201.391.9356 daveyspub.com

KIDS’ PARTIES

1. BounceU 70 Eisenhower Dr. Paramus 201.843.5880 bounceu.com

2. Bounce Safari 3 North St. Waldwick 201.857.4000 bouncesafari.com

3. Clay Paper Scissors Studio

380 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.523.9379 claypaperscissorsstudio. com

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

1. Bergen Performing Arts Center 30 N. Van Brunt St. Englewood 201.227.1030 bergenpac.org

2. Bergen County Players 298 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.261.4200 bcplayers.org

3. Berrie Center at Ramapo College 505 Ramapo Valley Rd. Mahwah 201.684.7500 ramapo.edu/berriecenter

MARGARITAS

1. Blue Moon Mexican Café 327 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.891.1331 bluemoonmexicancafe. com

2. Pancho’s Burritos 214 Main St. New Milford 201.225.2554 panchosburritostogo.com

3. Rosa Mexicano 60 Riverside Square Mall Hackensack 201.489.9100 rosamexicano.com

MOVIE THEATER

1. AMC Theatres 4000 Garden State Plaza Blvd. Paramus 201.291.8524

75 Challenger Rd. Ridgefield Park 551.999.6481 amctheatres.com

2. Westwood Cinemas 182 Center Ave. Westwood 201.664.3200 westwoodmoviehouse. com

3. IPIC Theaters 2023 Hudson St. Fort Lee 201.582.7100 ipic.com

NATURE CENTER

1. Tenafly Nature Center 313 Hudson Ave. Tenafly 201.568.6093 tenaflynaturecenter.org

2. James A. McFaul Environmental Center 150 Crescent Ave. Wyckoff 201.891.5571 facebook.com/McFaul EnvironmentalCenter

3. Closter Nature Center 154 Ruckman Rd. Closter 201.750.2778 closternaturecenter.org

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

1. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

2. The Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar 84 Broadway Hillsdale 201.666.8688 thecornerstonenj.com

3. Lou’s Tavern 74 Broadway Hillsdale 201.666.2103 facebook.com/Lous TavernNJ/

RECEPTION HALL

1. The Rockleigh (TIE) 26 Paris Ave. Rockleigh 201.768.7171 therockleigh.net

1. Seasons Catering (TIE) 644 Pascack Rd. Washington Township 201.664.6141 seasonscatering.com

2. The Venetian 546 River Dr. Garfield 973.546.2250 venetiannj.com

CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

1. Ginger Kids 351 Center Ave. Westwood 201.358.5437 gingerncream.com

If your little one loves playing dress up with your clothes, why not fill their own closet with the same chic styles? This Westwood shop has swimsuits, jackets, stylin’ accessories and so much more, making it the perfect place to shop for children of any age. Be sure to check out their website and social media pages to see the latest collections as they arrive.

3. Edgewood Country Club 449 Rivervale Rd. River Vale 201.666.1200 edgewoodnj.com

SPORTS BAR

1. Biggie’s 430 Rte. 17 S. Carlstadt 201.933.4000 biggies.com

2. The Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar 84 Broadway Hillsdale 201.666.8688 thecornerstonenj.com

3. Miller’s Ale House 270 Rte. 4 E. Paramus 201.342.4800 millersalehouse.com

SHOPPING

APPLIANCES

1. Oberg & Lindquist 671 Broadway Westwood 201.664.1300 obergandlindquist.com

2. P.C. Richard & Son 317 Rte. 17 S. Paramus 201.262.7676 pcrichard.com

3. Reno’s Appliance* 235 McLean Blvd. Paterson 973.247.1860 renosappliance.com

BABY CLOTHES

1. Ginger Kids 351 Center Ave. Westwood 201.358.5437 gingerncream.com

2. Carter’s 2701 Bergen Town Center Ste. 7 Paramus 201.556.1049 carters.com

3. Little Nikki’s 618 N. Maple Ave. Ho-Ho-Kus 201.445.7888

BIKE SHOP

1. Westwood Cycle 182 3rd Ave. Westwood 201.664.1688 westwoodcycle.com

2. Ridgewood Cycle Shop 35 N. Broad St. Ridgewood 201.444.2553 ridgewoodcycle.com

3. Cyclesport 1 Hawthorne Ave. Park Ridge 201.391.5269 cyclesportonline.com

BRIDAL SHOPPING

1.Bijou Bridal & Special Occasion 393 Rte. 17 S. Paramus 201.262.8889 bijoubridal.com

2. Jaehee Bridal 66 N. Van Brunt St. Englewood 201.541.0077 jaeheebridal.com

3. Rosi’s Bridal 9 Sheridan Ave. Ho-Ho-Kus 201.857.4958 rosisbridalstudio.com

CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

1. Ginger Kids 351 Center Ave. Westwood 201.358.5437 gingerncream.com

2. Denny’s 34 E. Ridgewood Ave. Paramus 201.444.4459 shopdennys.com

3. Little Nikki’s 618 N. Maple Ave. Ho-Ho-Kus 201.445.7888

INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE

1. Bookends 211 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.445.0726 book-ends.com

2. Books & Greetings 271 Livingston St. Northvale 201.784.2665 booksandgreetings.com

3. The Curious Reader 229 Rock Rd. Glen Rock 201.444.1918 thecuriousreaderbooks. com

CONSIGNMENT/ VINTAGE CLOTHING

1. Fabulous Finds 186 Center Ave. Westwood 201.263.1766 fabulousfindsnj.com

FINE JEWELRY

1. LaViano Jewelers 175 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.0616 lavianojewelers.com

Stop going to Manhattan to find luxury jewelry— the displays at this family-owned jeweler and watch dealer are filled with all the highend brands you want. Looking for a custom piece? LaViano, in operation since 1945, also designs a large amount of their own merchandise.

3. Lighting Superstore 678 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.445.4700 lightingsuperstore.com

LINGERIE

1. Victoria’s Secret Multiple locations victoriassecret.com

2. WOB Lingerie 920 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.265.6116

365 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.560.9800 woblingerie.com

3. Chantilly Lace 253 Everett Ave. Wyckoff 201.847.8747 braswyckoffnj.wordpress. com

MALL

2. Papillon Menswear 390 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack 347.843.2362 simon.com/mall/theshops-at-riverside/stores/ papillon-menswear

3. Vero Uomo 26 E. Palisade Ave. Englewood 201.894.1424 verouomonj.com

NURSERY/GARDEN CENTER

1. Metropolitan Plant and Flower Exchange 2125 Fletcher Ave. Fort Lee 201.944.1050

840 Rte. 17 N Paramus 201.445.7101 metroplantexchange.com

2. Ye Olde Thrift Shoppe 330 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.261.4247 ye-olde-thrift-shoppe. business.site

3. Current Consignment Boutique 166 Fairview Ave. Westwood 201.664.2767 currentconsignment.com

FINE JEWELRY

1. LaViano Jewelers 175 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.0616 lavianojewelers.com

2. Red Velvet Luxe 59 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.689.1800 redvelvetluxe.com

3. Devon Fine Jewelry 303 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.848.8489 devonfinejewelry.com

GIFT SHOP

1. Ginger N’ Cream 350 Center Ave. Westwood 201.664.2440 gingerncream.com

2. Haworth Apothecary 169 Terrace St. Haworth 201.384.7171 haworthapothecary.com

3. Pazzazed Gift & Home 826 Franklin Ave. Franklin Lakes 201.485. 8022

6 Wilsey Square Ridgewood 201.857.5004 pazzazed.com

HARDWARE

1. Home Hardware & Supply 27 Franklin Tpke. Waldwick 201.652.5666 homehardwaresupply. com

2. Ramsey Hardware & Paint 14 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.327.0433 ramseyhardware.com

3. Benjamin Brothers True Value Hardware 121 N. Summit St. Tenafly 201.569.5445

INDEPENDENT HEALTH FOOD STORE

1. Organica Natural Foods 246 Livingston St. Northvale 201.767.8182 organicanaturalfoods.com

2. A&A Health Food Center (TIE) 216 Godwin Ave. Midland Park 201.447.3130

2. Healthway Natural Foods (TIE) 35 Riveredge Rd. Tenafly 201.569.4558 healthwaynatural.com

LIGHTING

1. Wyckoff Lighting Center 390 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.891.3600 wyckofflightingcenter.com

2. Capitol Lighting 75 Rte. 17 S. Paramus 201.843.5353 1800lighting.com

1. Garden State Plaza One Garden State Plaza Paramus 201.843.2121 westfield.com

2. Paramus Park 700 Paramus Park Paramus 201.261.6108 paramuspark.com

3. The Shops at Riverside 390 Hackensack Ave. Hackensack 201.489.2212 simon.com

MATTRESS STORE

1. Westwood Sleep Centers 30 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.358.8282

2. Mattress Firm Multiple locations mattressfirm.com

3. Duxiana 63 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.670.4488 duxiana.com

MEN’S FASHION

1. Sal Lauretta for Men 621 Godwin Ave. Midland Park 201.444.1666 sallauretta.com

2. Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery 100 Franklin Tpke. Allendale 201.327.3156 rohslers.com

3. Eisele’s Nursery & Garden 232 Oradell Ave. Paramus 201.262.1015 eiselesnursery.com

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

1. Fortunoff Backyard Store (TIE) 141 Rte. 17 S. Paramus 201.262.1700 fortunoffbys.com

1. Backyard Living (TIE) 235 Franklin Ave. Ridgewood 201.689.9111 bylnj.com

2. Ski Barn 846 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.445.9070 skibarn.com

PAINT STORE

1. Norton’s Paint 632 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.447.4747 nortonspaint.com

Photo courtesy

MEN’S FASHION

1. Sal Lauretta for Men

621 Godwin Ave. Midland Park

201.444.1666

sallauretta.com

Guys looking for the finest menswear in the world will find everything they want at this Midland Park boutique. The pieces here, from suits and sportcoats to outerwear and shoes, are all crafted with the same time-honored techniques used by European tailors of yesteryear. Want to look as sharp as Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart? Sal Lauretta has the looks for you!

Photo courtesy of Sal Lauretta

PET BOUTIQUE

1. Fur the Love of Pets, 32 Kinderkamack Rd., Oradell, 201.599.9500, furtheloveofpets.com

Not only does this Oradell groomer provide salon services for your furry friend, they also have a top-notch boutique for the stylish pup in your life. While your doggo is getting his or her nails trimmed and fur brushed, pick out a few adorable sweaters, raincoats and more so you can reward your good boy or girl.

Photo courtesy of Fur The Love Of Pets

2. Waldwick Paint & Wallpaper Company 28 E. Prospect St. Waldwick 201.444.2882 waldwickpaint.com

3. Sherwin-Williams Multiple locations sherwin-williams.com

PET BOUTIQUE

1. Fur the Love of Pets 32 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.599.9500 furtheloveofpets.com

2. Westwood Pets Unlimited 15 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.666.7111 westwoodpets unlimited.com

3. Woof Gang Bakery 84 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale 201.236.9663

190 New Rock Rd. Glen Rock 201.444.9663 woofgangbakery.com

SHOES

1. DSW 60 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.291.0505

235 Interstate Shopping Center Ramsey 201.669.3053 dsw.com

2. Gardiner & Co 10 Van Neste Square Ridgewood 201.447.0910 facebook.com/ gardinerandcompany/

3. Shoe-Inn 101 Vervalen St. Closter 201.660.8440

53 E. Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood 201.493.9696 shoeinn.com

SHOPPING DESTINATION

1. Tice’s Corner 441 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Woodcliff Lake 203.221.8148 ticescorner.com

2. Downtown Ridgewood

3. Downtown Westwood

SKI SHOP

1. Mount Everest 318 3rd Ave. Westwood 201.664.2500 ridemteverest.com

2. Ski Barn 846 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.445.9070 skibarn.com

3. Campmor 810 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.445.5000 campmor.com

TILE STORE

1. Wayne Tile Company 50 Spring St. Ramsey 201.825.8000 waynetile.com

2. John P. Fischer Tiles* (TIE) 1096 Goffle Rd. Hawthorne 973.427.7870 johnpfischertile.com

2. Fuda Tile (TIE) Multiple locations fudatile.com

3. Artistic Tile 727 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.671.6100 artistictile.com

TOYS

1. Tons of Toys 315 Franklin Ave. Wyckoff 201.847.9317

140 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.497.6497 tonsoftoys.com

2. Toys “R” Us 1 American Dream Way East Rutherford 551.600.8697 facebook.com/toysrus americandream/

3. Target Multiple locations target.com

WINE SHOP

1. Stew Leonard’s 700 Paramus Park Paramus 201.649.0888 stewleonards.com

2. Gary’s Wine & Marketplace 67 Vervalen St. Closter 201.297.5000 garyswine.com

3. Total Wine & More 1001 Main St. River Edge 201.968.1777 totalwine.com

WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE

1. Ginger N’ Cream 350 Center Ave. Westwood 201.664.2440 gingerncream.com

2. Hartly 104 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.3111 hartlyfashions.com

3. GITO 5 E. Palisade Ave. Englewood 201.541.7300 gitostores.com

BLOWOUT

1. Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar

Multiple locations moxiesalonand beautybar.com

The team at Moxie isn’t simply a staff of hair stylists—they’re artists. The salon offers a full range of hair services, including coloring, extensions and blowouts. With a personable and expert staff, Moxie has perfected the art of making your hair look its best.

BEAUTY AIRBRUSH TAN

1. Tanique Suntan Salon 340 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.265.7351 tanique.com

2. Florescence Salon & Day Spa 171 E. Saddle River Rd. Saddle River 201.327.0222 florescencesalon.com

BARBER

1. Ray’s Barber Pole 137 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.880.7444 rays-barber-pole.business. site

2. The B Hive Organic Salon 269 Broadway Hillsdale 201.890.4416 bhiveorganicsalon.com

3. The Stag House 67 E. Allendale Rd. Saddle River 201.670.0110 njstaghouse.com

BLOWOUT

1. Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar Multiple locations moxiesalonandbeautybar. com

2. Florescence Salon & Day Spa (TIE) 171 E. Saddle River Rd. Saddle River 201.327.0222 florescencesalon.com

2. Mania Hair Studio (TIE) 62 Park Ave. Park Ridge 201.391.3947 maniahair.com

2. RLO SALON (TIE) 327 Franklin Ave., Ste. 15 Wyckoff 201.891.1717 rlosalon.com

3. Bella’s Beauté Studio 272 Olde River Rd. Edgewater 201.383.9743 bellasbeautestudio.com

DAY SPA

1. Pamper & Polish Day Spa 116 Broadway Woodcliff Lake 201.782.0277 pamperandpolishdayspa. com

2. The Fountain Spa 10 Riverside Square Mall Hackensack 201.327.5155

1100 Rte. 17 N. Ramsey 201.327.5155 thefountainspa.com

3. Araya Rebirth Spa 10 Garber Sq. Ridgewood 201.445.7005 araya-rebirth.com

EYEBROW SHAPING

1. Pamper & Polish Day Spa 116 Broadway Woodcliff Lake 201.782.0277 pamperandpolishdayspa. com

2. Araya Rebirth Spa 10 Garber Sq. Ridgewood 201.445.7005 araya-rebirth.com

3. European Wax Center Multiple locations waxcenter.com

FACIAL

1. Pamper & Polish Day Spa 116 Broadway Woodcliff Lake 201.782.0277 pamperandpolishdayspa. com

2. Araya Rebirth Spa 10 Garber Sq. Ridgewood 201.445.7005 araya-rebirth.com

FITNESS

1. Femme 34 Commerce Rd. Hackensack 201.549.5200 femmenj.com

2. Donofrio Fitness 370 Franklin Tpke. Mahwah 201.252.2259 donofriofitness.com

3. Retro Fitness Multiple locations retrofitness.com

FITNESS

1. Femme 34 Commerce Way Hackensack 201.549.5200 femmenj.com

Hey, ladies: Whether you prefer to work out on your own or in a group setting, you can set up your perfect fitness routine at this specialized health club. The facility—made by women for women—features cardio and strength equipment, a studio and nutritional guidance with certified professionals. Stop by to work out in a comfortable setting and get on track for your healthiest self.

3. Bella’s Beauté Studio 272 Olde River Rd. Edgewater 201.383.9743 bellasbeautestudio.com

YOGA

1. Femme 34 Commerce Rd. Hackensack 201.549.5200 femmenj.com

2. Powerflow Yoga 530 S. Broad St. Glen Rock 201.444.4852 powerflow-yoga.com

3. Shree Yoga 3 Barnstable Ct. Saddle River 201.822.1131 shreeyoga.com

SERVICES CAR WASH

1. Urban Auto Spa 827 Franklin Ave. Franklin Lakes 201.560.1144

INTERIOR DESIGN

1. Laurie DiGiacomo Interiors

4 Franklin Ave. Ridgewood 201.755.9640 lauriedigiacomointeriors. com

2. Wostbrock Home 225 Goffle Rd. Ridgewood 201.445.0807 wostbrockhome.com

3. Diane Durocher 375 S. Central Ave. Ramsey 201.825.3832 dianedurocherinteriors. com

FLORIST

1. River Dell Flowers & Gifts 241 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.262.8118 riverdellflowers.com

HAIR COLORIST

1. The B Hive Organic Salon 269 Broadway Hillsdale 201.470.4483 bhiveorganicsalon.com

2. Eric Alt Salon 77 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale 201.438.0900 ericaltsalon.com

3. Florescence Salon & Day Spa 171 E. Saddle River Rd. Saddle River 201.327.0222 florescencesalon.com

INDOOR CYCLING/ SPINNING

1. Cyclebar Multiple locations cyclebar.com

MAKEUP APPLICATION

1. Araya Rebirth 10 Garber Sq. Ridgewood 201.445.7005 araya-rebirth.com

2. Beauty by Alexa Rae 15 Sheridan Ave. Ho-Ho-Kus 201.713.6938 beautybyalexarae.com

3. Florescence Salon & Day Spa 171 E. Saddle River Rd. Saddle River 201.327.0222 florescencesalon.com

MASSAGE

1. Pamper & Polish Day Spa 116 Broadway Woodcliff Lake 201.782.0277 pamperandpolishdayspa. com

2. The Fountain Spa 10 Riverside Square Mall Hackensack 201.327.5155

1100 Rte. 17 N. Ramsey 201.327.5155 thefountainspa.com

PILATES STUDIO

1. Femme 34 Commerce Rd. Hackensack 201.549.5200 femmenj.com

2. Club Pilates Multiple locations clubpilates.com

3. Pilates Place 808 High Mountain Rd. Ste. 213 Franklin Lakes pilatesplacenj.com

REFLEXOLOGY

1. Sole Revival Reflexology 790 Kinderkamack Rd. River Edge 201.261.0003 solerevivalreflexology.com

2. Araya Rebirth 10 Garber Sq. Ridgewood 201.445.7005 araya-rebirth.com

3. Namaste Organic Spa 30 Franklin Ave. Ridgewood 201.857.3646 namasteridgewood.com

SALON

1. The B Hive Organic Salon 269 Broadway Hillsdale 201.470.4483 bhiveorganicsalon.com

2. Mania Hair Salon 62 Park Ave. Park Ridge 201.391.3947 maniahair.com

785 Rte. 17 S. Ramsey 201.327.8660 urbanautospa.com

2. Westwood Car Wash 20 Lake St. Westwood 201.664.0996 westwoodcarwashnj.com

3. Ridgewood Auto Wash 450 S. Broad St. Glen Rock 201.444.6037 ridgewoodautowash.com

CLOSET DESIGN

1. The Container Store 370 Rte. 17 N. Paramus 201.265.9004 containerstore.com

2. California Closets* 4 Gardner Rd. Fairfield 973.882.3800 californiaclosets.com

3. Closets by Design 40 Veterans Blvd. Carlstadt 201.964.9600 closetsbydesign.com

2. Allendale Flowers 72 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale 201.962.7272 allendaleflowers.com

3. Perry’s Florist 660 Harristown Rd. Glen Rock 201.445.5668 perrysflorist.net

JEWELRY REPAIR

1. LaViano Jewelers 175 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.664.0616 lavianojewelers.com

2. John Pierre Jewelers 125 Washington Ave. Dumont 201.384.5573 johnpierrejewelersnj.com

3. Callahan Jewelers 220 Closter Dock Rd. Closter 201.768.6136 callahanjewelers diamondrings.com

FLORIST

River Dell Flowers & Gifts, 241 Kinderkamack Rd., Oradell, 201.262.8118, riverdellflowers.com

Everyone should remember the last time they received flowers, and this neighborhood florist ensures every bouquet you give is a memorable one. Opened in 1964, the shop specializes in making all your special occasions beautiful. They offer a variety of ways to present the flowers, and each will make a loved one smile.

Photo courtesy of River Dell Flowers

KITCHEN REMODELER

1. Ulrich Inc. 100 Chestnut St. Ridgewood 201.445.1260 ulrichinc.com

2. Kitchen & Bath Vision Inc 401 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.262.0081 kitchenandbathvision.com

3. Ken Bauer Kitchens 277 Broadway Hillsdale 201.664.6881 kenbauer.com

PET GROOMER

1. Fur the Love of Pets 32 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell 201.599.9500

KITCHEN REMODELER

1. Ulrich Inc. 100 Chestnut St. Ridgewood 201.445.1260 ulrichinc.com

The heart of every home is the kitchen, and Ulrich Inc. is committed to making yours the very best for you and your family. Their obligation to you continues even after their work is done: Ulrich is always available to answer all questions concerning your kitchen’s new design, appliances and more. That’s their commitment to kitchen excellence.

2. Kathy Santo Dog Training 21 Harrison Ave. Waldwick 201.512.8316 kathysantodog training.com

3. Pet A Groom 25 N. Spruce St. Ramsey 201.818.2554

PET RESORT

1. Kathy Santo Dog Training 21 Harrison Ave. Waldwick 201.512.8316 kathysantodog training.com

2. Camp Bow Wow 95 Greenwood Ave. Midland Park 201.882.0186

53 Midland Ave. Elmwood Park campbowwow.com

3.The Madison Dog Resort & Spa 150 Franklin Tpke. Waldwick 201.445.7297 themadisondogresort. com

PICTURE FRAMING

1. Westwood Gallery 10 Westwood Ave. Westwood 201.666.1800 westwoodartgallery.com

2. Michaels Multiple locations michaels.com

POOL SERVICE

1. B&B Pool and Spa Center * 787 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Chestnut Ridge, N.Y. 845.356.0778 bbpoolandspa.info

2. Our Pool Company 64 Godwin Ave. Midland Park 201.857.4747 ourpool.company

3. The Pool Company 173 Rivervale Rd. River Vale 201.722.1765 servicemypool.com

TUTORING

1. Sylvan Learning Center of Fair Lawn 33-00 Broadway Ste. 302 Fair Lawn 201.254.0629 sylvanlearning.com

2. Sylvan Learning Center of Teaneck 1086 Teaneck Rd. Teaneck 201.645.4325 sylvanlearning.com

3. Tutor Doctor of North Jersey 4 Wilsey Sq. Ridgewood 201.468.8186 tutordoctor.com/ bergen-rockland/

VETERINARY CENTER

1. Oradell Animal Hospital 580 Winters Ave. Paramus 201.262.0010 oradell.com

2. Bergen County Veterinary Center 120 Hopper Ave. Waldwick 201.447.4444 bergencounty veterinarycenter.com

3. VCA Old Tappan Veterinary Hospital 598 Broadway Norwood 201.750.1800 vcahospitals.com/ old-tappan

IT HAPPENS EVERY FALL

10 BERGENITES SHARE THE AUTUMN TRADITIONS THEY CHERISH EACH YEAR.

What is it about fall that gets New Jerseyans so fired up? For sure, it’s partly the excuse to drink pumpkin spice lattes daily, to bring the oversized sweaters out of the cedar closet, to snatch (and maybe share) photos of smiley, plaid-clad kids against a backdrop of changing leaves. But for many of us there’s an indefinable something more. Those kids will be different next year, and so will we. But some of the things we enjoy doing will be gloriously the same. They’re our fall rituals. Different from family to family, they’re each year’s gift to the next. They’re our tip of the hat to continuity and remembrance in a world where change is the iron rule.

BERGEN asked 10 readers what they and their families do each autumn:

LOOKING AT LEAVES.

“For the past eight years, my husband Ronny, our kids, Avery, 8, and Dylan, 5, and I have embraced a colorful autumn tradition: leaf-peeping. When our children were just tiny adventurers, we embarked on more challenging hikes, carrying them safely in backpacks. We climbed Stairway to Heaven in Vernon, N.J., and Giant Ledge in the Catskills. As our little ones grew older and yearned to explore on their own, we shortened our hikes for their little feet and energy levels. We hiked smaller trails such as Bear Mountain, Shaverstown and Kelly Hollow, which became some of our go-to favorites. Now, as our kids grow and their endurance increases, we check forecasts to find the optimal weekend when the foliage reaches its peak, and we research and identify the grandest vantage points to see nature’s kaleidoscope of trees. My husband, an enthusiast photographer, tirelessly captures these moments, while I, an amateur painter, attempt to portray these images on canvas.”

—Shuli Luss, 43, Glen Rock

PUMPKIN CARVING PARTIES.

“Every Saturday before Halloween, I throw a party at my house where family members and some close friends bring pumpkins, and we carve them together. We either cook or order in, and my adult guests and I bake Halloween-themed treats and desserts (and prepared fall cocktails for the adults). At the end of the party we light all the pumpkins up, shut off all the lights and take pictures. I’ve been doing this since about 2007 with my niece and nephews; my daughter was born in 2009, and I’ve kept it up ever since. Just a tip for anyone who wants to try this: Things can get messy, and you will find pumpkin guts in unexpected places the next day!”

ATTENDING A MUSIC FESTIVAL.

“There’s a music festival in the Catskills every fall called Woodsist Festival, run by the owners of the independent Woodsist record label. It’s a newer tradition for my fiancée Allison and me. We’ve gone the past two years, and we plan to go back this year. It’s a folk-rock, psychedelicrock, indie-rock grassroots concert at a brewery called Arrowood Farms. It’s always a family vibe with kids running around. It’s really fun, and very festive for the season.”

—Jerome Lissmann, 34, Closter

MAKING A FAMILY RECIPE.

“Every fall we go apple picking and then make my grandmother Judy’s apple crisp recipe, which took her a long time to perfect. I’ve been making it since she was diagnosed with cancer—I needed to get it right before she died. I actually didn’t get it right until after she died, but I’ve never gotten it wrong since then! It’s a simple yet delicious recipe and makes me think of my grandma and all the amazing meals she made for us. The instructions include, ‘Lick fingers when drenched in butter and brown sugar.’”

—Justine Berra, 47, Upper Saddle River

—Emily Austein, 37, Ridgewood

GOING ALL-OUT WITH HALLOWEEN DECORATIONS.

“My family and I have always loved decorating for Halloween, and I apparently have a talent for creating very detailed mini scenes around the yard, on the house, on the back of my truck and, last year, even on the roof. I’ve done a Stranger Things-themed display at our home for three years now. Each year I add more and do something different. Our display has been featured on Weird NJ, Pix11 and News 12 NJ, and in 2022 we won the townwide house decorating contest for the second consecutive year. It’s very emotional for me because the stuff I put on display is like artwork. I’m making it by hand; I’m spending hours planning its final spot in the yard, changing poses, battling the weather, creating unique lighting effects that enhance it all. It makes me feel very vulnerable, but it’s been worth it for the smiles, the stories, the friends made and the camaraderie. I know there’s going to be a day when I’ll have to kill the lights and pack it up for good. So—for now—I want to continue the memories made for my daughter, my wife and other families around Bergen County.”

—Dave Carota, 41, Fair Lawn

PUMPKIN PICKING.

“Every fall since I was pregnant with my older daughter, Sophia, who’s now 9, we’ve been going pumpkin picking at the same farm that my husband, Roman, went to as a kid more than 40 years ago: Jenkins-Lueken Orchards in New Paltz, N.Y. And we wear matching family outfits (along with my younger daughter, Sonia, who’s 5). We lost Roman’s mother two years ago, so we always pick a pumpkin for her and put it out by her tree, which we purchased at the farm stand across the street and planted in her memory. Then we eat at our favorite German restaurant, Mountain Brauhaus. The air is so fresh there and there’s so much open space—I hope my two daughters will be doing this tradition with their kids one day.”

—Theda Kruty, 38, Lyndhurst

VISITING A BOTANICAL RAILROAD.

“We go to the Holiday Train Show at Bronx Botanical Garden every year. They use only organic materials found within the Bronx Botanical Garden to build miniature replicas of NYC architecture and landmarks. We started going when our first child, Cole, was 1, and have gone back each year since. Cole, 7, and our daughter, Evi, 6, love going every year, and it’s been so interesting to see how they respond and find different aspects of the show to enjoy as they grow. When they were little, following the trains was a favorite, but now, finding their favorite NYC locations has become the highlight.”

—Becky Favelyukis, 38, Ridgewood

GOING TO LIGHT SHOWS.

“Every year we go as a family with my son Giovanni, now age 3, to Demarest Farms to partake in its fabulously spooky Halloween drive-through light show. We start off by popping into the farm store for some goodies such as the famous applecider doughnuts. Next we get in line and see all the wonderful lights and decorations they’ve created for the fall season. My son absolutely loves fall and Halloween, and we love to see his eyes light up at all the decorations.”

—Michelle Cortazzo, 37, Glen Rock

APPLE PICKING.

“I started some fall traditions when my 14-year-old daughter Mia was a baby. Since 2012 we’ve been going to Weed Orchards & Winery in Marlboro, N.Y. This pick-your-own farm is our one-stop-shop where we pick apples, sit on the Adirondack chairs enjoying our apple cider donuts and frozen apple cider slushies and indulge in delicious food like the peach and prosciutto flatbread. We then go home and create Pinterest-style desserts with our abundance of apples—for instance, loaded apple nachos topped with caramel sauce and chocolate chips.”

BLASTING BRUCE.

“What kicks off the autumnal season for us is celebrating the equinox! Every year, we spend the last weekend of the summer at Long Beach Island and toast the harvest moon. We put our kids, Kellen and Kensley, to bed, and my husband Brendan and I blast Bruce Springsteen on the roof deck with red wine. The giant orange symbol of the moon excites us for the fun waiting for us when we arrive back home in Bergen County.”

—Kate Sullivan, 34, Emerson

—Nicole Ward, 35, Lyndhurst

KEEPING DOWNTOWNS VITAL

On a simmering Thursday afternoon in late summer, foot traffic on Rutherford’s Park Avenue was virtually nonexistent. Still, you couldn’t help noticing that this was a thriving downtown, as you passed music stores and a painting studio, a German bakery, cafés, several day spas, a taqueria, a kabob shop, a pancake house, a gorgeous French bistro and enough other eateries, high-end and low-, to satisfy what clearly must be a very hungry populace. A short drive to Union Avenue on Rutherford’s west side, however, revealed a slew of vacant storefronts, their windows papered or soaped over or simply devoid of any sign that businesses might once have prospered there—or struggled, as the case may be.

In fact, a walk through most of Bergen’s downtowns is likely to reveal similarly empty storefronts, with some towns doing a better job of filling them than others. The phenomenon isn’t new—the small retail businesses that line main streets throughout the county have been struggling for years in the face of a number of

factors that have changed the way consumers get their goods, from malls (now struggling themselves) to online shopping. The pandemic, of course, delivered the coup de grace to many small local businesses. Joanne Cimiluca, director of Bergen County Economic Development, says that “the governor’s executive order closing businesses during the height of COVID for safety reasons unfortunately caused some businesses to close permanently due to loss of revenue during the time they couldn’t operate.” And she cites indirect effects of the pandemic as well, including inflation, rising interest rates, supply-chain issues and escalating rents, all of which have made doing business on Main Street a challenge over the past few years.

Still, downtowns aren’t likely to disappear. They’re not just a source of ratables for towns; they offer something that ordering a pair of socks or a Crock-Pot from Amazon simply can’t: a sense of community. “Personally,” says Louise Van Osten, president of the Ramsey Chamber of Commerce, “I think it’s fun. It’s always

great to be able to walk in and out of shops and restaurants and see neighbors and know who the business owners are and develop relationships with them.”

Thriving downtowns draw new residents as well as visitors, who spend money there and thus provide an economic boost. And the stores’ power of attraction has a cumulative effect— make a planned visit to one establishment on an errand, and you may drop in on one of its neighboring stores spontaneously on the way— or the way back. Congenial, walkable downtowns help give Bergen an appeal that is lacking in suburban areas that boast only strip malls and parking lots—an appeal that, along with good schools, transportation and other services, supports residential property values. These are among the reasons why towns are working hard to fill their empty storefronts and keep ongoing businesses in place. Their efforts vary, from familiar methods of boosterism to new approaches that are actually changing the faces of the towns where they’re applied:

To maintain its distinctive quality of life, Bergen County must tackle the problem of empty storefronts. Some towns are trying imaginative solutions.

BY LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF

IMPORTING CUSTOMERS

One of the most effective ways of attracting new retailers and keeping old ones from closing up shop is to place customers directly in their midst, as Hackensack has done over the past decade through the construction of a series of downtown luxury residential rental buildings. “There are thousands of brand-new luxury rentals available on Main Street,” says John Peters, executive director of Hackensack’s Main Street Business Alliance (also known as The Sack Business Alliance). “So right now we have a brand-new built-in market, and those folks are looking for new places to eat, to do takeout, to shop.” Of course, this isn’t an option for communities that lack the space and/or the public support to build apartments in the center of their downtowns. But like Iconic Coffee, the café that opened this summer directly across from The Brick, a new luxury rental high-rise, businesses may be more willing to move into an area where customers live and, these days, work among them.

GIVING STOREFRONTS FACELIFTS

In 2022, Fair Lawn began a pilot program to improve the facades of its downtown shops, offering eligible businesses $10,000 grants to improve signage and other street-facing elements. The grants cover both the cost of the construction and the initial design, whose purpose is to better communicate with shoppers what they’re going to find beyond those storefronts. In addition, the improved facades are designed to attract new customers. And, says Fair Lawn Councilmember Gail Rottenstrich, “It sends the message that Fair Lawn is very supportive of its local businesses.”

OFFERING FREE RENT

This year, Hackensack launched an initiative called Pop-Up on Main, through which prospective businesses can get two months’ free rent in certain spaces. Most of these businesses, says Peters, will likely be looking to stay in those spaces longterm, though some may end up being seasonal pop-ups—shops whose wares are, for example, holiday-related, like Christmas decorations. The main impetus for the initiative, Peters explains, “is to connect entrepreneurs with landlords, and to get aspiring business owners to feel a little bit more at ease about opening.” To reinforce that sense of comfort, the Main Street Business Alliance will walk would-be entrepreneurs through the entire process of starting a retail business in Hackensack,

from securing a façade grant to promoting through social media and other marketing avenues.

MAKING REOPENINGS GRANDER

Grand openings, certainly, are a way to make customers aware that a new business has moved into the area. But in Rutherford, grand reopenings are equally important. If an existing business has changed its focus or expanded its fare, the town’s chamber of commerce will broadcast that change with an official “grand reopening” celebration. Jennifer Ersalesi, executive secretary of Rutherford’s chamber, cites the example of a pizza parlor that was on the verge of shuttering after the height of the pandemic. Instead, the shop decided to expand its menu beyond pizza and offer catering as well. The chamber arranged a grand reopening that allowed customers to sample the new menu items, check out the catering menu and meet the business owner and his employees.

DIVIDING TO CONQUER

Ridgewood has one of the most vibrant downtowns in the county, thanks in large part to some of the area’s most popular restaurants. There are, says Tony Damiano, president of The Ridgewood Guild, very few empty storefronts in downtown Ridgewood, with the exception of large spaces that are 2,000 square feet or bigger, some of them former banks. “Most retailers,” he says, “aren’t going to take a chance and open a 3,000-square-foot store. And a 3,000-square-foot restaurant is kind of big, especially if you don’t have a liquor license.” But Damiano is currently talking with the owners of some of these buildings about subdividing them, which would make the spaces more appealing to new business owners who can’t imagine sustaining the large rent that a large store would command. Another option, says Damiano, is to open a marketplace with multiple vendors in the more expansive spaces. He helped organize a warehouse sale with a variety of sellers in the old Capital One building—a 6,000-square-foot behemoth of a space—and though it was only a one-day event, he says it was wildly successful.

CALLING ALL CUSTOMERS

A more traditional method of boosting business, with the ultimate goal of keeping standing businesses in place, is to stage events that appeal to large numbers of shoppers and diners. For example, Celebrate Westwood, a nonprofit organization whose mission

is to promote the town and its business district, sponsors regular events such as Music on the Avenues, a summer series that brings in buskers to perform throughout the shopping district. “Its goal,” says Lauren Letizia, the organization’s co-chair, “is to encourage increased foot traffic, lingering, strolling, shopping and outdoor dining.” Similarly, Englewood’s Sizzling Sidewalks promotion this summer invited local artists and artisans to sell their wares alongside the town’s established retailers.

GOING HOLISTIC

Another reason that Hackensack’s downtown is thriving, says Peters, is that it takes a “holistic” approach to its businesses and business districts. “It can’t be done in little pieces—the city does its part and the alliance does its part, and nobody ever talks to one another,” he says. A week doesn’t go by, Peters reports, that he doesn’t confer with the mayor, the deputy mayor, the city manager, the deputy city manager, the zoning department and the health department “to kick around ideas.” One of those ideas became the city’s Block Ambassador Program, in which every block in the downtown has an appointed business owner who’s responsible for walking the block twice a month and reporting things that could mar the shopping experience—a broken window, a rusty railing, an unwanted sticker on a store window. When someone reported gum on the sidewalk, the alliance initiated a program in which all the downtown sidewalks were power-washed and workmen got down on their hands and knees to scrape up wads of gum.

RELAXING LOCAL ORDINANCES

To a local business owner, it can sometimes seem as if the powers that be are more interested in putting up roadblocks than in smoothing the road. Many towns in the county, for example, have ordinances that discourage or prohibit outdoor dining. But if the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that people like to eat outside when the weather’s nice. In Westwood, with that in mind, the Mayor’s Economic Recovery Advisory group succeeded in passing a series of resolutions enabling an expansion of outdoor dining and shopping. “The governor’s subsequent executive order relaxing local ordinance restrictions looked very much like what the Westwood mayor and council had already put in place,” says Letizia. There’s a lesson in that: If there’s one move that can help downtowns thrive, it’s giving the people what they want.

Setting The Scene

Nestled in the Catskills, a Ridgewood family’s vacation home invited a redesign that would showcase nature in all its glory, from apple orchards to majestic mountains.

Design by Jeannie Fulton, Ulrich Inc.

Photography by Dove Photography

Text by Donna Rolando

Even a masterpiece of a home design would find it hard to compete with the view of an eagles’ nest from the kitchen window, or hundred-year-old apple trees perfect for cider. But fortunately for designer Jeannie Fulton of Ridgewood-based Ulrich Inc., her mission at a Ridgewood family’s vacation home in Hardenburgh, N.Y., was not to compete but to let the rustic flavor of an early-1900s farmhouse, its accompanying barn and its tranquil setting take the spotlight.

In this relaxed environment, where the family has savored opportunities to detox from technology since 2014, Fulton took on a renovation that would preserve the farmhouse vibe, enhance space for cooking and entertaining and, at every opportunity, max the view.

“We wanted better views of the scenery,” the wife in the homeowning couple explains. “I think the goal was to keep it a farmhouse because that’s what it was originally. We didn’t really want to change the aesthetic of what was there.”

Wherever possible the redesign, completed in July 2022, brought the outside in. As the husband notes, they took pains not to obscure ancient forests with first-floor window treatments. “The whole idea was for the outside— you know, the trees and mountains and all of the stuff going on—to be center stage,” he says.

Committed to a healthy lifestyle that includes canning what they grow, the family wanted their kitchen to support the effort with top appliances like Wolf and Sub-Zero, all new except for the refurbished retro black Viking

stove, which Fulton says they brought “back to life.” Because vacation homes nurture family, the kitchen has a 10-seat wood table as well as an island with fuzzy chairs by Restoration Hardware that epitomize comfort. Both the custom hood and the island top offer handcrafted finishes on stainless steel and brass accents, which “will age naturally over time,” she says. In fact, this patina finish makes the hood by Custom Steel the focal point of the room’s design.

True to the home’s farmhouse roots are a white porcelain farmhouse sink, coffered ceilings and generous mullioned windows, says Fulton. Classic kitchen cabinets in Nordic white contrast with the dark stain of the island’s base for a style statement enhanced by

While keeping in harmony with farmhouse roots and a Catskill Mountains setting, this kitchen was redesigned to make socializing easy-breezy with modern amenities such as a beverage center built into the Nordic white cabinetry. Right:

a

The powder room pays tribute to

cornucopia of brass accents with a style boost from a pedestal sink.

glass-free light fixtures. In addition, Fulton blanketed most of the first floor, including the kitchen, with stained gray hardwood as a common thread.

It’s no surprise that this nature-centric home would thrive on natural touches, such as the slabs of statuary marble on perimeter counters. But Fulton found room for nostalgia, as reflected in the tin ceiling texture of a gold-toned backsplash by Mediterranean Tile. Functionality reigns as well with a walk-in pantry and the new beverage center boasting two refrigerators—one serving up drinks for kids, the other chilling wine for the bar.

Before this redesign, Fulton says, “It looked

like a 100-year-old kitchen. The whole idea was to open it up for entertaining, for cooking—for gatherings.”

The entryway powder room is a marriage of old-world and new-world styles—simplicity and sophistication. It features a treasure trove of diverse brass accents, such as that reflected in the sconces. “We do have a lot of live brass here, which means that it’s not plated, and it will naturally oxidize over time,” Fulton says.

Another statement maker is the pedestal sink, which Fulton describes as “airy yet substantial.” Again, marble is right at home with geometric flooring. Of the wallpaper, Fulton

says, “It’s busy and yet it’s quiet and peaceful.” After all, a woodland refuge set in serenity must stay true to its character.

This family’s getaway is even more the haven they envisioned now that redesign has succeeded in balancing modern amenities, an open, airy aesthetic and farmhouse charm.

“I love all of it,” says the wife. Yet, true to the spirit that brought this family to the Catskills, she loves the dining room most for windows that blur the line between indoors and the great beyond. She embraces the way the home puts them in the middle of it all, from skiing to fly fishing. “Our yard,” she says, “is basically the mountains.”

This page, top: The floor of the renovated guest barn is made of original oak planks as well as matching, custom sourced wood. This page, bottom: The primary bathroom was expanded to include a shower and additional vanity space. Opposite page: While new stainless steel appliances such as a microwave and a range hood by Wolf add a modern touch, existing wood beams preserve the barn’s rustic chic style.

FALL HUES

CHOCOLATE BROWN, RUST ORANGE AND BEIGE ARE THE COLORS OF THE SEASON. BUILD YOUR WARDROBE WITH AUTUMN’S PALETTE IN THESE CLASSIC LOOKS FROM BERGEN BOUTIQUES.

Photography by Daniel Springston Styling by Sebastian Pataric

Top and bracelets by Ginger N’ Cream, Westwood, 201.664.2440. Pants by Apricot Lane, Ridgewood, 201.267.0163

Sweater, earrings and shoes by Ginger N’ Cream, Westwood. Joggers by KD Boutique, Midland Park, 201.857.3677.

Blazer and suit pants by Hartly, Westwood, 201.664.3111. Blouse by KD Boutique, Midland Park. Earrings and shoes by Ginger N’ Cream, Westwood.

Dress by Hartly, Westwood. Earrings, bag and sandals by GInger N’ Cream, Westwood.

Earrings and dress by Ginger N’ Cream, Westwood.

SUMMER’S LAST

Five great beach towns can help you see the season out in style, and they’ve got a lot

This just in: Labor Day is a fraud— at least when it’s promoted as summer’s end. The season concludes with the autumnal equinox, which this year arrives at 2:50 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23. That means that 73 percent of September falls in good old summertime.

Is that fact a “Get Out of School Free” card for your kids? Hardly. But what it can be is inspiration for a late-season weekend trip to a popular beach town in our region. September has days of golden sunshine when the beach is exactly where you’d like to be—without July’s teeming crowds. And yes, there are other days when the sky is gray and a chill in the air hints at impending autumn. But these communities offer a lot more to do than just lolling on the beach itself, making you a winner either way. So, before it’s time to put on sweaters and sip pumpkin spice, you and summer can have one more fling.

Where, did you say? We thought you’d never ask.

OCEAN CITY, N.J.

Traffic eases along the Parkway after Labor Day, so the two-hour drive to this Shore town will be a breeze. And you’ll catch plenty more relaxing wind as you enjoy the attractions at “New Jersey’s favorite beach,” according to a New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium statewide poll. Things to do: September’s cooler weather creates ideal conditions for sports, and this Cape May County town is a haven for almost all athletes. Tennis players are in paradise, as courts on 6th, 18th and 34th streets remain open, while families, friends and couples can enjoy a casual (or competitive) round of minigolf. Those who consider shopping a sport can get a workout hopping from store to store along fashion friendly Asbury Avenue.

Dining out: Fewer tourists means you’ll be able to score a table at popular eateries such as seafood specialists Clancy’s by the Sea and Emily’s Ocean Room Restaurant. Both have fine views of the water.

More information: oceancityvacation.com

BEACH HAVEN, N.J.

Situated in southern Ocean County, this Shore town on Long Beach Island is about two hours and 15 minutes’ travel time from Bergen. Its location on the famed barrier island makes it a perfect spot for families in summer—but those who return for early fall can still enjoy many activities and restaurants.

Things to do: Check out the Long Beach Island Museum, which chronicles the area’s history dating back to the 1800s. Those looking for more traditional ways to have fun can head to Fantasy Island Amusement Park, which is open every Friday through Sunday in September. If you’d rather see a show, The Surflight Theater is staging Grumpy Old Men: The Musical this month.

Dining out: Soak up the relaxed vibes and feast on seafood and steaks at Buckalew’s Restaurant & Tavern, or reserve a table at Black Whale Bar & Fish House for fresh lobster or the “catch of the day.”

More information: welcometolbi.com

HURRAH

CAPE MAY, N.J.

Though famous for its beach and boardwalk, this Shore town on the state’s southern tip (about two hours and 45 minutes from Bergen) stays lively long after the water grows cold. A pedestrian-friendly downtown district is chock-full of mom-and-pop shops, restaurants and historic homes, some of which boast “gingerbread” architecture that dates back to the 1800s.

Things to do: Stop by after beach season for a variety of activities, whether you’re visiting with friends or with your family. Cape May Brewing Co., for instance, offers a vast selection of beers and hard seltzers that will keep you and your crew in a festive mood well into fall. Or take a walk along the historic promenade, home to restaurants and shops— many of which stay open during the offseason. Spent too much time in the sun and sand? Head over to the nearby kid-friendly Cape May County Zoo, loaded with lions, bison and bears, oh my!

Dining out: Grab a seat at McGlade’s on the Pier for spectacular ocean views and even better eats, the Blue Pig Tavern in the Congress Hall Hotel for brunch and a brief history lesson or the cozy Louisa’s Café for big portions and tasty desserts.

More information: capemay.com

REHOBOTH BEACH, DEL.

Delaware is perhaps best known as Joe Biden’s home state, but the beaches are what survey respondents most often cite as its stellar attraction. Located 3½ hours from Bergen, Rehoboth Beach is a coastal town that’s been a summer destination for many Northeasterners since its founding in 1873—but there’s plenty happening after the season too.

Things to do: The mile-long Rehoboth Beach boardwalk features amusement parks, shops and restaurants that are open all year long. (Be aware, though, that some popular attractions beyond the beachside strip will close at the end of September.) Don’t miss hot spots such as the Rehoboth Beach Haunted Mansion (it’s super-scary, folks!) and family-friendly Rehoboth Beach Museum before the month’s end. If you’re into cycling and camping, the Fort Miles Historic Area is the place for you.

Dining Out: Victoria’s Restaurant overlooks the iconic boardwalk and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, including fresh seafood, year-round.

More information: cityofrehoboth.com

OCEAN CITY, MD.

This mid-Atlantic city is worth the drive (4+ hours) from Bergen County any time of year, not just during summer. It’s located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Isle of Wight Bay, the city’s popular inlet—home to many shops and restaurants—formed during a hurricane in 1933.

Things to do: Enjoy summer’s last hurrah at Ocean Down Casino, an 800-slot machine paradise, which closes for the season at the end of September. If you’d rather stay outdoors, there are 17 championship courses around the city (Ocean Resort Golf Club is a must) for ambitious golfers and three minigolf centers for the more casual players. The three-mile-long boardwalk is the perfect place to stroll, shop and dine.

Dining out: Poseidon’s Pub inside the Ocean Down Casino offers some of the city’s best brunch, seafood and steak options, a wide range of cold brews and an unrivaled view of the casino’s harness racing track. Shotti’s Point Café is a terrific option for bagels and bites on the boardwalk.

More information: ococean.com

more than just sand.

—Preston Edmunds

STUFFED ACORN SQUASH

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS:

n 3 small acorn squash

n 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

n Kosher salt

n 1 c.Freshly ground black pepper

n 2 c. farro

n 2 plus 2 tablespoons apple cider, divided

n 1/2 lb. sprigs fresh thyme

n 1/2 sweet Italian sausage

n 2 yellow onion, chopped

n 2 stalks celery, chopped

n 1 tbsp. cloves garlic, minced

n 1 tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped

n 1 bunch lacinato kale, stems removed and chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400 fahrenheit. Cut each end off squash and half. Use a spoon to remove seeds and brush all over with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and roast until tender, 30-35 minutes.

Meanwhile, make farro: in a medium sauce pan, combine farro with 2 cups cider, 1 cup water and thyme sprigs. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid is evaporated and farro is tender, 25 to 30 minutes. If your liquid is evaporated and farro is not yet tender, add more water a ¼ cup at a time. Remove thyme sprigs.

Meanwhile, make filling: in a large skillet over medium heat, heat remaining oil. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with a wooden spoon and stirring occasionally until golden and cooked through, 5 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon onto a paper-towel lined plate. Drain most fat from the skillet, reserving about 1 tablespoon for cooking. Add onion and celery and cook until soft, 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add garlic and chopped thyme and cook until fragrant, 1 minute more.

Add kale and cook, stirring frequently. Add remaining 2 tablespoons cider after 4 minutes of cooking, then cook 4 minutes more, or until kale is tender.

Add cooked farro and sausage to skillet with vegetables and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Divide mixture among the 6 squash halves. Switch oven to broil and broil until tops are golden and filling is warmed, 2 to 3 minutes.

Whole Nutrition and Yoga, Old Tappan

“Make this a family favorite that you can eat week after week by swapping the Italian sausage, which is high in saturated fat, for chicken sausage. This will guarantee the flavor without raising your LDL cholesterol. You can also opt for quinoa instead of farro to increase the fiber and protein content of the dish.”

—Laura Cipullo, registered dietitian, Laura Cipullo

TASTES

GRILLED GROUND BEEF STUFFED PEPPERS

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS:

n 6 whole bell peppers, tops and seeds removed

n 1 cup cooked jasmine rice

n 1 tbsp. olive oil

n 1 lb. 80/20 ground beef

n 1 cup diced red onion

n 2 cloves garlic, diced

n 1 1.5 oz. can diced tomatoes

n 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

n 1 4 oz. can of green chilies, liquid removed

n 1 tsp. kosher salt

n 1 tsp. coarse black pepper

n 1 tsp. fresh thyme, roughly chopped

n 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the grill for indirect cooking, or set the grill to 375 degrees F.

Prepare the peppers: cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes (discard the seeds and membranes).

Prepare the rice according to the rice packaging directions.

To cook the filling, heat a large cast iron pan to medium heat, add one tablespoon of olive oil and the onions and cook 5 minutes to soften. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Add the garlic and cook 1 minute.

Add the remaining filling ingredients to the cast iron pan, including the cooked rice, tomatoes, Worcestershire, green chilies, salt, pepper and thyme. Remove from heat and add half of the cheese. Stir to incorporate. Taste and season as needed.

Stuff about ¼ cup of the filling into each pepper. The exact amount may vary based on the exact size of your peppers. Add equal amounts into each pepper. Top the peppers with remaining cheese.

Place peppers, cut side up, over indirect heat and cook 30-40 minutes, until the peppers are tender and look slightly roasted and the cheese has melted.

“Using quinoa as a substitute for jasmine rice can significantly enhance the nutrient profile of this recipe. Quinoa is richer in minerals like magnesium, phosphorus and iron and is significantly higher in fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes feelings of fullness. This swap also adds a delightful nutty flavor to complement the stuffed peppers.”

—Nicole Hallissey, registered dietitian nutritionist, Worksite Wellness Nutrition, Mahwah

FACES OF 2023

A SHOWCASE OF INNOVATIVE BUSINESSES

AROUND BERGEN COUNTY.

PATIENTS OF BERGEN ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY (BOMS) ARE IN THE VERY CAPABLE HANDS of Jason Diamond DDS, MD, Vincent Novelli, DMD, MD, Chang Han, DDS, MD, Mark Park, DMD, MD, Sonia Francioni, DMD, and Jesse Feuerstein, DMD. The practice is one of its kind in Bergen County that boasts dual-degree oral and maxillofacial surgeons experienced in both dentistry and medicine at the nation’s most prestigious universities. BOMS is consistently recognized by colleagues and patients as the premiere practice in Bergen County and the surrounding areas and is one of the few oral and maxillofacial surgery practices that are wholly doctor owned and invested in providing personalized care to their patients.

Founded on the values of treating patients like family, BOMS focuses on creating a warm and welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and well-cared for. The practice is committed to delivering top-quality care and helping patients with concerns related to the oral and facial regions using the most technically advanced procedures and equipment to ensure safe and effective treatment. Common procedures include facial jaw reconstruction, cosmetic procedures, dental implant surgery, wisdom teeth removal, bone grafting, facial fracture repair, and provides IV sedation to optimize a comfortable and safe experience.

LIVING WITH CONSTANT PAIN CAN IMPACT A PERSON’S PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH, leading to a decrease in overall quality of life. Dr. Rehan Ali specializes in minimally invasive solutions to treat the root cause of both acute or chronic pain experienced by his patients and impedes their daily wellbeing. He founded the Complete Pain & Spine Institute, a leading pain management practice, so that people experiencing debilitating pain can be treated with the utmost integrity, compassion and honesty.

Double board certified in interventional pain medicine and anesthesiology, Dr. Ali develops individualized, multi-modal plans that address all aspects of a patient’s pain management needs, specifically lower back, neck, joint and post-surgical pain. He uses cutting edge technology and treatments including ultrasound guided injections, regenerative medicine and spinal cord stimulation to help manage and resolve pain issues with an emphasis on functional restoration. Additionally, he is a vascular specialist who successfully treats varicose veins for leg pain, restless legs, leg heaviness and cramping. Dr. Ali strives to get his patients back to doing the things they enjoy on a daily basis free of aches and pains.

Eric Avezzano, M.D.

Crystal Broussard, M.D.

Robert Levine, M.D.

Anthony Delillo, M.D.

Alicia Carti, A.P.N. Bhavik Bhandari, M.D.

Eui Kim, A.P.N. Deana Nes, D.O.

Allen Griggs, D.O.

Kathleen Staunton, A.P.N.

Alyse Bellomo, M.D.

Kedar Gokhale, M.D.

Alan Briker, M.D. Alec Schwartz, M.D.

Sandeep Kour, MD

Schlussel, R.D. Anne Marie Finneran, A.P.N.

Ena Marsan, M.D.

Chung, M.D.

Co, M.D.

“BERGEN MEDICAL ASSOCIATES TAKES A WHOLE–PATIENT APPROACH“ to facilitating comprehensive, state-of-the-art care at our multi-specialty facilities. Our philosophy is to provide the highest level of medical care to our patients in an individualized way,” says Dr. Eric Avezzano, CEO and Managing Partner of the multispecialty practice. “We offer a therapeutic environment, personalized attention for comfort and safety, and easy access to our care team.”

Patients enjoy the “one-stop shopping” approach where multiple medical specialties and services are provided under one umbrella. Over 40 board certified physicians, along with their team of nurses and highly-trained staff represent a wide breadth of specialties including internal medicine, family medicine, gastroenterology, rheumatology, endocrinology and metabolism, allergy and immunology, sports medicine, physiatry, gynecology, hospital care, urology, weight loss management/ nutrition and podiatry. The group fosters an environment of collaboration amongst the physicians which results in a seamless continuum of care for the patients through every stage of health and illness, beginning with preventative services, whole body wellness and risk factor assessments. Bergen Medical Associates strives to accommodate patients by offering flexible, extended weekday and Saturday hours, as well as same day appointments. The practice participates in most insurance plans.

FACES OF 2023

Robert Pittman, M.D.

Stephen Margulis, M.D. Andy Koo, M.D.

Holly Cullen, M.D.

Richard Garden, M.D. Samantha Rosenzweig, D.P.M. Veena Desai, M.D.

Vivian Lan, M.D.

Erica Rosenbaum, M.D.

Neeta Motiwala, M.D.

Stacy Galgocy, M.D.

Janelle Yee, MD

Susan Flanzman, M.D.

Sanchita Gupta, M.D.

Sabrina Tempesta, D.O.

Jenny Ayala, M.D.

Jaclyn Heuer, A.P.N.

Francis McGorty, M.D. Nicole Brand, M.D.

THIS YEAR MARKS MAJOR MILESTONES FOR BOTH OF OUR STORES, as we celebrate serving multiple generations of homeowners. This year Nortons Paint crossed the 60-year mark, and Eagle Paint and Wallpaper of Englewood turned 75.

We are humbled, proud, and grateful for the honors and loyalty we’ve received from the community. To everyone who has set foot in our buildings-from our work family to our extended family of paint and product reps, to the pro painters, designers, and homeowners we call our friends--thank you so very much for being part of our history!

We look forward to continuing to provide top-notch “old-fashioned” service, along with today’s cutting-edge products. Whether you’re a paint contractor striving to provide the absolute best results possible, a designer putting together a unique look, or a homeowner who wants to do something as simple as painting a mailbox--you are welcome here. We have all the products and advice you need. Stop in to say hello and let us show you why generations of families continue to buy their first gallon of paint from us!

FACES OF 2023

SINCE 1961, GENTLE DENTISTRY HAS BEEN HELPING PATIENTS SMILE. Much more than just a name; Gentle Dentistry embodies a philosophy centered around personalized care and exceptional technique. Advancing the spirit and values of minimally invasive dental care, Dr. Andrew Spector has built a legacy practice serving the tri-state area with compassion and grace.

The full-service, multi-specialty dental team and empathetic staff pride themselves on offering comprehensive, pain-free dentistry where minimally invasive, technology driven techniques provide the very best in implant dentistry, cosmetic smile makeovers, and technology enhanced general care. With a deep passion and unique vision for aesthetic dentistry, Dr. Spector delves into the goals and desires of his patients to deliver excellence and impeccable aesthetic results. A key national opinion leader and a nationally renowned speaker on the most advanced dental technologies and practices, Dr. Spector is on a constant pursuit to educate his patients and colleagues on all facets of the future of dentistry. His work has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, NJ12 and in the New York Times.

Gentle Dentistry welcomes patients of all ages to come experience a different kind of dentistry.

FACES OF 2023

NEW JERSEY ROOT CANAL HAS BEEN SAVING TEETH for 25 years. Dr. Brian Trava opened his practice in Hawthorne in 1990, and later added offices in Ho-Ho-Kus and Wayne. Dedicated to the specialty of Endodontics, Dr. Trava focuses on saving teeth and diagnosing the cause of oral or facial pain. Dr. Trava and his team are root canal specialists. With degrees from John Hopkins University and Rutgers, Dr. Shon has authored research papers to help advance the field of dentistry. A graduate of Columbia University, Dr. Oh has completed extensive studies in oral pathology. Dr. Petix earned her degree from Tufts University and is pursuing a research fellowship. Dr. Yang, a graduate of NYU, has been awarded multiple research fellowships and has donated his dental skills in Haiti and Mexico. New Jersey Root Canal also focuses on special need patients and traumatic sports injuries to teeth.

FACES OF 2023

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A WARDROBE REFRESH, just the right hostess gift or the latest cool trends for your teens? With all the demands of busy moms, you’ll love what you find at the Ginger Stores, the charming mini-retail empire and an online shop with lovingly curated selections of women’s, children’s and young contemporary clothing for all ages, tastes and budgets. Ginger Dream is the home and lifestyle shop where gifts, accessories, holiday decor and personal care products speak to the whimsy in us all.

A love of fashion and community has been the cornerstone of Ginger N’ Cream since it opened in 2001. Sue Bahng and her team have grown their original boutique into four lifestyle stores. Service at Ginger N’ Cream goes above and beyond what you’d expect from any department store sourcing its merchandise with great care. Local fashion experts are standing by ready to pull selections off the rack, coordinate outfit ensembles and even send you pictures of options if you’re busy or prefer to shop from home. Spicy and creamy, just like its name, Ginger N’ Cream offers a first-class shopping experience and lots of style all in one.

FACES OF 2023

DR.

DAYNA

351

DR. DAYNA CASSANDRA HAS BEEN DEDICATED TO THE DENTAL PROFESSION FOR OVER 22 YEARS Highly invested in continuing education, she is an alumni of The Pankey Institute, a member of Spear education faculty club and an adjunctive professor of NYU’s Continuing Dental Education Program in Advanced Esthetics and Occlusion. A combination of knowledge, skill and expertise allows her to provide quality dentistry that leads to better overall health.

Dr Cassandra has built a dynamic team with a mastery in the practice of dentistry. Aligned by the core values of integrity, authenticity and trustworthiness, each one has a passion for and an absolute dedication to the profession.

The practice centers around three components:

• Diagnosis: Active listening and thorough diagnostic records allow for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• Dedication: The team is dedicated to the ultimate patient experience and care; and patients are dedicated and happy to invest in their dental health, aware of the impact on total health and wellness.

• Delivery: The team along with handpicked specialists in the area work together to deliver exceptional treatment, ultimately improving quality of life.

Committed to bridging the gap between medicine and dentistry, the practice welcomes folks in Bergen County seeking optimal wellness and a healthy lifestyle.

FACES OF 2023

WHEN YOU THINK OF BERGEN COUNTY REAL ESTATE, there’s only one name that comes to mind… Taylor Lucyk, top broker and team leader of The Taylor Lucyk Group, the top team at Christie’s International RE Group. Taylor’s repertoire as The Face of Bergen County Real Estate is solidified by his investment in brand recognition, digital marketing and innovative technology deployed in every aspect of his business.

With an extensive client base, Taylor works with the top investors and real estate developers in the area, making him a prominent figure in the Northern New Jersey real estate market. Taylor has received acclaim for record setting sales across Bergen County and Northern New Jersey as well as for selling the highest priced single-family home in not one, but 2 Bergen County towns. His thriving success in NJ real estate for the last 8 years has elevated his persona beyond salesman to serial real estate entrepreneur. He continues to dominate the local real estate market and secured over $150 million in sales last year.

FACES OF 2023

READERS’ CH OICE AWARDSWINNER

A WELL-RESPECTED DESIGNER FOR OVER 25 YEARS, Diane Durocher believes that the foundation of successful design is trust and confidence. Connecting on a deeply personal level enables Diane to design inspired spaces that reflect her clients’ unique personalities and lifestyles. With a keen eye for color, outstanding space planning skills, and the ability to design customized pieces, she rises to the challenge of transforming a blank slate into a stunning reality and brings her clients’ visions to life. Her ultimate goal is to exceed her clients’ expectations.

Diane is an award-winning designer whose talent has been recognized throughout her career. She has received numerous “Design of Excellence” awards from the NJ Chapter of ASID, has been selected to showcase her work in many prominent designer showhouses in NJ and NY, and is often featured in prestigious design publications.

She believes that a well-designed home is not just a lovely backdrop, it influences how we live our lives.

RIVERSIDE ORAL SURGERY, NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY GROUP, was founded 16 years ago by Dr. Jason M. Auerbach. His singular focus was to create “the optimal patient experience…each and every time” and that philosophy still remains the group’s hallmark today. All of Riverside’s oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly skilled and extensively trained in providing comprehensive and progressive oral and maxillofacial care to patients of all ages.

With a rapidly expanding footprint and a full scope of surgical offerings, the Official Oral Surgeons of the New Jersey Devils, Riverside Oral Surgery, is the ideal choice for patients throughout New Jersey. Whether it’s care for wisdom teeth, dental implants, head and neck pathology, facial cosmetics, TMJ, or any other issue oral and maxillofacial surgeons are uniquely qualified to treat, Riverside Oral Surgery has multiple board-certified, and fellowship trained surgeons and a qualified team dedicated to the patient experience. Riverside Oral Surgery, proudly selected as the ONLY dental practice in the state awarded NJBIZ Best Places to work, offers a solution custom built for you. Dr. Auerbach, who is also Instagram’s @bloodytoothguy, explains the success of the group, “I founded this practice to provide care ‘The Riverside Way’, where every patient we are privileged to treat is assured our utmost attention, uncompromised care, and a predictable exceptional outcome.”

WALKING INTO THE SHANNON ROSE immediately transports guests to Ireland…all without having to leave New Jersey. Its interior of Irish inspired décor is only the beginning. The unique menu of traditional Irish favorites and beyond utilizes only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients and is sure to satisfy any palate. But those aren’t the only reasons people keep coming back. At the heart of it all is a magnificent management team with over 50 years of experience combined: Sal La Verdi, Kelly Doherty, Brian Bolcik, Albert Riccio, Joe Egger, and Ozzy Leal. Since 2012, they have strived to foster the pub’s continued legacy of Irish hospitality and community outreach. The delicious food and familyoriented atmosphere keeps the spirit of giving alive within the tight-knit community.

Whether enjoying a family meal, seeing your favorite band play live or having a private event catered, a visit to The Shannon Rose Irish Pub leaves guests with full stomachs and happy hearts. Be sure to stop by the Ramsey or Clifton, New Jersey locations to experience it for yourself.

AFTER 20+ YEARS AS A REAL ESTATE INVESTOR/DEVELOPER AND A SALES EXECUTIVE FOR AN IT CONSULTING FIRM, Christian knew the road ahead was in combining his real estate knowledge, business acumen and client service mindset to lay the foundation for a new standard in real estate. In 2017, Christian left the corporate world to become a licensed realtor, adopting the mantra “WHITE GLOVE SERVICE, FOR ALL THINGS REAL ESTATE,” words that he and his team stand behind wholeheartedly.

An award winning and record breaking Bergen County Realtor, Christian has been a multi-year recipient of the NJ Realtors Circle of Excellence Award, and ranks in the top 1% of Realtors in New Jersey and 1.5% of Realtors nationwide by Real Trends & America’s Best Real Estate Professionals. Christian leads a team of knowledgeable, experienced and hyper-client centric professionals who take a consultative and thoughtful approach to client’s needs by aligning a strategy that meets their goals whether buying, selling, investing or building. “Anyone can open a door and fill out a contract. We differentiate ourselves by building meaningful relationships, active listening and taking a genuine responsibility to every client,” says Christian. “For us, every transaction, big or small, warrants our full attention.”

FACES OF 2023

DENTISTRY IS UNQUESTIONABLY ONE OF THE MORE SENSITIVE FIELDS IN THE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. It’s not often you hear someone say “Oh, I love the dentist.” Dr. Liany Farinas-Han chuckles when recalling some of her favorites like “I would rather give birth than sit in this chair.” Or ”Sorry, nothing against you, but I hate this place.”

Fear of the dentist is real causing many who suffer from dental anxiety to avoid dental visits. But, serious medical concerns can arise from neglected dental care. Often dental fear stems from a previous bad experience, fear of the unknown or a lack of control. Establishing a positive relationship with the right team can put your fears to rest.

At Smiles By Bergen Dental, Dr. Farinas-Han has trained her team to build rapport by establishing open and honest communication that helps to identify which situations might trigger anxiety. Through education about the evolution of the latest technologies along with a step-by-step personalized oral healthcare plan, patients learn what to expect to ensure a safe and relaxed experience. Dentistry is much more than a routine check-up. Dentistry is a blend of artistry, compassion and technical expertise. Once that balance is established, the real magic begins with a clean bill of oral health and a beautiful, glowing smile.

FACES OF 2023

STATISTICS SUGGEST THAT ONE IN FOUR ADULTS AND ONE IN 10 CHILDREN experience some type of mental distress. And in recent years, the numbers have increased. Children and young adults are experiencing a greater sense of isolation and loneliness finding it harder to connect with others and form meaningful relationships. Young girls, in particular, face negative self-esteem due to the pressures of social media and technology.

Kimberly and Nancé Agresta of Agresta Psychotherapy Group (APG) believe proper treatment can help patients lead better lives. Advocates of eliminating the stigma of seeking help for mental illness, Kimberly and Nancé offer a nurturing environment for adults, families and children of all ages, including those with special needs. In addition to working with patients for anxiety and depression, they treat couples on relationship issues, bipolar disorder, grief, eating disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, gender identity and PMADs as well as many other issues one may encounter. Therapeutic services include weekend couples’ groups, parenting groups, art therapy and Nancé’s work as a certified Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist for post-traumatic stress disorder.

In times of crisis, having support is vital. APG has been growing to meet the demands of those struggling with mental health issues. Staff members with specific expertise are available both in office and via telehealth, seven days a week to accommodate client’s busy schedules.

Pictured top, left to right: Dominique Focazio, MSW, LCSW, Nance’ Agresta, LCSW, CASAC, NCACII and Madalyn Pinto, MSW, LCSW. Bottom, left to right: Kimberly Agresta, MSW, LCSW, and Allie Demarsico, Office Manager.

FACES OF 2023

MORE THAN 30 YEARS AGO, DR. JOHN MINICHETTI, began practicing cosmetic and implant dentistry as an innovative solution to replacing missing teeth and improving smiles. Dr. Minichetti and his elite team of General Dentists, Drs. Anna Hong, Cara Minichetti, and Joseph D’Amore, are leaders in the dental community, addressing both simple and complicated cases with the same degree of attention and expertise.

Dr. Minichetti’s office is Bergen County’s cutting-edge facility for cosmetic and implant procedures and provides quality comprehensive care in general, pediatric, laser, facial aesthetics and orthodontic dentistry. The practice hosts an in-house lab, digital X-rays, a board-certified anesthesiologist and a specialized surgical suite. Dr. Minichetti often receives patient referrals from other dentists. As Chief of Dentistry at Englewood Hospital and former President of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and the American Board of Oral Implantology, Dr. Minichetti brings expertise to his practice and enjoys teaching clinicians from around the world. Testimonials from colleagues and patients agree that Dr. Minichetti’s office sets the standards for quality dental care.

FOUNDED BY STEVEN KOLINSKY IN 1982, Kolinsky Wealth Management (KWM) is a 2nd generation, full-service wealth management firm providing Investment Advisory Services, Retirement Plan Design and Consulting, Wealth Transfer Planning and Financial Planning. Kolinsky Wealth Management started almost 42 years ago, offering a comprehensive range of financial services to high net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and business owners throughout the United States all wishing to protect and grow their portfolios.

Steven proudly partners with the next generation of Kolinskys, Jason and Chad, each fostering success and growth through their individual strengths and backgrounds. Jason, who has represented the firm as a Member for over a decade, directs Financial Planning Strategies and Wealth Management solutions. Chad, a CFA Charterholder and Member at KWM, oversees the Investments and Real Estate Divisions, reinforcing this area of practice as the industry has boomed over the last seven years.

As entrepreneurs themselves, this dynamic trio understands the importance of building long-term, trusting relationships by instituting personalized wealth management strategies and financial solutions that support each client’s unique goals. Through this enterprising spirit, they share an unwavering commitment to providing the highest standards of service and performance.

FACES OF 2023

THE FACE OF MODERN REAL ESTATE

DAVID ARABIA CORCORAN INFINITY PROPERTIES

1018 Closter Dock Rd., Alpine, NJ 07620 | o: 201.768.6868

c: 201.206.3614 | www.corcoraninfinity.com

Instagram: @corcoraninfinityproperties | Facebook: /corcoraninfinity

DAVID ARABIA IS NO STRANGER TO THE WORLD OF REAL ESTATE having worked for more than two decades as an independent agent at a leading boutique brokerage firm. Throughout his 25 years of experience as a licensed real estate agent and developer specializing in land acquisition, construction management and sales for multi-unit properties and luxury single-family homes, David is recognized as an industry leader and a driving force in the development of many coveted communities within the New York metro area. David’s success stems from his innate ability to forge strong relationships and deep-rooted community connections and his knack for spearheading multi-million dollar projects, uncovering value in a property and then guiding the project to its highest and best use. He is repeatedly ranked with the industry’s most prestigious accolades.

Through his entrepreneurial spirit, David acquired Friedberg Properties in 2023 and rebranded the firm as Corcoran Infinity Properties, proudly sharing one of the most luminous names in the real estate industry. Now with offices located in Alpine, Cresskill and River Vale, David is fueled by the energy and collaboration of his team of 60+ agents, committed to their success and to providing the excellence in real estate that has come to be associated with the Corcoran name.

FACES OF 2023

THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN

MICHAEL FELICE & CECILIA GUZZO, Co-owners

MICHAEL FELICE INTERIORS

318 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ 07481 201.710.5796 | www.michaelfeliceinteriors.com

DYNAMIC DUO: MICHAEL FELICE AND CECILIA GUZZO may seem low key in demeanor, but when it comes to creating the space of your dreams, this interior design team is the best in the business. They put their heart into every project, they balance each other to create beautiful, functional interiors. “It’s all about personal space and offering choices that reflect the style of each client” the two agree. Their full service design team can create magic with window custom window treatments, inspirational paint colors, furniture, rugs and lighting. Fabric choices are endless at Michael Felice interiors. They welcome any project Big or Small with enthusiasm. Transforming your home to a beautiful, comfortable space is their Passion and Promise.

Michael and Cecilia would like to take this opportunity to introduce Barbara Benson to their design team. Barbara’s dedication and excitement to every project makes her an exceptional interior designer. She joins us with 20 years of experience in the field.

FROM HER FIRST DAY PRACTICING MEDICINE OVER 20 YEARS AGO, Dr. Tracy Verrico knew she would offer her patients much more than routine gynecological care. She is passionate about restoring the basics of tried-and-true medical care by spending time with her patients. One of Dr. Verrico’s many virtues is her warm, caring demeanor and compassionate approach to care. Knowing the staggering statistics on the lack of gynecologic care and education available to women, she emphasizes the importance of consistent and comprehensive care as a crucial step in preventing and detecting gynecologic diseases and cancers. For patients identified as high-risk, she recommends risk-reducing strategies, genetic counseling, and testing. Dr. Verrico strongly advocates for patient-physician shared decision-making so that her patients understand various treatment modalities’ risks, benefits, and limitations. This approach allows women to make the best choice based on medical history, personal preferences, and values. She provides superior healthcare solutions by applying traditional and alternative treatments while utilizing advanced surgical techniques that promote faster recovery. Dr. Verrico continually counsels women on the best options for their gynecological and overall wellness journey as new research and advancements in gynecological treatments and screening technologies emerge.

FACES OF 2023

THE ACADEMY OF THE HOLY ANGELS

315 Hillside Avenue, Demarest, NJ 07627 | 201.768.7822 | www.holyangels.org

HOLY ANGELS PROVIDES AN EDUCATION THAT INSPIRES YOUNG WOMEN TO BE GLOBAL CITIZENS WITH A MORAL COMPASS. The Academy’s nationally acclaimed STREAM curriculum is infused with the School Sisters of Notre Dame’s educational vision of working toward peace, justice, and the integrity of all creation. Angels awaken to their responsibility to the world, attend UN programs, and fundraise for the people of Ukraine, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and beyond. Each year, Angels invest thousands of hours cleaning the environment, growing vegetables for people in need, performing music for senior citizens, fundraising to bring service animals to veterans, and more. Recently, the eighth grade created interactive bulletin boards that feature civil rights leaders’ bios and call for an end to racism and antisemitism. This year, an Angel who is an aspiring civil rights attorney received AHA’s inaugural Carol Fay Social Justice Award for promoting justice in the wider community.

FOR MORE THAN TWO DECADES, BROKER ASSOCIATE MARY PREMTAJ AND THE PEMTAJ TEAM have delivered impressive real estate success by placing their clients’ needs above all else. Leveraging all that Compass Real Estate has to offer, Mary and her team have further elevated the client experience through this luxury brokerage firm’s cutting-edge technology and seamless access to a network of highly-seasoned Compass agents spanning across the country.

Mary is consistently regarded as a trusted advisor and top-tier problem solver by her clients, who rely on her unwavering dependability and exceptional expertise. Mary always appreciates being welcomed into the homes and lives of her clients, many with whom she has built long-lasting friendships. “I feel really lucky about that,” she says. “I can’t think of any other career offering so much fulfillment through relationships.”

Clients know Mary and her team are only a phone call away for guidance and hand-holding in all things real estate! “Our clients quickly recognize that they are in great hands, they do not need to worry, we’re going to get to the finish line, and they are going to be happy,” says Mary. “As a result, our motto encapsulates this commitment: The Premtaj Team | Real Estate Unlocked!”

Individual agent: Mary Premtaj, a broker associate, Michele Gordon, a sales associate, Wendy Gronich, a sales associate and Christian Schaefers, a sales associate, are affiliated with Compass RE. Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

FACES OF 2023

MAGA ZINE 2023

READERS’ CH OICE AWARDSWINNER

SHOPPING FOR AN APPLIANCE CAN BE AN OVERWHELMING EXPERIENCE. What makes the journey stress-free is knowing you are in the hands of the “family” team at Reno’s Appliance, made up of knowledgeable sales professionals familiar with all brands and manufacturers. Always dedicated to offering new and improved services, Reno’s Appliance also has an on-site Corporate Chef available to demonstrate a variety of appliances. What began in 1951 as Reno’s Radio and TV Repair Shop has grown into a 16,000-square-foot designer showroom serving the tri-state area and offering a full range of appliances. More than just an appliance company, Reno’s is committed to the growth and welfare of Paterson and is proud to be bestowed the “Faith in Paterson Award” honored by the Greater Paterson Chamber of Commerce for its exceptional investments and initiatives in the local economy.

Reno’s three sons continue the tradition, highlighting customer satisfaction and creating a unique shopping experience at every visit.

FACES OF 2023

JOSEPH V. MACERI IS AMONG THE TWO PERCENT of active New Jersey lawyers certified by the state Supreme Court as a matrimonial attorney. Throughout his career, Mr. Maceri has focused on representing clients with matters involving complex child custody disputes as well as high net worth divorces, which included business valuations and dissolution. In addition, Mr. Maceri’s practice includes multifaceted post-divorce litigation and appellate practice. His career is focused on providing extraordinary legal counsel to clients that are navigating some of life’s most difficult times. His great compassion for his clients inspires firm, aggressive representation that manifests itself in a manner that consistently secures the best interest of his clients.

Mr. Maceri’s commitment to serving his clients and community has only grown stronger throughout his well-established career. He has also served on various state, county and local governing bodies to advise on policy changes for the public. “I deeply enjoy my time dedicated to public service,” says Mr. Maceri. “I love working in the community and making a difference in the lives of others.”

IMMACULATE

offers more than a quality Catholic education for young

IHA is a lifetime sisterhood to the more than 650 high school students who support and encourage one another for years after they graduate. Including the Class of 2023, 11,022 young women call themselves IHA alumnae.

Founded in 1960, IHA is the first college preparatory regional high school for young women in the Archdiocese of Newark. The faculty and staff focus on developing the God-given gifts and talents of IHA’s young women—academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially—preparing students for a lifetime of positive contributions.

To supplement the competitive athletics, professional-level performing arts programs, and superlative college prep curriculum, IHA recently announced the launch of its Scholae@theheart Program. This program allows students to investigate areas for postsecondary education and receive additional extracurricular experiences to support their learning. All of the scholae share a common liberal arts core curriculum that provides the foundation and skills that universities expect from top-tier applicants.

FACES OF 2023

TORCHIN MARTEL ORR (“TMO”) provides you with personal, comprehensive, compassionate and dedicated service and support. We know we are hired to help guide you during a difficult time in your life–but we also know that we are here to help you for your new life after. Our attorneys and staff are extremely skilled and we offer strategic expertise in all areas of family law. Our family law firm, based in Paramus, has decades of combined legal experience and TMO is proudly recognized as a top family law firm in the county and state. TMO is one of the few family firms offering you all four options for divorce resolution–litigation, mediation, arbitration and collaborative law. Please call us at 201-97148666 or visit our website for more information and to also see what our clients have to say. We are here to help.

FACES OF 2023

IT IS ESTIMATED THAT NEARLY 97,610 new melanoma cases are diagnosed annually in the United States, resulting in 7,990 deaths. Dr. Donald McCain, Chief of Surgical Oncology at Hackensack University Medical Center, explains:

“The increasing incidence of intermediate and deep malignant melanomas has made genetic analysis for gene expression profiling and sentinel lymph node biopsy a necessary step in determining the risk of spread.”

Dr. McCain has the largest single practice performance of sentinel lymph biopsies and dissections—over 3,000 amid 20 years of experience. He advises Melanoma patients to have all suspicious lesions biopsied by their dermatologist, followed by a careful pathology review. Dr. McCain is Vice Chairman of the John Theurer Cancer Center and the Physician in charge of OR Operations at Hackensack Medical Center. Furthermore, he is the Chief of Surgical Oncology and completed his fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. McCain holds memberships in key national and regional professional organizations and is recognized for his research excellence in areas which include: Gastric Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer, Breast Cancer and Sarcoma.

FACES OF 2023

CARE

WHEN IT COMES TO COMBINING SURGICAL EXCELLENCE WITH AN EMPATHETIC TOUCH, Premier Oral Surgery Group stands unrivaled. Our acclaimed surgeons are compassionate professionals at the pinnacle of their field, prioritizing patient care above all else. With an understanding that oral surgery can often be a source of anxiety and stress, our team devotes itself to fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and kindness. We take the time to listen, ensure your comfort, and explain every step of your treatment in a way you can understand. Our aim is to transform your perception of oral surgery from an intimidating ordeal to a journey of oral health restoration with a team you trust. Learn more about our practice at www. premieroralsurgerygroup.com

from left)

FACES OF 2023

OVER THE PAST DECADE, DRS. DENOBLE, RATLIFF, AND STERN HAVE BECOME TRUSTED PHYSICIANS for their communities and colleagues. They prefer to take the ‘modern approach’ with their patients. This means providing personalized care centered around listening and empathizing, while offering cutting edge orthopaedic treatments. The surgeons at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey are all fellowship-trained orthopaedic experts, treating adults and children. Drs. Ratliff and DeNoble are both Board-Certified in Upper Extremity and Orthopaedic Surgery. They perform procedures such as: arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs, tennis elbow surgeries, and carpal tunnel releases. They also serve as assistant professors at the Hackensack-Meridian School of Medicine and teach resident orthopaedic surgeons. Dr. Stern is board-certified and specializes in orthopaedic trauma surgery. She is an expert in the treatment of broken bones throughout the body in children and adults. She also specializes in robotic hip and knee replacements.

In the Spring of 2023, Modern Orthopaedics expanded its practice to a gorgeous new landmark location in Paramus - located directly across from IKEA on Route 17 North. The Modern Orthopaedics patient experience is second to none, and Dr. DeNoble is thrilled that patients throughout Bergen County will now be able to experience the exceptional care at Modern Orthopaedics, Paramus. We are also eager to share the news that Dr. Alejandro Morales- Restrepo, MD who recently graduated with an upper extremity fellowship from University of Pittsburgh, will be joining our team on September 5th., 2023. In addition, Eunil Chowdhury, DPM, will be joining them Oct 1st, 2023.

FACES OF 2023

DIVORCE IS A DIFFICULT JOURNEY. As you consider navigating this process, who you choose to help guide you through what lies ahead can make a world of difference. Tanya L. Freeman brings her skills and insights gained from her work in various public and private sector disciplines. This know-how helps her develop strong negotiation and trial strategies designed to help her clients move confidently through every phase of their case.

Prior to the practice of law, Tanya spent fifteen years in key roles leading audit teams in the banking and insurance industries. Tanya’s extensive corporate audit background enhances her ability to effectively represent clients with high-net-worth cases involving significant assets, as well as cases concerning owners of closely held businesses. Tanya has represented clients in cases involving corporate executives, professional athletes, television personalities, and other highprofile celebrities. Tanya and her team can work with you to find innovative strategies to address your concerns.

So, if you need representation in your divorce, consider what’s at stake – then consider Tanya L. Freeman.

OF

FOR 30 YEARS, GREG AMERKANIAN HAS BEEN HELPING HIGH-NET-WORTH FAMILIES AND INDIVIDUALS DEVELOP FINANCIAL STRATEGIES that consider their goals, address priorities and help preserve wealth. After a thorough financial analysis, Greg develops a comprehensive plan that aligns with his client’s different stages of life that includes investment strategies that are designed to be resilient to economic times and our evolving environment.

Greg recognizes that to instill trust and confidence, a lasting relationship starts with good listening. Depending on where you are in life – accumulation to distribution to preservation – he employs strategies that focus on liquidity management, asset preservation, estate planning strategies and retirement preparation. Greg also provides guidance to small-to-medium sized companies, not-for-profit institutions and charitable endowments to help manage their financial portfolios. Greg is very involved in several charitable and non-profit organizations within his community, and is also a member of the Financial Planning Association and the Investments & Wealth Institute™.

Backed by UBS, a leader in wealth management, Greg and his team offer honest, experienced and open guidance to help clients understand and navigate every stage of their financial journey and pursue the financial future they envision for themselves and for generations of loved ones to come.

THE FACE OF DOG TRAINING

KATHY SANTO

21 Harrison Ave., Waldwick, NJ 07463 | 201.512.8316 |

kathysantodogtraining.com

AT KATHY SANTO DOG TRAINING, WE’LL HELP YOU HAVE THE DOG THAT EVERYONE LOVES TO HAVE AROUND!

Our Waldwick facility is a spacious 15,000-square-feet of training, playing, and dog-spa fun. Your dog will LOVE our indoor AND outdoor play yard and training areas. We also have a state-of-the-art underwater treadmill for conditioning, rehabilitation, swimming, and weight loss. Plus, there’s a boutique-style grooming shop (just for our student’s dogs) on site.

Of course, the cornerstone of our facility is our dog training. With 35 plus years of successfully training tens of thousands of dogs, we want you to have the relationship with your dog that you wanted when you first decided to bring a dog into your life. Whether you seek to establish a solid foundation of basic obedience, delve into advanced and off-leash training, address behavioral challenges, or pursue certifications such as AKC’s Canine Good Citizen title, Therapy dog, or Service Dog, rest assured that we have the perfect program to help you achieve and exceed your goals.

FACES OF 2023

MAGAZINE 2023

WINNER

READERS’ CH OICE AWARDS

FACES OF 2023

OUR DOCTORS HAVE OVER 40 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL PATIENT CARE. The entire staff embodies the doctors ideals that they should exceed their patients’ expectations at every visit. Dr. Donald and Dr Alissa understand and strive to educate their patients that you cannot have exceptional general health without outstanding dental health.

Dr. Donald is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, and Associate Fellow of the American Academy of implant Dentistry and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral implantologists, a qualification held by less than 2% of dentists nationwide. Dr. Alissa is on track for her fellowship and Master’s from the AGD, being amongst the youngest dentists to reach this level. A minimum of 1,100 hours of rigorous training and examinations must be satisfactorily accomplished.

Our practice continuously invests in post-graduate education and the most advanced technologies to provide effective and comfortable care for our patients. Dr. Donald and Alissa Roman believe that “Our Family is here to care for your Family like no other dental office.”

FACES OF 2023

CREATIVITY AND CONVICTION have taken Anastasia Baker from Tenafly to the Golden Globes, the Met Gala and back home to Bergen County where she provides full-service event planning, floral design and more with RSVP by Anastasia.

After studying film in Montclair and art history in Italy, Anastasia was hired to build and style sets for NBC’s Golden Globe-winning series Smash. Soon after, as her creative reputation spread beyond the world of television, she was hired to work under Raúl Àvila, the biggest name in New York City event planning and producer of the Met Gala. Since then, she’s helped design and plan events for a long list of premiere clients ranging from Vogue and Oscar de la Renta to Emirates Airlines and Amazon.

RSVP by Anastasia also has a retail space at The Shops at Riverside. There you’ll find a range of decor and lifestyle gifts, including naturally preserved roses, which let you bring some of Anastasia’s design magic home.

FACES OF 2023

THE FACES OF ORTHOPEDICS

CAHILL ORTHOPEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE

& JOINT

87 Summit Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601

REPLACEMENT

140 North State Route 17, Suite 255, Paramus, NJ 07652 111 Dean Dr., Suite 1 North, Tenafly, NJ 07670 201.489.0022 | cahillorthopedic.com

CAHILL ORTHOPEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE AND JOINT REPLACEMENT OFFERS SPECIALIZED CARE IN SPORTS INJURIES AND JOINT REPLACEMENTS. Dr. Cahill has specific expertise and interests in ACL reconstruction, arthroscopic shoulder stabilization and rotator cuff repairs, as well as extensive experience in the management of pediatric sports injuries and trauma. Board certified, Dr. Cahill has advanced fellowship training in orthopedic sports medicine and routinely provides care for professional, collegiate and high school athletes. His practice is proudly affiliated with Hackensack Meridian Health, where he is a senior attending orthopedic surgeon and performs surgery at Holy Name and Valley hospitals. His surgical techniques are at the forefront of Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Sports Replacement. He routinely performs in and out patient Mako robotic assisted total joint arthroplasties. Dr. Cahill is now Chief Orthopedic Team Physician for St. Peters University in Jersey City.

Dr. Paul Kovatis is a fellowship trained orthopedic leg, foot and ankle surgeon and specializes in the treatment of a variety of foot and ankle conditions. He received his medical degree from UMDNJ and his undergraduate degree from Upsala College. His hospital affiliations are with Hackensack Meridian Health and Hospital for Special Surgery. Given his training in Level 1 trauma hospitals, as well as his work with elite clientele, patients whose injuries are beyond the scope of other practitioners who perform ankle and foot surgery are often referred to him.

Dr. Cahill is proud to announce the arrival of Dr. Erik Contreras to the practice. Dr. Contreras is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulder and elbow surgery, sports medicine and joint replacement. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his orthopedic residency training at The Ohio State University, where he trained with expert surgeons taking care of NCAA Division 1 athletes. He then completed his fellowship training at the prestigious NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital in New York City, where he trained in all aspects of shoulder and elbow surgery under the guidance of world-renowned orthopedic surgeons.

JAMES W. CAHILL, M.D. PAUL E. KOVATIS, M.D. ERIK CONTRERAS, M.D.

FACES OF 2023

TOP PRODUCING REALTOR DIANE COOKSON IS ON THE CUTTING EDGE, constantly staying ahead of the competition, implementing high end marketing, technology and customized concierge services that separate her from the rest. By combining market expertise, tough negotiation skills, and a willingness to never say no to her clients, Diane delivers the best possible results for her clients.

Diane is consistently recognized as one of Northern New Jersey’s top producers. RealTrends America’s Best Real Estate Professionals ranks Diane in the top 1.5% of all nationally recognized agents and she’s a recipient of the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Platinum status from 2018 through 2022. There is no secret to her success… hard work, passion, and the art to making a deal drive Diane’s business.

Diane Cookson is a licensed real estate broker salesperson affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented here is intended for informational purposes only. Informational is compelled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

GET READY TO LEAD, GENTLEMEN.

91% OF THE CLASS OF 2023 RECEIVED SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS

$37.2

MILLION DOLLARS IN MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS AND

For more information, call the Admissions Department at (201) 634-2205.

Avenue,

#1 RANKED CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL IN BERGEN COUNTY.

NJ 07649 | P: 201.261.1844 | www.bergencatholic.org

Apple Montessori Schools

For 50 years, throughout NJ, Apple Montessori Schools has offered infant, toddler, preschool, kindergarten, and elementary programs for children ages six weeks–twelve years. Their modern Montessori approach to early education empowers young children to reach their fullest potential. But Apple’s educators don’t stop at exceptional academics. They nurture the whole child through character education, yoga, music, art enrichment and more, preparing them for happiness and success well beyond their years at Apple.

Multiple Locations Throughout NJ | Applemontessorischools.com

Bergen Catholic High School

Bergen Catholic is an independent four-year college preparatory school founded by Edmund Rice Christian Brothers, where boys become Christian gentlemen. BC provides rigorous academics, rewarding clubs, and championship athletics. In addition, The Brotherhood provides an unmatched network of support. BC is proud of our four-year, results-driven college counseling program. 91% of the Class of 2023 received a college scholarship, and the total scholarship amounted to $37.2 mm. Enrollment is selective. For more information, visit us at www.bergencatholic.org.

1040 Oradell Ave., Oradell, NJ | 201.261.1844 | www.bergencatholic.org

engineering helped the Class of 2023 receive over $46.5 million in college scholarships. Visit donboscoprep.org

492 N. Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey NJ | 201-327-8003 | donboscoprep.org

Mary Help of Christians Academy

Mary Help of Christians Academy is a private, allgirls, Catholic preparatory school where students realize their potential and watch their passions come alive in a community committed to faith, Salesian tradition and excellence. Situated on over 16 acres, we offer dual enrollment with FDU and Seton Hall and comprehensive Athletics and Arts programs. Come see MHC Academy for yourself at our Fall Open House, Sunday, October 23rd. To register: www.maryhelp.org/ohreg/

659 Belmont Ave., North Haledon, NJ | 973-850-7445 | www.maryhelp.org

Founded and staffed by the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers 1040 Oradell

Oradell,

GRANT S

DUAL ENROLLMENT CLASSES WITH IONA, SETON HALL & THE UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE.

Tea, Anyone?

This

sweet sip will have

you and your guests buzzing with

excitement no matter what time of day you celebrate tea time.

THE BLACK TEA SWARM COCKTAIL

Yields: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

n 1 black tea bag

n 1 cup boiling water

n 1 tsp. honey

n 2 oz. white rum

n 1/2 oz. Cynar

n 1/4 oz. lemon juice, n freshly squeezed n orange peel, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Steep tea bag in hot water for 3 minutes. Discard tea bag. In a cocktail shaker, stir together honey and 1 ounce of the steeped black tea. Add ice, rum, Cynar and lemon juice. Shake until well chilled. Place ice ball or cube into a high ball glass. Strain cocktail over ice ball. Garnish with orange peel and serve.

"For added flavor, a vanilla-forward bourbon or spiced rum would work in place of white rum. If you don't have Cynar in your bar cart, substitute bitter Campari or sugary Aperol. A summery fruit purée—like peach or mango—could also give the cocktail some tropical flair and sweetness."

—Taryn Pire, mixologist

The Heights Bar & Grill, Hasbrouck Heights

Special Advertising Section

Senior Living Guide

Cedar Crest

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A VIBRANT RETIREMENT

Cedar Crest® is Northern New Jersey’s premier senior living community.

Here, you gain more than a stylish apartment home—you gain an extraordinary way of life! Get your FREE brochure! Call 1-888-205-9809 or visit CedarCrest.com today.

Northern New Jersey CedarCrest.com

Christian Health

Caring is not simply what we do–it’s who we are. Since 1911, it has been our mission to offer a listening ear, a helpful hand, and steady, supportive guidance throughout your wellness journey. Through our comprehensive continuum of mental health services, communities for older adults, and rehabilitation, we work diligently to foster physical health and also nourish the spirit. Call us today to learn more or schedule a visit to our campuses in Wyckoff or Wayne.

301 Sicomac Ave., Wyckoff, NJ | 201.848.5200 | www.ChristianHealthNJ.org

Mill Gardens at Midland Park

At Mill Gardens, we offer premier assisted living services in a serene, residential neighborhood of Bergen County. Our spacious apartments feature large windows, private bathrooms, and updated kitchenettes. This month, we are celebrating 22 years of success in prioritizing our residents’ well-being through engaging events, gourmet meals, personalized care, and amenities like a 24-hour café and fitness room. Our very inclusive rates provide exceptional value and our new Park & Gardens offer beautiful outdoor spaces. Contact us today for a tour!

36 Faner Rd., Midland Park, NJ | 201.493.7400 | www.Millgardens.com

Thrive at Montvale

Thrive at Montvale, an active and vibrant independent living, assisted living, and memory care community with a modern farmhouse design, light-filled wide-open spaces, and stunning views of the expansive Social Court. Chef-led dining venues including two full-service restaurants, a casual bistro, and a coffee shop. Plenty of opportunities to make new friends with happy hours, garden club, and more. Strengthen your body and mind with the athlete center, pickleball courts, and fitness classes. Love Where You Live!

110 Summit Ave., Montvale, NJ | 201.793.8886 | Hello@ThriveAtMontvale.com | www.ThriveSL.com/Montvale

The Vista 299 Sicomac Ave., Wyckoff, NJ | 201.684.9775 | www.TheVista.org

Only a limited number of people can call The Vista home. Nestled within Christian Health’s 78-acre campus, The Vista’s intimate size provides many advantages. Your individuality is respected and encouraged. Personalized service is a given. And the spirit of community is upbeat and uplifting. Intimate scale aside, The Vista’s amenities rival those found in many country clubs. Why wait? Explore the rewards of Bergen County’s only life plan community today.

Picture yourself Picture yourself LIVING HERE ,

inspired. inspired.

Imagine 299 Sicomac Avenue | Wyckoff, NJ 07481 (201) 684-9775 | TheVista.org

At The Vista, you can fill each day with uplifting experiences. Attend a concert, lecture, or art class. Get a manicure at the salon. Stay fit in an aquatic class or along picturesque walking trails.

Where To Eat

Villa Amalfi 793 Palisade Ave. 201.886.8626 villaamalfi.com

CLOSTER

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

The Hill 252 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.899.4700 thehillcloster.com

Locale Café and Bar 208 Piermont Rd. 201.750.3233 locale208closter.com

Sear House 411 Piermont Rd. 201.292.4612 searhouse.com

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

Grant Street Café 25 Grant Ave. 201.385.1705 thegrantstreetcafe.com

Il Mulino 132 Veterans Plz. 201.384.7767 ilmulinodumont.com

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

Annabella’s House of Mozzarella 900 Paterson Plank Rd. 201.804.0303 annabellasmozz.com

Fleming’s Steakhouse 90 The Promenade 201.313.9463 flemingssteakhouse.com

Greek Taverna 55 The Promenade 201.945.8998 greektavernausa.com

Haven 2 Main St. 201.943.1900 havenedgewater.com

Original Pancake House 15 The Promenade 201.366.4065 ophedgewater.com

Pier 115 115 River Rd. 201.313.2155 pier115barandgrill.com

ALLENDALE

Allendale Bar & Grill

67 W. Allendale Ave. 201.327.3197 allendalebarandgrill.com

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

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

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

Savini

168 W. Crescent Ave. 201.760.3700 savinirestaurant.com

ALPINE Kiku

385 Rte. 9 W. 201.767.6322

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

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

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

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

Sedona Taphouse 679 Anderson Ave. 201.943.2300 sedonataphouse.com

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

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

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

Baumgart’s Café, Edgewater

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

Chat Kaew Thai Cuisine 4 E. Palisade Ave. 201.894.0343

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

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

Café Italiano 14 Sylvan Ave. 201.461.5041 cafeitaliano.net

Cliffs Steakhouse 18 Sylvan Ave. 201.944.0233 cliffssteakhouse.com

Lefkes Estiatorio 495 Sylvan Ave. 201.408.4444 lefkesnj.com

Grissini 484 Sylvan Ave. 201.568.3535 grissinirestaurant.com

FAIR LAWN

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza 2101 Promenade Blvd. 201.796.2625 acfp.com

Empress Diner 13-48 River Rd. 201.791.2895 empressdinernj.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

River Palm Terrace 41-11 Rte. 4 W. 201.703.3500 riverpalm.com

Rose’s Place 32-01 Broadway 201.475.8800 rosesplacenj.com

Sage Restaurant 17-15 Broadway 201.797.0500 sagefairlawn.com

FAIRVIEW

Noches de Colombia 172 Broad Ave. 201.840.8428 nochesdecolombia.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

Baggios 212 Main St. 201.585.7979 baggiospizzarestaurant. com

Big Red Tomato 1205 Anderson Ave. 201.224.6500 brtnj.com

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

Chillers Grill 2191 Fletcher Ave. 201.461.0075 chillersgrill.com

In Napoli 116 Main St. 201.947.2500 inapoli.com

Kuba Restaurant 2139 Hudson Ter. 201.585.1601 kubarestaurant.com

Pho Today 2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.585.8818

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

Ventana’s 200 Park Ave. 201.583.4777 ventanasatthemodern. com

FRANKLIN LAKES

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

Sushi Cocoro 856 Franklin Ave. 201.560.1333 sushicocoro.com

GARFIELD

The Firehouse 42 Plauderville Ave. 973.478.2226 firehouse-restaurant.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

Stone & Rail 175 Rock Rd. 201.345.0709 stoneandrail.com

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

HACKENSACK

Casual Habana Café 125 Main St. 201.880.9844 casualhabanacafe.com

The Cheesecake Factory 390 Hackensack Ave. 201.488.0330 thecheesecakefactory. com

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

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

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

The Oceanaire 175 Riverside Sq. 201.343.8862 theoceanaire.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.co

Oceanaire

The Oceanaire, Hackensack

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

Tom Yum Koong 305 Boulevard 201.288.3840 tomyumkoong.net

HAWORTH

Alessandro’s 157 Terrace St. 201.385.8544 alessandrosnj.com

Andiamo 23 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.384.1551 andiamorestaurant.net

Terrace Street Café 149 Terrace St. 201.338.4720 terracestreetcafe.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 figandtowmatoeatery. 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

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

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

LEONIA Café Mignon 332 Broad Ave. 201.292.1992

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

Michael’s Riverside 528 Riverside Ave. 201.939.6333 michaelsriverside.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

Sangria 1033 MacArthur Blvd. 201.962.3310 sangriamahwah.com

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

MAYWOOD

Angelo’s Greek Taverna

245 Maywood Ave. 201.845.4278 angelosgreektavernanj. 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

Fiona’s Ristorante

118 Godwin Ave. 201.857.5800 fionasristorante.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

Gen Sushi & Hibachi

14B Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.930.9188 gensushimontvale.com

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

Yuki

2 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.9877 yukimontvale.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

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

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

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

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

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

Cravings Tapas Bistro 8 Wilsey Sq. 201.857.8533 cravingstapas.com

Delhi Accent 37 Chestnut St. 201.444.4910 delhiaccentnj.com

Felina 54 E. Ridgewood Ave. 551.276.5454 felinarestaurant.com

Green Fusion 22 Oak St. 201.670.7502 greenfusionnj.com

It’s Greek to Me 21 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.612.2600 itsgreektome.com

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

Latour 6 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.445.5056 latourridgewood.com

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

Park West Tavern 30 Oak St. 201.445.5400 parkwesttavern.com

Pearl 17 S. Broad St. 201.857.5100 pearlridgewood.com

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

Roots 17 Chestnut St. 201.444.1922 rootssteakhouse.com

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

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

Village Green 36 Prospect St. 201.445.2914 villagegreenrestaurant. com

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

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

Sanducci’s 620 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.599.0600 sanduccis.com

RIVER VALE

Ammata Thai Kitchen 184 Rivervale Rd. 201.664.2299 ammata.com

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

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

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

RUTHERFORD Café Matisse

167 Park Ave. 201.935.2995 cafematisse.com

Finch’s 801 Rutherford Ave. 201.231.3141 finchsdining.com

Paisano’s 132 Park Ave. 201.935.5755 paisanos.com

The Risotto House 88 Park Ave. 201.438.5344 therisottohouse.com

Volare’s 7 Station Sq. 201.935.6606 volaresrestaurant.com

SADDLE BROOK

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

Que Pasta 326 Market St. 201.712.1900 qpitalian.com

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

SADDLE RIVER

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

TEANECK

Amarone

63 Cedar Ln. 201.833.1897 amaroneristorante.net

B V Tuscany 368 Cedar Ln. 201.287.0404 bvtuscany.com

Etc. Steakhouse 1409 Palisade Ave. 201.357.5677 etcsteakhouse.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

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

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

Limoncello 32 Franklin Tpke. 201.652.5577 limoncellonj.com

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

WESTWOOD Caffé Anello 11 Madison Ave. 201.786.8137 caffeanello.com

Downtown Dhaba 266 Center Ave. 201.664.0123 dhabadowntown.com

The Iron Horse 20 Washington Ave. 201.666.9682 theironhorse.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

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

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

Benares 327 Franklin Ave. 201.904.2222 benaresnj.com

Blue Moon Café 327 Franklin Ave. 201.891.1331 bluemoonmexicancafé. com

T.S. Ma Chinese Cuisine 637 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.8878 tsmachinesecuisine.com

Wyckoff Thai 314 Franklin Ave. 201.485.8855 wyckoffthai.com

Photo courtesy of Axia Taverna

Axia Taverna in Tenafly

IMAGINE YOUR CHILD CONFIDENT, INDEPENDENT AND INSPIRED TO LOVE LEARNING.

Join Us For A Meal To Remember!

With 20 years of experience cooking in the finest restaurants, our chef is excited to present their vision to you and all our guests. Our caring and committed staff make sure you have a fantastic experience with us. We pride ourselves in serving only the finest 35 day USDA Prime Dry-Aged Steak and serve the freshest fish from our kitchen to your table.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Sure-To-Please Vietnamese

How does Fair Lawn’s new Saigon Bistro make its dishes heavenly? It’s a matter of balance—no one ingredient rules.

There’s a lot of disappointment when you learn that your go-to Chinese takeout joint has closed—until you discover that the new eatery that moved in is just as good, perhaps even better. That’s what many Fair Lawn-area residents are realizing as they travel to the Radburn Shopping Center and pull up a chair inside Saigon Bistro, which specializes in southern Vietnamese cuisine.

Though its predecessor was primarily a carry-out kitchen for items like General Tso’s chicken and pork fried rice, Saigon Bistro keeps busy as both a casual sit-down and a takeout restaurant. It’s gained a loyal following since opening this summer, and a friend and I were curious to see (and taste) why.

We were lucky to score a table there for a recent Sunday dinner, beating a rush of hungry customers who claimed the remaining seven or eight tables within 20 minutes of our arrival. My friend previously lived in a nearby apartment complex and frequented the old Chinese restaurant; during this visit she guessed she’d be a Saigon regular if she still resided in Fair Lawn.

Familiar with Vietnamese cooking, she had a craving for traditional summer rolls and ordered them as her starter. The dish comes with four tightly wrapped rolls, each made of thin rice paper and containing a mix of thread noodles, vegetables, herbs and shrimp (tofu was another protein alternative). Many other versions can be overpacked with mint, cilantro and basil—three greens that, when used in excess, can overwhelm a dish. Saigon chefs, however, employ these ingredients sparingly, allowing all the flavors to mesh evenly. The accompanying peanut sauce also complemented the delicate summer rolls rather than overpowering them.

I admit I was a tad puzzled when our server delivered my appetizer of choice, sugarcane shrimp. At first glance, the dish resembled thinly sliced chicken skewers or maybe even some sort of beef on the bone. As I started to muster the courage to send the plate back, I took a closer look—and soon recognized the artistry of the prep work and

plating. The meat was indeed breaded and fried shrimp, three pieces each wrapped firmly around a thick sugarcane stick. The sugarcane was slightly seared to draw out its sweetness, the perfect balance to the savory shrimp.

There was more to relish when our entrees arrived. Despite the heat and humidity of the evening, my friend ordered vegetable and tofu pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. Though filled with a medley of fresh, bright greens and other veggies and a sizable ball of vermicelli, the broth was the standout of the bowl. Dubbed Saigon’s “regular” broth, it was flavored with ingredients such as fish sauce, lemongrass, ginger and star anise. Again, any of those ingredients used in abundance can overwhelm the flavor of a dish, but Saigon’s recipe was well-balanced.

The same could be said about my main course, the vermicelli platter with grilled beef, pork and chicken. This selection is essentially all the ingredients for pho minus the broth. The cuts of grilled meat were marinated and glazed with sweet hoisin sauce, each bite making me feel as if I were at a backyard family barbecue. But the meat is meant to be mixed with the vermicelli, sprouts, lemongrass and other fresh veggies in the bowl. Describing the mashup as delicious would be an understatement. Calling it “divine” seems more appropriate.

Saigon has a limited dessert menu, highlighted by sweet caramel flan and fried ice cream. None of the choices called out to us, so we opted to sip our end-of-meal sweets. I capped the night with a delightful Thai iced tea, while my friend had a lychee juice. (It was canned rather than fresh, unfortunately.)

While Chinese food still has a firm grip on Asian food popularity in these parts (globally, Korea’s cuisine reigns supreme based on social media engagement), Saigon Bistro’s steady flow of dine-in and takeout customers indicates that more and more diners have a hankering for the fresh flavors of Vietnam. Fortunately, there’s a new go-to restaurant in Fair Lawn in which to try them.

—Darius Amos

Photos by Darius Amos

SAIGON BISTRO 24-08 Fair Lawn Ave., Fair Lawn, 201.398.1883; saigonbistrofairlawn.com

ON THE TOWN

Be There

SEPT. 16

Motor on over to the 28TH ANNUAL RIDGEWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CAR SHOW and check out the more than 400 unique cars on display. Take a stroll along East Ridgewood Avenue from 6 to 9 p.m. and enjoy cool cars, food, music and more. Preregistration is required to display your vehicle, but admission is free for spectators. For more information, visit ridgewoodchamber.com.

SEPT. 12

Bergen residents age 60+ can attend the annual SENIOR FESTIVAL, hosted by the Department of Human Services Division of Senior Services. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Van Saun Park in Paramus, there will be tons of activities including lunch, a craft fair, live entertainment and more. 201.336.7416 for more info or to special accommodations if you have special needs.

14

us a song, you’re the piano man! Put in requests for your favorite tunes when SAVAGE PIANOS returns to Blue Moon Mexican Cafe in Wyckoff for their Dueling Pianos event. It’ll be held outdoors on the patio, weather permitting, from 6 to 10 p.m. Advanced registration is encouraged. at bluemoonmexicancafe. com/locations/wyckoff.

SEPT. 15

Whether you sing professionally or just for fun, come out for OPEN MIC NIGHT hosted by the Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County in Teaneck on the third Friday of every month. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m., so prep a 10-minute set or just sit back and enjoy the music, poetry and storytelling. Check out ethicalfocus.org/ events for more information.

It’s HALF-WAY TO PATRICK’S DAY, a opportunity (and name) for a run. This 5K takes place at Overpeck Park in Ridgefield Park, where you can take in the views of the NYC skyline as you walk a.m. for the 5K and $35 and includes a bagels, sampling of an Irish breakfast. All proceeds go toward the Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade and The Council of Irish Associations of Greater Bergen County. For additional info: bergencountyirish.org.

22–24

fall in Bergen County at the annual HARVEST FESTIVAL The event will take parts of Overpeck Park for the weekend to 9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday) with a bounty full of activities, a craft fair, rides, food trucks, a petting zoo, musical performances and much more. Parking and admission are but some programs require paid-for wristbands, including the rides and petting Guests are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item to donate to the Bergen County Food Security Task Force. View more events and details at facebook.com/bergen4H.

SEPT. 23

Oktoberfest and Elvis is the mashup we never knew we needed. You’ll get both at the Hasbrouck Heights

CORPUS CHRISTI

PARISH OKTOBERFEST

SEPT. 20

Come together with your neighbors when The Beatles cover band THE BRITLES takes the stage at Maywood Memorial Park for the tail end of the borough’s Summer Concerts in the Park series. Bring a chair and maybe some snacks, though there will be food trucks for hungry concert-goers too. The show starts at 6:30 p.m., and admission is free. Find out more at eventbrite.com.

SEPT. 21 & 22

Singing, dancing, acrobatics and more—your toddler or preschooler will be amazed watching DISNEY JUNIOR LIVE ON TOUR: COSTUME PALOOZA when it makes a stop at bergenPAC in Englewood. Characters from beloved Disney Junior shows like Spidey Amazing Friends, Puppy Pals, Doc McStuffins and yes, Mickey and Minnie throw a huge costume party live on stage. Both shows begin at 6 p.m., and tickets start at $71. Book at disneyjuniortour.com.

featuring Anthony Liguori, an Elvis Presley impersonator/ performer. Of course, in true Oktoberfest fashion, there will also be German food, beer, music and dancing. The party starts at 7 p.m. For ticketing info and more on the singer, visit anthonyliguorijr.com.

SEPT. 24

Street fair season is here! And the GARFIELD FALL FAMILY STREET FAIR never disappoints. Held along Midland Avenue between Krakow and Elizabeth streets from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this fair will be one giant block party featuring crafts, a kiddie play area with games and rides, food trucks and free giveaways from local businesses’ booths. Questions? Contact Cissy at 201.998.1144.

From car shows and cover bands to 5Ks and fall festivals—there’s and do this

Gatherings

The Maywood-based group hosted its 20th Voices of Aphasia Gala. The event included a cocktail hour, 50/50 raffle and silent auction. Proceeds benefit the center’s mission to enrich the lives of people with aphasia, their families and communities. 1 Adler

Holy Name Medical Center held its annual fashion show at the Teaneck Marriot. Funds raised during the event go toward the hospital’s MS Center. 2 Table hosted by Joseph M. Sanzari and Lori Rubino

3 Table hosted by Marie Inserra and Laura Dupont

Dozens of golfers participated in the annual BVMI Golf Classic at the Arcola Country Club in Paramus. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Hackensack nonprofit’s programs.

4–5 Foursomes line up before teeing off.

The YMCA held its annual gala at Il Villagio in Carlstadt. The fundraiser benefited the Y’s programs, which are dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. 6 Ed Russo, John Saraceno, Jose Lozano, Ron

The Allendale Board of Education received a $228,000 donation from the AFEE. The funds will go toward grants benefiting Hillside and Brookside schools. 7 AFEE members present their donation to the board of education.

The auxiliary donated $225,000 to the Valley Hospital Foundation during its luncheon at the Indian Trail Club. The donation upped the auxiliary’s total to $1.9 million, which is 62 percent of the group’s $3.1 million pledge. 8 Auxiliary members present their donation.

1. ADLER APHASIA CENTER

Aphasia Center staff

6. MEADOWLANDS AREA YMCA

Simoncini

2-3. HOLY NAME MEDICAL CENTER

7. ALLENDALE FOUNDATION FOR EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

4-5. BERGEN VOLUNTEER MEDICAL INITIATIVE

8. THE VALLEY HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

Bergenites always show up to support their friends and neighbors.

“We went to Waldwick Borough Park for a photoshoot for my daughter Sabrina’s fifth birthday late last summer. We love the playground and the calming scenes by the water. Sabrina wanted to wear a fancy dress. She loves feeling pretty, but also loves dirt, building, adventure and the outdoors, and had no fear stepping into this creek. l’m a big believer in collecting stories to share. Going on adventures and documenting them on Instagram gives us a way to connect with other people.”

—Michelle Palmer, Carlstadt

Photo courtesy of Michelle Palmer, Instagram @memory.making.mama.nj