BLACKTHORN RESTAURANT & IRISH PUB

If you’re looking for an authentic Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere, you don’t need to travel any further than the Blackthorn Restaurant and Irish Pub in Kenilworth. The restaurant is warm and welcoming, with a stone fireplace that is decorated for each season and pictures of Ireland on the wall. Blackthorn attracts a business crowd at lunch and families in the evenings. Many Little League teams and adult sports leagues gather at Blackthorn to unwind after a game. The menu offers traditional Irish fare as well as eclectic international dishes highlighted by specials that change every day and always include a selection of fresh fish. Among the favorite items on the menu are Shepherd’s pie, beer battered fish and chips and Gaelic steak with mushrooms and onions in a Jameson Irish Whiskey sauce. The party kicks into high gear after 10 p.m., with Karaoke on Tuesday nights and live music on Wednesdays. A DJ keeps the party atmosphere going the rest of the week, with music and dancing Thursday through Saturday night. The bar serves up a large selection of wines, beers and specialty drinks. In the summer months, the party extends to the deck, where there is indoor and outdoor seating, a Tiki bar and live Irish music on Sunday afternoons. They can take care of your party, large or small. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

Blackthorn Restaurant and Irish Pub, 651 N. Michigan Ave., Kenilworth, NJ; 908- 687-3311; www.blackthornpub.com.

BOULDER CREEK

Boulder Creek offers a wide variety of entrées including, steaks, seafood, chicken and pastas. Start your evening off with a Boulder Blossom or six jumbo coconut crusted shrimp and on those cold wintry days warm up with a bowl of McClure Pass potato soup.

Since Boulder Creek offers 12 different cuts of steak in a variety of sizes, there’s one to fit every taste. There are four types of side shrimp that can be added to any steak or you can substitute lobster, chicken or BBQ ribs. For those diners less fond of red meat, Boulder Creek can accommodate your needs with a rack of Steamboat Springs Baby Back Ribs, the Grilled Chicken Primavera, or something from the Seafood Specialties Section. Even if you just want a burger, but be prepared for a jumbo 10 oz. burger cooked to perfection with a choice of 12 different toppings. All Boulder Creeks steaks are grain fed, USDA choice beef, aged a minimum of 28 days, seasoned with a special blend of spices and cooked to your liking. All side dishes, dressings and soups are made fresh daily on the premise.

Boulder Creek also offers a full bar including 24 varieties of wine by the glass and a wide selection of both bottled and draft beers. A popular spot for after work food and drinks, discounts on Domestic draughts, house wine and well liquors are available during Happy Hour, which is held Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and again from 10:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Boulder Creek, Aviation Plaza Route 1 & 9, Linden 908-523-9230

THE BRICK OVEN WESTFIELD

The Brick Oven has been a mainstay in a town of many restaurants. This certainly speaks to the excellent service, friendly atmosphere and of course, great food. The food at Brick Oven is something you can count on. When pasta is all the rage, the selection at Brick Oven is always the best. Their customers return to indulge in a nice bowl of pasta a little more than often.

The Brick Oven crafts superb meals to be enjoyed in an environment of Italian county charm. For over 15 years, they have been a favorite destination for it’s many, many regular customers — and you’ll become one too.

Bring your own wine to enjoy with your choice of Italian classics and specialties. Reservations are suggested for parties of five or more. Outside dining is available. Inside and out, The Brick Oven is fun, charming and delicious.

Hours:
Lunch: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Dinner: Monday through Thursday, 5 to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 to 10:30 p.m.
Private parties available on Sunday from 4 to 8:30 p.m.

The Brick Oven Westfield, 117 Quimby St., Westfield, NJ; 908-317-9500

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