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McLYNNS

For diners who prefer a casual atmosphere surrounded by good food, good drink, and good friends, McLynn’s is your place. A family-owned pub/restaurant, McLynn’s traditions began three generations ago with patriarch Rod Keller and continued today by grandsons Stephen and Greg. It is a perfect spot to frequent after a hard day at the office or at home, where you can find delicious appetizers to snack on at the bar or sit and enjoy a full meal. Apps to try are their famous Firecracker Shrimp and the fresh, crab-laden Maryland Crabcakes. If chips and dip are your thing then don’t pass on the scrumptious Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Chef Greg has developed the perfect quick lunch menu for those on the go or on a break from work. Their tavern sandwiches, including the Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich and the Hot Corned Beef Sandwich, are sure to satisfy. With winter months looming on the horizon, keep in mind their hearty chili and other homemade soups. Dinners include Sirloin and Ribeye steaks, Chicken Pot Pie, and the Irish staple, Shepherd’s Pie. For you fish lovers, the chef has a mouth watering New England Style Scrod and Shrimp Scampi, along with daily fish and seafood specialties. A cozy atmosphere that is family oriented and on Sundays children under eight eat free. Go early to avoid the wait. There is plenty of parking in the back. Live music on weekends. McLynn’s offers onsite catering for up to 80 people and off site catering as well. All major credit cards are accepted during their hours of operation between 11:30 a.m. and 2 a.m. Happy hour, a late night menu and free wireless Internet are also available.

McLynn’s, 250 Morris Ave., Springfield; 973-258-1600.

MOSAICO

Entering through the Mediterranean archway conjures up images of the Tuscan coast. An open kitchen surrounded by colorful mosaic tiles greets you after a warm welcome by the attentive staff. The aromas of Italian cuisine pervades the room and moves you to a quiet Italian countryside.

Among the list of tantalizing appetizers is a perfectly roasted Portobello mushrooms draped in melted and bronzed mozzarella and a Broccoli Rabe Con Salsiccia, which is sauteed broccoli rabe with sweet sausage and spicy cherry peppers.

An evening at Mosaico is not complete without sampling their house-made pasta. A standout on the menu, the Papardelle Mosaico, is a guaranteed hit. Also try the red snapper which is grilled over sautéed string beans and shitake mushrooms; or the Orecchitette Con Fagiolini with the house made-pasta tossed with chicken, string beans, tomatoes, spinach, and ricotta cheese.

Finish with the decadent Valrhona Chocolate Mousse Tort or the Blackberry Panna Cotta. They have a pastry chef on premises with a gift for custard, so the Crème Brule is a must-try.

The chef, who is from Ecuador, has been with Rudy Carerra, one of the owners, and his partner, Andy, for the past nine years. Mosaico is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Lunch is from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Dinner runs from 5 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 11 p.m. on weekends. Reservations are recommended for all parties. Check out their menu at www.mosaico22.com.

Mosaico, 1072 Rt. 22 West, Mountainside, NJ; 908-233-3553.

RIO 22

Rio 22 is an all-you-can-eat dining experience like no other. Sit back, relax and enjoy the truly unique Brazilian steakhouse atmosphere where you will feast on a nonstop parade of freshly prepared food.

Enjoy this popular South American-style barbecue called Rodizio — the Brazilian way of slow-roasting perfectly seasoned cuts of beef, pork, filet mignon, chicken, ham and Brazilian sausage on large skewers over open-flame grills. The sizzling cuts of meat and poultry are brought to your table and carved tableside by authentic Gaucho chefs.

You may choose as many different seasonings and cuts of meat as you like. Featured meats include beef rib, top sirloin, rump steak, rib-eye steak, flank steak, skirt steak, shell steak and more.

Your main course is accompanied by homemade traditional Brazilian side dishes and an extravagant all-you-can-eat 30-item salad bar. Salad bar items include cold seafood, cheeses, salads, hot and cold pasta, vegetables and many other hot and cold dishes. Rio 22 also offers a 30-seat sushi bar and lounge. Sushi can be ordered separately or in addition to the all-you-can-eat feast. An à la carte menu with additional items is also available. Vegetarians will enjoy the salad bar and vegetarian sushi.

To enhance your dining experience, Rio 22 offers a variety of delicious desserts that include freshly made cakes, tarts, Brazilian flan and other irresistible temptations. To complement every meat selection, you can choose drinks from the fully stocked bar of premium liquors, beers and specialty drinks. We offer a complete international wine selection that accommodates every budget. The atmosphere is perfect for family outings, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, business functions and large special event groups.

Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday: 4 to 10 p.m .; Friday and Saturday: 4 to 11 p.m .; Sunday: noon to 9 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Live entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Rio 22, 2185 Rt. 22 W., Union, NJ; 908-206-0060; www.rio22.net

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