New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Rutgers Researchers Just Created a Sweeter, Superior Strawberry

We’re at the tail end of strawberry picking season in New Jersey. However, that didn’t stop Rutgers University from unveiling a new varietal aptly named, Rutgers D’Light. Not only do researchers believe that this fruit yields a sweeter, superior flavor—its shape is also ideal for dipping. Let’s take a closer look at how Rutgers developed (and perhaps perfected) a new strawberry varietal. Oh, and this isn’t the first time.
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

How Montclair’s Dry Goods Refillery Is Building a Plastic-Free Future

Lately, there’s been a growing awareness around plastic pollution in New Jersey. Perhaps this is due to the state’s upcoming plastic bag ban, which goes into effect on May 4, 2022. However, one NJ mom had her sights set on remedying this problem years prior. Rachel Garcia opened Dry Goods Refillery back in February 2020. The mission for her Maplewood store was to support a more sustainable supply chain, while eliminating single-use packaging and food waste. This concept proved so successful amon
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Apple TV+ Series ‘Severance’ Filmed at NJ's Bell Works

The season one finale of “Severance” aired last week on Apple TV+. In the weeks I streamed the Ben Stiller-directed psychological thriller, I actively avoided spoilers. So, it was only when the show wrapped that I discovered that this dystopian, alternate workplace reality Stiller created was actually filmed here in NJ. That’s right, the corporate headquarters of Lumon Industries featured on “Severance” is really the iconic Bell Works building in Holmdel, New Jersey.
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Where to Eat Omakase Sushi in NJ

There’s a difference between going out for sushi and sitting down to an omakase sushi meal. During the latter, there are no menus and sometimes, no waiters. The chef chooses what’s being prepared, how it’s presented, the pacing and so on. For diners, there are virtually no decisions to be made—other than perhaps what you’d like to drink. Essentially, you’re relinquishing all control and agreeing to go on an expertly crafted culinary journey. (Trust us, it’s as fun as it is delicious.)
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

This NJ Camper Van Company Will Make You Want to Go Off-Grid

The “American Dream” as we know it is changing. This shift, spearheaded by a struggling economy, travel restrictions and remote work, has prompted many people to rethink their most basic values—whether that means quitting their nine-to-five or trading in their 2,000-square-foot home for an 11-foot camper van. Either way, there seems to be a renewed interest in self-sufficiency and freedom. Much like how RVs inspired tiny living from the ‘50s to the ‘70s, the pandemic has encouraged modern-day
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Inside Jayce Baudry French Pastry in Montclair

The city of Montclair continues to have an affinity for European cuisine (and Daniel Boulud alumni). This time, a new pâtisserie recently debuted on Church Street—Jayce Baudry French Pastry. Conceptualized by chef-owner Jayce Baudry, the Bordeaux, France native aspired to bring a taste of home to New Jersey. Before setting up his own shop in Essex County, Baudry spent time working for some of the most acclaimed establishments in Paris and came to the States alongside renowned restaurateur,
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Millburn Deli Opens Montclair Location, But Is It As Good?

In New Jersey, we know our delis. And if you’re not from the Garden State, any local can point you in the direction of NJ’s finest. One delicatessen in particular, however, has managed to garner more attention than most. Millburn Deli first opened on Millburn Avenue in 1946. Since then, they’ve made multiple local and national “best sandwich shop” lists, even appearing on the Food Network. Remember when they introduced Eli Manning to the Jersey Sloppy Joe? Most recently, Millburn Deli expanded i
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Chofi Taco’s Kim Flammia on Bringing Birria to NJ and Paying Homage to Mexico

When New Jerseyans (including myself) were on the hunt for the best birria tacos, it seemed like an unsuspecting storefront in Union City had amassed a cult-like following. In fact, the owner of Chofi Taco, Kim Flammia, recently told me that customers have driven in from out-of-state to try her food. This did not surprise me. Before opening her brick-and-mortar, Kim and her husband Patrick had developed an incredible fan base as vendors at Smorgasburg in Brooklyn. Hoping to duplicate that succe
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Netflix in NJ? Streaming Service Looking at New Jersey For Production Facility

On Oct. 26, 2021, Netflix unveiled its plan to acquire part of an Army base in New Jersey. The aforementioned military site that they’re eyeing for a future production facility is Fort Monmouth, which closed in 2011. The Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA) will be taking bids until Jan. 12, 2022. However, it has not been announced when a final decision will be made. If Netflix’s offer is accepted, it will be its second-largest production complex at 289 acres. Its largest hub
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

New Jersey Bed and Breakfasts: A Beginner's Guide

Sometimes, traveling out of state can feel like too much effort. And while hotels are typically the preferred lodging choice, staycationers are seeking a different type of experience. More residential comforts, if you will. Lucky for us, New Jersey has its fair share of bed and breakfasts, spanning from North to South. For me, a good B&B embodies the unique charm and coziness of home. Oftentimes, your stay is coupled with extra special touches from the host. Along with a relaxed feeling, pictur
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Richard Branson’s Scarlet Lady Is The Coolest Cruise Ship on The Sea

Last week, I stepped onto a cruise ship for the very first time. Granted, it was docked on the Hudson River, but you never forget your first. Personally, I never considered myself to be an aspiring seafarer—something I soon learned Richard Branson and I had in common. Scarlet Lady, the first ship to debut from Branson’s Virgin Voyages cruise line, was just weeks away from her inaugural series of U.S. sailings. I got an exclusive tour of what it’s like to be on board. Before docking most recentl
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

7 Scary Movies Filmed in NJ

Maybe it’s just me, but more desolate states like Alaska or Wyoming seem to be the perfect setting for a horror movie. New Jersey, admittedly, is not the first to come to mind. However, filmmakers over the years have managed to get pulses pounding with the Garden State as their backdrop. From cult classics (pun intended) to straight-up slashers, we’ve rounded up seven scary movies that are filmed right here in NJ. While the real events that inspired “The Amityville Horror” might’ve happened in
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

Where to Find The Best Apple Cider Donuts in NJ

If the PSL is fall’s favorite beverage then apple cider donuts are the season’s official sweet treat. They’re cakey, best served warm and most often coated in an obscene amount of sugar. Although, you’ll see them in plain and powdered varieties too. Throughout the fall months, you’ll spot them in abundance at local farm stands, orchards, cider mills and more. Here, we’ve rounded up where you can find the best apple cider donuts in NJ. If this is what being in the autumnal spirit is about, we’ll
New Jersey Digest •

How Wildwood Became an Architectural Wonder

Growing up, I would vacation in Wildwood every summer. This follows a long-standing tradition on my mom’s side, whose family paid the seaside town a yearly visit dating back to the ‘60s. The week-long trip would be to the same hotel they originally stayed at, the Pan American. This is just one of the areas famed “Doo Wop” structures. Even to this day, much of the architecture in Wildwood is rooted in the past and the future all at once.
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

5 New Jersey Hard Cider Houses To Try This Fall

Maybe you’ve spent your summer sipping spiked seltzers. Or enjoying a beverage at one of the Garden State’s biergartens. Fall, however, is undoubtedly the season for hard cider. While it may be tempting to head upstate, NJ does its fair share of apple growing and brewing too. In fact, we have a handful of hard cider houses, each bringing their own craft beverages and unique experience to New Jersey. I’ll give you the abbreviated version. The Garden State’s history with cider-making dates all th
New Jersey Digest Magazine •

NJ Town Named Most Beautiful in America by CN Traveler

It’s always a surprise—and a pleasant one at that—when New Jersey gets some praise. Not too long ago, a 2021 survey from Airbnb found Cape May to be a trending travel destination for spring and summer. The stunning beaches, lively boardwalk and Victorian houses are just some reasons why it’s a local favorite. Not to mention, it’s been the year of the staycation. A more recent claim to fame comes from Condé Nast Traveler. They recently named Cape May among the 26 “Most Beautiful Towns in America.
The Digest Online •

15 Places to Go Kayaking in New Jersey

There’s no arguing that summer days are best spent on the water. In New Jersey, kayaking is a great way to get out and explore our state’s landscapes from a new perspective. Don’t just take our word for it. Some of NJ’s coolest sights are best taken in from the area’s lakes and rivers. Want to paddle past Batsto Village? How about along the Manhattan skyline? With the water flowing underneath you and sunshine all around, take this as an opportunity to reconnect with nature. When you’re ready to
The Digest Online •

20 Must-Try Lobster Rolls in NJ

There’s no summer in the Northeast with lobster rolls. While New Jersey may not boast the same reputation as Maine or Connecticut, the state still knows its way around a sandwich. Do you take yours warm and doused in butter? How about chilled and tossed in mayo? Celery or no celery? These New Jersey restaurants cater to the less-is-more crowds, as well as those looking for something uber-indulgent. Still wondering who makes the best lobster rolls in NJ? Here are 20 spots that will transport you
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