Dining Alfresco in Central Jersey

[ambrose]

OK, so there's a nor'easter bearing down on us, but pretty soon it will be time for dining alfresco. Do you have a favorite spot in central New Jersey? Places along the shore are too obvious so how about those other special places you like to frequent once the weather has begun to cooperate? Restaurants along the Pennyslvania side of the Delaware will be accepted but will be assigned an asterisk!

[flourgirl]

Stockton Inn, Stockton NJ - the patio around back is just wonderful. We also like to have lunch on the front porch once in a while.

Maria Rosa Restaurant and Pizza, Rt. 523 between Flemington and Sergeantsville - OK, now this one we haven't tried yet - but I have always heard it's very good and the patio is supposed to be beautiful (geez, I hope it's still there...) Has anyone else been there recently and what did you think about it?

[RGR]

When it comes to dining al fresco, one of our favorite spots is El Meson. Actually, we usually put it on the shelf during the winter, but once the warm weather hits, we like to head over there -- usually for a late lunch but occasionally for dinner -- and sit on the spacious patio.

We also love dining in the very attractive and comfortable Garden Room at The Frog and the Peach. It's open on three sides, so it has an out-doorsy feel while still protecting diners from the elements.

When we went to Pithari Taverna, the Greek restaurant in Highland Park, for the first time in the fall, we noticed a fairly large outdoor patio area. So, I presume they will be offering al fresco dining come the warm weather. Although I wasn't completely bowled over by the food, it was good enough, and that patio is enough to entice me to go back.

I know you asked not to include places along the shore, but I felt I should mention this. Last year, we went to Thompson's Fish 'n' Chips, in Belmar, several times for lunch and sat on their small front patio (only 4 tables). However, I have a sinking feeling they may no longer be in business because when I checked their website, it was gone! :-(

[HillJ]

Central Jersey....towns like Lambertsville, Princeton, (as you mentioned towns throughout the Jersey Shore) and the added benefit of water taxis gives new meaning to al fresco...but to be honest....Philly IS our fav place for street dining. Like,

Cuba Libre - This popular Cuban restaurant in Old City has been designed to resemble a street scene in Havana. When the weather is warm, the first floor of this two-story restaurant opens onto the sidewalk. 10 S. 2nd Street, [phone]

Ambrose, visit Philly. Some of the best al fresco dining last summer for dh & I took place on the bustling streets of downtown/central Philly.