The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1347392
resting on the skeleton tree branches. And by the late spring, the lush green verdant plant-life will return, adding a natural, refreshing sight to the garden. Rat's Restaurant champions a seasonally inspired menu that integrates the comforting flavors of France with the fresh, locally sourced ingredients from farms around New Jersey. The result is an astounding, upscale dining experience. Upon our arrival, the house cheerfully welcomed us with dazzling glasses of Vandori Prosecco from the Friuli-Venezia region of Italy, offering a light, yet refreshing wine to enjoy by the flickering splendor of the nearby fireplace. Accompanied with the proverbial cheese & charcuterie board, featuring an authentic curated selection of artisanal cheeses and meats, and the endless basket of soft, yet crisp baguettes, and you heard it here folks, freshly baked popovers, the verdict was clear – we were here to eat. Each trip to the board meant a distinctive, harmonic combination of balanced flavors. The subtle pungency of the Bayley Hazen Blue Cheese offered a distinctive zing that paired effortlessly with the sweetness, yet tartness of raspberry jam on a crisp slice of baguette. While the distinctive creaminess from the St. Stephen cow's milk cheese brought a finesse that courageously stood up to the delicacy of the warm popovers topped with a thinly sliced apple wedge for a fruity finish. The vast selection of house cocktails, various bottles of wine, and craft beer painted the table with a complementary mix for the palette. Ratty's Ultimate Manhattan introduced the spicy, bitterness of bourbon paired with the balanced sweetness of the Carpano Antica Vermouth and Luxardo cherry's syrup. The classic Autumn Old-Fashioned only added to the fireside chatter of the night. Not into Whiskey? Perhaps try the White Cosmo made with the slight tartness of white cranberry juice and citrus vodka. But as the seasons change, the menu, including drinks, will renew with even more original creations. V U E N J .C O M 157