Story and Photos by Jay Garrison • The Cardinal Contributing Writer
TAVERNA 54
One of the newest additions to the local culinary scene, Taverna 54 has been a big hit since its opening. Simply referred to as T54 by the locals, this Italian restaurant occupies the former location of the highly popular Deanna’s on Franklin Street.
After months of a complete renovation, this restaurant and bar has quickly earned a reputation for its quality of service and delicious food. A great start to your meal here might include their Tuna Tartare, Grilled Octopus or Grilled Prawn. Main dishes that will more than satisfy your cravings for authentic Italian cuisine include Trofie Pesto Genovese, Butternut Squash Gnocchi and Tuscan Roasted Chicken among another dozen or so choices.
The menu features many gluten free and vegan choices. If you are going, reservations are recommended. Taverna 54, 54 N. Franklin Street, Lambertville
D’FLORET
Tucked away on a tiny side street in Lambertville, celebrity Chef Dennis Foy can often be found working in the open kitchen hours before opening preparing for the night ahead. Known as the originator of farm to table, Chef Foy has created an impeccable reputation in culinary circles for past 5 decades.
Opening his latest restaurant over a decade ago in Lambertville, the 24 seat D’floret is adorned with art from Chef Foy and his wife Estella Quionones. But the culinary art that is created each night in the kitchen will have you savoring every bite.
In addition to the daily specials, the menu includes such favorites as Sautéed Florida Snapper, Roasted Rack of Lamb and Seared Ahi Tuna.
No meal would be complete at D’floret without a few selections from the dessert menu. Strawberry Shortcake and Tahitian Vanilla Crème Brûlée are two of the amazing desserts you’ll find to complete your meal.
You’ll definitely want reservations at this BYOB restaurant. D’Floret, 18 S. Main Street, Lambertville (door on Lilly Street)
BELL’S TAVERN
In a town that is known to triple its population each day from tourists, where do locals enjoy their dining? Bell’s Tavern. Tucked in the middle of a residential block on N. Union Street, except for the bustling activity in front, you could easily pass this local favorite restaurant ten times and never known it was there.
The bar and dining area is often filled with the who’s who from the local community and you won’t find a single local that isn’t more then happy to tell you about why Bell’s is such a favorite and what their favorite pasta dish is. Know for exceptional and friendly service, this eatery was established in 1938.
A section of menu items include choices such as Farfalle Francesca, Bell’s Gambretti and Grilled New York Strip Steak.
Located at 183 North Union Street, Bell’s Tavern is open 7 days a week from 5pm to 9pm. Reservations are suggested.
OLDESTONE STEAKHOUSE
Breathtaking is often used to describe the first impressions of the dining room at Oldestone Steakhouse in New Hope. Built in 1872, this stone church was once the home to Marsha Browns for nearly two decades. Much of the interior design and decor has been retained in the multi level steakhouse.
Foodies from as far away from NYC and Philadelphia have touted their dining experience at Oldestone with many celebrities sightings at this 2 year old Art Deco steakhouse.
From a raw bar to a chef’s table to multiple bars, Oldestone is big city dining in New Hope. The Porterhouse Board for two is one of the most popular selections on a menu filled with Filet Mignon, New York Strip, Cowboy Ribeye among other choices cuts. For those not in the mood for steak, Vegetarian Napoleon, Garlic and Lemon Roasted Chicken and a handful of pasta dishes are also included on the menu.
At 9,000 square feet and one of, if not the biggest dining rooms in the area, it’s hard to imagine you need reservations, but it’s recommended. Oldestone is located at 15 South Main Street, New Hope.
NOZOMU SUSHI
In a town bustling with thousands of tourists on the weekends, the prayers for exceptional sushi in New Hope were finally answered at the end of 2022.
Chef Danny Nguyen and his team have created the ultimate menu for a light meal or for a multi course dinner experience.
The two story restaurant with an outdoor deck on Mechanic Street is warm and welcoming with a staff that goes above and beyond to provide you with an exceptional experience.
In addition to the signature rolls, such as the very popular New Hope Roll, the Kiss of Death Roll and the Ragin Cajun Roll, the menu features à la carte selections and sushi and sashimi selections. In addition, the Kalbi-Korean marinated Short Ribs is a can’t miss dish.
Reservations are recommended as this restaurant fills up quickly from the moment it opens. Located at 9 West Mechanic Street, New Hope, Nozomu is BYOB.
AMELIA
Hidden gem. Tucked away on Ferry Street in New Hope, the very unassuming building hides what many would argue is one of the top 3 restaurants in a town packed with too many restaurants to choose from.
Sometimes you’ll come across a restaurant and wish you knew about it sooner. Amelia is one of those places.
With Fradiavolo, Campanelle con salsiccia e pomodoro and Farfalle alla forrestiera as just some of the dishes on this menu, deciding on just one dish will be difficult at best. The menu also includes a handful of chicken, fish and steak choices as well but the insider tip here is to go with a pasta dish. But no matter which way you go be sure to leave room for dessert.
Amelia is located at 49 West Ferry Street, New Hope. You’ll absolutely want reservations.
And Don’t Forget a Favorite Drink!
THE BOAT HOUSE
This nautical themed bar feels more like sitting in the boat captains living room than a place for signature cocktails. Can’t Miss: Margarita
LAMBERTVILLE HOUSE
The bar in the historic Lambertville House Hotel on Bridge Street is typically bustling with activity most early evenings year round. Can’t Miss: Martini
UNDER THE MOON
The newly added bar is Lambertville’s go to late night spot for cocktails and light menu. This bar features many signature cocktails. Can’t Miss: Old Fashion
FERRY + MAIN AT LOGAN INN
Established in the early 1700’s, the Logan Inn recently completed a major renovation and addition. The huge bar and outdoor space is a perfect location to start or end your night. Can’t Miss: Wine selection
THE DUBLINER ON THE DELAWARE
One step into this Irish pub and luck will be on your side. A favorite with locals and tourists in the heart of New Hope. Can’t Miss: The Guinness Pours.
RIVERHOUSE AT ODETTE’S
The piano bar features live music on the weekends at this upscale boutique hotel on the Delaware River. Can’t Miss: Dirty Chai
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