Entertain and Dine NEW JERSEY Style

With the spring and summer theatre season in full swing, we like to make some recommendations for meals and shows to enjoy in New Jersey. From north to south, the Garden State has great culinary choices to pair with top entertainment. Check out our list. Theater personnel, patrons, and entertainers have given us their suggestions.

Centenary Stage (Hackettstown) Check out the upcoming shows that include "YPW: Festival of Shows" and "Summer Jamfest." Visit: http://centenarystageco.org/. Mamma's & Cafe Bacci are an Italian food lover delight, just a short 5 minute drive from the theater. Visit: https://www.mamascafebaci.com/ In the downtown area, Pandan Room offers Thai cuisine with farm to table fresh ingredients. Visit: http://www.pandanroom.com/.

The Growing Stage (Netcong) Now on stage at the Netcong theatre is "Madagascar - A Musical Adventure" through May 20. Gather your group for this fun-filled show. Visit: http://www.growingstage.com/. Polo's Bar & Grill - Just a few blocks from The Growing Stage, Polo's offers something for every taste with classic American fare. Visit: http://www.polosbarandgrill.com/.

NJPAC (Newark) There are always star-studded events happening on the New Jersey Performing Arts Center stage that includes dance, comedy, music, and more. Visit: http://www.njpac.org/. Marcus B & P - This new restaurant by renowned chef Marcus Samualsson is just a few blocks from NJPAC. Visit: https://www.marcusbp.com/.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (Madison on the Drew University Campus) The Theatre is kicking off their 2018 season with Moliere's "Tartuffe." It will be performed from May 16 to June 3. Visit: http://www.shakespearenj.org/. Rocco's - From Pizza to fine dining, this downtown Madison restaurant offers it all. Visit: https://www.roccosmadison.com/.

Premiere Stages (Union on the Kean University Campus) They have just announced their season with shows that include "Linger" from July 12 to July 29. Visit: http://www.premierestagesatkean.com/. Ursino Tavern & Steakhouse is located just across Morris Avenue on the campus grounds. They offer both casual and fine dining options in a stylish, charming atmosphere. Visit: https://www.ursinosteakhouse.com/.

UCPAC (Rahway) Film, theatre, musical theatre, comedy, and music are all coming to the Union County Performing Arts Center. Visit: http://www.ucpac.org/. Irving Inn Social Wine Bar & Kitchen - Just a short walk from UCPAC, they offer two venues that include a bar for casual fare along with a stylish restaurant space. Luciano's - Traditional Italian dishes and much more are offered at one of Rahway's favorite restaurants. Visit: https://www.lucianosristorante.com/.

Paper Mill Playhouse - (Millburn) Up next at the Playhouse is Halftime from May 31st to July 1st. Visit: https://papermill.org/. The Common Lot - Seasonal dishes with global influence are served in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Visit: http://commonlot.com/.Charlie Browns - Just a few blocks from the Playhouse is this all American restaurant that serves both lunch and dinner. Visit: https://millburn.ordercharliebrowns.com/.

The Wellmont Theater (Montclair) - Live musical concerts and shows are always happening at this downtown theater. Visit: https://wellmonttheater.com/. Zaferon Grill is an American Bistro that serves Mediterranean fusion with fresh locally sourced ingredients. Visit: http://zaferongrill.com/.

MPAC (Morristown) Check out the line-up of shows at Mayo Performing Arts Center that includes the NJ Ballet, Jay Leno, and "Shrek: The Musical." Visit: https://www.mayoarts.org/. South & Pine - This popular American eatery serves lunch, dinner and weekend brunches in a casual, inviting atmosphere. Visit: http://www.southandpine.com/. Stirling Tavern - Delicious pub food and more along with a nice beverage program that includes craft beers keeps people coming back to this Morristown restaurant. Visit: https://www.stirlingtavern.com/.

New Jersey Repertory Company (Long Branch) Now on stage at NJ Rep is the critically acclaimed world premiere play by Chloe Hung, "Issei, He Say" through May 20. At their West End Arts Center, they will be presenting "Five by Ferber," a festival celebrating the life of Edna Ferber from May 31 to June 3. Visit: http://www.njrep.org/. Rooney's Oceanfront - This ever-popular restaurant offers a fantastic menu and grand views of the ocean. Stop by before or after the show for drinks and small plates or a top dinner experience. Visit: http://www.rooneysocean.com/.

Two River Theater (Red Bank) "Dancing at Lughnasa" is charming audiences at the Theater with its humor and pathos through May 13. The theater's next production will be "Songbird" from June 9 to July 1. Visit: https://www.tworivertheater.org/. Albariño Tapas & Wine Bar - True to their motto, "Eat Locally, Drink Globally," The restaurant features Spanish-inspired dishes using the best ingredients that the region has to offer. Visit: https://www.albarinorestaurant.com/. D'JEET? - This restaurant is a refreshing reprieve from the typical fare found in the area. The changing menu reflects the availability of seasonal ingredients. Visit: https://djeetcatering.com/.

George Street Playhouse (New Brunswick) Now on the New Brunswick stage is The Nerds, through May 20. It's a hilarious comedy that is sure to please. https://georgestreetplayhouse.org/. Christopher's at The Heldrich - Located in the center of New Brunswick's bustling arts district, Christopher's is a perfect place to go before or after the theater. https://www.theheldrich.com/newbrunswick_dining/christophers_bar/.

Gateway Playhouse (Somers Point) The playhouse is located in Somers Point and offers education programs along with a variety of shows that include cabaret performances, plays and musicals. Visit: http://www.gatewaybythebay.org/. Gregory's Bar - Lunch, dinner, or late night, Gregory's has you covered with a delicious selection that includes appetizers, salads, seafood, burgers, and more. Visit: http://gregorysrestaurantandbar.letseat.at/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Freeimages.com

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