Boulevard Five72...Gourmet New American Cuisine at neighborhood pub prices.

Below is a synopsis of my review. Visit my column, Stern Eats, at
http://thealternativepress.com/column.asp?COL=se&ID=15 , for the full review...

I have found a new spot, which I am certainly going to be working into my regular rotation. Boulevard Five72 in Kenilworth, New Jersey is home to Chef/Owner Scott Snyder, where he artfully turns out gourmet New American Cuisine, at prices that rival my local neighborhood pub. Boulevard Five72 is fine dining, in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere, where you can expect to be wowed by the food and the service.

After placing our appetizer and dinner orders, we were pleasantly surprised by an unexpected dish accompanied by the words, “Compliments of the Chef.” Before us was an espresso-sized serving of warm butternut squash soup with hazelnut oil. This surprise course was creamy and delicious with mild spicy notes of cinnamon.

THE APPETIZERS
The star among the appetizers was the Seared Day Boat Scallops ($12), served over a bed of Green Lentils, with Apple Smoked Bacon and a Celery Puree. One word: heavenly. The three large scallops were absolutely perfect in every way. They had the perfect sear, and they were amazingly sweet and fresh. To round off this dish even more, the scallops paired perfectly with the lentils, spiked with pieces of the deliciously salty and smoky bacon – perfect, perfect, perfect.

THE ENTREES
Making a solid performance was the Grilled Organic Salmon ($23) over a Basmati Rice and Lentil Pilaf, with Spinach and a Coconut Curry Broth. The salmon, with textbook grill lines, was cooked to desired doneness and was light, fluffy and tender. Making this even more special was the incredible flavor of the coconut broth, which was beautifully infused into the rice/lentil pilaf. Raising the bar was the homemade pasta. Two plates sampled were the Fresh Cavatelli ($18) with Pulled Braised Short Ribs, Portabella and Asparagus, and the Fettuccine ($18) with Gulf Shrimp. The pasta on both dishes had the unmistakably wonderful texture that only homemade pasta can have – light and fresh. Each pasta dish’s accompanying protein and sauce was equally as good. The pulled braised ribs were tender and moist, and the Gulf Shrimp with their light creamy sauce was an amazing combination.

THE DESSERTS
Taking my highest praises, was the Chocolate Carmel Tart ($8) with a light sprinkle of sea salt. This dessert was nothing less than heavenly. The tart was light and buttery, and the salt absolutely enhanced the wonderful flavor and interplay of the classic combination of chocolate and caramel.

THE DRINKS
Boulevard Five72 offers a very comprehensive wine selection, ranging from champagnes, whites to reds and everything in between. They are available by the glass ($8-$12) or by the bottle. Their fully stocked bar can also mix up your favorite cocktail ($5) or pour your favorite beer ($5).

THE SERVICE
The place was packed to the gills, but service was never compromised. I am always impressed when a waiter does not have to write a thing down.

THE PLATING
One word: Gourmet.

I was glad to have dined in a group, which afforded me the opportunity to sample a cross-section of the menu, from seafood and fish, to pasta and beef, to chicken and duck. I have to say that Boulevard Five72 is a breath of fresh air in the Union County dining scene. The atmosphere is elegant and comfortable. The service is very good. The menu offers a diverse range of meat, seafood and pasta dishes. The food is excellent and all indications are present that everything is homemade and fresh. Every dish was perfectly cooked, well-seasoned, beautiful and delicious. The prices, dare I say, are lower than they could be. Dinner for five, including drinks, was just $232.

I could go on and on about Boulevard Five72, but let me summarize by saying that it is one of the best meals I have had in a long time. I am going to rate Boulevard Five72 as Excellent, a first for Stern Eats. Boulevard Five72 should definitely be on the top of your list of places to eat.

It is time for me to move onward, in my search for the perfect meal. Check back soon and join me again, as Stern Eats.

Boulevard Five72 is located at 572 Boulevard, Kenilworth, New Jersey. You can reach them at (908) 709-1200, or visit them on the internet and view their ever changing menu at http://www.boulevardfive72.com/ .