Sometimes work schedules hinder plans to celebrate special days, and in the Sears household, this has often applied. For a majority of my career as a computer operator, I worked weekends, which forced me, my wife Lucille, and our daughter Stefanie to enjoy both Mother's and Father's Days on a Monday. Due to my daughter's work schedule, this year was no different. We did give Lucille some gifts and got takeout food for May 8th, but on May 9th, it was time to honor Lucille's request to find an eatery "overlooking the water." And we did, visiting for the first time Brielle, New Jersey's The Pig & Parrot Sandbar (201 Union Lane, 732-528-7750, www.thepigandparrot.com). Conveniently located off of Route 35, dining was available both indoors and out, and available as well was a view of the Manasquan River and the nature that calls it home. (*Note" There is also a Pig & Parrot location at 77 Hudson Street in Hoboken). Lisa Berko was our Mother's Day celebration server, and she was - in menu knowledge, patience, and friendliness - up to the task. She was an excellent server. First on our list to devour was a garlic shrimp appetizer, sauteed with garlic, tomato, and basil in a white wine sauce, served with garlic bread (below, $16.00). Starting our meal with this and the view had us mumbling, "Okay, entrees, we're waiting for you - eagerly!" Lucille and Stefanie both selected from the "Rice Bowls" portion of the menu, Lucille opting for the Bang Bang shrimp and Stefanie the steak ($18.00 and $19.00 respectively). As is the Sears family norm, we shared our delicious food. As for my side of the table, I chose the (seared) Sandbar tuna, served over spinach, lump crab meat, roasted peppers, and asparagus, topped with a balsamic glaze and served with a side of mashed potatoes ($26.00). I promised myself to eat slow, and let the entree last longer. Needless to say, that promise didn't work, but I did savor it - a key point.
The Pig & Parrot Sandbar was a wonderful experience, one that we're looking forward to again...and again. Steve
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AuthorAppetizers, hospitality, small plates - the best in dining! Archives
January 2023
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