OUR BLOG HAS MOVED!

Visit our new blog site at www.eat-drink-celebrate.com. The new Landmark Hospitality blog features more news, tips, recipes, wedding information and articles to help you create life's memorable moments.

Fall events and bonus recipe

A chill is starting to set in. It's a great time to cozy up to one our cocktail classes.

Consider having us prepare Thanksgiving dinner for you at Liberty House or Stone House, both open from 1-6 p.m. on Turkey Day. We're sharing a special Fall recipe, straight from Liberty House executive chef Philip Campanella.

Call 866.683.3856 or e-mail info@libertyhouserestaurant.com to make reservations for cocktail classes and Thanksgiving feasts.

Learn How to Make Cocktails Like A Pro

Create and sip on cocktails, lounge with friends, nosh on complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and receive recipe cards to take home. Bar supplies, glassware, and ingredients are all provided.

Fall 2010 featured cocktails

• Fall Spice: A little spice, a little chill and a lot of flavor. This tasty treat features vanilla liquor, bourbon and a homemade, chipotle-orange syrup.

• Pumpkin Pie: Tasty drinkable version of the real thing. Substitute vodka for the crust.

• Washington Apple: A little bit of whiskey + a little bit of schnapps = a whole lot of fall fun.

 The details:

Cost: $35 per person

Thursday, Nov. 11: 7-8:30 p.m.

Liberty House Restaurant, 76 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ

www.libertyhouserestaurant.com

Thursday, Nov. 18: 7-8:30 p.m.

Stone House Restaurant, 50 Stirling Road, Warren, NJ

www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com

Baked Brie with Pear, Cranberry, & Walnut Conserve                                                                                   (serves10)

For the Brie:

1 Wheel (2-pound) firm Brie (rind intact)
chilled 2 pk (17 1/4-ounce) frozen puff pastry sheets (4 pastry -sheets)
thawed 1 lg egg, beaten lightly

For the conserve
2T unsalted butter
4 bartlet or bosc pear, peeled, cored and diced

2T brown sugar

¼ cup dried cranberries

¼ cup chopped walnuts

¼ t allspice

¼ t nutmeg

To make the conserve:

1. Heat the butter in a heavy pan over medium heat until it begins to foam

2. Add the pears and cook stirring for 2 – 3 minutes, until the pear is tender

3. Stir in the brown sugar, dried cranberries, walnuts and spices

4. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, then set aside and cool to room temperature

To make the brie:

1. Put Brie on a work surface and with a 2-inch round cutter cut out 10 rounds

2. On a lightly floured surface unfold 1 pastry sheet (do not roll out pastry) and with a  2 1/4-inch round cutter cut out 10 rounds

3. Unfold remaining 3 pastry sheets and with a 5-inch round cutter cut out 10 rounds

4. On cleaned work surface arrange 1 large pastry round and brush top with some egg. Center 1 cheese round on pastry and wrap pastry up over cheese to form a 3/4-inch border on top of cheese. Brush border with some remaining egg and top with 1 small pastry round, pressing edges of dough together gently but firmly to seal. Brush round with some remaining egg and chill on a baking sheet. Make more wrapped Brie with remaining pastry and cheese rounds in same manner. Chill each wrapped Brie, uncovered, at least 30 minutes

5. Preheat oven to 425 F. and lightly grease a baking sheet.

6. Bake Brie on baking sheet in middle of oven 15 minutes, or until puffed and golden.

7. Cool Brie on baking sheet on a rack about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm   

      

* Chef Phil likes to serve the brie on a bed of frisèe with a spoonful of the conserve. The bitter frisèe provides a nice contrast of flavors with the creamy and buttery brie. The conserve can be made ahead, cooled and refrigerated up to a week. Allow to come to room temperature before serving. 

Is it crazy to celebrate Thanksgiving at a restaurant?

Liberty House Restaurant will be open from 1 to 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving day, which made us think: Does it make sense to celebrate Thanksgiving out?

Imagine no clean up. Imagine the pressure to cook everything perfectly on someone else. Americans love tradition and there's something reassuring about going to someone's home to give thanks, but....

Come to think about it, a lot of Jews make it a Christmas tradition to go their favorite Chinese restaurant. It might be fun to go against the grain for Thanksgiving.

Time to revive the company holiday party

There is some good news on the economy today. Jobless claims dropped to a three-month low, indicating a the nation's labor market is rebounding. One thing we can do to help the economy is to revive the company holiday party.

To some people the Company Holiday Party is a dreaded occasion where bosses are watching how employees interact, spouses are uncomfortable because everyone else is talking about work and you really can't enjoy it because, well, you're at work but maybe in a fancy location.

We like holiday parties that people actually look forward to. A well-executed (i.e. not-too-formal) event can really make people feel  appreciated. 

Here are some tips on how to throw a Company Holiday Party that people will remember and look forward to next year:

• Keep it relatively casual: In modern times (not "Mad Men" times) people want to come as they are. That said, as a host, don't be afraid to rock a reindeer tie.
• Good food and drink: This is an essential for entertaining period. Don't give people an opportunity to gripe about the basics of a good party. Work with your event planner on the menu.
• Play upbeat music: Don't overdo the holiday cliche music, but play some uplifting jazz or pop at just the right volume to make an impact, but low enough so everyone can comfortably conversate.
• Serve alcohol: We're all adults here. We can handle some libations. You are not responsible for those who are foolish enough to overindulge. But don't leave designated drivers and those who choose not to drink alcohol with just water. Create a delicious non-alcoholic beverage choice.
• Keep it short: Don't make party goers feel like they have to stay a long time because it's a work event. If they choose to stay longer, great, but keep the official time just for a few hours and let it run long.
• Keep the speeches short: Go ahead and acknowledge the reason for the gathering. Give thanks and recognition, but, by all means, keep it concise. People are here to enjoy food and conversation, not sit through a meeting.

If you and your co-workers have really worked hard this year, a company holiday party is a small gesture than can go along way if you execute it properly.

Eat locally

 

OK, so you’ve read that eating locally sourced food is a good idea. It’s green. It’s supporting the local economy.

In an article from Treehugger.com, John Ikerd, a retired agricultural economics professor, says local farms need not give priority to packing, shipping and shelf life issues and can instead “select, grow and harvest crops to ensure peak qualities of freshness, nutrition and taste.” Eating local also means eating seasonally, he adds, a practice much in tune with Mother Nature.

At our restaurant Stone House at Stirling Ridge, we like to use our own locally grown ingredients whenever we can because it simply tastes better. Located on site, Dancing Goat Farm (pictured) are where we grow our own vegetables and herbs. We are in the Garden State and we believe that our places of dining should reflect that heritage.

Employee appreciation on the water

Still tempting 70 degrees in late October, on Monday we celebrated what really makes this company work: our employees. With the sun setting against lower Manhattan, the Landmark Hospitality family embarked on a harbor cruise. It's times like these where we get to give thanks to our team of Memory Makers, a term that embodies Landmark's commitment to creating life's great memorable moments.

From l to r: Janet (Crave Caterers), Daniella (Liberty House) and Millie (Crave Caterers)

Look at that view from The Valiant!

If you're interested in booking your own party aboard our yacht, please visit the Valiant site.

Stone House Tasting at Bloomingdale's

Stone House at Stirling Ridge was one of the featured restaurants at the Love Where You Live event at  Bloomingdale's, Short Hills.  Chef Jerry Villa treated hungry shoppers to a wonderful tasting of Veal Ragu Pasta with Porcini Mushrooms. Owner Jeanne Cretella, and Bloomingdale's Culinary Event Coordinator Sajal Hamilton, take a quite moment to pose with Chef Jerry and his team. More to come...

Explore the new Tuscan garden at ExpoItalia

With Italian saxophone tunes and pastry aromas in the air, Staten Islanders will get a sneak peek at the borough's new Tuscan garden during a family-friendly festival.

ExpoItalia will showcase food, wine, crafts, art and music of Italy, Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Richmond County Savings Foundation Tuscan Garden and the South Meadow of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden.

Entrance is $8 for adults; $6 for seniors and children ages 5 through 18. Kids younger enter for free.

The new 1-acre garden is modeled after the Villa Gamberaia, a 16th-century garden outside Florence, Italy. It features terraces, pools, fountains, topiary, statuary and citrus trees in pots, and was designed by the Milan-based landscape architect Enrica Buccioni.

Though the $1.5 million garden, in the planning stages since 2002, has been used for by-invitation fundraisers over the last year, ExpoItalia will mark the first time the public can explore the grounds.

"This is in celebration of October being Italian heritage month," said JoAnn Mardikos, interim president of Snug Harbor.

The Tuscan garden, is slated to officially open with regular hours -- 10 a.m. to dusk -- and an admission fee of less than $5, next month. It will offer four seasons of programming throughout the year.

"It's a major attraction because you have a very large Italian community Staten Island," said Ms. Mardikos. "If you can't get to Tuscany, this is just about the next best thing."

The 13th Congressional District, which encompasses Staten Island and parts of Brooklyn, has more Italian-American residents than any congressional district in the country.

But the Tuscan garden unveiling is only a small part of the ExpoItalia, said Ms. Mardikos. Most of it will unfold on the South Meadow.

"It's like a San Gennaro festival for Staten Island," said John Sollazo, honorary chairman of the event.

Aside from food such as calzones, sausage and peppers and pastries, the event will serve up cooking demonstrations and tastings by the Port Richmond High School culinary department and the cultural center's caterer, Celebrate at Snug Harbor.

Children will be able to craft their own Leaning Tower of Pisa from pasta; bounce around in an inflatable giant blow-up coliseum, fashioned after the Coliseum in Rome; have their faces painted and take in a puppet show courtesy of the Rosebank-based Garibaldi-Meucci Museum.

Among the entertainers will be a saxophone quartet from the province of Bari, Puglia, Italy, performing music by Italian and American composers such as Bernstein, Copland, Nicolau, Annunziata, Zannoni. Tres Bella, who sing three-party harmonies, will deliver classic ballads in Italian and English such as "Mala Femmina," "Sorrento" and "Io Che Non Vivo (You Don't Have To Say You Love Me)," along with Rat Pack standards and doo-wop.


Source: SILive.com

Restaurant Review: Stone House at Stirling Ridge

The best part about moving? New restaurant choices. Last week, we decided to visit the Stone House Restaurant at Stirling Ridge. I had seen this advertised in NJ Monthly, and the venue looked gorgeous. The reviews on Yelp were pretty good, so we took a little drive over.

The pictures don’t lie. The venue is absolutely beautiful. The Stone House Restaurant is managed by Landmark Hospitality. The Web site isn’t very clear about this, but I’m guessing Stirling Ridge is the events section, as they do have a Grand Ballroom and wedding options. There was also a beautiful outdoor patio that would probably be very lovely when it’s not 50 degrees out. I’m sure having an event there is expensive, but it really is beautiful.

Now, on to the actual restaurant, which was also very elegant without being stuffy. The kitchen is open, and the whole interior features natural stone, as well as a beautiful floor to ceiling wine cellar. We sat in a booth close to the door, which I was worried about at first with noise and drafts, but it actually proved to be quiet and comfortable. Table seating was a bit cramped, so I’m glad we had the opportunity to sit alone instead of on top of other patrons.

The wait staff seemed young, but exceptionally knowledgeable. The wines by the glass list was pretty versatile, considering it seemed like a place where they would push the bottles. I started with a cheese platter, and Jared had an antipasta-type appetizer. Our server gave us a selection of cheeses that complemented one another very well. While the platter was a bit much for a one person starter, he was kind enough to wrap it up for us to take home. Honey, fruit and bread made nice additions to the platter.

Dinner was absolutely phenomenal, and well timed. The Stone House prides itself on creating meals based around local, market driven food buys. The wait staff does an excellent job pointing out which dishes feature local vegetables, meat, etc. Even though the kitchen seemed busy, the pace of the meal moved at very comfortable rate. I had the pork chops with maple glazed sweet potatoes and brussel sprouts. Pork chops are my usual, since they often come in a fabulous glaze with sweet potatoes. Can I just say that these sweet potatoes were to die for? And the brussel sprouts were fantastic-usually I’m not a huge fan, but these were like little baby ones that complemented the dish very well. Overall, a fabulous presentation that matched the taste.

The dessert menu actually proved to be better than we thought. Sometimes at restaurants like this, they only feature the usuals, with some seasonal fruit dessert that doesn’t appeal to us. However, there was no way we were passing up the S’mores Brownie with ice cream. A rich, chocolate brownie topped with some kind of marshmallow hardened glaze? To die for. And the tea and coffee list did not dissapoint either.

While the Stone House ended up becoming more crowded towards the end of our dinner, our server and the wait staff in general did not seem to ignore anyone to the point of annoyance. It’s nice to go to a restaurant that takes care of your needs from start to finish, keeping things moving, while also giving you time to relax and enjoy a lovely Friday evening.

My Rating: 10/10

Stone House at Stirling Ridge
50 Stirling Road
Warren, NJ 07060
908-754-1222

http://www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com

Source: Adventure Ales and Trails

Top 10 Marriage Proposal Spots In New York City

Thinking about popping the question in New York City? Make it a romantic proposal to remember at one of these New York City locations, selected by Brides New York as the top ten proposal spots in NYC.

1. Central Park Boathouse

Enjoy a romantic dinner by the lake and then spring for a gondola ride so you can propose the the sounds of a warbling gondolier.

...

7. Staten Island Botanical Garden's Chinese Scholars Garden
Who knew Staten Island could be romantic? This tranquil Asian garden offers a very Zen atmosphere for your marriage proposal.

...

See the rest of the list at: http://bit.ly/9OV1fs

Liberty House Restaurant - New Website!

Check out our sleek new website for Liberty House Restaurant.

Don’t forget to hit refresh! Happy browsing...

Stone House - Dinner in the Fields

Gathering clouds and a sudden shower did nothing to dampen Stone House at Stirling Ridge's first Dinner in the Fields.

The food, all sourced from local farmers and the Stone House's own beautifully laid out kitchen garden, was simply too good for us to abandon just because of a few raindrops. We diners grabbed umbrellas and kept right on eating--and what a repast there was to be had!

Garden vegetable soup, perfectly showcasing the best of what Chef Villa's garden had to offer, roasted pork with fennel, sausages, roasted chicken, stuffed tomatoes, the last of the garden's beets, peach crostada--it all just kept coming, and we all kept eating, washing each course down with wines from Hopewell Valley Vineyards and beers from the New Jersey Brewing Company.

Once the last coffee was drunk and the last s'more toasted over the nearby open fire pit, we bade new acquaintances goodbye and went home, satiated, with a box of leftovers that carried us through the week and reminded us every night of that wonderful al fresco dinner.


Source: http://bit.ly/b0AsDr (New Jersey Life Health & Beauty Magazine)

Katie & Semmes get married at Stone House

Katie and Semmes get married at Stone House...

The bridal party surprised bride Katie with a choreographed dance to Flo Rida's "Club Can't Handle Me"... and the rest is history. Happy couple... FUN Wedding... Check out the video...



Video courtesy of www.alexiparizeau.com.

Landmark Hospitality Customer Appreciation Boat Ride

Recently, several Landmark Hospitality employees set sail aboard the Valiant Yacht with a group of our longtime customers as a way of saying thanks for being such loyal patrons! The night was a huge success with beautiful hors devours and drinks at sea while, more wonderful memories were created by Landmark's memorymaking team.

* Please visit our Valiant Yacht Facebook Page to view the rest of the photos, and don't forget to Tag yourself in the photos!

Some nice feedback from a recent event at the Liberty House Restaurant

Some nice feedback from a recent event at the Liberty House Restaurant:

"We were very pleased with our event at the Liberty House. Our international visitors, as well as our regular attendees, expressed to us the delight, pleasure and abundance of delicious food they experienced at your restaurant. And, as you probably could guess, our international visitors took great pleasure in the awesome view of the city and Lady Liberty. You truly have a wonderful property. Thank you for your great assistance. Have a great day… "

-Joann Miranda-Wallace
Manager, Corporate Public Relations & Trade Shows
Brother International Corporation

10 Destinations which would complete anyones Dream Wedding

Wedding is one of the most important days of our lives and all of us want the day to be perfect not only in the photographs but also in our memories.  In planning any wedding, the first thing that needs to be finalized is the location. If destination wedding is in your mind, there are numerous breathtakingly beautiful locations to choose from hills, palaces and beaches. Let’s have a look at the ten destinations which would complete anyone’s dream wedding...

Source: http://bit.ly/ah4V5h

American Idol taped at the Liberty House Restaurant!

J-Lo hasn't been spotted yet.

But American Idol is definitely taping at the Liberty House Restaurant in Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

Crew members are walking around with American Idol T-shirts, according to Journal staff writer Brett Wilshe who is on the scene.

There's plenty of trucks, cameras, and cable around the restaurant. Apparent contestants have name tags with the "American Idol" logo.

One person who identified herself as a contestant -- and definitely seemed prepped not to talk to the press -- told Wilshe the show will be there until Thursday.

"We're not having press right now," a publicist said, declining to confirm or deny that the popular Fox network show was taping at the restaurant.

Recently, the show announced that Jennifer Lopez and Aerosmith's Steven Tyler will join Randy Jackson at the judges' table when American Idol kicks off season 10 in January.

Source: http://bit.ly/beTfdQ

TheKnot.com Launches “Wedding with a View” Contest

From Love Affair and An Affair to Remember to Sleepless in Seattle, the Empire State Building has become synonymous with cinematic love stories. Now 14 couples can turn their dream of a Valentine’s Day "I do" at the landmark dubbed “the nearest thing to heaven,” thanks to TheKnot.com and The Empire State Building’s recently launched “Wedding with a View” contest.

Through October 25, 2010, couples can submit a story about their romance. Fourteen pairs of fiances will win based on the originality and creativity of their submissions, as well as their connections to the world’s most famous building. Thirteen couples will win wedding ceremonies within the Empire State Building, while one grand prize-winning pair will pledge their devotion on the 86th Floor Observatory before embarking on a honeymoon getaway to Sandals Resorts in the Bahamas.

Winners of the wedding ceremonies will be announced on November 1, 2010. Voting by the public for the grand prize winner will take place between November 1 – 5, with the one lucky couple revealed on November 9, 2010.

For more information, please visit http://www.theknot.com/empirestatebuilding


Source: http://bit.ly/clFRay

Stephanie Rose marries Jeffrey... A reception followed the ceremony, at Stone House at Stirling Ridge

Stephanie Rose marries Jeffrey... A reception followed the ceremony, at Stone House at Stirling Ridge.

Source: http://bit.ly/aXVfK0

Liberty House Restaurant Wedding – The Indian Wedding of Monica and Mahesh

I love photographing Indian weddings and was super excited when I was hired to cover the beautiful wedding this past Labor Day of Monica and Mahesh. They got married at Liberty House Restaurant (just through the tunnel into New Jersey with a great view of downtown Manhattan) which provided the perfect backdrop for a warm, sun filled late summer wedding.

Mahesh took a ferry from Manhattan to the Liberty House and began the traditional Indian wedding processional before the ceremony. I love photographing Indian wedding ceremonies as they have such beautiful details and traditions..when Monica came down the aisle, looking just lovely, you could just feel how excited everyone was for them.

They were surrounded by beautiful friends and relatives. Everyone was smiling, laughing, and having a good time. From the adorable children to the spirited dancing and speeches, to the intricate details in the Indian clothing.. I think we caught some amazing wedding photographs through the day.

Enjoy!

Source: http://bit.ly/ca4ygK (Daniel Krieger Photography)

Liberty House hosted a spectacular Picnic In The Park!

Liberty House's Picnic in the Park once again was a sensational end of summer celebration in the Garden, ending with toasted marshmallows by the fire-pits. A good time was had by all while drinking Chimay beers and sampling a garden inspired menu created by Chef Phil Campanella and his team. The fall moon rising was as spectacular as the meal. Thanks Phil, for once again exceeding our expectations!

Come visit us at Liberty House Restaurant

Stone House Farm Dinner

Executive Chef Jerry Villa and his culinary team collaborated to create a... Stone House Farm Dinner!

Come visit us at Stone House at Stirling Ridge

Erin & Will's Wedding at Liberty House Restaurant, Jersey City, NJ

"What an amazing day and an amazing couple.  Erin and Will got married yesterday at Liberty House Restaurant with New York City gleaming in the background under the golden afternoon sun.  Liberty State Park is a photographer’s playground to begin with.. so to have such a wonderful couple to photograph is really a lot of fun.  Having just shot Erin’s sister’s wedding as well as her co-worker’s wedding, Matt and I felt right at home.  Thanks so much for letting us be a part of your day!"

Source: http://bit.ly/cCSDt9

Marianne & Jared @ The Stone House at Stirling Ridge

"Wow, time does fly! We’ve had Marianne & Jared’s wedding on our minds for almost a year now, having photographed their engagement session wwwaaayyy back in 09′. We were looking forward to working with them again as well as working in the stylish Stone House at Stirling Ridge located in Warren, NJ. As their website describes it, the venue “radiates country elegance and luxury.”"
 

source: http://bit.ly/aL9wMa

Submit Your Love Story to Win a Wedding Atop New York City!

Empire State Building and TheKnot.com to Select 14 Couples to Wed at Annual "Empire State Building Valentine's Day Weddings" Event

Please click on the following link to learn more: http://bit.ly/cKZVaa

Liberty House - Picnic in the Park

Liberty House's Picnic in the Park once again was a sensational end of summer celebration in the Garden ending with toasted marshmallows by the fire-pits. A good time was had by all while drinking Chimay beers and sampling a garden inspired menu created by Chef Phil Campanella and his team. The fall moon rising was as spectacular as the meal. Thanks Phil for once again exceeding our expectations!

Liberty House Restaurant

Stone House's Chef Jerry Villa and his team hosted its first Farm Dinner!



Some feedback from the Event:

"The food was fabulous (and there was so much - I'm still full, but I couldn't stop eating!"

"The pork was fab, as was everything else"

"Sounds like yet another "Gold Star" Landmark Event! Can't wait for the Second Annual!"

More to come...


Stone House Restaurant at Stirling Ridge

Roast Beet and Fennel Salad

“As with many people, my childhood experience of beets was not a positive one,” says Jerry Villa, executive chef of Stone House restaurant at Stirling Ridge in Warren, NJ. “We ate the canned variety, and I never liked them. Once I had fresh beets, however, it all changed for me, and now I love them. Especially when roasted, which brings out their earthy sweetness, beets are incredibly flavorful, and extremely healthy for you.”

“Now with our Dancing Goat Farm, I use the beets grown in our own garden.”

Please click on the following link to read entire article (and get the recipe): http://bit.ly/bWWFIg


Source: http://bit.ly/bWWFIg (New Jersey Monthly)

Have your Wedding at Snug Harbor

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Staten Island wedding could take place under flowering almond trees in a Chinese garden, or next to a fountain in a Tuscan Renaissance garden: Both settings are part of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in Livingston.

Guests at a cocktail party thrown last night by Celebrate at Snug Harbor, the site's in-house caterer, toured the two gardens as well as the Great Hall, a turn-of-the-century ballroom with 40-foot ceilings and Palladian windows.

Celebrate at Snug Harbor, a subsidiary of Landmark Hospitality (http://www.landmarkhospitality.com/), has performed extensive renovations within the complex in the past 10 months.

Landmark, which is owned by longtime Island businesspeople Frank and Jeanne Cretella, also operates Liberty House, The Valiant Yacht and the Stone House, all in New Jersey.

Ellyn Amesse, Jeanne Cretella and ToniAnn Fischetti enjoy themselves at "Celebrate at Snug Harbor" in the Great Hall on the grounds of the cultural center. The event was designed to showcase the various venues available at the Harbor for different affairs.


Source: http://bit.ly/aYyscP

Picnic In The Park at Liberty House Restaurant

Picnic In The Park
Summer Beer Dinner
Liberty House Restaurant

JOIN US this Thursday,
September 23rd at 7pm

featuring...
Belgian beers from the Chimay Brewery.

Appetizers and Entree in the Garden, and Dessert by the Firepits.

RSVP: Call 866.683.3586 or email info@libertyhouserestaurant.com

Divya and Dan at the Liberty House Restaurant

Divya and Dan had a three day long wedding weekend with friends and family from all over the world coming together for their joyous celebrations. If you ever have an opportunity to attend an Indian wedding go! They are so much fun and full of life and laughter. From the very beginning there is music and dancing, it’s like one big reception all day long! How often does the bride dance down the aisle to meet her groom? I loved that they were separated by a curtain in the very beginning, each so eager to catch that first glimpse of each other.

The view from Liberty House of Manhattan really can’t be beat. And the food! Amazing. Long after the mendhi fades Dan and Divya will have these photos to remind them of the love and happiness they felt that day.


Source: http://bit.ly/bvXaay

White Party at Liberty House Restaurant - Photos!

WHITE PARTY Pics!!!

"Like" us on Facebook, and Tag yourself in the photos... http://bit.ly/aL4KFR

Stone House Farm Dinner at Dancing Goat Farm

Stone House Farm Dinner at Dancing Goat Farm

Executive Chef Jerry Villa and his culinary team

have collaborated to create a …

Stone House Farm Dinner

Sunday, September 26, 2pm $75

From farm to fork, a fabulous feast for all!

Local meats, vegetables and dairy products come together with

Hopewell Valley Wines in an open-air family-setting.

Menu includes; Figs with Speck and Gorgonzola, Dancing Goat Farm Amuse Bouche,

Garden Vegetable Soup, Stuffed Roast Pork, Sautéed Bitter Greens with Sweet Leeks, Peach Crostada

For reservations or more information,

Please call Stone House 908.754.1222 or email info@stonehouseatstirlingridge.com

WEBSITE: Stone House at Stirling Ridge

Source: LocalWineEvents.com, http://bit.ly/bk5wAp

Wedding Trivia

In 2000, the average bride was 24 years old and the average groom was 28.

Liberty House hosted a White Party!

Coming soon....images from the White Party! Join us on Facebook to see more.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Jersey-City-NJ/Liberty-House-Restaurant/113437144433?ref=ts

Baby Shower Restaurants in New Jersey: Liberty House mentioned!

Baby Shower Restaurants in New Jersey

Baby showers are not always the quaint, garden luncheons that they used to be. Showers these days can be co-ed soirees for both mom and dad, with the guest list possibly including family, friends and co-workers. New Jersey is a state with several vibrant metropolitan areas. These towns all have restaurants that will host showers.

Liberty House Restaurant

Liberty House Restaurant is a waterfront spot in Jersey City, New Jersey. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a water-view backdrop. The restaurant has a ballroom that holds up to 350 people; The Liberty, a room that holds 130; and The Gallery, which holds up to 40 people. Liberty House has several menu options appropriate for a baby shower, including seated dining, brunch or buffet menus.

Liberty House Restaurant
76 Audrey Zapp Drive
Jersey City, NJ 07305
201-395-0300
http://www.libertyhouserestaurant.com/


Source: http://www.ehow.com/list_6968024_baby-shower-restaurants-new-jersey.html

The Booth Is Back!

The booth is back: Remember the old boardwalk photo booth? It's now the hot thing at weddings and parties...

What is it about the old-fashioned photo booth that's making it a hot addition to weddings, dances and other social events these days - even when everyone seems to carry a camera (or two, or more) everywhere they go?

Find out the answer: http://bit.ly/9J0AqA

White Party at Liberty House!

Liberty House Restaurant is hosting a White Party on Friday, September 10th. Experience... Miami-chic cabanas, unsurpassed views of the Manhattan skyline, custom-built fire pits, Chef's selection of hors d'oeuvres, a live DJ, and a FREE signature cocktail when you arrive before 10pm. VIP bottle service available. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. For reservations or more information, please call 866.683.3586 or e-mail info@libertyhouserestaurant.com.


White Party

Location:Liberty House Restaurant

Time: 9:30PM Friday, September 10th

Liberty House Restaurant - Gourmet Cuisine, Breathtaking Views

Liberty House Restaurant, located at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, offers gourmet cuisine and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

Farm fresh salads at Stone House at Stirling Ridge

Farm fresh salads at Stone House at Stirling Ridge...

Importing fresh ingredients from all over the world has always been a priority for Chef Jerry Villa who is going back to basics and staying local. So local that some of your meal may come from Stone House’s very own Dancing Goat Farm. With a goal of limiting the amount of human impact on the environment his Farm-fresh fare just tastes good. It’s a win, win, from farm to Chef to guest. When dining at Stone House be sure and look for the Dancing Goat logo on your menu and see which fresh farm ingredients are available.

Visit Us: http://www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com/

Great summer recipe from Stone House featured in NJ life Health & Beauty!

From: Jerry Villa, Executive Chef at Stone House Restaurant, Warren, NJ
The Dish: Steamed Baby Clams with Chorizo and Garlic Bread

CIA graduate Jerry Villa has been the force behind many of Stone House owners Frank and Jeanne Cretellas’ restaurants, including Liberty house and the Boathouse in Central Park and Lundy’s in New York City. Now in charge of the kitchens at Stone House, Villa is taking advantage of nearby farms and food purveyors by sourcing many of the restaurant’s ingredients locally.

The restaurant has even gone the extra mile by farming its own vegetables and herbs at Wagner farms, a communal farm nearby, and hopes to expand its garden into a field immediately adjacent to the Stone House to ensure customers eat only the freshest produce available.

Serves 4-6 as an appetizer

2 pounds baby clams [cockles from New Zealand or Manilas from Washington State work well]
4 oz. Chorizo
1 Tablespoon chopped shallots
2 cloves garlic, sliced
1 Tablespoon of chopped parsley
¾ cup of white wine
3 oz. plus 2 Tablespoons of butter
Salt and Pepper To Taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes

Place 2 tablespoons of butter into a skillet over medium heat. When butter is slightly melted, add chopped shallots and sliced garlic. Cook until translucent.

Add chorizo and cook for two minutes. Then add baby clams, stir, and cook for 1 minute. Pour white wine over clams, raise the heat and cover skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes. Remove cover and check to see if clams are open. If not, continue cooking at lower heat until open. Add chopped parsley, salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and place in a large bowl to be served family style with garlic bread.

Garlic Bread
Half loaf of crusty Bread [ country,seomilia or any Italian type]
¼ cup olive oil
1 Teaspoon chopped garlic
1 Teaspoon chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes

Mix all ingredients and let sit for one hour. Slice bread into half-inch slices. Brush both sides of bread with olive oil mixture. Bake in 350 degree oven for 12 -15 minutes or until desired crispiness,or place onto a pre-heated grill and grill on each side until desired crispiness. Cut and serve with clams.

Source: http://www.njlhealthandbeauty.com/recipes/steamed-baby-clams/

Visit us: http://www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com/

Star Room twinkles with excitement!

Star Room at Stone House in Stirling Ridge twinkles with excitement...

Party at the Stone House

By Brianne Harrison

The oppressive heat and humidity that had reigned all week thankfully abated just in time for Stone House at Stirling Ridge to inagurate it’s new Star Room Patio with a fabulous party fit for the setting. Cooling breezes kept guests comfortable as they snacked on delicious hors d’oeuvres, sipped refreshing orange fennel martinis, and toasted marshmallows for s’mores over the fire pit while swaying to the beat of a seasonally appropriate reggae band. The new space, which adjoins the Watchung Mountain-set restaurant, is absolutely gorgeous and is bound to be a hit with diners and parties spilling over from Stone House’s banqueting facility. Fairy lights in the open latticework trellis overhead cast a warm glow on those gathering on surprisingly comfortable wooden chairs drawn up around the fire pit or the glowing water table. Along the pebbled paths are sofas set in cabanas, for those who want a little more privacy. The spot is sleek and sophisticated, but still warm and cozy, like the rest of Stone House. If you find yourself in the neighborhood, stop by, and maybe grab one of those yummy martinis while you’re there.


Orange-Fennel Martini
Ingredients:

2 oz fennel-infused vodka (see below)

4 oz fresh squeezed orange juice

Splash of fresh lime juice

Orange slice

Shake ingredients with ice until cold, strain and pour into a martini glass. Garnish with 1/2 wheel of orange and serve.

To make fennel-infused vodka:

Combine 1/2 cup fennel seed with 1 liter of premium vodka in a bottle or Mason jar. Cap tightly, and store in a cool dark place overnight. When ready, remove seeds through a fine strainer or other filter, decanting vodka into another bottle or jar. Store as you would any other vodka.

Source: http://www.njlhealthandbeauty.com/

Visit Us: http://www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com/

Rosie Saferstein features the Star Room at Stone House on her Blog -Table Hopping with Rosie.

Stone House At Stirling Ridge, Warren, NJ

Eat, drink, and be merry at the new Star Room Patio at Stone House at Stirling Ridge, 50 Stirling Avenue, Warren. This eye-catching venue nestled in the Watchung Mountains was recently opened by Jeanne and Frank Cretella, owners of Landmark Hospitality, the parent company to Stone House at Stirling Ridge, Liberty House Restaurant, Crave Caterers, Valiant Yacht Charters, Celebrate at Snug Harbor (Staten Island), and Landmark Destination Weddings. The patio features a dramatic eighteen-foot water table with floating candles and flowers that guests may sit around while sipping drinks (try the newest summer cocktail, an orange fennel martini) and savoring executive chef Jerry Villa's menu. Additional design elements include an outdoor “wall” of mirrors and alluring, and private, little draped cabanas with dozens of silk pillows and comfortable seating. Guests can also opt to toast marshmallows in the fire pit after dinner. For reservations call 908-754-1222.

Source: http://njmonthly.com/blogs/tablehopwithRosie/2010/8/11/restaurant-news.html

Photo courtesy of Lowell Saferstein.

Las Vegas Entertainer appearing at Liberty House August 12th

In case you have not heard, Las Vegas Entertainer Clint Holmes will be appearing at Liberty House Thursday August 12th. You can enjoy a special dinner/show package or make reservations for the show alone. Don't wait seating is limited!

Source: http://www.nj.com/entertainment/jjournal/index.ssf?/base/entertainment-1/1281076842300900.xml&coll=3, reports the following...

Liberty House show set by Clint Holmes

Friday, August 06, 2010

After 11 years in Sin City, including a 7-year stint as the award-winning, headlining act at Harrah's Las Vegas Casino, the seasoned entertainer returns to New Jersey where he lived for almost 10 years.

In 1991, Holmes commuted across the Hudson from Summit to host "New York At Night," a primetime talk show, drawing from his experience in the 1980s as sidekick to comedienne Joan Rivers on "The Late Show."

When the show ended, he remained in the Garden State to perform in Atlantic City and in 1996, to premier and star in his autobiographical musical "Comfortable Shoes" at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn.

"(It's about) my family's journey . as told by someone who grew up in the 50s and 60s really trying to figure out where he fit," he said.

For his Jersey City debut, the crooner and his band will perform original music from "My Own Song," an update of "Comfortable Shoes," and Holmes' new musical "Just Another Man" in addition to the hits that made him a Las Vegas legend.

For tickets or more information, call (866) 683-3586 or email info@libertyhouserestaurant.com .

Take a sneak peek at the Star Room opening at Stone House and see what all the buzz is about.

Take a sneak peek at the Star Room opening at Stone House and see what all the buzz is about...



Visit us: http://www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com/

Chef Phil Campanella and his team wow the James Beard Foundation guests aboard the Valiant.

Chef Phil Campanella and his team wow the James Beard Foundation guests aboard the Valiant...



Visit us: http://www.valiantyachtcharters.com/

Star Room Patio opens at Stone House at Stirling Ridge, Warren

The new Star Room Patio at Stone House at Stirling Ridge in Warren offers guests multiple areas for outdoor gatherings, from a water table with floating candles, to a fire pit table where marshmallows may be roasted, to hideaway cabanas and individual tables dotting the landscaped gardens.

Source: (Lois Heyman/MyCentralJersey) #11652

Join Us On Facebook: http://bit.ly/dD82Ks

August is heating up at Landmark Hospitality!

July was such a busy month at Landmark Hospitality for both Liberty House and Stone House restaurants. In case you were lucky enough to be on vacation or just to busy at work you still have time to experience some of the new and exciting things going on at both restaurants. Liberty House will be featuring some fantastic items during Hudson Restaurant Week and the Star Room at Stone House is the place to be. Can't decide... well why not go to both! For more information on Restaurant week go to HudsonRestaurantWeek.com. or call 201.395.0300. See you under the Stars!!!

http://www.nj.com/entertainment/jjournal/index.ssf?/base/entertainment-1/1279866515118180.xml&coll=3

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=CN&Dato=20100727&Kategori=FOOD&Lopenr=7270803&Ref=PH

Stone House Restaurant featured on "The Food Chain": A+ Patio

A+ Patio

Here’s another example of a great outdoor wining and dining space: the new Star Room Patio at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge in Warren. Owners Jeanne and Frank Cretella have enhanced their already spectacular venue with a multi-sectioned outdoor space that offers landscaped gardens with individual tables, marble benches, hideaway cabana booths and an 18-foot-long water table with floating candles, nestled under a gently lit pergola. Guests also may toast after-dinner marshmallows around the fire-pit table (especially on National Marshmallow Toasting Day, Aug. 30).

As work proceeded on the patio earlier in the season, guests clamored to be seated in the new space, with its Watchung Mountains backdrop, even while it still was being built by Frank Cretella’s Black Dog Construction Company. At the recent launch party, more than a hundred people enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres from executive chef Jerry Villa, cookies that sprang from “garden” platters, sangria punches, paella and Stone House’s newest cocktail, the Orange Fennel Martini.

Stone House at Stirling Ridge is part of Landmark Hospitality’s group of restaurants that also includes Liberty House, Crave Caterers and Snug Harbor Cultural Center. Stone House is at 50 Stirling Road, Warren. For more information, visit http://www.stonehouseatstirlingridge.com/

Source: http://blogs.mycentraljersey.com/foodchain/2010/07/28/a-patio/

New Jersey Monthly - Breaking News: Chef Craig Shelton teams up with Landmark Hospitality

Chef Craig Shelton has been named Culinary Director for Landmark Hospitality, owned by Frank and Jeanne Cretella.

Landmark Hospitality is the parent company for Stone House at Stirling Ridge in Warren, Liberty House Restaurant in Jersey City, Crave Caterers, the Valiant (a 97-foot yacht available for catered private events) and several other holdings.

source: http://njmonthly.com/blogs/tablehopwithRosie/2010/7/28/breaking-news-craig-shelton.html

Frank & Jeanne Cretella featured in Staten Island Advance article!

On the same page, at work and in marriage

Business partnerships and marriages are stressful all on their own, with the former often ending in acrimony and the latter, many times concluding in a bitter divorce.

So, what happens when your business partner is also your spouse?
...

An intertwining of interests is also what makes both their work partnership and marriage flourish, say successful restaurateurs Jeanne and Frank Cretella.

The Lighthouse Hill couple tried several different types of enterprises, finally settling in their current careers when they fell in love with food.

That love, combined with their natural propensity for hospitality, led them, after owning restaurants in many locations in the city, to their two New Jersey restaurants, Stone House and Liberty House, and their latest catering venture, Celebrate at Snug Harbor.

“If it’s just a job, you’re working every day,” Cretella said, “but if it’s a job you love, you never work a day in your life.”
...

Read the entire article here: http://www.silive.com/relationships/index.ssf/2010/07/on_the_same_page_at_work_and_in_marriage.html

Visit Landmark Hospitality: http://www.landmarkhospitality.com/

Art in the Park in full bloom this summer at Liberty House Restaurant

Art in the Park is in full bloom this summer at Liberty House Restaurant. Landmark Hospitality congratulates, Artist Delva Borno, who showcased his work on Sunday, July 11th in the Garden and sold two pieces. It was his first time showing ever and he did great!

For more information on this talented artist visit:

xbornx.deviantart.com
facebook.com/delvaborno
myspace.com/delva

Why not come out and see some of the fine local talent and enjoy all that Liberty House has to offer this summer.

Stone House at Stirling Ridge: A Chic Retreat... with Good Eats!

The STAR ROOM PATIO opened to rave reviews last night at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge. Lucky guests sipped Orange Fennel Martinis and Champagne Sangria while nibbling on tempting bites of polenta with shredded pork, lobster salad and paella. Hosts Jeanne and Frank Cretella, of Landmark Hospitality, know how to please the palate and create a stunning backdrop.

The handsome space features an 18-foot water table with floating flowers under a wooden pergola, day beds for relaxing and a park-like perimeter for strolling. An ideal spot for drinks and dinner al fresco.

Stone House at Stirling Ridge
50 Stirling Road
Warren, NJ
908.754.1222

source: http://njsavvyblog.blogspot.com/2010/07/chic-retreat-with-good-eats.html

Sangria - Classes in Cocktail at Stone House

Sangria - Classes in Cocktail at Stone House Restaurant at Stirling Ridge
Last week Stone House hosted a fabulous Cocktail Class featuring three varieties of Sangria. With temperatures nearing the 100 degree mark participants cooled off while learning to mix red, white and blueberry Sangrias. A good time was had by all including a special group of friends that came to celebrate Randi's birthday. Randi and her friends also have participated in Cocktail classes at Liberty House. What a great way to celebrate with old friends while making new ones too.

David Tutera - My Fair Wedding - Liberty House Restaurant

Celebrity wedding expert David Tutera features Liberty House Restaurant as his venue on My Fair Wedding.

Landmark Hospitality

Landmark Hospitality gets mentioned in New York Magazine!

Art In The Park

Art in the Park is an ongoing summer event held in Liberty House's Garden.This free event offers local artists the opportunity to showcase their work. Art in the Park is a great opportunity to discover some of the areas hidden talents and a chance to explore Liberty House's gardens and outdoor dining areas.

Experience The Valiant

Inspired by the magnificent yachts of the 1920's the Valiant is one of Landmark's most intimate venues. The Valiant is available for weddings, elegant dinner parties, corporate team building events and a host of special gatherings. It's pure luxury at sea... come aboard and turn your moments into memories.

Dinner with a View

Restaurant News

June 30, 2010 05:00 AM
by Rosalie Saferstein




DINNER AND A VIEW
On July 20, have dinner with a view at a James Beard Foundation event, Sunset Summer Cruise, hosted by Liberty House Restaurant, 78 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City. Executive chef Philip Campanella will offer a regionally inspired menu of canapés, small plates, and desserts. The Valiant yacht will leave from Liberty Landing Marina, Jersey City. 6:30 PM; $200, James Beard Foundation members $150. For reservations call 212-627-2308.

Secret Ingredients

Have you ever been to a restaurant while you were on a diet or trying to stay fit? Chances are, that diet was broken by the time you walked out. Now, imagine working there and having to be around that amazing food every single day. How do you not end up overweight? Find out how chefs from four of New Jersey’s top restaurants resist temptation, stay fit, and stay calm in their notoriously high-stress profession.

Phil Campanella, 33, Chef, Liberty House Restaurant, Jersey City
 
Q:Describe your exercise regimen.

A: My exercise regimin consists of weight training, tabata, and mixed martial arts.

I regularly do weight training 3 times a week for about an hour. Tabata is a high-intensity interval-style training. For example, you do as many pushups as you can in 20 seconds, then rest 10 sec. You repeat this for 8 sets and then do the cycle again with a different exercise. Because of the intensity of this workout, I limit it to one day a week. I also train with friends doing mixed martial arts, which incorporates kick-boxing, wrestling, and jiu jitsu. I try to do this twice a week for a few hours each day. Then I give myself a rest day. It’s the different types of workouts that help me continue to burn fat and develop new muscle.