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Il Leone in Matawan fuses Italian and Albanian cuisines. Photo: Courtesy of Lina Griga from Marakata Collective
OpeningsIl Leone, Matawan
Upscale restaurant Il Leone, which means “The Lion” in Italian, just opened. It blends traditional Italian recipes with modern culinary techniques and unique Albanian flavors.
The Cannoli Shop, Fairfield
This new spot focuses on an Italian favorite. Guests can customize their cannoli with a variety of toppings, from chocolate chips to crushed pistachios to candied orange peel.
Staci’s Sandwich Joint, Verona
Staci’s serves sandwiches with freshly baked bread and gourmet ingredients. Woman- and family-owned, it also offers soup, salads, snacks and a kids’ menu.
Minnow’s, Brielle
This new breakfast/lunch eatery has a dining room, lunch counter and retail section. Items include a breakfast burrito and the Big Dipper sandwich (shredded beef, provolone and caramelized onions).
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Plus: Bernadette closes in Scotch Plains, while a seafood spot expands on the Ocean City boardwalk.
Plus: Amma’s South Indian Cuisine comes to Mt. Laurel, while Laku Sushi in Morristown is closing.