Andrea’s Food Corps., Inc.

Combine one part deli, one part specialty food shop, one part wholesale pasta factory and what you get is Italian-food-nirvana, known as Andrea’s. Homemade and imported frozen pasta, deserts, prepared entrées and other authentic products can be purchased, with much credit due to Andrea’s for making great Italian food so accessible. Where else could we buy traditional strufoli (honey-covered pastry balls) to leave out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve? Wait, everyone’s family doesn’t do that? …Andrea’s is the go-to place for anyone looking to revamp their dinner party, or who just want to bring a taste of Italy home with them (sans the expensive air-travel.)

107 S. Jefferson St.
(973) 673- 3355

http://www.andreafoods.com/

Rita's Deli

Behind the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it storefront of Rita’s lays a Uruguayan deli, which like the country’s cuisine, has a unique Italian influence. Order out, or sit down at one of two picnic tables to enjoy delectable empanadas or super-sweet alfajores artesanales (South American shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche). In accordance to Argentinean tradition (this place is as culturally-diverse as the Hispanic population of Orange!), ñoqui, Italian potato pasta, is specially served on the 29th of every month (shown right). After tasting the food at Rita’s Deli, you won’t be able to pass the ocean-blue awning again without stopping in.

502 Central Ave.
(973) 675-9002

Libretti's

Where to begin with one of Orange’s most notable standards in Italian dining? Not to say the food at Libretti’s is in any way ordinary, it just happens to be consistently delicious. They have a thorough and well-comprised menu that encourages eating exploration but it’s easy to get stuck in ordering your favorite meal time and time again (example: the arugula and endive salad and the linguini Carbonara is my Sunday night fixture.) Homemade pasta specials, mouthwatering chicken and veal entrées, and classic seafood dishes add to the appeal of this liquor-licensed, lunch and dinner destination.

554 Nassau St
(973) 673-5155‎

Daily Soup

If you needed yet another reason to come to the Valley neighborhood, Daily Soup just gave you one. As its name implies, everyday a different variety of soups is offered at this cool, new restaurant that is housed in the former home of Coquelle’s Bakery. “Pretzel and beer soup”, “Lentil crab soup”, and “Poblano cheese, chicken and corn chowder” are just a sampling of the awesome and inventive types available. Soon, a back section will open as a jazz club and bar but for now, Daily Soup fans are more than happy to sit back and enjoy the broth offerings. Oh, and did I mention their frozen-yogurt? Custom-made to order chocolate or vanilla fro-yo can be blended with a long list of mix-ins.

Below are some fro-yo favorites from the folks at HANDS, Inc.:

• Chocolate frozen yogurt w/ pretzel and banana
• Vanilla frozen yogurt w/ pretzel and strawberries
• Vanilla frozen yogurt w/ strawberries and pecans
• Vanilla frozen yogurt w/ Nilla wafers and banana
• Vanilla frozen yogurt w/ brownies and Cayenne pepper
• Chocolate frozen yogurt w/ banana and Reese’s peanut butter cups
• Vanilla frozen yogurt w/ mango, macadamia nuts and banana

501 Central Ave. (973) 677-2405 http://www.dailysoup.com

John's Market

This easy-to-miss, unassuming eatery is an obvious answer to the question of finding delicious, hearty Italian sandwiches and an inviting place to eat them. John’s Market has a small, yet sufficient menu, which includes a variety of Parmigiana, chicken, and sausage sandwiches, and lovely starter salads. I recommend the sausage, peppers, and onions sandwich; this basic combination of delectable ingredients, when piled generously on a fresh roll, makes for a gratifying (and very filling) meal. Savory aroma, vibrant chatter and family photos and memorabilia fill this Orange staple, which is located on South Essex Ave.

Star Tavern

From family-night to date-night, and all gastronomic gatherings in between, Essex County’s prized pizza place is right for any occasion. Star Tavern is a low-key restaurant and bar where thin-crust is the name of the game. Around dinner time, Star tends to crowd up but don’t fear; grabbing a drink and watching the game at the bar is a good way to spend the brief wait. The best way to enjoy Star pizza is to split two personal pies with a friend, this way you can enjoy more of their appetizing selections. The “Regular” pie is anything but, while the “White Clam” is a delicious change of pace.

400 High St.
(973) 675- 3336
http://startavern.net/

Sandwiches Unlimited

For all you Philadelphia expats who claim that no cheese steak sandwich can top those from the City of Brotherly Love, you are sadly mistaken. It is here, in this neighborhood lunchtime hotspot, that the steak is cooked right in front of you in generous proportions and topped with onions, peppers, and cheese to make a glorious feast. Plan to not eat for the rest of the day, especially if you opt for the “Italian” version, stuffed fuller with hot French fries and ketchup. Additionally, the pastrami on rye bread is nothing to scoff at nor is the locally-baked Red Velvet cake, which can be sold by the slice.

23 N. Center St.
(973) 674-7899

La Rosa Mexicana

Authentic, extraordinary comida Latina can be found in Orange thanks to the extensive menu and flavorsome ingredients provided by the skilled staff at La Rosa Mexicana. Have your choice of perfectly executed tacos, flautas, ceviches and more, all diversely prepared and equally delicious. Be sure to have a glass of homemade mango juice within reach in order to cool your heated taste buds. Daily specials like the camarones con crema (shrimp in cream sauce) is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted, or ever will.

10 S. Essex Ave.
(973) 395-1270

Mazzi Dogz

Attention all potential Mazzi Dogz customers: believe the hype. Everything you’ve heard about Main Street’s latest hotdog sensation: their unbelievable toppings, their delicious dogs, and their awesome prices, is true. Upon entering this compact slice of frankfurter heaven you realize that this is no dirty-water hotdog stand. The colorful walls, the high-top tables and the wall of celebrity headshots (“Famous New Jerseyans Who Haven’t Eaten Here Yet”) make for a fun and relaxed dining experience. Next time you’re there don’t be afraid to try the specialty hotdogs that this place is soon to become famous for; including the “Holy Guacamole”, topped with homemade chili, fresh guacamole and crushed Doritos. I promise you won’t regret it.

351 Main St.
(973) 673-0070

http://www.mazzidogz.com/

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery

Jerk chicken and beef patties, just like Mom used to make. That is, if Mom owned the #1 Caribbean food franchises in the United States. Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery has become known for its tasty, traditional Caribbean menu and friendly, speedy service, and the Orange location is no exception. Oxtail, chicken, fish and goat combo meals are reasonably priced and these flavorful meats come with tasty sides. However, it’s the patties -spicy or mild, chicken or beef- that are their main draw and for good reason.

303 Main St.
(973) 672-7080

http://www.goldenkrustbakery.com/

Phil Serani's Sanitary Bakery

You’ll be hard pressed to find an Orange resident who doesn’t herald this family-owned bakery as a city treasure, or at least a great place to satisfy sugary cravings. Pastries, breads, cakes, cookies are done impeccably well and sold fresh out of the oven. These everyday bakery finds never disappoint; while the more unusual offerings, especially the South American specialties, keep their loyal customers guessing. Chicken wrapped in a buttery pastry is a wonderful savory option, and a meal is made when paired with the sugar-covered, multi-layered bizcocho.

114 S. Essex Ave.
(973) 678-1777