Summer may be winding down, but the flavors, colors, and warmth of the season are still in full swing. We asked each member of our team to share their favorite way to savor these last golden days—whether it’s a dish they love to make, an ingredient they can’t get enough of, or a special tradition that marks the end of summer.
Eric, Chef - I grew up surrounded by tomatoes and zucchini in my grandparents’ garden in northern New Jersey, so these two ingredients will always mean summer to me. My go-to is a zucchini and tomato casserole with garlic, oregano, and a topping of melty Muenster cheese. Every bite brings me back to days spent swimming in the pool, working in the garden, and listening to baseball on the radio. Now, I love lingering on my deck with a grilled steak, a couple of cocktails, and the sun setting over Lambertville. Grilling tip: Invest in a steam grill brush. it cleans grates beautifully without dangerous wire bristles.
Summer Classic - Zucchini Tomato Casserole. Tip: Use mild and creamy Meunster cheese to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Cierra, Kitchen assistant and resident drummer girl! For me (Jersey girl), nothing says late summer quite like Jersey tomatoes—for juicy, crisp texture and the best flavor. I love turning them into grilled tomato BLTs with pasta salad (also studded with Jersey tomatoes), or simply slicing them with a pinch of salt and pepper for a quick snack. My favorite way to enjoy them? On the deck with friends and family, or by the fire pit with good music and conversation. If you really want to impress, cut them into large chunks, skewer with bacon, portabella mushrooms, and onions, then roast over the fire with your crew.
Good old fashioned BLT. Tip: Try it with grilled tomatoes for sweeter, richer flavor.
Melissa, Co-Owner and Managing Partner - Peaches are my late-summer obsession. I love them with sweet and savory preparations but especially in desserts - grilled and topped with ice cream and honey, or baked into a tart with honey and almonds. My favorite way to end the summer is with a long, leisurely al fresco dinner in late August, when the sun is setting and there’s a hint of Fall in the air and of course a peach tart for a sweet ending to the evening. For an extra touch of indulgence, pair it with sweetened mascarpone cream—or go all out and serve it with an affogato - a scoop of vanilla ice cream drowned in a shot of espresso. La dolce vita!
Honey Almond Peach Tart. Tip: Toss peaches in amaretto for luxe, nutty flavor and an extra decadent treat!
Theo, Co-Owner and Executive Chef - For me, late summer is all about sweet corn—so versatile whether it’s on the cob, grilled, puréed into soups, or tossed into salsas. One of my favorites is fresh (not frozen!) succotash (minus the lima beans) alongside anything hot off the grill. The best evenings are spent in our backyard with a couple of friends, a good bottle of wine, and plenty of laughter. Pro tip: Save those corn cobs! Toss them into your soup for a boost of flavor — their natural starches will help thicken it, too. Or dry them and hang them outside for the birds to enjoy.
Succotash gets a smoky twist with grilled corn & peppers!
The end of summer is fleeting, but these flavors remind us to slow down and savor every bite. Whether you’re inspired to try one of our team’s favorites at home or have us create your meals for you, we hope you find your own delicious way to celebrate the season’s last hurrah.