Four Must Try Breakfast Toasts

The love of all things avocado is the new trend, especially avocado toast which is featured at almost every upscale brunch restaurant. Here are some Breakfast toasts or "tartines" as nicknamed in CupofJo's blog (where the recipes are from), for you try.

1. Mashed Avocado and Feta

1/2 small avocado
1tsp. lemon juice
Salt to taste
2 tsp. crumbled feta cheese
sunflower seeds

This variation of avocado toast is great, the crunch of the sunflower seeds and the slightly tangy flavor of the feta cheese add just a bit more to the plain avocado taste.

2. Nutella and Olive Oil

1 tbsp. Nutella
1 tbsp. Nutella
Handful sliced almonds
Sea salt

Get the salty and sweet with this breakfast toast, the olive oil and Nutella combination is truly amazing.




3. Mascarpone and Honey

1-2 tbsp. mascarpone
3-4 strawberries, sliced
1 tsp. honey
Lemon zest to taste


The rich texture and flavor of the mascarpone are sweetened with the little bit of strawberries to make a refreshing and extremely delicious start to your day.




4. Goat Cheese and Fried Egg

1 tbsp. goat cheese
2-3 thinly sliced radishes
Little bit of arugula
1 fried egg

For a heartier, more savory toast try this goat cheese and fried egg combination. Scrambled eggs also work well in substitution of a fried egg. Impress your friends with your creative interpretation of an open faced egg sandwich.

These breakfast toasts will have you skipping the snooze button and energize you for a great day ahead.





Check out CupofJo's blog for more wonderful recipes for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com.

6 Great Summer Travel Spots

With Summer speeding by we thought we would put together a fun list of great summer vacation spots to visit before school starts again!

1. San Francisco

Escape the scorching weather of the East Coast these days by going to San Francisco. You can break out those new fall sweaters as the weather is mild all year round. There is no shortage of places to check out, including The Exploratorium, the Conservatory of Flowers and of course Alcatraz for those brave and curious kiddies. Enjoy the more relaxed vibes of the West Coast lifestyle by enjoying the beautiful scenery and delicious local eateries. Also you can't pass up a trolley ride through those iconic hills.


3. Vermont Road Trip: While road tripping in Vermont may be difficult in the winter with lots (and we mean like 3 feet lots) of snow on the ground, it is perfect in the summer. A road trip allows you to explore various hidden swimming spots, fishing, and quaint mom and pop stores in small towns. Find your favorite flavor of maple syrup, and definitely try a cheese tasting. Accompany tasty goodies with any of the 27 breweries on the Vermont Beer trail.

4. Hudson, New York




An easy train ride or short drive away from NYC, Hudson is a relaxing small-town getaway. Visit some of the over 200 historic buildings, shops, delicious restaurants and art galleries. Hudson is a lively urban center that retains it's historic charm. Check out Airbnb for great deals on places to stay.




5. Cape May

While most Bergen County residents rarely venture past Exit 60 on the Parkway; and why would you with great beaches so close, Exit 0 is truly a unique Jersey Shore spot. Cape May is a quaint, but bustling getaway with great restaurants, spas, shops and of course beaches! Go parasailing, on a whale watching tour or check out some of their local entertainment spots. It has so much to do for the kids, and also for parents, making it the perfect relaxing getaway for the whole family.

6. Gulf Coast Beaches: Florida is a hot-spot destination for family vacations, especially the Gulf Coast. Try a place a little off the beaten path, like Pass a Grille, which is a quaint laid back beach town. CupofJo recommends The Coconut Inn as the perfect spot; right on the beach and close to the essentials (restaurants and ice cream shops). Also on her list is breakfast at The Seahorse, and dolphin watching at Merry Pier.














Hope this list inspires you to plan a last minute summer vacation (we are sure you deserve it) and for more ideas check out CupofJo's blog post here.

Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com.

Bergen Brunchin'

Nothing beats a lazy weekend (or weekday) Brunch with family and friends. Best of both breakfast and lunch foods means double the calories, drinks and good times. Check out our list of some of our favorite Brunch Spots (and yes we used Brunch as a verb, it's a foodie lifestyle).

Bibi'z: Located at 284 Center Avenue, Westwood



While they only have brunch on Sunday's, the menu is extensive to say the least. Start off your lovely brunch with some of their delicious drinks, and follow it up with hearty meals like shrimp & grits.

Check out their full Brunch Menu here.




Raymond's: Located at 101 E. Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood

Their breakfast burrito's and French Toast with homemade Vermont style maple syrup are perfection. Bonus: Their brunch menu is available 7 days a week.

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn:  Located at 1 E. Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus

You are guaranteed to walk out of this Sunday Brunch Buffet completely stuffed and satisfied. Featuring freshly prepared omelets, a carving station and a Viennese Dessert Table, you won't want to miss this. Plus complimentary mimosas, what more could you ask for!

Palmer's Crossing: Located at 145 Dean Drive, Tenafly

Their Farmer's Market Buffet Brunch is perfect for summer Sunday's, and you know all your dishes will be made with fresh and local ingredients.




Madeleine's Petit Paris: Located at 416 Tappan Road, Northvale

Pretend you are actually in Paris with these delightful French dishes. Dishes change each week, based on what is fresh and in season.







Memoire:  Located at 16 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood

Their menu is defined as Eclectic American, and also changes based on local ingredients. They have an extensive menu for the kids, and we are drooling over their Bananas Foster French Toast.
















Channel your inner foodie and try to check out these wonderful brunch spots and their great summer dishes!

Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com.

6 Great Ideas for Hostess Gifts

From outdoor barbecues, to pool parties, to late night dinner soirees, with the summer months comes a jam packed social calendar. Wow the hostess with these fun and creative gifts that will keep the invites rolling in.

1. Breakfast for the Next Day: The hostess probably doesn't need any extra food for the night of a big dinner party, but how about the next morning? She's probably faced with the daunting task of cleaning up from the night before. Brighten up her morning by bringing her a little homemade breakfast that she can eat the next morning. She will look forward to eating your thoughtful treat in between all those dishes.

2. Monogrammed Beach Towels: Most of what moms tote to the beach is some old ratty towel scoured from the bottom of the closet and thrown in the bag. Give her the treat she won't give herself in these customized patterned towels. With bold colors and fun prints the kiddies will be able to spot her from a mile away.





3. Wine Bags: While a nice bottle of wine always seems like the go-to hostess gift, mix it up with a fun and creative wine bag. These wine bags made out of recycled sails are funky, and great for an outdoor party gift.






4. Homemade Avocado Dressing and Homemade Croutons: Perfect for summer, this gift is wonderfully unique. The dressing will last for a week full of delicious summer salads, and the croutons taste worlds better than the store bought ones. The hostess will appreciate your thoughtful attention to detail. Here is a recipe for delicious avocado dressing and here is one for homemade croutons.















5. For those with Sweet Tooth: Give your friend the gift that keeps on giving, literally. A 3-month subscription to the Salt and Straw gives your friends 5 unique ice cream flavors every month. They create seasonal flavors with local ingredients.

6. Big Stylish Serving Tray Stocked with Goodies: Help them prepare for their next party with a stylish serving tray stocked with their favorite goodies. It will make them so excited to throw their next get-together, that they may skip over your turn to host the party (a win-win situation for you).





















To find more fun summer hostess gifts read BergenMama's article here and Cupcakes and Cashmere's blog here.

Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com.

Best Bergen Sushi Spots

Bergen County certainly has no shortage of Sushi restaurants, so we listed some of favorites that every sushi fanatic must try!

1) Tani Asian Grill:

With an extensive menu that includes sushi, pad thai and dimsum, Tani manages to perfect all types of delicious Asian Cuisines. The trendy brownstone vibe makes you feel like you are on the Upper East Side right here in Bergen County.


Located at 206 Rock Rd, Glen Rock



2) Sakura Bana: This BYOB gem features some of the most delicious and creative sushi rolls that are stuffed to the brim with fresh fish.


Located at 43 Franklin Ave, Ridgewood

3) Akai Japanese Sushi: While a bit on the pricier side, this sushi lounge offers the full experience with tasty drinks and an extensive menu.

Located at 11 North Dean Street, Englewood

4) Nizi Sushi: Features both Japanese and Korean cuisine and hosts delicious set-price lunch and dinner boxes to get your fix of the menus best.

Located at 300 Union Ave, Rutherford

5) East Japanese Restaurant: Visit for a unique dining experience in which diners select their meals off a conveyor belt and each day features different specials.

Located at 1405 Teaneck Rd, Teaneck



6) Ocean Sushi: With an extensive list of specialty rolls, delicious green tea, and a combo lunch box special, Ocean Sushi is another must try in Bergen County!

Located: 619 Oradell Avenue, Oradell


Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com.

Recapping the Wellness in the Park

A huge thanks to everyone who came down to Van Saun Park on Saturday to our Wellness in the Park Event! We really enjoyed learning all about different types of wellness at our fair, here is a re-cap of all the wonderful vendors that were featured at the event.

The Fountain Spa: Open 7 days a week The Fountain Spa offers some of the finest spa and salon services in the area. Ask any one of our attendees who had the opportunity to receive a complimentary massage at the event!

NJ Eye: Featuring Dr. Dello Russo, an expert in his field, NJ Eye offers various eye surgeries and treatments. They even have an online blog on their website that answers any questions you may have.

Poland Spring: Poland Spring is the top-selling spring water bottle brand in America, and now uses 30% less plastic in their production. The representatives were showcasing an in-home water dispenser that could help reduce the wasting of plastic bottles while saving residents money in the long run.

Millers Pharmacy: Read BergenCounty.com's article on why local Bergen pharmacies, like Millers, are better to use than chain stores. Millers is featured in the article for it's extra helpful services.

24 Hour Fitness: The state of the art facility located in Paramus features a wide range of exercise classes and personal trainers. And you guessed it, it's open 24 hours a day for all you late night exercisers.

Health Success Center: They showcased a great demonstration on the health benefits of their water filtration system that some of the world's biggest celebrities use. 

NJ Foot & Ankle Center: NJ Foot & Ankle Center is one of the top podiatry facilities in the state and Dr. Dan Margolin has recently been named a "Top Resource" for podiatry by Digital Journal.

Motives Cosmetics: Motives Cosmetics features extensive product lines on their website and in stores. They even allow you to customize some of your make up and skincare products.

Bodyworks Rehabilitation of Bergenfield: Bodyworks works individually with each client to develop a customized program for rehabilitation and healthier lifestyles. They feature a wide array of services such as massage therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, and even Yoga/Pilates classes in their facilities.




Fundraiser for Douglas Pintka: Donations were being accepted to help offset the costs for a cancer fighter without health insurance. Doug Pintka is a member of the band Fillet of Soul.

CASA for Children of Bergen County: CASA volunteers work to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children living in the foster care system. Check out their website for more information on becoming a volunteer and upcoming events.

Advanced Performance in Ramsey: With locations in both Ramsey and Oradell, Advanced Performance Wellness offers a multidisciplinary approach to spine care treatments. They also offer programs in physical therapy, nutrition, and weight management to ensure a totally healthy you.

JR Slate Fitness: Jeremy creates fitness plans tailored to the custom lifestyle. As an author, lifestyle entrepreneur, personal trainer and fitness consultant, Jeremy strives to solve all of the weight loss and fitness needs to the region he serves. He even holds Mommy & Me bootcamp classes every Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

Crazy Wraps: These wraps are infused with an all natural botanical cream, that can give nutrients to your skin that it is lacking. It works to tighten, tone, and firm anywhere once applied, and this all can happen in as little as 45 minutes.

THE GYM: Already featured in our Best of Bergen Fitness blog post, THE GYM offers state of the art equipment and a wide variety of exercise classes to always keep your workout routine fresh.

The Foundation for a Drug-Free World Bergen County Chapter:  The Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that empowers youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. No one, especially a young person, likes to be lectured about what he or she can or cannot do. Thus, they provide the facts that empower youth to choose not to take drugs in the first place. 

Thanks again to everyone who came to our Wellness in the Park event, and for those who didn't make it, check out these wonderful wellness business' to feel better inside and out!

Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com.

Best of Bergen Fitness

It seems in Bergen County that every place a new fro-yo place appears, a gym materializes next to it. It can be hard to maintain a regular exercise routine with a busy summer schedule, and even harder when there are so many options to choose from. Here are some of the best reviewed spots in the area, that offer great deals and classes.

Yoga:

Powerflow Yoga: There are several studios in Bergen County including Glen Rock and Ridgewood. Mainly featuring Hot Yoga these classes are challenging but afterwards you feel extremely cleansed and energized. They also offer more beginner classes in warm temperatures and accommodate all levels.


Cool Hot Yoga: Features a new AntiGravity Yoga class that is for more advanced Yogi's looking to spice up their routine. You can build strength purely from using your own bodyweight in the AntiGravity Hammocks.

Fitness Classes:

Genuine Self Wellness: They offer 50-minute rowing intensive classes that can burn upwards of 1200 calories in one session. Plus these classes max at 6 participants so you get the help and attention you need to truly feel the burn.

Beautiful Bodies Bootcamp: Located in Ho-Ho Kus this small studio offers all types of classes ranging from Spinning to Kickboxing to Warrior Training (which is super high intensity). Perfect for those who get easily bored during their routine, and those looking to truly maximize their workout routine all in one location. The small class sizes ensure whether you are a newbie or a seasoned athlete, you get the attention you need.


Crossfit Ignite: The phenomenon sweeping the nation is Cross Fit workouts, but these workouts can be so hard to do on your own. Crossfire Ignite sets up everything for you and offers high intensity interval workouts for periods of 10 to 45 minutes.

Jumping Frog Studios: For energetic Pilates lovers the hour and a half Pilates/Cardio class combines mat moves, leg and arms workouts, followed by 30 minutes of internal treadmill sprints and inclines.




Gyms:

Blink Fitness: Located in Paramus this 17,000 square foot gym offers over 150 pieces of cardio and strength equipment. As well, their pre-written workout menus are perfect for first timers and ensure you walk out the door feeling accomplished (and really sore!)

The GYM: The GYM offers over 30 different types of classes, including yoga, spin, and Zumba. They have a 24-hour housekeeping staff and maintain a pristine and well run facility.

Get in Shape for Women: With two studios in Tenably and Waldwick, the small all female personal training session ensures a positive workout environment.


For more fitness studio reviews read BergenMama's articles here and here, as well as Bergen.com's article here.

Bergen County News & Happenings is committed to keeping residents up to date on things to do, places to be, local news and events. It is sponsored by New Jersey Foot and Ankle Center with Dr. Dan Margolin, Dr. Maryellen Brucato and Dr. Daniel Hennessy. If you have an idea for a news story or event, please contact us at bergencountynewsnj@gmail.com