Named a “Four-Star Masterpiece” by NJ.com, The Summit House has lived up to the high expectations set by all who watched this Springfield Avenue gem come to life before their eyes at the corner of Maple Ave. Though its opening was a bit delayed, loyal patrons agree it was well worth the wait.
Taking full advantage of his Garden State roots, the restaurant’s award-winning chef, Martin Kester, sources his innovative and mouth-watering menu from local farms, fisherman, and select purveyors.
Seafood Connoisseurs Swoon
In addition to his humanely-raised meats and peak-season vegetables, Kester, who spent six years as chef de cuisine of Ninety Acres in Peapack, presents a raw bar that has seafood connoisseurs swooning. Featuring East Coast oysters, a seasonal seafood plateau, marinated mussels, and more, the only issue diners may have is choosing from the fresh and flavorful abundance of offerings.
Those saving their appetites for other courses can enjoy light snacks including spiced popcorn and fermented potato chips. A house-made campanelle, prepared with morels, ramp greens, and smoked bacon, makes a wonderful shared first course. Entrees include a Black Angus strip steak, served with charred broccoli, and roasted garlic, and a Dayboat Halibut, presented with English peas, spring onion, quinoa, and pea broth.
Midtown Direct Elixer and Home-made Spiced Maple Ice Cream
Guests who wisely save room for dessert can reward themselves with a selection from an array of tempting choices, such as a Meyer lemon pot de creme and house-made ice cream, available in creative flavors like salted vanilla and spiced maple.
Renowned mixologist Tad Carducci has compiled an impressive seasonal craft cocktail menu that explains why the 16-seat bar is perpetually buzzing. In addition to inventive elixirs such as the Midtown Direct, made with kaffir-infused Stolichnaya vodka, dry curaçao, yuzu, pomegranate, the Summit House bar serves locally brewed beers as well as old- and new-world wines that, in keeping with the eatery’s principles, focus on biodynamic and organic farming practices.
Fine Dining with Sophisticated Ambiance & Rustic Charm
The building, which dates back to the 1890s, was at one point a YMCA. But thanks to the creative vision of Summit residents and the Summit House’s proprietors Dylan and
Melissa Baker and Tyler and Sara Reeder the upscale restaurant is the definition of sophistication.
The dining room’s brick walls and hardwood floors lend a rustic charm to the space while the expansive open kitchen offers a modern flair. Plush, amply-cushioned chairs offer diners a comfortable respite, inviting them to literally sit and stay a while.
Heart of New Jersey and the Pulse of Manhattan
Those with enough will power to leave a bit of their meals to savor at a later time will be impressed by this nice touch: A card is handed to you so you can grab your leftovers on the way out, rather than have them crowd your table or linger by your feet. A clever and convenient detail that proves these restaurateurs have thought of everything.
While dinner reservations have been notoriously difficult to secure, a Sunday brunch is now offered and features favorites such as avocado toast, sourdough pancakes, and The Summit House’s signature burger.
It’s said that, in his new venture, owner Baker set out marry the heart of New Jersey with the pulse of Manhattan. It’s fair to say he’s accomplished that and so much more.
