Nerd Alert takes a break from events (see post below for August happenings) to report on some of the unusual dining experiences to be had in North-Central Jersey. Below is a small sampling; if you've got a unique eatery to recommend, let us know at nerdalertnorthjersey at gmail dot com, or leave a comment on our Facebook page. Remember, every time you can support a small business instead of a chain, you are supporting Jersey!
Marakesh Parsippany
Moroccan food; Belly dancer every Friday and Saturday night
Cafe y Canela Boonton (link is to the Morristown location)
Columbian food (and adjacent bakery) in the old retro Main Street Diner (and former Sopranos location)
Clinton Station Diner (Route 78)
Dine in a train car, or watch model trains move around the ceiling of the main dining room. This place is also known for its gigantic and disgusting burger challenges. For a much more swank (read: expensive) train car dining experience, try Rod's Steak House in Madison.
Makeda Ethiopian New Brunswick
Live entertainment and no utensils; Montclair has its own Ethiopian offering, Mesob.
Shanghai Jazz Madison
Come for the music, cocktails, and experience; food is a little pricey for what it is and the dining area is jam packed
Fork & Screen West Orange, Bridgewater, & Metuchen AMC Theatres
Watch your movie on the big screen in a comfy chair with table service; Nerds with Kids may also want to check out the Dunellen Cinema Cafe
