Category Archives: Quick bites/Takeout

🌟🍽️ Princeton, NJ: A Foodie’s Dream with Ivy League Charm 🏛️☕🍦

Small Bites Radio is the WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment 2023-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 Best of Arts & Entertainment, named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, and Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025.

Spent a few days exploring Princeton, NJ, and let me tell you, this town is so much more than just the university. From upscale seafood to hole-in-the-wall dumpling spots, Princeton is a low-key culinary gem that surprised me in the best way.

Here’s a quick rundown of my foodie adventure with each place worth a stop if you’re ever in town:

🦑 Blue Point Grill – Princeton, NJ This place is a must-visit for seafood lovers. I had:

• Grilled sardines – perfectly charred and full of flavor
• Grilled calamari – tender, smoky, and beautifully seasoned
• Clams casino – rich, buttery, and just the right crisp on top
• Monkfish medallions with mashed potatoes – flaky, meaty fish paired with silky mashed potatoes = comfort food with elegance
  Blue Point is definitely a standout — fresh seafood, polished service, and a lively atmosphere. A real treat. 🐟🍷

🍦 Thomas Sweet – Princeton, NJ Stopped for a quick dessert and had a cup of their famous ice cream. Super creamy and rich, the perfect cool-down after a day of walking around Palmer Square.

🥟 XiBei Cuisine – Princeton, NJ Craving something savory and warm? This cozy spot hit the mark with:

• Soup dumplings that were juicy and flavorful
• A bowl of beef noodle soup that felt like a hug in a bowl.

☕ Sakrid Coffee Roasters – Princeton, NJ Trendy, local, and serving up excellent coffee. I grabbed an iced cup and relaxed outside while people-watching on Nassau Street.

🥞 PJ’s Pancake House – Princeton, NJ An institution in Princeton, and for good reason. I ordered a classic stack of pancakes and they were fluffy, golden, and hit that nostalgic breakfast sweet spot.

🥯 Bagel Hole – Princeton, NJ This place keeps it simple, and that’s the charm. I grabbed a roast beef sandwich on a bagel and it was everything I needed for a quick, hearty lunch.

🌶️ Shanghai Bun – Princeton, NJ I ordered:

• Chili dumplings – perfectly spicy and addictive
• Mongolian beef – tender and full of bold flavor
• Fried filet with ginger – crispy, fragrant, and so satisfying
  Don’t let the no-frills atmosphere fool you — the food here is packed with flavor and soul.

✨ From upscale seafood dinners to street-style dumplings and local ice cream, Princeton offers an incredible range of eats all wrapped in the town’s cozy, intellectual vibe.

Whether you’re visiting the university, strolling through town, or just looking for your next foodie destination, Princeton should be on your radar.

📍 Ivy League town, first-class flavor.

#PrincetonEats #BluePointGrill #FoodieTravel #SoupDumplings #ThomasSweet #ShanghaiBun #CoffeeLovers #PJSPancakeHouse #HiddenGems #GourmetInNJ #EastCoastEats #EatWellTravelOften

Again, in 2025, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2025. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2026.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

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Volcano Steak & Sushi – West Berlin, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🔥🍱 A Flavor Explosion You Don’t Want to Miss! 🍤🥩🍚

Dropped by Volcano Steak & Sushi in West Berlin, NJ, and I’m so glad I did! If you’re into bold flavors and generous portions, this place needs to be on your radar.

I ordered their signature Volcano Combo Fried Rice, and it definitely lived up to the name. This dish comes loaded with steak, chicken, and shrimp — all cooked perfectly and tossed with seasoned fried rice that was full of flavor without being greasy or heavy. The combo of proteins gave every bite a new texture and taste, and the portion was more than satisfying. 🔥💯

The vibe inside is clean, modern, and relaxed — perfect for a casual dinner or a night out with friends. Whether you’re into sushi, hibachi, or hearty rice dishes like this one, Volcano has something for everyone.

It’s easy to see why this spot has become a local favorite — solid food, fast and friendly service, and a menu full of flavor-packed choices.

📍 Volcano Steak & Sushi – West Berlin, NJ
🍽️ Must-try: Volcano Combo Fried Rice (steak, chicken & shrimp)
🔥 Big flavor, generous portions, and worth the visit

#VolcanoSteakAndSushi #WestBerlinEats #FriedRiceGoals #VolcanoCombo #SouthJerseyFoodie #SupportLocalRestaurants #SushiAndSteak

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

Had a seriously crave-worthy meal at Kauffman’s Bar‑B‑Que Restaurant in Bethel, PA. I went all out with their juicy rotisserie-style chicken, crispy fried oysters, crab cake, and an order of fries, and it was a total flavor explosion. What sealed the deal was the all-you-can-eat salad bar with so many fresh veggies, breads, and house-made dressings to round out the meal, all at a very affordable price.

This place is a beloved Berks County tradition, family-run since 1979, with roots stretching back even further, and still serving that famous, slightly sweet-and-salty chicken that’s just perfect. The dining room got a modern facelift recently with a vintage farmhouse vibe with blue and stone accents, updated seating and yet it still feels like home. Plus, they’ve turned their setting into an event-worthy destination with mini‑golf, an ice cream stand, and even space for large gatherings.

Every meal comes cafeteria-style, so you load up your tray, grab your salad bar bowl, and choose from all those comforting dishes and is great for families. The friendly service, laid-back atmosphere, and that unbeatable value make this place a must-visit. If you’re looking for down-home comfort food with plenty of variety and charm, this is it. Your taste buds (and wallet) will definitely be thanking you.

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Pic‑A‑Lilli Inn – Shamong, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

Had an absolutely amazing meal at Pic‑A‑Lilli Inn in Shamong, NJ with hands down some of the best wings in South Jersey! I enjoyed an order of their famous wings paired with fries and every bite hit just right. The wings are known for being crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, served whole, and slathered in incredibly flavorful sauces. As one local fan put it on Tripadvisor:

“BEST WINGS IVE EVER HAD. Without sauce, with sauce, the small ones, the large ones—every bite was amazing.” 

This place has a legendary reputation for its wings and consistently rated as the top spot in South Jersey for wing lovers, thanks to its crispy coating, perfectly balanced sauces, and classic pub-style atmosphere.

Why Pic‑A‑Lilli Inn is a must‑visit:

• Wings that deliver on crisp, juicy, and flavorful.
• A welcoming, historic vibe—family-owned since the 1920s, with a cozy pub feel that just works 
• Friendly, laid-back service and menu specials

If you’re craving wings that are crispy, saucy, and unforgettable paired with satisfying fries—make this your next stop. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍗🍟 #BestWingsNJ #PicALilliInn #WingNightPerfection

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Gaeta’s Tomato Pies – Philadelphia, PA

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

Had a crave-worthy bite of nostalgia at Gaeta’s Tomato Pies. I dove into one of their legendary square tomato pies that are crisp, with a sweet and tangy sauce that bubbles into caramelized edges, all baked in a brick oven and served at room temperature. It’s the kind of simple, soulful food that makes you smile with every crunchy corner. This place has been a Philly staple for over 75 years, family-owned and fiercely loved by locals. No-frills, totally and full of Italian-American charm. Whether you grab one slice or a full pie, it hits all the right notes. If you’re ever craving what Philly-style tomato pie was made for, this is IT. 🍅🥰

Why it’s so beloved:

• Iconic, crisp-on-the-bottom tomato pie with a perfect sauce-to-crust balance
• Rooted in tradition since the 1930s—originally started by the Scalea sisters in Germantown, moved and carried on under the Gaeta name

Grab One If You…

• Want something simple yet extraordinary
• Crave old-school Philly tradition
• Appreciate no-fuss, culinary comfort with big flavor

Gaeta’s Tomato Pies—truly, square slices of Philly history in every bite.

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Palmisano’s Sandwich Shop – Sewell, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

Just had an enjoyable meal at Palmisano’s Sandwich Shop in Sewell, NJ. I tried their Chicken Cacio a crispy chicken cutlet slathered in creamy cacio spread, layered with roasted peppers and peppery arugula, all served on a fresh roll. Every bite had that perfect crunch and flavor harmony.

This spot is rooted in tradition and family-style passion, offering homestyle specialties and Italian-style sandwiches that are truly crafted with care.

Why you’ll love this place:

• Crispy, flavorful cutlet with a luxurious cacio spread and fresh veggies.
• Premium quality ingredients and artisanal touches—like the iconic Sarcone’s rolls and imported meats.
• Cozy Italian deli vibe with a touch of gourmet flair.

All in all Palmisano’s knows how to do a sandwich right. If you’re in Sewell or the surrounding area, this place is a must-visit for anyone who loves elevated, flavorful eats. Trust me, you’ll be planning your return before you even take your last bite. 😋🥪✨

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest