One 53 in Rocky Hill, NJ

Posted byXsivjoshPosted inUncategorized

We first went to One 53 about 2 months ago and had a great meal. I took very few pix, so I vowed to return.
We returned last night with our new neighbor, Art. He has been there many times over several years and thinks it’s a great restaurant.
We were greeted by our server, Deanna, who took care of us last time. Energetic and well-informed, she walked us through the nightly specials and described all of the dishes that needed clarification.

Deanna, our delightful server.
Three of the four slices of very nice bread with a white bean/olive oil dip.
My Sweetbread appetizer with a delicious gravy made with leeks and carrots. As good as the last time.
Art started with Long Hots with Mushrooms and garlic. Quite good, but my taste was spicy for me. Barb called me a wimp.
The Mussels came in a Tomato, white wine broth. There was an option of including Chorizo, but we opted out. Remembered to take this picture after the dish was 1/3 finished. Oops.
Barb’s Swordfish special really made her happy. She switched out her starch for Swiss Chard and other veggies.
My double cut Pork chop was enormous and perfectly cooked to a rare temperature. Not an easy feat for any chef.
Chimichurri was offered and enjoyed by both Barb and I. This one seemed to be made with both parsley and cilantro.
Art enjoyed his entrée of garlic shrimp with tomatoes over pasta. Lots of garlic for Art last night.
We finished with a delicious dessert of a Grilled pound cake ice cream samich, covered with chocolate yum.

We had been hoping to catch a nice night to dine Al fresco. We lucked out. The patio behind One 53 is nicely protected by umbrellas. The tables and seating are well spaced. The ambiance is peaceful and very pleasant. We’ve eaten outside on both of our visits.

The inside dining room is a bit tighter. By pre-COVID standards it would seem just fine. Now it appears a bit crowded. The bar looks casual and comfortable and appears to serve full meals.
The drinks are very well made with some creative special cocktails. Their wines by the glass are decent pours and reasonably priced.

They have a $25 corkage fee which I will take advantage of on my next visit.

One 53 is a wonderful restaurant just outside of Princeton. I feel it is on par with Blue Bottle locally and better than any of the “fine dining” places we have tried in Princeton itself. The service, cuisine and ambiance make for a wonderful dining treat. I recommend it highly. Eat outside and ask for Deanna.

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