On Sunday, May 7, 2017, the Frog and the Peach in New Brunswick, New Jersey, was honored by the Garden State Culinary Arts Awards with the prize for “Best Restaurant in New Jersey.” The award ceremony brought together nominees from every aspect of the culinary world in New Jersey.
Modeled after the James Beard awards, these are the state’s first juried food awards, honoring outstanding talent in the food industry. Nominations from the public, and then the GSCAA executive committee, consisting of food writers around the state, named ten nominees in each of the 13 categories.
“We feel honored to have received this award,” notes Bruce Lefebvre, chef and owner, “and to be included among the other great people nominated in our profession is very special to us.”
Jim Mullen, general manager and wine director, added: “The Frog and the Peach has long been in the shadow of New York and Philadelphia. These awards are a real boost to dining in New Jersey.”
Founded by Betsy Alger and Jim Black, the Frog and the Peach has been in operation since 1983. Bruce Lefebvre, who had been executive chef since 2000, bought the business in 2012. Chef Lefebvre is known for his modern take on American cuisine and for staying true to the authenticity of the Garden State’s world class agriculture and fisheries. He combines his classical training from the Culinary Institute of America with an eagerness to explore and share influences and ingredients from cuisines throughout the United States and the world.
“The Frog has always been proud to highlight local ingredients,” notes Chef Lefebvre. “In fact, 30 years ago, Betsy’s first menu had an arugula salad with Hunterdon County goat cheese, walnut oil and Champagne vinegar (menu price $4.00!!).”
Bon Appétit!
TAD
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