The Cassidy

Great ambiance, cocktails and food. I’ve been here about a dozen times for brunch to dinner. My go to cocktail is the “upside down” which I order with vodka instead of tequila. I love their salads which are generously sized, especially their beet salad, and their cast iron chicken main. Their ice creams are home made and heavenly. Everything is locally sourced. Their service can be hit/miss but is generally getting better each time I visit. Love that it’s owned by local South Orange residents and that the owners are always there keeping an eye on things.

We sat at the bar to have some drinks and grab some food. There are some really interesting cocktails and a good list of beers as well. We ordered food off the Bar + Kitchen Menu as the kitchen wasn’t fully open yet but for a limited menu there were plenty of good options. We shared the Vegan Board, Duck Duck Duck and Buffalo Cauliflower. Everything was great including the service.

The meal I had was good. But for a bar, they lacked in bar food. The only thing passable was a cheeseburger and some warm pretzels. For being so pricey, I expected more. Also, they don't serve basic sodas (coke, diet coke, sprite) but instead serve homemade cola and fruity drinks, none in a diet variety. Long story short, food was okay but I think they are trying too hard to be unique in my opinion.

Was back in my hometown after some time away and was pleased to see an upscale, happening restaurant added to Maplewood's limited dining scene. The food, atmosphere and hospitality could not be beat. I particularly enjoyed the cheese tray for sharing, split pea soup for a starter, and the arctic char for my entree. There was also a great, long bar for hanging out with friends while waiting for our reservation. With its 2nd level location with a view of the town center on one side and the railroad tracks on the other, it was picturesque as well. I just wished I still lived in Maplewood so I could go back there more often!