A week or so ago, I had the pleasure of enjoying a one of a kind meal at Session Bistro in Maywood, NJ. I was thoroughly impressed with their fusion cuisine and freshly everything is prepared. Their is not much like it here in Bergen County, here’s why:

The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the staff of Session Bistro. I met the owner, Joe Hanzel Troy who spoke to me about his vision of the restaurant and his start in the food industry. He owned Troy’s Grill in Pearl River, NY before opening Session Bistro. Session Bistro focuses on only using the freshest ingredients that are available at the local markets. They even serve homemade hummus when you first arrive, it’s quite delicious and varies daily. After tasting the homemade hummus I started my meal with an appetizer sampler, which included their Chorizo Scampi ($11.95), Shrimp & Black Bean Sauce ($11.95), & their Pulled Pork Tempura ($10.95).

I love seafood, so this was heaven for me. “The key to all our dishes is the sauce that accompanies it.”, said owner, Joe Hanzel Troy. All the food is prepared and crafted by Head Chef, Christopher Holland. Holland was influenced by his father to begin his start in the kitchen and is a Jersey native, who grew up in Fort Lee. Growing up in Fort Lee was a major influence on his passion for fusion cuisine and you can see that in every dish he prepares. That was just the start, next I had another signature appetizer — the Korean taco ($10.95). I loved the taco, but my favorite was the Pulled Pork Tempura, because the mix of flavors are a perfect combination. Next, I had the Mutton Lettuce & Tomato, which is made with house smoked lamb bacon, lettuce, tomato served with a homemade Garlic Aioli.  It’s definitely an added touch that they smoke their lamb bacon in house. I loved it and would definitely get it when I come next time. Their appetizers are perfect to share, each come with 2-3 of each dish.

Also, unlike most restaurants they only serve fresh food and get their produce from the market almost daily.  I also don’t want to forget to mention that Chef Holland was also a finalist in Bergen’s Top Chef last year, which is certainly well deserved. Session is known for having live music on Friday & Saturday and for being a BYOB in Bergen. They also plan on adding wine to the menu but still plan on maintaining their BYOB status so people can drink their wine of choice.

I decided to try the Shrimp & Grits ($20.95)  for my entree which is  shrimp sauteed in chorizo cream sauce that is served on top of a Jersey fresh corn polenta. I love shrimp and enjoyed the previous shrimp dishes I had so I figured it was worth a try. I loved it, you get both the sweet & savory flavors and can taste how fresh the corn is. It cannot be topped.

Session’s Shrimp & Grits

I finished my meal off with the Chef’s Dessert of the Day, homemade Cinnabon ice cream. You could taste how fresh the whipped cream was on top, I gobbled it all up quickly. It was the perfect ending to a delicious, homemade meal, that showcased some of Jersey’s best produce.

I’d highly recommend it to anyone and plan on coming back one weekend for the entertainment. I’d definitely have the Pulled Pork Tempura again also, it’s so unique and a Session Bistro speciality & signature. It’s the perfect place for a date night or a girls night out & it certainly beats Applebee’s appetizers.

Session is open for lunch Monday to Friday, from 10:30 a.m to 3 p.m and currently have a deal that if your lunch order is a minimum of $25 you get a free dish from the Tapas menu with a value of $12 or less. They are also open for dinner from 5pm- 9pm or later if there is entertainment everyday. Along with implementing wine to the menu they also plan on starting brunch from 10:30  a.m to 3 p.m beginning weekends this fall. I know I’m definitely stopping to see what’s the Chef is creating for brunch soon!

If you’re in the area, take a trip to Maywood & enjoy a Mutton BLT, the Pulled Pork Tempura, and a delicious, fresh meal at Session Bistro.

Session Bistro, 245 Maywood Avenue, Maywood, NJ

*Disclaimer: The restaurants PR paid for my meal and stay. I was not required to write a review, and my thoughts and opinions are my own.*