DINING out has been compared to going to the theater — with the diner as both audience and actor in a three-act play of appetizer, entrée and dessert.

One of the sweetest spots around is committed to community and quality in food, service and d�©cor

   CORPORATE America’s loss is our gain. Bob and Karen Finigan jettisoned their corporate lives and went to live in Ireland where Bob learned the craft of artisan bread making. Now they’ve set themselves up in a charmingly refurbished 1850s house in Cranbury (where Ms. Finigan grew up) as the proprietors of the Blue Rooster Bakery and Café. If you’ve read my blog, you’ve heard me rave about their delicious breakfasts. Their breads are amazing, especially a peerless baguette and a brown bread that makes the best toast ever.

At a place whose name translates to “three floors,” satisfaction can be found in threes: Service, sourcing and preparation

   TRE Piani has never failed to please in previous visits. This time a couple of our selections lacked the verve and thoughtful preparation that are trademarks of chef/owner Jim Weaver. From a culinary standpoint, we found that simpler proved better, and everything else was top notch.

The vibrant atmosphere, outstanding service and hearty entrees make for a memorable evening

A chill autumn rain had driven most diners off the awning-covered terrace and inside Olive and Fig before we arrived. The staff bustled to keep up with the crowd, but as soon as we crossed the threshold a waiter hurrying to a table detoured to assure us we’d be seated right away. And so we were, though we had not made a reservation.

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   ON a late summer evening, downtown Hopewell was bustling with activity and the Brothers Moon restaurant was no exception. Area diners have been coming out to support local restaurateurs — call it payback for years of community support from these entrepreneurs, as they donate their time and food to fundraiser after fundraiser. Sure, it’s good marketing for them, but it also supports many worthy causes.