5 Ways To Get A Taste Of Mardi Gras

It’s easy to experience the flavors of the Big Easy right here in Bergen County.

It may be too late to plan a trip to New Orleans for next week, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the Mardi Gras revelry. OK, so you won’t be attending any French Quarter parades and masquerades, but let’s be real: The best part of N’awlins fun is the food. Fat Tuesday festivities revolve around eating, as the day is meant to indulge before the season of Lent. And you don’t have to be a foodie to know that there are plenty of Mardi Gras-inspired options here in Bergen County.

Whether you’re going out for a party or simply celebrating at home, here are a few ways you can join in on the merriment.

Eat and Play: Ventanas Restaurant and Lounge in Fort Lee is hosting an all-night party on Thursday, March 3 (and into the morning on Friday) with special Southern-inspired small dishes, live performances, percussionists, a DJ and more. Reservations for the Mardi Gras party and dinner are required, but feel free to walk in for a cocktail.
*200 Park Ave., Fort Lee, 201.583.4777

French Feast: Madeleine’s Petit Paris in Northvale dishes out traditional French cuisine in a more formal setting, perfect for those looking for a reprieve from the hustle and bustle. Start with escargot and foie gras before diving into main courses like the restaurant’s signature filet mignon or rack of lamb.
*416 Tappan Rd., Northvale, 201.767.0063

Pairs or Parties: Stern and Bow in Closter caters to both intimate and larger tables with a menu inspired by the Big Easy. Share apps like fried green tomatoes and jambalaya balls, then enjoy entrées such as blackened pork chops and New Orleans BBQ shrimp.
*171 Schaalenburgh Rd., Closter, 201.750.3350

Grub to Go: If Southern-style sandwiches and burgers are more your thing, ReBar and Kitchen in Lodi and Hook & Reel in Elmwood Park have what you’re craving. Try ReBar’s Bourbon Street burger, which is blackened with Cajun spices and topped with tempting pepper jack and chili, or go for a whopping catfish po’boy at Hook & Reel.
*Hook & Reel, 100 Broadway, Elmwood Park, 201.367.1858; ReBar and Kitchen, 132 Essex St., Lodi, 201.368.8181

Sweet Treats: Eat in or take out from Bourbon Street Beignet in Westwood, which specializes in pastries and other goodies found all around the French Quarter. Pair freshly cooked beignets with chicory coffee, or order a colorful king cake (complete with the plastic baby) to go!
*301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201.497.8429