Intimate Atmosphere Great Wine List. Rated Top 25 in NJ by Zagats.Review by Sandra Roberts
There are precious few restaurants in this world that can combine a classy
decor, a wide range of cuisine, friendly service, and a comfortable
atmosphere effectively. Court Street (61 6th St.) is one of them. This
eatery is home to a fantastic bar and some of the most delicious food in
Hoboken.Court Street is on the corner of Sixth Street and the cobblestone road
that bears its name. Just take a turn off of Washington Street and head
towards the river. When you walk through the glass and mahogany entrance,
you'll know why the restaurant is a favorite. The bar area features the
expected stools and mirrored wall, but it also has small tables along the
east wall, perfect for long conversations over a pint. While there, you
can watch whatever sporting event is on the television and order a snack
off the bar menu. For an inexpensive, and filling, late-night nosh, a hot
bowl of chili ($3.50) and a draft Gunniess ($4.50, 20 oz) is sure to
please.When you walk to the back of the bar, you'll find the main dining room.
Painted in creamy colors, lit with candlelight and accented with pale
fabrics and gold-framed paintings, the room is warm and comfortably
elegant. The tables are small and spaced close together in the cozy room,
but the layout does not generally infringe on your privacy.Court Street's menu features pasta, salads, seafood, steak, veal, poultry,
game and several appetizers. Dinner entree offerings range from the simple
Linguine with Garlic and Oil ($6.95) to the impressive Surf and Turf,
featuring Lobster Tail and Filet Mignon ($23.95). The portions are neither
too large nor small for most diners, though those with hearty appetites
may not be satisfied by some of the pasta meals. But on the other hand,
part of the charm of this restaurant is its ability to serve a good
overall meal. You can generally enjoy a drink, share an appetizer and
finish your meal, and perhaps still have space for a cup of coffee, or
even dessert, afterwards. Rather than increasing the price for a portion
you will never be able to finish, Court Street makes it possible to try
several items and maintain your budget. That lends itself to dining with
friends.I recommend you enjoy a glass of wine from the Court Street's list,
featuring by glass, half bottle, and bottle selections. You can have faith
in your selection; the proprieter has tasted every one of the offerings.
While munching on the warm bread provided with the meal, try the olive
paste. For those desiring more than the usual butter, this is a unique
option, and it goes very nicely with the Forest Glen 1997 Chardonnay ($9
for half a bottle). You may even want to try an appetizer. My favorites
have always been the New England Crab Cake ($6.95) and the Fried Calamari
($5.50), though some prefer the classic French Onion Soup au Gratin
($3.95). For the truly adventurous, Court Street offers a Deep-Fried Brie
with Mixed Greens ($4.95), as well.Court Street is a great place to try the duck, especially if you've never
had it before. Each day brings a different preparation for the treat,
often pairing sweet, exotic fruits like mango with the dark, flavorful
poultry ($14.95). The Beef Burgundy, a rich combination of tender beef in
a stew with egg noodles ($10.95), is another favorite. The pasta dishes
are a wonderful option for the vegetarians out there, because the portion
size is satisfying and the selection is both unique and plentiful,
especially for a restaurant with so many other menu options. The Roasted
Garlic and Goat Cheese Ravioli with Tomato Marsala Sauce ($8.50) is one of
the more innovative selections.If you're just stopping in for Saturday lunch, try a Court Street
Hamburger (2 pounds of beef served with fries; $6.50). For something a bit
lighter I suggest Kate's Popeye salad with fresh spinach, diced cucumbers,
apples, celery, walnuts, a little onion and grilled chicken topped with a
light lemon-garlic dressing ($9.95, without chicken $4.95). Of course, on
Sunday you may prefer to have brunch, a weekly special at the restaurant.
With your Eggs Benedict with Scottish Smoked Salmon ($12.95) or Homemade
Personal Quiche ($11.95) you'll receive fresh fruit, coffee or tea, and a
complementary pitcher of Bloody Mary's, Screwdriver's, Mimosa's,
Pointsetta's or two glasses of Champagne. Court Street is open Monday through Saturday from 4:30 pm to 11:00 pm for
dinner. On Sunday, the restaurant serves brunch from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm
and reopens for dinner from 4:30 pm to 10:00 pm. You can contact Court
Street to learn more about special Holiday Events and Happy Hour offerings
by calling (201) 795-4515. They don't take reservations, but will do the
best to accommodate groups of 5 or more if you call ahead of time. For
more sneak peaks at the menu, or to learn about Court Street catering,
stop by the restauran's website.