Rating: Very Good
The type of place everyone dreams of having in their neighborhood but very few actually do.
Chris: Everyone wants a little neighborhood place that serves good food at moderate prices. The type of place where there are no pretenses or attitudes. A place where they can feel comfortable and get a decent meal. For us, Zoe is that place.
Janine: Zoe is a small restaurant located in a strip mall in Little Silver. Most people drive right by without even noticing it. The restaurant is owned by a trio of brothers known as “The Bistro Boys”. They also own The Bistro and Teak in Red bank.
Chris: Zoe’s appeal is a small, but well thought out menu that features mediterranean-influenced cuisine (Greek-Italian). The entrees are reasonably priced and the daily special usually reflect seasonal market availability.
Janine: We’ve dined at Zoe over a dozen times and have tried most of the offerings on the menu. I can’t remember ever having a bad meal. The standout dishes for me are the Tuscan-Style Mussels for an appetizer and the Braised Short Ribs for an entrée.
Chris: There is something for everyone on the menu. From Burgers to pasta. I favor the fish dishes. The Grilled Branzino and Swordfish and Clams are two of my favorites. Both dishes feature a broth-like sauce more akin to a brodetto than a heavy roux or cream based sauce. The Branzino is highlighted by a Fennel-Blood Orange flavor profile. Since the fillet is relatively thin, it is perched atop of organic fingerling potatoes to ensure the skin stays crispy. The swordfish, being a thicker cut of fish, is immersed in the broth. A drizzle of Lemon Basil Pesto provides a refreshing accent.
Janine: For dessert, the Chocolate Bread Pudding is to die for!!!
Chris: The dining area is comfortable and inviting. It’s small enough to maintain a sense of intimacy, but large enough so the guests don’t feel cramped.
Janine: A large, glass panel wall separates the kitchen from the front of the house. It enables the diners to see the action unfold in the kitchen. For groups of eight or more, make sure to reserve the large, semi circle table by the kitchen. You’ll have front row seats for dinner and a show.
Chris: Zoe is the place we go to on the weekend when we don’t feel like cooking. Zoe is the place we go to grab a quick bite when we get home from work late. Zoe is the place we bring family and friends when food and conversation matter more than trendiness and flash. Simply put, for us, Zoe is “The Place”.
Zoe Bistro
151 Markham Place
Little Silver, NJ 07739
(732) 747-9988
