These Middletown-Area Small Businesses Have Patch Readers Raving

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — We asked, and you answered.

Last week, Patch asked readers to tell us their favorite local business, or nominate an independently-owned business that has gone above and beyond during the pandemic.

Here is what our readers replied; stop in sometime soon and see what you've been missing!

No Limits Cafe, Middletown. A lunch cafe employing people with intellectual disabilities. 418 NJ-35, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"They have great food. The employees are so happy to prepare your food. The atmosphere is great," said customer Joan Minnuies.

"No Limits Cafe offers excellent food at reasonable prices, and employs highly motivated workers who love their jobs and add to a totally enjoyable dining experience," said customer Kenneth Lee.

Taliercio's Gourmet Deli, Middletown. 500 NJ-35, Red Bank, NJ 07701 (in the Union Square Shopping Center)

"Taliercio's has exceptional sandwiches and catering, and no matter busy they are, the staff are very friendly and helpful — always. I have never had a bad experience with them. The value cannot be beat and everyone always compliments the food when we use them for parties," said customer Jean Cataldo-Weber.

My Kitchen Witch, Monmouth Beach. Daytime eatery serving breakfast, lunch & fresh juices. 29 Beach Rd, Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750

"Their employees become like family and their food is out of this world. They have a market in the afternoon that serves the best meals and it’s a little locals' secret. I hate that I’m sharing it!" says customer Dan Sullivan.

"From day one in March, My Kitchen Witch served excellent food, but more importantly, they were and still are safely serving their customers, whether it’s in the restaurant, delivery, pick-up or contact-less curbside!! Their customer and employee safety is No. 1!" said Lisa.

"Wonderful food and atmosphere," agrees customer Erin.

"Consistently perfect! The food, the staff, the market, takeout, always on point. Wholesome quality food at a good price, never had a negative experience in 10 years of patronizing the Witch!" raves customer Denise Villani.

"The owner Karyn is an amazing, caring, generous human being. She's there for her community like no one else out there. Her food is homemade and always the best. I travel almost 45 minutes just to have a meal with her," raves customer Dawn Raube. "My Kitchen Witch staff stands out above any other restaurant. They are friendly, attentive, listen to your requests and make sure you are happy with the meal and your time spent there. And the environment is the sweetest. Tables painted, crafts on the walls all make it a fun, enjoyable time. Always something to look at and talk about with people. Many people I know recommend My Kitchen Witch over and over over again! Ask for Karyn, the owner. You need to make My Kitchen Witch your go-to!"

Woody's Ocean Grill, Sea Bright. 1 E Church St, Sea Bright, NJ 07760

"Always the first to do something charitable. When COVID first hit, they prepared meals for anyone who lost jobs and couldn’t afford to pay full price (pay what you can). They are always the first to help!" said customer Lisa.

Booskerdoo Coffee, Monmouth Beach. 36 Beach Rd #9, Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750

"Amazing coffee, under the radar but has a huge loyal following. Wonderful employees," shares Sullivan.

The Cheese Cave, Red Bank. Artisan and specialty cheeses. 14 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"Fine goods, great service, wide application. Owner Steve Catania is a local leader and gives much of his time to Red Bank," said loyal customer Chris Havens. "He connects the dining community in Red Bank. Hats off to Steve Catania. And when we moved to Red Bank in 2017 he welcomed us warmly."

Underground Gym, Red Bank. Private gym and personal training. 46 Newman Springs Rd, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"A professional team! Great training program. A very supportive team that makes you feel proud of yourself even in difficult pandemic times," said member Inna Zinkovskaya.

Hair & Co. Red Bank. Salon. 12 White St, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"Hair & Company has the best service around! They do a great job on my hair and make me feel at home when I go visit. As times are only getting harder, they continue go out of their way to ensure you receive the best cut/dye. My fiance took me there to get my hair and makeup done before he proposed and the owner/staff went above and beyond to make me feel and look beautiful. They even kept the proposal a secret! I would definitely recommend them for not only their service, but amazing staff!" says Natasha.

Lambs and Wolves, Red Bank. Salon. 200 Monmouth St 2nd Floor, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"Glen, along with his staff are kind, caring, competent people. They made me feel safe during the pandemic. How many hairdressers will tell you honestly if you need a hair cut? Glen will! He’s HONEST and a true humanitarian. He and his staff are a gift to Red Bank. I wish him continued success in his new space," said customer Rosemary Pappa.

Cabana 19, Red Bank. Women's clothing store. 18 White Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"Great merchandise, friendly staff," says customer Karin.

Undici, Rumson. High-end Italian in a romantic atmosphere. 11 W River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760

"There is nobody who went more above and beyond than owner Victor Rallo during the pandemic. He accommodated the communities with take-out food from his three restaurants including Biravino, Undici and Surf BBQ. A very safe environment for all. A special thanks to chef Giovanni for his great talents and being there when needed! Great job, Victor!" said local customer John L. Saporito.

Cups and Cakes, Rumson. Bakery. 122 East River Road, Rumson, NJ 07760

"Great food, friendly people," says customer Alex Shanley.

"Everything is delicious and the people working there could not be nicer," said Mandy Hintelmann.

"They constantly go out of their way to please the client and will customize whatever you want. Constantly volunteering to donate and contribute to local causes. The staff is amazing and always cheerful even in the worst of times. Old-fashioned business with hardworking, kind people. Simply the best," said customer Mario Venancio.

Brennan's Delicatessen, Rumson. 44 W River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760

"Amazing sandwiches, soups, coffee, breakfast treats and a super-friendly staff, make me a regular at Brennan's," says Jeff Bratteson.

"Best food, best employees, a wonderful tradition," said Dr. Gail H.

Ristorante Giorgia, Rumson. White tablecloth Italian. 102 Ave of Two Rivers, Rumson, NJ 0776

"The food is amazing, homemade Italian, staff is awesome, the owner is even better. He is a hard-working man, atmosphere is cozy. It's a BYOB, which I love. If you love Italian this is the place to go!! " raves customer Sandee Flannery.

Bain’s Outdoor Living, Rumson. Independently-owned home goods and furniture. 125 E River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760

"Bain’s is a magical store! The owners and staff are so helpful; the atmosphere is relaxing and enjoyable and the merchandise is spectacular. The windows make me smile! It’s my go-to place for hostess gifts and wedding gifts! And I sneak a few things for myself, too!" said customer Peeka Tildesley.

SeaBreeze Cleaners, Rumson. Dry cleaners. 91 E River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760 "Professional care always with a smile!" says customer Denise Thwing.

Barnacle Bill’s, Rumson. Casual sports bar and grill on the water. 1 1st Street, Rumson, NJ 07760 "Always consistent, accommodating, welcoming and high quality."

The French Market, Rumson. Cafe. 114 E River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760

"Delicious food and dessert," says customer Toni-Ann Salberta.

Crazee's Ice Cream Shop, Rumson. 2 W River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760
"They helped bring normalcy to the pandemic," says customer Kelsey.

Salt Creek Grille, Rumson. Waterfront American. 4 Bingham Ave, Rumson, NJ 07760

"Co-owner Steve Bidgood is loyal to his team. Longevity in the restaurant biz is not the norm, but Salt Creek Grille has many long-term employees. He opened the restaurant to takeout & outdoor dining as soon as he could to offer a nourishing and safe environment for his staff & guests. He has suffered through losing many faithful guests in the tragic 9/11 event, opened in just 11 days after being flooded by Sandy in 2012 to hugs & kisses from his guests — many of whom did not have electricity for weeks. And now the pandemic shutdown. He just continues to rise back up. Steve is an excellent role model for his employees & guests. He was planning his 16th annual event for a local charity when COVID, struck, which has raised a total over $1 million in funds for charities serving children's needs. Salt Creek Grille remains a cornerstone in its community for 20+ years & is determined to continue to provide nutritional, social and emotions support to the community for 20 more years. Steve Bidgood and Salt Creek Grille justly deserve recognition for being there for the community even through a pandemic!" said Karen Irvine, publicist for the restaurant.

Thomas Santry Surveying, Rumson. 128 E River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760. (732) 741-4800

"Long-standing good reputation, knowledgeable & informative. Friendly staff, accurate information," said Rose Stanley.

Splendor Design Group. Website design and marketing firm located in Red Bank. 50 Broad St #1, Red Bank, NJ 07701

"They have the most inviting staff, all extremely professional and friendly," said customer Kaleigh Zuppardo.

"Wonderful staff," said customer Steve Nevins, of the Brick-based Steve Nevins Home Renovations, LLC.

"I identify with their values and I think they’re incredibly talented, filled with a young, thriving team that’s on the up and up," said Collin Dougherty.

O'Brien Realty, Rumson. 126 E River Rd, Rumson, NJ 07760

"O'Brien Realty has some of the best experts in real estate. They will be your partner and trusted advisor when buying or selling a home. Added bonus, they are some of the nicest people around," said employee Jeff Bratteson.

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