COVID cases in NJ and across the country have been rising, but one thing to look forward to this winter is the latest trend in socially-distanced dining – eating in an igloo.
Gov. Murphy gave outdoor plastic dining domes limited to one group each the okay in his recent guidance so we may see more of them as fall turns into winter. These special dining pods or bubbles are popping up all across New Jersey (and around the world) because they are a great way for restaurants to keep serving diners, even in the colder months. The heated igloos host a limited number of guests and are thoroughly sanitized before and after each party.
At a time when we’re getting ready for what may be a rough winter in terms of the virus, it’s nice to know that there is a fun and unique way of still going out to eat – and helping to keep local restaurants in business.
Check out these locations and be sure to make a reservation in advance!
Congress Hall
200 Congress Place, Cape May
At this historic hotel, you can dine outside in your very own Winter Igloo, arranged on the lawn overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Igloos will be available for guests and visitors, through advanced reservations. The heated Igloos seat up to eight guests who can enjoy a special menu of light bites, seasonal cocktails and more. (Daily, 5:30 – 9:30 pm – reservations through Concierge@caperesorts.com).
Asbury Festhalle and Biergarten, Asbury Park
527 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park, (732) 997-8767
https://www.instagram.com/p/CG3JvH1jFNQ/
The Asbury Festhalle and Biergarten is a place for friends, fun and great beer. Their 9,000 square foot rooftop biergarten features igloo seating for full-service dining only. Call to make a reservation.
Fig and Lily Garden
2 Cattano Avenue, Morristown, (973) 539-3999
Fig and Lily Garden is a lovely Mediterranean restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant introduced courtyard igloo dining pre-COVID and is BYOB so be sure to bring along some wine!
ManaFirkin Brewing Company
https://www.instagram.com/p/CHYwmxhDy4Y/
450 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin (609) 756-4798
ManaFirkin Brewing Company is getting ready to introduce igloo dining on December 2 by reservation. All beers are brewed on-site.
The Blossom
320 Broad Avenue, Palisades Park, 201-947-4588
This Asian-fusion restaurant actually had igloos pre-pandemic when they opened in February. Now their patio has become a secluded place to dine during COVID.
Lan Ramen
4 Hulfish Street, Princeton 609-356-0383
Lan Ramen is serving up authentic Northernwestern Chinese food and hand-pulled noodles. This restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating including one cozy igloo (diners recently spotted inside it eating while it rained!). No reservations required.
