Going out to a restaurant as a family is something we don’t do often, but when we do, it’s always lots of fun. With phones put away and no outside distractions, it’s a time to catch up, share some laughs and eat a meal together instead of grabbing food on the go.
This past weekend, my husband, our twins and I had a chance to try the brand-new Harpoon Willy’s in Robbinsville. A modern take on the American tavern, the menu is comprised of comfort-driven fare and local favorites. They have another location in Manasquan, but the restaurant we visited in Robbinsville just opened its doors in January.
When we arrived the restaurant, which has a modern rustic décor, was flooded with light from the many windows and high ceilings. (I can’t wait to return to try the outdoor seating once spring arrives!)
The servers here were super friendly and welcoming and we started our meal with my son’s choice for the table – the Garlic Hummus platter, which featured naan, pickled cucumbers, olives and more. This was a great shareable appetizer.
Of course, since it was brunch I had a Bloody Mary, which was beautifully garnished and had just the right amount of spice.
While there were many brunch options on the menu, we were more in the mood for lunch. My daughter went for the Chicken Fingers & Fries off the kids’ menu (a huge portion, with really great fries which she generously allowed me to try), while my son went with the very sophisticated Truffle Parmesan Chicken. When the dish arrived, he was initially surprised that it didn’t come with pasta but ended up liking the risotto served with chicken. Another great thing about dining out is getting to see your kids try new foods and branch out of their comfort zones.
While we were tempted by the steady stream of Eggs Benedict that flowed out of the kitchen, my hubs and I also decided to go on the lunch side of brunch – he had a special – the turkey Rueben – while I enjoyed the Tuna Poke Bowl, which came with sushi rice, seaweed salad and crispy wontons. (Both kids even tried some of the raw tuna!)
Even though we were stuffed, we had to sample some of Harpoon Willy’s excellent desserts. We had Death By Chocolate, a no-brainer for our chocoholics (a ginormous 5-layer chocolate cake with chocolate gelato), and we also tried the Apple Crisp, which came with salted caramel ice cream.
While Harpoon Willy’s does have an upscale vibe, it’s also very down-to-earth and welcoming. We saw couples, groups of friends and families dining, and this is definitely a place you could bring the kids to for brunch, or hire a sitter and go for date night just the two of you.
Starting this Thursday, February 27, through Tuesday, March 4, the restaurant will host a Mardi Gras celebration with festive food, craft cocktails and decadent desserts. The special menu includes New Orleans favorites like gumbo, chicken creole and jambalaya, and specialty drinks such as the Voodoo Daquiri and a Sazerac are sure to hit the spot. This event is one you’ll want to gather your mom friends for!
Harpoon Willy’s is located at 2360 NJ-33, Robbinsville. They are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with brunch from 10 am to 3 pm Saturday and Sunday.
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