Creative Tapas and Craft Cocktails Comes to Scotch Plains, NJ at bernadette
The tapas trend is redefining the way we dine, inviting guests to embrace a more social atmosphere. At bernadette, a new French Mediterranean restaurant in Scotch Plains, the concept of small plates encourages diners to savor a variety of dishes without the constraints of traditional courses. This approach not only enhances the culinary experience, but also fosters connections among friends, family, and coworkers.
Tapas Is All About the Joy of Sharing
One of the key benefits of the tapas trend is its emphasis on sharing. By offering a range of small plates, bernadette creates an environment where guests can explore diverse flavors and enjoy meals in a communal setting. “Sharing food fosters connection and conversation,” says owner Melody DeGaetano. “We provide a space where diners can explore and savor cuisine and cocktails together.” The restaurant attracts a diverse clientele, from families and friends to coworkers, all drawn together by the joy of shared dining. “In addition to traditional seating, we feature communal tables and cozy couches, encouraging guests to share their dining experiences and make new connections or reconnect with old friends,” adds Melody.
The Tradition Behind Tapas
The word “tapas” stems from the Spanish verb “tapar,” meaning “to cover,” and its origins are as rich as the flavors they offer. One popular tale takes us to the lively taverns of Andalusia, where locals would sip sherry and snack on small bites of bread topped with flavorful ingredients. To protect their drinks from fruit flies, patrons would place the bread over their glasses — a simple yet effective cover. What began as a practical solution soon turned into a cherished ritual, with the variety of these small dishes becoming a signature of Spanish social dining. Over time, this tradition of sampling bite-sized creations evolved into the vibrant tapas culture we know and love today, offering a shared, flavorful experience in every bite.
Flexible Dining Experience
Unlike traditional dining formats, where meals are served in a rigid order of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, bernadette offers a more fluid experience. Guests can tailor their dining journey to suit their needs, whether they’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. “You can choose to order a few plates and drinks for a quick 30-minute visit, or indulge in the entire menu and linger for over two hours,” Melody explains. This flexibility allows for a dining experience that caters to various schedules and preferences.
Chef Roxanne Spruance: Redefining Classics with a Modern Twist
Chef Roxanne Spruance leads the kitchen at bernadette, bringing her reputation for innovative, seasonal cuisine to the forefront. Known for her “less is more” philosophy, Chef Spruance focuses on simple, straightforward dishes that allow each ingredient to shine. Her approach perfectly complements bernadette’s vision of elevating classic French Mediterranean dishes with a fresh, modern perspective, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Plan Your Visit to bernadette
For those looking to enjoy a fresh and inventive dining experience, bernadette offers an exceptional blend of modern French Mediterranean flavors with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re gathering with friends over a variety of small plates or sipping one of their expertly crafted cocktails, every visit promises to be memorable. Conveniently located at 387 Park Ave, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, bernadette’s is the perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. Reserve a table through OpenTable or call (973) 671–0848 to secure your spot.
