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Dining Under the Influence
@FoodaholicNJ
–Â Introducing JENNIFER NANGANO, a food influencer passionate about presenting food adventures on Instagram. Follow her @FoodaholicNJ
Jennifer Nangano (Food Influencer):
Hailing from Freehold, New Jersey, I am a long-time Monmouth County resident, and I am employed at a local municipality. When I’m not exploring restaurants, you can find me at home cooking, taking a class at the gym, walking my dog, or chatting with my daughter Devyn, who is a student at the University of Florida. Devyn is supportive and typically a willing participant in the whole vlogging/ dining experience!
Flair for Reviews
My Instagram page came to life because I had a flair for reviewing my dining experiences on Yelp – especially the photography aspect of the review. I started the Food Influencer Instagram account to showcase the photos to the community. As Instagram has evolved, I did as well by keeping updated on current trends and adapting my content to fit the viewer’s needs.
Making a Smile
My IG stories are where you will find my true personality, and sense of humor as I frequently poke fun at myself, rant, or post whatever makes me smile at the moment. I love making people laugh.
What Makes a Great Restaurant?
I think what makes a great restaurant is a diverse menu and creative dishes. Also, ambiance and aesthetics are critical, as an attentive and friendly staff, and finally, owner presence and pride in the establishment.
What Makes a Great Meal?
What’s important to me in a meal is a memorable experience, the use of high-quality ingredients, and an impressive presentation. Portion size matters as well. I don’t like the plate to be too big or too small. As a Food Influencer, I enjoy tasting many dishes while dining out and dessert is a must even if I’m too full.
Sharing My Passion
What I like best about being a food influencer is I enjoy using my platform to share my passion for culinary experiences. My sense of humor and perspective while presenting the information makes me unique. I like inspiring/influencing others to explore places they may have not yet tried. Also, I love connecting with a local food-loving community and meeting new people while doing it.
Favorite places in these categories:
 by Food Influencer, @FoodaholicNJ
Steakhouse:
The Butcher’s Block in Long Branch
Red Horse by David Burke in Rumson
Seafood:
Cuzin’s in Marlboro is a favorite of mine, and they have fantastic steaks as well.
Italian:
I love La Mondina in Brielle
Anjelica’s in Sea Bright
Birravino in Red Bank
Osteria in Marlboro
BBQ:
Mostly Smoked in Manalapan is great
I love Mutiny BBQ in Asbury Park – I’m a BBQ lover
Asian:
Mizuki Hibachi in Wall Township
Xina in Toms River was memorable
Kings Chinese Food in Freehold is a longtime favorite
Mexican:
I love Los Barberos Birria Tacos in Belmar & Asbury Park
Texas Mexican in Freehold
Fine Dining:
618 in Freehold
Sea Crest Grille at Shore Club in Spring Lake
Scarborough Fair in Seagirt is lovely as well
Brunch:
I love the Skillet in Freehold
Over Easy Kitchen in Marlboro
Pizza:
Krispy Pizza in Freehold
Brooklyn Square in Jackson
Joe’s Rotisseria in AP is creative
Federici’s in Freehold is amazing
Rooftop:
Beach Haus Brewery in Belmar
Watermark and Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten in AP
Red Rock in Red Bank
Waterfront Dining:
River Rock in Brick
Iron Whale in AP
Proving Ground in the Highlands is amazing
Favorite Bars:
Tommy’s Tavern and Tap in Freehold
The Loaded Spoon in Freehold is a fantastic spot
Asbury Ale House in AP
Woody’s Ocean Grill in Tinton Falls
Favorite Dive Bar
Jamian’s in Red Bank
Pinky Shrimps Seafood in LBI
Favorite Bakery:
Del Ponte’s in Bradley Beach
Coffee Shop:
Coffee Surf Co in Belmar has excellent coffee.
Follow Jennifer Nangano on Instagram @FoodaholicNJ