A fresh dining experience has arrived in Scotch Plains, NJ with the opening of bernadette, a French Mediterranean restaurant that offers a taste of city sophistication right in the suburbs. With a chef-driven menu that blends the flavors of French and Spanish cuisine, bernadette specializes in tapas-style shareable plates that encourage communal dining. From innovative small bites to bold, seasonal dishes, nearly half the menu rotates with the seasons, ensuring that each visit brings something new and exciting to explore. Complementing the food is an expertly curated drink selection, featuring craft cocktails, a diverse range of beers, and an eclectic wine list that pairs beautifully with the menu's ever-evolving offerings.
“Sharing food fosters connection and conversation,” says owner Melody DeGaetano. “We provide a space where diners can explore and savor cuisine and cocktails together.”
PHOTO: bernadette, Scotch Plains, NJ
The Origins of Tapas: A Culinary Tradition Born in Spain
The word "tapas" traces its roots to the Spanish verb “tapar,” meaning “to cover.” While there are several theories about how these small, flavorful bites got their name, one popular legend takes us to the taverns of Andalusia. In these bars, patrons would enjoy sherry alongside thin slices of bread topped with a variety of delicious ingredients. To keep pesky fruit flies out of their glasses, diners would place the bread over the rim—effectively "covering" their drink. What started as a practical solution soon evolved into a beloved tradition, where sampling different bites became a hallmark of the local bar scene. As patrons shouted "tapas!" while indulging, the name stuck, and the practice grew into the vibrant culinary experience we know today.
bernadette is Scotch Plains' Newest Culinary Destination
Tucked in the vibrant heart of Scotch Plains, bernadette offers an elevated "going-out" experience that sets a new standard for local dining. Breaking away from traditional concepts, Bernadette serves up a dynamic mix of small plates, hand-crafted cocktails, and a chic, lounge-like atmosphere that's perfect for a night out. You can feel the passion in each plate and drink, from the carefully sourced ingredients to the handcrafted cocktails made with spirits from independent distilleries.
Unique and Modern Menu Offerings
The menu at bernadette's features a range of modern and unique items that excite the palate. Some highlights include nduja-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates with diablo sauce, duck confit with apple butter and five-spice smoked olive oil, and tarte flambée topped with fontina, gruyere, and jamon. Other intriguing options include melted leeks with raclette and tarragon aioli, octopus with marcona almonds and garlic, and fried olives with bayley hazen blue cheese and calabrian chili sauce.
Another unique detail about bernadette's is its drink menu, which is carefully crafted to complement the food offerings. “We create cocktails based on flavor profiles, balancing acids and sweetness for a well-rounded experience,” the representative notes. An example is the brown butter-washed Old Fashioned infused with black walnut—an ideal pairing for the tapas experience.
PHOTO: Owner Melody DeGaetano
Commitment to Local and Seasonal Ingredients
At bernadette's, the commitment to seasonal and locally sourced produce is paramount. “As we're in the Garden State, we take pride in featuring locally sourced produce whenever possible,” Melody shares. This dedication enhances the quality and sustainability of its dishes.
A Healthier Approach to Dining
The smaller plates characteristic of the tapas trend also align with a growing preference for healthier dining options. “Small plates promote portion control, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors without feeling overwhelmed,” Melody, who has a background in nutrition, explains. “We aim to create an experience that is a culinary journey for our guests, and we believe this trend has lasting appeal.”
As diners increasingly seek experiences that prioritize connection, flavor, and flexibility, the tapas trend is poised to thrive. At bernadette's, the combination of innovative cuisine, communal dining, and a vibrant atmosphere ensures that every visit is a celebration of food and togetherness.
PHOTO: Chef Roxanne Spruance
Chef Roxanne Spruance: Crafting Modern Elegance from Simple Ingredients
At the helm of bernadette's kitchen is Chef Roxanne Spruance, whose inventive and seasonally driven cuisine has earned her a stellar reputation. Embracing a "less is more" philosophy, Chef Spruance masterfully creates dishes that let each ingredient stand out, focusing on balance and purity of flavor. Her minimalist approach seamlessly aligns with bernadette's vision, where classic French Mediterranean fare is reimagined through a fresh, modern lens. The result is a dining experience that feels both comfortingly familiar and refreshingly innovative, with every bite reflecting Spruance's talent for blending simplicity with elegance.
Plan Your Visit to bernadette's
For those looking to enjoy a fresh and inventive dining experience, bernadette's 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.
