The Alternative Press

Highlawn Pavilion, rated “Four Stars” by The Star-Ledger and “Excellent” by The New York Times, is now offering its Jazz Menu an additional evening each week.  Beginning the week of June 4^th, Highlawn is extending its jazz program. Entertainment will be provided Wednesday through Friday featuring a $29 dinner menu, as well as Domain Chandon and Belvedere martini drink specials.

Highlawn’s three-course, prix-fixe dinner menu ($29.00) features a choice of appetizers, entrees and desserts and is offered on the Patio, in the Bar area and in the Piano Room where a jazz trio performs, adding to the dining experience.  Menu items include a Tasting of Tuna and Salmon Tartare, Wagyu Hanger Steak, and a Chocolate Tasting for dessert.  The atmosphere is a bit more casual than the main Dining Room, and coupled with live music, gives diners another option when dining at Highlawn Pavilion.

The jazz performances are from 7 to 10 p.m., and feature the Mark Peterson Trio on most Wednesday and Friday evenings through the summer. Bassist Mark Peterson has conducted, recorded and performed with such luminary artists as Shakira, Joan Baez, Lyle Lovett, Maxime LeForrestier, Shania Twain, Lizz Wright and jazz great Cassandra Wilson. His trio (the little "big band" featuring Matt Kane on drums and Frank Ponzio on piano) plays unique renditions of contemporary songs, multi-genres and a "fresh" twist to the American songbook. Entertainment varies on Thursdays and includes the John Carlini Trio and the David Caruso Trio. For the complete summer jazz schedule, please check Highlawn’s website www.highlawn.com.

Executive Chef Mitchell Altholz’s dishes are inspired by locally sourced ingredients.  Much of the produce is grown on Pleasantdale Farm, located on the grounds of the nearby Pleasantdale Chateau, a venue also owned by the Knowles family, owners of Highlawn Pavilion.

In addition to the Jazz Menu, a Bar Menu is served in the Bar area, the Piano Room and on the Patio; and the a la carte Dinner Menu is served in the main Dining Room as well as in the Piano Room and Bar area.  Reservations may be made by calling 973-731-3463 or by going online at www.highlawn.com.  Highlawn Pavilion is located in West Orange within Eagle Rock Reservation with scenic views of the New York City skyline.  Lunch is served Monday through Friday, and dinner is served every day.