A 1980 graduate of Ithaca College with a BA in English Literature and a Minor in Applied Writing, I worked as a beat reporter on several New Jersey newspapers before turning to Wall Street in 1982, where I was employed as a clerk on the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange. 
        In 1994 I left New York to become 'Mr. Mom' in northern Connecticut for eight years. When the children entered school I taught high school English and began to freelance write. I then taught school in the Connecticut Department of Correction until relocating to Texas in 2006. 

Jersey Soul Food

This blog is dedicated to New Jerseyites living out of state who need to locate or can recommend places that taste like home.

 Join Bud Tasty and friends as they lead a tour of the United States in search of Jersey Soul Food. JSL is what we like to call urban rustic. Simple and delicious it's food prepared and eaten in uncomplicated settings . At its best Jersey Soul Food should remind the diner of the splendors of Bayonne, the grandeur of Jersey City, or wherever their favorite spots in the Garden State happen to be. These joints are legion and the fare is varied. 

Jersey Soul Food is a submarine sandwich from Marzullo’s in Montclair or thin crust pizza from Star Tavern in Orange. It’s an Italian hotdog from Dicky Dee’s or Stretch’s Chicken from The Belmont Tavern, both in Newark. Though Jersey Soul Food leans towards Italian, it’s also charbroiled burgers at Michael’s Roscommon House in Bellville, Texas Weiners on Rte. 22 in Greenbrook, and a sloppy joe from Main Street Subs, in Madison. Breakfast in New Jersey wouldn’t be complete without Taylor Ham, a product of Trenton and the best kept secret in the country. 

For the curious who’ve never visited New Jersey, don’t be afraid--jump in, the cannoli’s fine. So write in and share with us what you’ve found around the country—somebody driving through Nebraska with a jones for calamari might need your help.  Happy hunting, my friends, and may your appetite rest in peace. 

 

Poets of the Tabloid Murder

Poets of the Tabloid Murder is a mystery author interview show hosted by Steven Nester which aired on 91.7 WHUS in Storrs, CT  from 1998 to 2006. Guests ranging from George Pelecanos to Jenny Siler to Elmore Leonard have appeared on Poets of the Tabloid Murder, and archived shows can be heard by following the link above to the Public Radio Exchange. Production on new shows will begin in October and will be aired as fill-ins on 93.7 KRTS in Marfa, Texas.

  

Contact 

Drop us an email at writer@stevennester-freelancewriter.com