This exclusive pop-up event was not held at the restaurant’s location so I can’t speak to the vibe – but the food – wow!
Kinjo, which means neighborhood, is owned by Jamie Knott with Bill Sanders manning the kitchen.
The meal started with a scallop crudo, using none other than Barnegat Bay scallops!
That was followed by Chef Jamie’s take on shrimp toast. A self-proclaimed Irish kid from Nutley, Chef topped classic white bread with shrimp mousse and yuzu mayo. The third course was salmon with pineapple and chilies in a leche de Tigre sauce.
My pick of the night were the lemon pepper wings with a shiso ranch. These were fried Korean style and absolutely delicious!
Those were followed by a cacio Pepe ramen that was loaded with flavor. The savory part of the meal ended with 5-spice seasoned duck breast, fried kohlrabi and farm fresh herb salad.
Dessert consisted of one of Chef Jamie’s favorite things – a popsicle! The mango coco yuzu pop was topped with a sprinkle of tahin for a perfectly balanced dish.
Kinjo is expected to open in Newark at the end of September.
