WE'RE GOING TO THE CHAPEL

   

Hello, my very awesome and  tasteful friends. Ya know, I always felt that my home town of Long Branch was somehow missing something. It seemed contrived, lacking the personality, creativity and yes, the  coolness factor of Asbury Park. This is apart from the fact that  it was historically, the birthplace of many literary giants, including Poet Laureate  Robert Pinsky, Pulitzer Prize Winner Norman Mailer and most humbly yours truly. Now if the only Culture that concerns you, is written on the side of a Cherbani Container, it may well be time my friends to expand your horizons. Enter the fabulous art and event  venue, come gastro pub, come environmental marvel; The White Chapel Projects (15, 2nd Ave, Long Branch). The WCP is aptly named for  the bustling district in London’s infamous East End  a virtual epicenter of art, culture and most importantly the home of Jack The Ripper ( who has since moved out due to gentrification of the area) ( Damn those Starbucks ).The White Chapel Project was originally conceived by  visionary developer and Manalapan native  Preston Casertano  who witnessed firsthand the entire repurposing of London’s Tate Modern from a decommissioned Power Station. Inspired by the transformation, Casertano searched for the perfect candidate for deconstruction and rebirth , a 120 year old factory, just a block in from the ocean in, you guessed it , good old Long Branch.

After ten years, 3 tons of lumber and 72000 bricks later his project was completed. Wow, talk about doing things the hard way. Anyway, Casertano’s ambitious project exploded exponentially with the addition  of his new partner,  super chef ( and super person)  Marilyn Schlossbach. Just compiling a list of her accomplishments makes me feel woefully inadequate (and tired ) ( Really , what  the heck have I been doing all my  life?) From  Asbury Visionary and Humanitarian , to Community Philanthropist and Author, this  self taught restaurateur  (and Top  Chef contestant) , has done it all. The queen of reinvention herself, Marilyn virtually dominated the Asbury Park  oceanfront with one hit after another, Including Vacation themed Langosta Lounge, funky Pop’s Garage, Cool surf shop Lightly Salted, Dauphin Grill in The Berkeley.  When she is not serving as chair of the esteemed NJ Restaurant and Hospitality Board, she is also a cool surfer, mother of twins , and  mushroom farmer. Maybe it would  just be easier to list things she hasn’t done. Ya know, I think I want to be like her when I grow up. Whoops, too late,  And BTW she can cook. I mean even if she couldn’t, you owe it to yourself to stop by her new endeavor, “Side Piece” and chow down on an artisanal pizza and a fine craft beer. Talking about food which I always do, the regular menu lends itself to comforting fare like The Poutine Skillet with Bechamel, The Lemon Ricotta Ravioli and the Savory Short Ribs, though with Marilyn at the helm that could change quickly.  Actually, you know, there’s nothing wrong with serving up a few snacks and some cold ones with your culture. So let’s sum it up; Unique Art Venue, Check , Live Music, Check, Cool Vibes, Check, Great Story , Check, Rock Star Chef, Double Check. If I were you and I kinda am, I think I would fire up the Pinto, head East and hightail it on over there and see what’s happening. BTW White Chapel also hosts many  private events (including weddings) … So All together now, “ We’re  Going  to  the Chapel  and We’re Gonna Get Married”. Sorry, but I just couldn’t  resist.(you know when you get that song in your head … ). Anyway on that note, my weird friends, I bid you Adieu. And as always live a life that makes your neighbors jealous. Harry, Over and Out.

P.S. During event season ( which is now) their hours could be a bit spotty so make sure you check their Website. 

Funky and Fabulous. The White Chapel Project, Gastro Pub and  Community gathering place for Arts, Music and Cool Vibes.