Big Bowls Little Plates New Restaurant in Rutherford, NJ

Who hasn’t experienced this dinnertime dilemma: some nights you’re in the mood to just nibble. Other times, you’re ready to GO IN! No matter what your mealtime mood, your stomach is sure to be satisfied at Big Bowls, Little Plates.

Serving up authentic Asian-inspired noodle dishes and à la carte apps for hungry bellies big and small, this newly opened Asian spot in Rutherford is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. After a particularly chaotic day, I stopped in recently with my two kids in tow to check out the scene and indulge in some noodle therapy.

BBLP didn’t disappoint, starting with its cool, almost West Village style vibe. This décor is just the right amount of rustic (parents take note—casual is definitely king here), and service is simple: just order at the counter, take a seat at an open table, and wait for the food to arrive.

And, boy, it was worth the not-even-long wait. We ordered several items off the menu, starting with an order each of the Shanghai and Szechuan Wontons (your choice of pan-fried or steamed, $5.95), a “Little Plate” of Roasted Duck Buns (served with julienne cucumbers, scallions, and plum sauce, $5.95), and a Stuffed Shiitake Mushroom ($5.95). All were melt-in-your-mouth tasty, especially the buns—we could have easily ordered another round!

Next up was a selection of “Big Bowls”: Spicy Seafood Ramen (totally fresh fish cooked with chili powder and served in a vegetable broth, $10.95) and the Vegetable Lo-Mein (stuffed with seasonal veggies in a matching broth, $7.95). Both were devoured happily and were so good, we may or may not have slurped the final few spoonfuls of broth straight from the bowl. BONUS: Any of the Big Bowls can be served with rice (for all your gluten-free gals) or noodles (there’s a gluten-free option as well) for the same price.

After all that, it was time to call it a night, but we barely scratched the surface of BBLP’s menu. We’re sure to return once we’re in the mood to nibble—or full-on nosh—some more.

Melanie Amber Ruane is the Activities Editor for Bergen Mama and lives in Englewood with her husband and two boys.