These Matawan-Aberdeen Small Businesses Have Patch Readers Raving

ABERDEEN, NJ — Our small businesses need some love right now! Last week, we asked Patch readers all across New Jersey to nominate their favorite local businesses.

And here's what we heard back, direct from locals in your area:

Shanghai Bun in Aberdeen. Chinese take-out or eat-in. 952 Rt. 34 in Matawan, NJ 07747 "Fantastic food, great prices, and they stayed open to keep us fed with take-out throughout the pandemic," says customer Evelyn C. Leeper.

"Still making the best Chinese food around even now. Clean and fast pickup. We need to keep our local gems in business!" agrees customer David Eisenstein.

"Very authentic Chinese food. Great food unlike anything available elsewhere. Not expensive and consistent quality," said customer Jeff Steinberg.

Abbate Bakery in Matawan. Italian and American baked goods. 247 Main St, Matawan, NJ 07747 "Great bakery, nice family-run business," says customer Jake.

DeMarco’s in Aberdeen. Catering and gourmet Italian deli. 1121 NJ-34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747 "Customer service at the beginning of the COVID virus was above and beyond. They are caring and help, free delivery or deliver to your car. The best meats, deli, vegetables, etc. Exceptional service as usual!" said customer Florence Romano.

Livoti's in Aberdeen. Old-world Italian and European foods market. 1077 NJ-34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747
"Great products and helpful, friendly people," said customer Annette Tacinelli.

Pauline’s Restaurant. White tablecloth Italian dining in Matawan. 765 NJ-34, Matawan, NJ 07747 "The best Italian food in town!," raves customer William Roda. "The staff is amazing, and the owners really care about their customers' wants and needs. I’ve dined there several times in the past couple of months since the state lifted the ban on dining out, and I’ve never been disappointed."

Maloney's Pub in Matawan. Irish pub and grill with more than 100 rotating beers. 119 Main St, Matawan, NJ 07747 Says customer Patricia Wyshynski: "They have done everything they can to keep their business going. We chose them for our first outside dining experience with friends because we felt it was safe to dine there. We will hopefully go again soon!"

The Brass Rail Bar & Grill in Matawan. American fine dining and bar. 89 Freneau Ave, Matawan, NJ 07747
"This restaurant serves the BEST prime steaks & cuts of beef that I've ever eaten in my life! Each order was perfectly seasoned, grilled and very tender," says customer Audrey Leschinski. "Having made a reservation, we were promptly led to our table within two or three minutes (There were five of us). The ambiance was relaxed & pleasant. The waitress got every detail correct, serving each steak directly as ordered, along with side orders and beverages. She did not neglect to check if everything was satisfactory when served and asked if we needed any further condiments, drinks, etc. Best of all,, she periodically took away used plates & napkins. The check was 100 percent accurate. The Brass Rail is handicapped-accessible, which made our patronage very comfortable."

Town Tire Service in Matawan 938 NJ-34, Matawan, NJ 07747
"Great customer service & work," says customer Antonia Conte.

Pivotal Pilates in Matawan. Pilates studio. 952 NJ-34 #206, Matawan, NJ 07747 952 Route 34 in the Matawan Mall

"The wonderful staff is highly trained to teach all levels of fitness. They also work with people with special conditions tailoring each routine to meet the clients' goals. The setting is very zen-like clean and large enough to keep all clients at a safe distance. The owner appreciates her clients and has worked hard to maintain a level of excellence. She also has been part of the challenge of 25 push ups for 25 days for mental health, stress and anxiety awareness. Susan also has given back to the community by offering Pilates classes online during the pandemic," said Libby Markowitz, who said she is friends/relatives with the owner

Gerber Salon in Keyport 100 W Front St, Keyport, NJ 07735

"Gerber Salon is by far, the best area business," raves customer Debra Plonka. "From the moment you walk in the door, you are engaged by warm, friendly staff. Each and every stylist is at the top of his or her game; talented and exacting. They care for their clients, meeting their every need and request. Even in the challenges of the ongoing COVID environment, they have created a safe environment for both clients and staff. There is never need to question your safety, as every precaution and beyond is taken. They deserve the recognition for all they do!"

Hometown Residential Realty in Aberdeen. 1061 NJ-34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747 in Aberdeen Town Square Center
"Customer service is exceptional," said employee Annette Linfante. "I grew up with the business and am now a licensed real estate agent with the company. I am proud to be part of a company that will always goes the extra mile for their clients," said Carly McGowan.

This article originally appeared on the Matawan-Aberdeen Patch