By Elyse Jankowski

It’s 5:00pm. You’ve had a long day at work. You’re tired of looking at a computer screen. You’re done with answering silly questions. And for God’s sake, you’re sick of all this snow. What is there to do now?

Get happy, of course!

Even nondrinkers like myself can enjoy Happy Hour, especially when it includes a hip atmosphere, friendly bartenders and so-good-it-should-be-illegal cuisine. Visit Taste at 10 Bridge Ave. in Red Bank for all of the above.

Upon entering Taste for the first time, I was impressed by the rustic meets sexy ambiance – wood floors and brick walls combined with dim lighting and swank décor. I took a seat at the well-stocked bar and checked out news and sports broadcasts on Taste’s five flat screen televisions. While waiting for my friend to arrive, I noticed the intimate lounge area and started dreaming of the VIP parties I’ll hold there when I’m famous. Don’t worry; you’re invited!

My friend Nicole arrived, and we chatted with the lovely female bartenders while sipping on vodka cranberry and good ol’ H2O.  Nicole and I had peeked Taste’s menu online earlier (and literally started salivating, mind you), but we still had trouble choosing and appreciated the bartenders’ dinner recommendations. Two signs of a great café: Stellar menu and trustworthy staff. Also two signs that you’ll be back again!

Nicole and I started with two plates of bruschetta. The delicate crostinis almost looked too pretty to eat, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying every bite! The Wild Mushrooms brushetta featured a hearty blend of shitaki, oyster and crimini mushrooms with garlic, thyme, brie cheese and pomegranate balsamic glaze. The Mexicana brought some spice to my palate with black bean spread, cheddar and pepper jack cheese, tomatoes, corn, red onion, jalapenos and cilantro. Olé!

For our main courses, I selected the Mushroom and Goat Cheese press (what can I say, I love mushrooms and cheese!) and Nicole chose the TMP taster. My press was overflowing with wild mushrooms dressed in white truffle oil and balsamic. The earthy taste was enhanced by the tang of fresh goat cheese. I snuck some of Nicole’s slider-style dinner, which included three mini tomato, mozzarella and pesto, hence TMP, sandwiches.

No meal that good is complete without a decadent dessert, so we ditched calorie counting and ordered the Dark Chocolate Brownie “Flight” which is, in fact, three brownies, each complimented by a delectable topping – peanut butter, toasted coconut and walnut crumbles. To die for!

As vegetarians, Nicole and I tend to have trouble dining out. It was very refreshing to find that Taste catered to our needs in all three courses. We both had a more than happy experience at Happy Hour. Workday stress faded away as we enjoyed delightful drinks, delicious food and excellent company. The best part? We can do it again any day of the week! Stop by Taste Happy Hour, and see for yourself what our fuss is about!

Taste Happy Hour is 4:00-7:00pm. Upcoming events include a Lingerie Show, Super Bowl Party and Beach Party. Visit redbanktaste.com for more information.