Greg Mateo is a big guy with a big heart! While meeting with him he described a work philosophy that can be implemented in any company. He spoke about how he strives to keep all of his employees on track with their school studies and teaches them daily values that they can use in their life. Most of his staff, comprised of young adults, are from right here in the neighborhood and he treats them and takes them under his wing like they are his own. Greg is very big on giving back to the community and has a strong belief in our youth and empowering them with education and realizing the importance of giving back.
Greg is also working on partnering with the Newark Board of Education and hoping to start a Spelling Bee competition in Newark. He knows the importance and power of education and he is hoping to hand off these lessons to every young person that crosses his path and has an open mind.
Greg also has a weakness for the elderly. He says, "They are like babies, so cute." So, he partners with local adult care facilities for an IHOP day out. He offers these facilities a day to bring their members to IHOP for breakfast or lunch - where they dine in a sectioned private area of this Newark location.
But then I wanted to know about the food - is it really just about pancakes and coffee?
Greg looks at me surprised..."Oh No!" he exclaims. "As a matter of fact, I took home the Chicken Florentine Crepe for my wife... she loved it!"
Well, after hearing this, I had to try it. The dish is comprised of chicken breast strips sautéed with mushrooms and spinach and then rolled in 2 crepes with melted Swiss cheese and topped with hollandaise sauce. We also dined on their signature Big Country Fried Steak and eggs with a side of pancakes (of course). The Steak was quite large (Greg joked that he had not seen one patron finish the steak in one seating. He was correct.) and tasty - eggs just right - pancakes fluffy and warm. This is good comfort food for any time of the day. IHOP known for pancakes has changed their menu to include more dishes that include steak, chicken, fish, healthy salads and so much more. International House of Pancakes IHOP - should change their name to International House of Good Food...IHOGF - ok, that doesn't work. I tried.
If you're looking for a good meal, good portion sizes, and a reasonable price, then go to Newark's IHOP. Check out the specials that are offered for seniors, kids and families - you can still take the family out, have a great time and stay on budget.
Now, if you take the kids, they'll get a balloon. And if you are a big kid, you might get a balloon too! Greg thinks balloons make everyone happy.
Until Next Time, Eat Well.
IHOP Restaurant
109 Bergen Street
(973) 802-7555
Kids Eat Free: Every Night 4PM - 10PM
Senior Night: Tuesday 4PM - 10PM
Valid only at Newark IHOP
If you would like your restaurant, grand opening or special event featured, email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - write In Good Taste as subject.
Subscribe to this comment's feed
