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Restauranteurs Bob and Chris Fahey will open their Cross and Orange doors just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Nestled in the city’s historic Park Overlook building, the 4,000-square-foot restaurant will offer a special Valentine’s Day menu on February 14 crafted by executive chef Sam Byrne [right]. The restaurant will officially open their doors two days earlier on Thursday, February 12 at 4 p.m.

The Fahey brothers also own and operate Edgar’s Pub in Manasquan and are affiliated with Asbury Lanes. With this venture, at the former Ivan and Andy’s steakhouse, they honor the heritage and ambition of mid-1800’s America, with a focus on the art and architecture of their cuisine.

The brothers, in partnership with executive chef Sam Byrne, have spent the past few month carefully planning every design and décor detail as well as menu development.

“Seeing our vision come to fruition at Cross & Orange has been an incredible process,” said co-owner Chris Fahey.  “Everything from the plating and décor to our front- and back-of-the-house staff has been carefully considered.  We can’t wait to share this dining experience with patrons from Asbury Park and across the state.”

Byrne aims to bring his Michelin-rated standards to contemporary American cuisine. His scratch menu will celebrate old standards while embracing new ones.

Diners can expect unique appetizer offerings like a Confit Pork Wellington wrapped in a bacon pastry with mustard, arugula and fennel or a Charred Octopus with pea and fava bean relish, laced with orange, mint, chorizo, potato, and tarragon.

Entrees include a Chestnut Ragu, a Beef Cheek with Sous Vide Fillet and a parsley crust with bone marrow butter, or a Roasted Halibut with seared foie gras, parsley puree, oxtail and a Madeira Ragu.

And to finish, desserts choices include a Crème Brulee comprised of a ginger bread donut, or the Winter Truffle and Beetroot with pistachio, goat cheese and blueberry topped with a meringue.

Diners with parties of six or more will have the opportunity to work with Chef Byrne to create their own menu.

“Our team set out to create a place for anyone to come in and enjoy a casual atmosphere with top-quality food and cocktails,” said Bob Fahey.  “Drawing from chef Sam’s simple belief that the best food comes from the best ingredients, Cross & Orange will celebrate time-honored culinary standards, while creating and embracing an experience all our own.”

For more information about Cross & Orange, visit  their website, Facebook page, or follow Chef Sam on Instagram.

The restaurant is located at 508 Cookman Ave. and accommodates 110 diners. For reservations, call (732) 361-5502 or place online at Open Table.

[Photo of historic postcard of Park Overlook courtesy of Cross and Orange Facebook page.]

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