We came back to Puckett's after a long hiatus and were excited to enjoy the same meals we'd enjoyed in the past. Our food came, and I must say, we were very disappointed by what arrived on our plates. The shrimp we'd ordered was delicious - but with 6 small pieces/plate, we were still hungry after our meals (in fact, as soon as we got in the car I asked my husband where we were going for dinner after our $60 "appetizers"). The side dishes we received were greasy enough not to eat. I was mostly disappointed that the carrot cake I'd always loved had been taken off the menu - the whole experience might have been turned around if I could've enjoyed my favorite carrot cake in Nashville. I will say that the service was very good from start to finish - our server was attentive and helpful and the waitstaff were very kind to our two small kids who were a bit too rowdy at dinner time. Still, we probably won't be returning anytime soon, which makes us sad since it used to be a favorite of ours.

Meh. Maybe it was the basic meal I ordered (chicken teriyaki) but overall I was not impressed. Rubbery chicken drenched in sauce served with cold brown rice and a portion of steamed veggies the size of a garnish. My entree came with a bowl of lukewarm miso soup that was also meh. My husband enjoyed his sushi though also agreed it was nothing special. We probably won't be back.

We were looking for a fun place for my daughter to get her first haircut. We came across the website for Snip-Its, which said they accept walk ins. We took our chances on a Saturday, and I couldn't be more regretful of that decision. When we arrived, there was one person working both reception desk and cutting hair. Meaning, the same person was was attempting to do both jobs. There were five people in the shop waiting to get haircuts, and another five people who had registered online for haircuts who hadn't yet arrived. I was told we could wait, and that it would be approximately 45 minutes to 2 hours. Who is this woman kidding? 45 minutes to 2 hours waiting with a two-year-old?! On top of that, the woman working said she'd put my name on the waitlist and we'd get texts periodically to update us on our wait time. 3 hours later, I've yet to receive an update. On top of it all, the woman working was clearly stressed out and very unpleasant to speak to. Needless to say, we won't even bother to try Snip-Its again.

We took another chance and went down the street to Great Clips, who were able to take us right away and made my daughter's first haircut experience memorable for us and quick and easy for her - and they did a great job on her cut! They were also able to share a private station with me so I could nurse my newborn. Save your sanity and your money and skip Snip-Its to see Amanda at Great Clips.

We came to Porta last night when looking for a good dinner spot that would accommodate my 3-year and 3-month old nephews. Porta was able to seat us immediately, had crayons and coloring books for the kids, and plenty of good food and drink for us all! We ordered 2 salads, the kale salad and another with arugula, endive, Gorgonzola and candied hazelnuts. We also ordered the 14 1/2 pizza and a delicious meaty pasta dish. The food was all excellent, came quickly and allowed us to eat like kings! The atmosphere is both hip and fun while still being relaxed enough for the kiddos we had with us. The waitstaff was delightful (though a little slow) and helpful as we searched the menu to make our selections. My particular favorite was the pasta - it was cooked to perfection, not too mushy or crunchy. I also loved the kale salad, with its tangy vinegrette and spicy croutons. We'll definitely be back next time we're in Jersey City!