Elements Princeton: A Premier New American Dining Experience
Located in the heart of downtown Princeton, New Jersey, Elements is a distinguished New American fine dining establishment known for its commitment to quality and culinary innovation. Since its inception, the restaurant has evolved from a local favorite into a critically acclaimed destination for food enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated blend of traditional techniques and modern flavors.
The Evolution of Elements
Established in 2008, Elements first opened its doors at a location on Bayard Lane. After several successful years, the restaurant closed on June 28, 2014, to undergo a significant transition. On August 11, 2015, Elements reopened at its current address on Witherspoon Street.
The development of the new site was a unique architectural undertaking. Founder and owner Steven Distler, a semiretired private-equity executive from the Bank of Princeton, purchased the property—which previously served as an auto-repair garage adjacent to a gas station—and renovated it into a high-end dining space. This new location also houses Mistral, another restaurant with which Elements shares a liquor license.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Culinary Leadership and Philosophy
The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Scott Anderson, a Rutgers graduate and equity partner in the business. Anderson's path to culinary excellence is unconventional; while not formally trained, he spent six years at the Ryland Inn, eventually rising to the position of head chef before that establishment closed. He previously worked as an associate at Nova Terra in New Brunswick.
Under Anderson's leadership, Elements focuses on a seasonally-changing menu, ensuring that ingredients are fresh and relevant to the time of year. The cuisine is diverse, featuring dishes such as chicken liver pâté, locally sourced grits, and Laughing Bird shrimp. To complement the food, the restaurant offers an extensive wine list with bottles ranging in price from $26 to $2,700.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Elements has consistently earned praise from prestigious culinary critics and publications. In 2009, New Jersey Monthly recognized it as one of the best restaurants in the state, highlighting Chef Anderson's work ethic and imagination. In 2010, Wine Spectator specifically lauded the restaurant's spaghetti carbonara.
The restaurant's accolades continued through 2012, when it was voted the best for both brunch and lunch in the 29th Annual Jersey Choice Restaurant Poll by New Jersey Monthly. Additionally, Forbes reported that OpinionatedAboutDining.com ranked Elements as the 35th-best restaurant in the United States that same year.
By 2013, New Jersey Monthly included Elements in its Top 25 restaurants list, praising Anderson's use of artisanal techniques—traditional, handcrafted methods of food preservation. This trajectory of excellence culminated in 2014, when Scott Anderson was named a semi-finalist for the James Beard Chef Award for the best Mid-Atlantic chefs.
Key Facts
- Cuisine: New American fine dining.
- Location: 66 Witherspoon St., Princeton, New Jersey.
- Leadership: Owned by Steven Distler; Head Chef Scott Anderson.
- Dress Code: Smart casual.
- Notable Achievement: Chef Scott Anderson was a 2014 James Beard Award semi-finalist.
- Wine Selection: Extensive list with bottles from $26 to $2,700.
Restaurant Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Established | 2008 |
| Current Address | 66 Witherspoon St., Princeton, NJ 08540 |
| Food Type | New American |
| Owner | Steven Distler |
| Head Chef | Scott Anderson |
| Dress Code | Smart casual |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Elements located?
Elements is located at 66 Witherspoon St., Princeton, Mercer, New Jersey, 08540, United States.
Who is the head chef at Elements?
The head chef is Scott Anderson, a Rutgers graduate and equity partner who was a semi-finalist for the 2014 James Beard Chef Award.
What type of food does Elements serve?
Elements serves New American cuisine with a menu that changes seasonally, featuring items like locally sourced grits and chicken liver pâté.
What is the dress code for the restaurant?
The restaurant maintains a smart casual dress code.
Does Elements have a wine list?
Yes, Elements offers a wide variety of wines, with bottle prices ranging from $26 to $2,700.