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They were right: Quilly’s Gourmet Sliders is a small take-out joint, with a half-dozen tables. Nothing fancy, just like they said in the ad. Except….
These are not your dad’s murder burgers. There are chicken slider, seafood sliders, steak, vegan. They come in duos and trios, all with a side: garlic mashed, baked beans, French fries.
I had the crab cake sliders, with mac and cheese. My friend had the chicken, mozzarella and roasted peppers sliders, with fries.
It was a Saturday afternoon. Very busy. Kids in and out. The Jets were playing — lots of deliveries!
Above the bustle, and our heads, was another unique aspect of Gourmet Sliders: a gallery of art running along and across the walls. Such a good idea.
It was only after the owner, Fair Lawn native Steve Quilliam, came over and talked us for awhile that I remembered why I went there in the first place.
Quilliam came out to the car and helped me bring it in. A viewing is scheduled for Jan. 31.
Elizabeth Waldron, a senior at William Paterson University, is curating the show as a school project.
All proceeds from sales of the work go directly to the artist. Quilliam will supply appetizers and beverages.
This is how he operates. In the six months that his shop has been there, Quilliam has held fundraisers for the Fair Lawn High School dance and basketball teams, among others. He already has a few other charities in the works.
A former culinary student, Quilliam has cooked and run everything from hot dog carts to fine restaurants.
After finding his new location at 27-03 Broadway in Fair Lawn, he decided to revolutionize the slider. Everything’s fresh and all made on the premises — by Quilliam. He even dabbles in lobster sliders on weekends, although they go fast!
Quilliam with a customer
Nearly a dozen businesses have tanked in this spot the past 18 years. But failure isn’t an option for Quilliam. He has poured everything he has — and then some — into the business.
After six months, the signs are good.
And the art is even better.
His mom is an artist, Quilliam said, and both he and his wife are attracted to it. Any hot local joint that caters mostly to kids needs a theme, so they figured: Why not showcase artwork?
“I hope the artists will be able to share their work with family, friends and fans who come in,” he said.
Quilliam has good food, a unique concept and a very friendly vibe. Chances are, he’ll probably sidle up next to you for a little chit-chat.
If he does, be sure to tell him CLIFFVIEW PILOT sent you!
QuilliamQuilly’s Gourmet Sliders
27-03 Broadway, Fair Lawn
201-773-3646
www.quillysgourmetsliders.com
Friend them on Facebook. You’ll find coupons and deals at: Quilly’s.
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