Cate and I were planning the Cucina Bella invasion of Sweetnicks for weeks. We talked about all the things we were planning to do (and we did most of them!) and the food we’d eat. But then one day she hit me with something unexpected: a suggestion to get pasties.

I wasn’t sure how to respond to that one. I mean, we’re friends and all. But aren’t pasties sort of a … private thing? And would that really be appropriate for the kids? And why exactly did we need to get them?

Well, as it turns out, while pasties (read:paste-ees) mean one thing to me, pasties (read: past-ees) mean something entirely else to her. Go figure. Must be a Jersey thing.

So, shortly after arriving, we headed off to Rocky’s Pasties in Wharton, NJ. The small take-out joint is situated in a block of row houses. There’s no room for sitting, so you go in, order and take your food and go. In and out in minutes, it’s a great place to stop if you want a hearty bite fast.

As for the past-ees? This is what they look like:

The pasties are sort of a cross between a souped-up Hot Pocket and a pot pie. Filled with a hearty portion of meat (chicken, sausage or beef) and veggies , these babies will fill you up. Really, I don’t know what was better: the flakey crust or the incredibly flavorful fillings.

They also reheat really well. We each bought several, and I’ve been eating mine over the last few days for lunches. Delish. If you happen to be in the area, give them a try. But then again, if you are a native you probably already have.

Loved it.

What do you think of when I say pasty?