It's always a nice treat when you're out to eat in New Jersey, and part of your meal is served tableside. It's as fresh as fresh gets. You've likely seen guacamole or a dessert like bananas foster made right before your eyes, but the new tableside trend taking over Jersey is next level: chicken parm.

Yes, the classic comfort dish that usually shows up quietly from the kitchen is now getting its own spotlight moment.

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Getty Images for Joseph Isidori

This is popping up all over the state, especially in spots that take their Italian food seriously. Instead of dropping a plate and walking away, restaurants are rolling up with carts like they’re serving a flaming steak. They’re slicing, layering, saucing, cheesing, and basically building your chicken parm right in front of you. It’s cheesy, and it's incredible.

Why is tableside chicken parm suddenly everywhere?

Part of it is the show. People love an experience, especially now that dinner is basically content. You may say you won't record a video on your phone, but you will. Tableside chicken parm is the perfect mix of comfort food and performance. Watching a meal come together right under your nose is entertaining. The sizzle, the steam, the fresh basil hitting the hot sauce. It hits different when you see it live instead of on a plate.

Where can you get a great tableside chicken parm in New Jersey?

A bunch of restaurants are jumping into the trend, but one spot that absolutely nails it is Cara Mia in Millburn. When that cart rolls up, you know you’re about to be treated. The chicken is perfectly crisp. The sauce is rich and bright. The mozzarella melts in seconds. Couple that with the restaurant's warm, friendly vibe, and you've got quite the experience.

Cara Mia has basically turned chicken parm into a little performance that somehow still feels homey. It’s not stiff or fancy. It’s fun. It’s delicious. And it makes the whole meal feel like an event.

If you haven’t tried tableside chicken parm yet, consider this your sign. Go hungry, bring someone who appreciates a good foodie moment, and let the cheese do what it does best.