The town of Nutley already has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to Italian cuisine. But the latest venture from GAC Hospitality Group aims to stand apart with an inventive yet affordable menu. Bacarosa offers a menu focused on sharable plates from “piccolo” to “grandi” alongside curated cocktails and wines by the glass.
Bacarosa replaces The Hudson Rose on Franklin Ave, but is still part of the GAC Hospitality family. Though the creative team is still the same, the concept and vibe of Bacarosa is completely new. The modern, sleek interior is made warm and inviting thanks to the gracious staff. A mixture of booth seating, family tables, and longer communal tables are placed throughout the restaurant, emphasizing the menu’s shareability.
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Enough to Go Around
The restaurant’s menu includes small plates and starters, pasta, pizza, meat and fish entrees, plus large table entrees. As mentioned, every part of the Bacarosa experience is meant to be shared. This starts with the antipasti, where customers can order any combination of one, three, or five items at a time. Standout antipasti include the wild mushrooms, summer squash, and marinated artichokes.
Meanwhile, other creative courses range from ricotta gnocchi and Chitarra (lobster fra diavoli) to Summer Corn & Clam pizza. More traditional meat and fish entrees feature Brick Oven Chicken, Bison Short Rib, Grilled Branzino, and Black Bass Piccata. As for their eye-catching “Grandi” dishes, these large entrees include Dry Aged Porterhouse steak and Whole Red Snapper Oreganato.
The flavor-packed menu at Bacarosa also extends to their list of clever cocktails and thoughtful mocktails. Their bartenders expertly craft drinks such as the Summer Abroad (gin, lavender, St. Germain, nectarine, lemon); the Across the River (Patron Silver Tequila, luxardo, amaretto, orange juice, lime, orgeat, cherry bitters); and The Winged Lion (bulleit rye, averna, demerara, egg white, lemon, montepulciano). For non-alcoholic options, the classic Blueberry Basil Lemonade is a sure-fire bet.
About The Restaurant
Bacarosa is open seven days a week for Happy Hour and dinner from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Their second floor space, The Harlow Room, provides a flexible setting for special events, wedding receptions, and corporate functions. For more intimate private events, The Rose Room is available and can accommodate 40-60 guests.
One of the most unique aspects of the restaurant allows diners to test their luck and earn a free meal. Every day from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, customers can choose to roll a pair of dice after their meal. If they roll two tomatoes (similar to a snake eyes in traditional dice), the meal is free. It’s a fun way to encourage repeat customers during the early part of the day.
Visit Bacarosa at 238 Franklin Ave in Nutley (See them on Google Maps). To Learn more:
| Visit Their Website | Reserve a Table | Follow on Instagram | Call 973-542-2005 |
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Bacarosa FAQs
Do you accept Reservations?
Yes, they do accept reservations.
Are there Gluten-free options?
Yes, they have gluten-free options.
Are there Vegetarian options?
Bacarosa offers vegetarian options, yes.
Do you offer Takeout?
Pickup and Takeout ordering is coming soon.
Can you offer Delivery?
Online ordering is coming soon.
Do you have a Liquor license?
Yes, they serve cocktails, wines by the glass, and more.
Is there a Kids’ menu?
They have a kids’ menu called the Bambino menu, yes.
All Photos: © Bacarosa
Dining and Cooking