One of Deptford’s longtime Italian dining destinations, Villa Nuova Italian Restaurant, will be closing at the end of June, according to owner Peppe Scotto, who shared the news on his personal Facebook page.
Representatives at the restaurant confirmed that the lease for the property is ending after this month, although an exact closing date has not yet been announced.
Fortunately, customers still have time to enjoy one more meal at Villa Nuova, whether it’s a full Italian dinner, a casual pizza, or one of the restaurant’s popular sandwiches.
With Father’s Day weekend approaching, now may be the perfect opportunity to make a reservation and treat Dad and the family to a memorable meal. Villa Nuova is also a BYOB restaurant. 856-227-4222
Located at 1447 Good Intent Road in Deptford, New Jersey, Villa Nuova occupies the entire first floor of a freestanding two-story building with ample parking.
The front portion of the restaurant offers a comfortable yet upscale dining room experience, making it a popular destination for family dinners, date nights, celebrations, and special occasions. Toward the rear of the building, guests will find the kitchen and a more casual pizza and sandwich counter area, ideal for takeout orders and quick meals.
I stopped by Friday for lunch and brought home a cheese pizza topped with sausage on half. It was delicious.
While Peppe was not at the restaurant during my visit, I spoke with several members of his team who expressed sadness over the announcement.
“Peppe is one of the best Italian chefs in South Jersey,” one staff member told me. “Everyone who dines here leaves smiling and complimenting how delicious their meal was.”
In his Facebook message, Peppe said that while the restaurant continues accepting Father’s Day reservations, the family does so with heavy hearts as they prepare to say goodbye to Villa Nuova.
He thanked the loyal customers who have supported the restaurant through the years, noting that many have become much more than customers—they have become family through the memories, loyalty, and friendships shared over the years.
A Deptford Restaurant With Deep Roots
A feature published by the Gloucester County Times in 2003 highlighted Peppe and his wife Linda, sharing the story of his journey from Naples, Italy, to America in 1982.
After arriving in the United States, Peppe operated a small pizza shop where he developed a friendship with Aldo Lamberti, part of the well-known South Jersey restaurant family.
Peppe later worked at Lamberti’s in Cherry Hill and several other Lamberti-owned locations before taking over Villa Nuova in 2000.
Looking back at that article more than two decades later, it’s clear that Villa Nuova succeeded by sticking to a proven formula: serving authentic Italian cuisine and high-quality entrees while also satisfying customers seeking casual favorites like pizza, cheesesteaks, and sandwiches.
At the time, Peppe said he was particularly proud of his crab cakes. During my recent visit, I noticed a Potato Crab Cake with Garlic Cream Sauce featured as a special for just $18.99.
Another standout menu item is the Chicken Sinatra, prepared with asparagus, crab meat, and a brandy cream sauce. In fact, one commenter on Peppe’s Facebook post specifically mentioned they had the dish on Mother’s Day and said it was “the best ever!”
Of course, you’ll also find classic Italian favorites, including chicken parmesan, veal parmesan, pasta dishes, seafood specialties, and much more.
The best thing you can do is stop in and experience Villa Nuova for yourself before the restaurant sadly closes its doors.
Could Villa Nuova Return in a New Location?
While the Deptford location is closing, it appears Peppe would still like to continue operating the restaurant if he can find a suitable new home.
I even shared a few location suggestions with him.
Let’s hope one of South Jersey’s most respected Italian restaurateurs is able to find a new location and continue serving the loyal customers who have supported Villa Nuova for more than two decades.
“stay tuned-we’ll be sure to keep you updated on Peppe’s next chapter”
Links and Location
Villa Nuova – Closing End Of June
1447 Good Intent Road
Deptford NJ
Dining and Cooking