If you had to pick a place to get great Italian food in New Jersey, where would you go? New Jersey Monthly put together a list of the best places to enjoy Italian restaurants in the Garden State. Below are some of the restaurants from this compilation that you can enjoy the next time you dine out.
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Angeline
Angeline in the Borgata in Atlantic City delivers classic Italian dishes — lasagna, meatballs, Sunday gravy, and prosciutto — within a sleek casino-restaurant setting. Guests can enjoy vegan and gluten-free options on the menu.
Anjelica’s
Anjelica’s in Sea Bright is noted for an elegant setting and attentive staff. Exceptional dishes include favorites such as pomegranate burrata with squash, gnocchi with blue cheese sauce, Calabrian tuna, and a rich chocolate cream pie.
Bar Mutz
Bar Mutz in Westwood markets a lively scene with fresh mozzarella service, bold pasta dishes, and a vibrant atmosphere curated by chef Robbie Felice.
Battello
Battello in Jersey City emphasizes seafood-forward Italian fare on a waterfront pier, including lumache with ribeye ragù and octopus with charred eggplant purée.
Bici
Bici in Ramsey showcases refined Italian cooking from chef Anthony DeVanzo, with dishes such as beignets with chocolate-hazelnut sauce, truffle pasta, lobster risotto, and tiramisu-inspired desserts.
Brando’s Citi Cucina
Brando’s Citi Cucina in Asbury Park presents hearty classics like spedini, polenta with mushrooms, linguine Sinatra, and a substantial pork chop Brando. House-made zeppoles create a sweet ending to any meal.
Cafe 2825
Cafe 2825 in Atlantic City offers an upscale, theater-like experience with tableside Caesar salad, burrata, pork ragù polenta, cacio e pepe, and a strong wine list.
Catherine Lombardi
Catherine Lombardi in New Brunswick is praised for gracious service and elevated Italian-American dishes, such as fusilli with walnut-pesto cream, as well as an extensive cheese selection.
Italiana by Zod
Italiana by Zod in Montclair showcases bold house specialties like spicy kale Caesar, truffle pizza, and bucatini cacio e pepe, reflecting Zod Arifai’s signature style.
Osteria Crescendo
Osteria Crescendo in Westwood stands out with its beverages from the bar and prime dry-aged steaks from the grill. Chef and owner Robbie Felice has put together a distinctive dining concept that differs from his first establishment, Viaggio.
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio in Old Bridge offers a classic date-night atmosphere with a multi-page menu. Guests can enjoy stuffed pastas, seafood, and a dessert cart, guided by Loucas Sofocli and Alex Charalambous of LouCas and Fresco.
Dining and Cooking