Transportation: Travelled up from South Jersey on the train and then took the PATH in to Journal Square. The restaurant is located about a 15 minute walk from the train station. This gave us a great opportunity to pick up a bottle of wine on the way - it’s a BYO. We did Uber back to the PATH at night time though, since we are unfamiliar with the area. Easy. If driving, parking may be tricky though because most of the “spots” that look open are for the residents.
Building/Atmosphere: Restaurant is located next to (what looks like) an abandoned building in a neighborhood. It would be missed unless you know what you are looking for (the lights help) - Part of what, I’m sure, contributes to other reviewers “speak easy vibes” that are mentioned.
Inside - it’s Nona’s house. Quaint, cozy but honestly hard to turn around inside when there’s a lot of people. It’s decorated well and most of the seating areas seem private- especially if you’re lucky enough to sit next to the kitchen on the main floor - You are tucked away! The atmosphere was so intimate.
Food: pretty good. It stands to reason not everything is going to be enjoyed by everyone’s palette (some people didn’t like some things and that’s ok!) - but the food was delightful (probably better because of the service) and I tried everything that was offered. Some things I could take or leave, like the desserts. The desserts to me were ok… and not what I was expecting for the price. No tiramisu, no rainbow cookies, no cannolis - which are some of my favs. I heard the menu changes, but my food looked similar to what others had already posted in reviews. My least favorite food for our meal was a little “pizza” they brought out as an appetizer which was just a little bit of dough, sauce, and Parmesan. Favorite thing was the polenta with sausage, and I enjoyed the eggplant and manicotti as well. Also, my coffee towards the end was heavenly - the young server said they receive a lot of compliments on the coffee.
Service: Amazing. Two ladies greeted us and took care of us throughout the night with the help of a younger guy. The chef came around and talked with us too which was lovely. Dinner is 2.5 hours and about half way through they ask you to take a walk and they change out plates and napkins, which was very nice.
I gave it four stars for a few reasons. It was pricey. $800+ for 6 people with tax and tip, plus money to travel to the restaurant (PS- it is cash only). But you’re going for the EXPERIENCE. I would say - I was full but those who can fit more in their bellies 😉may find that a couple hours later they need a small snack. They do offer to-go containers, but the portions aren’t large (it’s enough to share around the table but not really enough for seconds), so no leftovers to take. Dessert was good but not great (and it’s my favorite part of a meal).
Also, we were on their wait list OVER A YEAR. If you put your name on the list- put their number in your phone because when they call - you need to answer or you’ll miss your opportunity! Lastly, there are so many unique restaurants to try in Jersey and NY/PA, that I likely won’t be back, but I am so thankful for the experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tomato Salad, Manicotti, Lemon Pasta
Elisa
This was a fabulous dining experience from the moment we sat down. Everyone was lovely and the food was delicious. It was a very homey feeling with wonderful dinner music in the background. Excellent service and quality of food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Long Peppers, Tomato Salad, Manicotti, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Main Course Chic Rollitini, Pizza Margherita, Eggplant Rollatini
Jim Linger
Never going because they make posts about supporting their president. That’s all. I don’t support those who support racist, sexist, lying, xenophobic, rapists. Foods probably good, but the fascism isn’t.
Charles Nesheiwat
What an amazing experience. Having dinner here is unlike anything you've ever done before. You truly feel like you're walking into your own grandmother's house. It's cozy and inviting. The food is amazing and comes out at a great rate. We absolutely could not finish all the foods they conveniently wrap it for you to take home at the end. I'm so sad that it takes so long to get a reservation, but understand why. I will continue to be putting myself on the list as often as I can.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Long Peppers, Manicotti, Eggplant Rollatini
Desperado Lourie
I've never tasted anything more disgusting in my life. My salad had so much dirt on it, I had to send it back. They offered to wash it and bring it back. 🤣 No! How about follow basic kitchen prep guidelines with like water and such. Place should be shut down for healthcode violations.
brian burke
Food and service was incredible brought back many memories of my grandmothers house, can’t wait to get back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Peppers, Tomato Salad, Manicotti, Garlic Shrimp and Mussels, Zeppoli Filled with Caroline Cream, Main Course Chic Rollitini, Eggplant Rollatini, Lemon Pasta
Rami C
A unique experience in a homey environment with traditional Italian recipes. The service was amazing and the entire experience was fantastic.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Peppers, Garlic Shrimp and Mussels, Roasted Garlic with Breadsticks, Hot Peppers, Eggplant Rollatini, Lemon Pasta
Chris Cerullo
This is a one of a kind place that you will never forget. Picture going to your Italian grandmother or aunt’s house with all homemade beautiful plates. This is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. You have to go, and you will thank me for it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Stefanie Baroutoglou
Absolutely the best dining experience I’ve ever had!!! Worth the wait. I felt as if I was eating in a family members house. The food was made with love, and on top of that, it’s also the best Italian food I have ever had.
Received a last minute call and went there. Food was great and people were very nice.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Stefanie Ann
Absolutely the best dining experience I’ve ever had!!! Worth the wait. I felt as if I was eating in a family members house. The food was made with love, and on top of that, it’s also the best Italian food I have ever had.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nicole W.
COME HUNGRY!! The vibe of this place is so awesome. It was a home that was turned into a dining experience. The owner was so kind and welcoming (he used to live in the house too!) You felt like you were going to dinner at nonnis home on a Sunday evening. The food just keeps on coming.. literally feels never ending. It’s pricey but you get what you pay for! Went during winter months and was told they offer a summer menu as well. You do not pick your food options, they bring you whatever was made that day but there is so much variety that you’ll enjoy almost everything!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Donna Senatore
Literally the most amazing culinary experience!!! Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Peppers, Lemon Linguine, Manicotti, Garlic Shrimp and Mussels, Hot Peppers, Eggplant Rollatini
Amazing experience excellent food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Transportation: Travelled up from South Jersey on the train and then took the PATH in to Journal Square. The restaurant is located about a 15 minute walk from the train station. This gave us a great opportunity to pick up a bottle of wine on the way - it’s a BYO. We did Uber back to the PATH at night time though, since we are unfamiliar with the area. Easy. If driving, parking may be tricky though because most of the “spots” that look open are for the residents.
Building/Atmosphere: Restaurant is located next to (what looks like) an abandoned building in a neighborhood. It would be missed unless you know what you are looking for (the lights help) - Part of what, I’m sure, contributes to other reviewers “speak easy vibes” that are mentioned.
Inside - it’s Nona’s house. Quaint, cozy but honestly hard to turn around inside when there’s a lot of people. It’s decorated well and most of the seating areas seem private- especially if you’re lucky enough to sit next to the kitchen on the main floor - You are tucked away! The atmosphere was so intimate.
Food: pretty good. It stands to reason not everything is going to be enjoyed by everyone’s palette (some people didn’t like some things and that’s ok!) - but the food was delightful (probably better because of the service) and I tried everything that was offered. Some things I could take or leave, like the desserts. The desserts to me were ok… and not what I was expecting for the price. No tiramisu, no rainbow cookies, no cannolis - which are some of my favs. I heard the menu changes, but my food looked similar to what others had already posted in reviews. My least favorite food for our meal was a little “pizza” they brought out as an appetizer which was just a little bit of dough, sauce, and Parmesan. Favorite thing was the polenta with sausage, and I enjoyed the eggplant and manicotti as well. Also, my coffee towards the end was heavenly - the young server said they receive a lot of compliments on the coffee.
Service: Amazing. Two ladies greeted us and took care of us throughout the night with the help of a younger guy. The chef came around and talked with us too which was lovely. Dinner is 2.5 hours and about half way through they ask you to take a walk and they change out plates and napkins, which was very nice.
I gave it four stars for a few reasons. It was pricey. $800+ for 6 people with tax and tip, plus money to travel to the restaurant (PS- it is cash only). But you’re going for the EXPERIENCE. I would say - I was full but those who can fit more in their bellies 😉may find that a couple hours later they need a small snack. They do offer to-go containers, but the portions aren’t large (it’s enough to share around the table but not really enough for seconds), so no leftovers to take. Dessert was good but not great (and it’s my favorite part of a meal).
Also, we were on their wait list OVER A YEAR. If you put your name on the list- put their number in your phone because when they call - you need to answer or you’ll miss your opportunity! Lastly, there are so many unique restaurants to try in Jersey and NY/PA, that I likely won’t be back, but I am so thankful for the experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tomato Salad, Manicotti, Lemon Pasta
This was a fabulous dining experience from the moment we sat down. Everyone was lovely and the food was delicious. It was a very homey feeling with wonderful dinner music in the background. Excellent service and quality of food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Long Peppers, Tomato Salad, Manicotti, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Main Course Chic Rollitini, Pizza Margherita, Eggplant Rollatini
Never going because they make posts about supporting their president. That’s all. I don’t support those who support racist, sexist, lying, xenophobic, rapists. Foods probably good, but the fascism isn’t.
What an amazing experience. Having dinner here is unlike anything you've ever done before. You truly feel like you're walking into your own grandmother's house. It's cozy and inviting. The food is amazing and comes out at a great rate. We absolutely could not finish all the foods they conveniently wrap it for you to take home at the end. I'm so sad that it takes so long to get a reservation, but understand why. I will continue to be putting myself on the list as often as I can.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Long Peppers, Manicotti, Eggplant Rollatini
I've never tasted anything more disgusting in my life. My salad had so much dirt on it, I had to send it back. They offered to wash it and bring it back. 🤣 No! How about follow basic kitchen prep guidelines with like water and such. Place should be shut down for healthcode violations.
Food and service was incredible brought back many memories of my grandmothers house, can’t wait to get back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Peppers, Tomato Salad, Manicotti, Garlic Shrimp and Mussels, Zeppoli Filled with Caroline Cream, Main Course Chic Rollitini, Eggplant Rollatini, Lemon Pasta
A unique experience in a homey environment with traditional Italian recipes. The service was amazing and the entire experience was fantastic.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Peppers, Garlic Shrimp and Mussels, Roasted Garlic with Breadsticks, Hot Peppers, Eggplant Rollatini, Lemon Pasta
This is a one of a kind place that you will never forget. Picture going to your Italian grandmother or aunt’s house with all homemade beautiful plates. This is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. You have to go, and you will thank me for it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely the best dining experience I’ve ever had!!! Worth the wait. I felt as if I was eating in a family members house. The food was made with love, and on top of that, it’s also the best Italian food I have ever had.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Received a last minute call and went there. Food was great and people were very nice.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely the best dining experience I’ve ever had!!! Worth the wait. I felt as if I was eating in a family members house. The food was made with love, and on top of that, it’s also the best Italian food I have ever had.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
COME HUNGRY!! The vibe of this place is so awesome. It was a home that was turned into a dining experience. The owner was so kind and welcoming (he used to live in the house too!) You felt like you were going to dinner at nonnis home on a Sunday evening. The food just keeps on coming.. literally feels never ending. It’s pricey but you get what you pay for! Went during winter months and was told they offer a summer menu as well. You do not pick your food options, they bring you whatever was made that day but there is so much variety that you’ll enjoy almost everything!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Literally the most amazing culinary experience!!! Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Stuffed Peppers, Lemon Linguine, Manicotti, Garlic Shrimp and Mussels, Hot Peppers, Eggplant Rollatini
A lot of great food is well worth it,
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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