Sano by Michael Scipione

The food & service of Sano was unparalleled!! Truly an experience from beginning to end! His server was equally as amazing as Mike, the chef. We had a group of 16 so we had the entire restaurant to ourselves. She took such good care of us! To say it was good would be an understatement. Additionally he encouraged us to do course 1 & 2 family style. So glad we did!! We were able to try all his decadent options. I hope you get a chance to have him at your house or dine at his restaurant.

Dietary restrictions: Gluten sensitive

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We recently celebrated our friends 60th birthday down at the Jersey Shore. Michael and his helper, Bianca, prepared a feast for us that we will never forget. He is super organized, engaging and above all, an incredibly talented chef. We will be reaching out to Michael for future special occassions. He made out night and celebration one-of-a-kind! Truly the best meal we've ever had!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We all had the best night!! The food was absolutely delicious, our group of 10 enjoyed everything we tasted. The ham crostini with truffle egg, toasted gnocchi app, and sea bass entree were sooo delicious I need that again! Do not miss the waffle for dessert it was our favorite! Ebony our server was beyond in everything she did. So kind, attentive, and had things ready before we asked!!! We loved the private dining and feeling so special the entire night. What a gem of a restaurant, we will be back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Michael helped me plan a surprise birthday dinner for my husband and it was a knock out! Food was amazing, the table had a special touch of roses when we arrived, Michael was super accommodating and worked with me on the best way to serve our guest, the setting was perfect, and Ebony was an amazing server. We can not say enough how much we enjoyed it and we will definitely be booking events and dinners again in the future! Highly recommended whether it is a private dinner or just going on a date night! (We have done both and loved both experiences)

We had the absolute pleasure of having Chef Michael cater my fiancée’s 30th birthday, and it was an unforgettable experience! From the moment he arrived, his professionalism and passion for his craft were evident. The food was nothing short of extraordinary—each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about how delicious everything was!

Chef Michael’s team, Bianca and Ebony, were also phenomenal. They were attentive, friendly, and ensured that every detail was taken care of, allowing us to relax and enjoy the evening. Their seamless service made the night even more special.

Thank you, Chef Michael, Bianca, and Ebony, for making this milestone celebration truly magical. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a top-notch private dining experience!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Last night, we had the pleasure of experiencing a culinary masterpiece crafted by Chef Michael Scipione, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment his team arrived—on time and with the utmost professionalism—we knew we were in for a treat. His staff was not only incredibly friendly but also meticulous in ensuring everything was perfect and spotless by the end of the night.

But the true star of the evening? The food. Each dish was an explosion of flavor, showcasing Chef Michael's exceptional talent and passion for his craft. Every bite was better than the last, leaving our guests raving long after the plates were cleared. If you're considering hiring a chef for your next event, look no further. Chef Michael Scipione is, without a doubt, the one to trust with your special occasion.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This is a VERY LONG REVIEW...but nothing else will do.

For my husband’s 60th birthday, we chose to celebrate at Chef Michael Scipione’s intimate restaurant, Sano, which seats just 12 guests. The evening was even more special as we were joined by my husband’s childhood friend, John and wife Stella. John and John were born just six days apart, making the occasion a double celebration of lifelong friendship.

Chef sent out two flatbreads, one with sweet nectarines, the other with beef, pork and veal. We also shared a wonderful plate of intertwined
Citrus chilled prawns.

The meal was a prix fixe three-course menu, and each dish was a testament to Chef Scipione’s culinary expertise. I started with the veal meatballs, which were tender, rich, and perfectly seasoned. The burrata that followed was fresh, creamy, and paired with delightful balsamic cherries, prosciutto di parma wrapped around sweet nectarines, accompaniments that elevated the flavors. For the main course, I enjoyed the sea bass, which was cooked to perfection with a delicate, flaky interior. Each dish was beautifully presented, and the flavors were both bold and refined.

In addition to the veal meatballs, burrata, and sea bass, we indulged in several other standout dishes. The Dover scallops were a particular highlight, perfectly seared and served with a delicate balance of flavors. The Japanese A5 Wagyu beef tartare, topped with Sturgeon caviar, was luxurious and melt-in-your-mouth delicious—a true indulgence. Another favorite was the crispy ricotta gnocchi with black truffle zest, which had the perfect texture, with a golden exterior and soft, pillowy interior. Hubby enjoyed the duck Wellington which was in the oven while we dined to our delight.

The evening was perfectly capped off with an unforgettable dessert selection. We savored a Black Mission fig crème brûlée, its rich, caramelized top giving way to a silky custard infused with the sweetness of figs. The dark chocolate ganache, topped with Amarena cherries and amaretto, was pure decadence, while the pistachio tiramisu was a delightful twist on the classic, offering layers of nutty richness. To complement the desserts, we enjoyed stove-top Lavazza espresso, a fitting end to an extraordinary meal.

And then there was the amazing Ebony, our server, thank you Ebony for your attention to detail, humor and for keeping the wine flowing!

I’ve dined at some of the most amazing restaurants in my lifetime, but this experience at Chef Michael Scipione’s Sano was unlike anything I’ve ever encountered before. It brought back flashbacks of the great Tony Clark—one of the most remarkable chefs I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. Chef Scipione has created something truly special. There’s no place else to go. This is it. Thank you, Chef.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We recently had a horrifying experience at Sano which is owned by chef Michael Scipione. I booked a private dinner to celebrate my wife’s 35th birthday party, worked out the menu and details with Michael in advance, and paid him in cash inclusive of 20% tip for his staff. Our family came 15 minutes earlier to surprise my wife, and when we arrived and entered the restaurant, it was sweltering. The temperature in the restaurant was 85+ degrees and we all suffered and sweat throughout the meal. Our 4 year old was in tears and had to be brought outside several times to get fresh air. My sister’s infant had to have her clothes removed and be fanned throughout the meal to ensure her safety. Michael created a dangerous environment for us as his diners. At no point did he try to reschedule prior, and even after multiple texts and phone calls with him afterwards, he offered us no compensation other than a free meal for 4 which he ultimately rescinded, for the extremely poor dining experience. He even tried to say that this was an Act of God; just because it’s 96 degrees outside does not constitute one. He is an unscrupulous business owner who has no regard for his patrons, and is operating in bad faith. He should be ashamed, and you should stay far away from his establishment.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

My cousins and I dine together monthly, I reserved a private dining experience. The cousins hold nothing back and are foodies ------- THEY RAVED FOR DAYS! From apps to dessert it was spectacular. Michael cooks with health in mind without sacrificing taste. Flavors are phenomenal. Ingredients are unique. Sophisticated presentation. Treat yourself and check out Sano! Shout out to Ebony our server, top notch all the way!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We made the perfect choice by dining at Sano! From the moment we reached out to make a reservation and ask about their gluten free options (I have Celiac Disease), Michael's communication and accommodation were outstanding. Every dish was more delicious than the next, and with proper notice, he ensured that each one could be safely prepared to be gluten free. The ambiance was charming, romantic, and inviting, and the service was top-notch. Once we walked in and mentioned our name for the reservation, Michael even remembered us and greeted us with such warmth. Our overall experience was simply wonderful, and we're already planning our return for future meals!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

My holiday party was absolutely amazing!!!! Had some dietary restrictions and Michael did a phenomenal job. We all loved his presentation of the food. Would highly recommend Chef Sano for any party or to dine in. M

Dietary restrictions: Had a person that has celiac disease and another person that has cheese allergies. He accommodated each person food restrictions and made everything delicious for them.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

My husband and I came here to celebrate our 5-year wedding anniversary. I have Celiac, so I need to adhere to a strict gluten free diet. Michael was extremely accommodating and even mentioned that he prepared the entire menu to be gluten free for all guests that evening since he was aware of my dietary needs ahead of time. Each dish surpassed the next in deliciousness. We're already planning our next visit. Absolutely fantastic meal, incredible service, intimate atmosphere. Can't recommend enough!

For starters, Michael is extremely professional and works to cater your dining or take out experience to you, creating a personal and unforgettable experience. I have both dined and taken out from the restaurant multiple times over the past 2 and a half years, and have yet to find a meal that I did not enjoy. Michael will also work to personalize food options for anyone, and this is coming from a picky eater. On top of the professionalism, you can tell Michael cares about his clientele. I recently ordered take out meals for the week due to my busy work schedule, and Michael was generous enough to give me extra salmon without an additional cost. Needless to say I have not found a similar gesture of kindness from any of the other food establishments I have partaken in over the past few years . 10/10 recommend .

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

From the moment you enter Sano, the atmosphere oozes with elegance while also feeling like such a comfortable environment. Food tasted out of this world with a personal uniqueness that you'll never forget. Both options of the prix fixe menu were divine - Duck confit and citrus scallop (our personal favorites), lamb gnocchi, crab risotto, Faroe Island salmon, braised bison back ribs, Philly cheesecake, and generous portion of limoncello creme brulee (soooooo good). I also couldn't resist bringing additional food home. The mango salmon ceviche (thanks for the extra portion!) was mouthwatering. I'm sure the presentation would've been as beautiful as you described Michael. The meatballs were cooked perfectly as were everything else. As excellent as the food was, the service was top-notch and equalled in its exquisiteness. Michael and Ebony giving that personal touch filled with genuineness was the cherry on top to a perfect night. Thank you so much for making it a perfect birthday! ~ Christine

We made the perfect choice by dining at Sano! From the moment we reached out to make a reservation and ask about their gluten free options (I have Celiac Disease), Michael's communication and accommodation were outstanding. Every dish was more delicious than the next, and with proper notice, he ensured that each one could be safely prepared to be gluten free. The ambiance was charming, romantic, and inviting, and the service was top-notch. Once we walked in and mentioned our name for the reservation, Michael even remembered us and greeted us with such warmth. Our overall experience was simply wonderful, and we're already planning our return for future meals!