50 Best Italian Restaurants near Parlin

“As someone born and raised in New Jersey, I can tell you I’ve tried about a million different slices of pizza. What I’ve found is there are 2 types of pizza: good pizza, and fast pizza. Occasionally, you’ll come across a place who has managed to craft a perfect 50/50 split. Though rare, it is possible. I moved to this area about 3 years ago, and I have tried nearly every pizza joint in a 10 mile radius.When Nana’s came along, I was skeptical, as I had found a regular spot with decent enough pizza and was pretty happy. But one fateful night, we switched it up and tried Nana’s. I can tell you: I will be ordering Nana’s for as long as I am within an hour driving distance. Whether it’s pickup or delivery, our pizza has always been fresh and just crispy enough. The garlic knots are light and fluffy with plenty of garlic. The sauce is to die for. The wings are never burnt, and the ratio of breading to meat is a healthy one. Everything we have ever ordered from Nana’s has been a grand slam. It just works out they’re a 5 min walk for me, too! (Though most days we order delivery any way because we’re Mets fans and we can’t risk missing out on a single minute of them losing)Love you Nana’s! Keep being crispy ?“

“They have the best chicken bacon ranch pizza I've had! The ranch on it is so good! Probably my favorite pizza in the area- the crust is perfect in my opinion. I've also enjoyed some sandwiches I've had here but DO NOT get the empanadas though. That was my bad for getting empanadas from a pizza joint.“

“Beautiful restaurant. Everything we've eaten has been delicious. Menu has great options. It's a little on the expensive side but makes up for it by being BYOB. The wait staff is very attentive and you never feel like it's too short or too long for you food. It was our second time there and won't be our last!“

“Walked in, didn't expect much but was pleasantly surprised. The interiors felt like a high-end restaurant, and the food kept up with it!The covered outdoor space was comfy and classy, with beautiful green art on the walls. The flavors, taste, and texture were really top-notch Italian food I've had. Highly recommended.“

“The food at Carrabas is delicious and extremely comforting!The chicken soup always hits the spot and you can never go wrong with getting the Rigatoni Martino or the Chicken MarsalaThe staff is always super friendly and always accommodating for our food allergies! Thank you for always being one of our go to spots!Dietary restrictions: Gluten allergy and nut allergy“

“The food was very good and the service was great. Love the mini sherbet they brought after the appetizers. The food portions were a nice size. After dinner, they brought us limoncello on the house.The only thing I did not like was that I felt like I was in a wedding hall and not a restaurant.I will be back because I loved what we ate and how the owners were very attentive as well as the waiters.“

“ordered a large cobb salad. it was so delicious. they gave so much chicken and the greens were so fresh. I used to be a steady customer of highland park pizza but they went out of business and I was upset because I have health issues and need meals delivered to me. Tried Francesco and they will have me as a steady customer now. so happy I found this place. give them a shot you wont be sorry.“

“Recommended to us, which we are glad for - as we would have never walked in on our own. Visited for a late lunch. The entire menu is dynamic and unique. The portion sizes are small by NY standards but were how we really should eat - reminiscent of how it is in Italy.The 17yr old waitress we had was extremely professional, attentive & overall very pleasant.The thing I would comment on is the ambiance (think ice cream shop (way too bright) lighting and diner type furnishings) does not match the high quality of their food.We had one glass of wine, a soda, beef carpaccio appetizer, truffle gnocchi & osso bucco, one dessert & a cup of tea. $160 after tip.Would return to try other entrees for the delicious food & great service. Just not as a romantic dinner or celebration, solely because of the lighting & decor.“

“I love love LOVE this place. The owners are two old school Sicilians that reminded me of my Nonna and Nonno growing up, and the pizza was phenomenal! I also got their manicotti, and the sauce they make is exquisite. I'd absolutely recommend them, without question.“

“La Lupa consistently provides an excellent culinary experience. We love their take on nouveau Italian cuisine and the use of outstanding local or Italian imported products is first rate. It is a small restaurant and difficult to get a reservation so be persistent it is worth it. Also be prepared for a vibrant pulse --they enjoy their techno beat which will sometime overwhelm your ability to converse.“

“Went with 5 adults and 2 kids. Spent around $750 (tip included).Dinner was great but waitress forgot to bring appetizer before dinner.Manager asked if we still wanted it so we said sure why not.He still told the waitress to charge us for the appetizers even though they messed up. Small detail but comes across as a bit tacky given their reputation cost of dining here..“

“I ordered stuffed pepperoni garlic knots w/ vodka sauce and a grilled chicken Cesar salad wrap, did not disappoint!!! Food was great and delivered rather quickly. The few times I called for take out, they are always so nice over the phone, as well as the delivery drivers. Thank you Italian Touch for good dinners :)“

“Great pizza with great service! The garlic knots are delicious- must buy! Tons of huge garlic pieces! I got half plain and half green peppers, and definitely the freshest green peppers I've had on a pizza ever. I haven't been here in years but went because they were supporting a fundraiser for the local animal shelter- another reason to come here! Definitely will be back soon!“

“The place is cute and well-decorated. We waited over 45 minutes after ordering for our food, and then the order was incorrect, so had to wait a bit longer for my full meal. Then waited a long time for the check, etc. Ended up spending about 2.5 hrs in there. I appreciated not being rushed, but I went in there extremely hungry and I am a busy medical student, so I did not anticipate spending so long in there.I will say, our server, Caesar, was stellar! very kind, charismatic, and helpful. Chatty when we wanted to chat, and left us alone when that time came, too. Great server.I forgot to take a photo of my food because I was soooooo hungry when I finally got it! Food was delicious and portion sizes were large.“

“My boyfriend and I have been going to verdes for about 6 months now and they do not disappoint! Their food is delicious, they strive to perfect their recipes and it shows! We just enjoyed their Christmas catering due to our situation not allowing me to cook my usual set up; and oh my was it worth it! The staff are great people as well. Highly recommend this place!“

“Delicious food my family goes here for holidays or birthdays because the food is so delicious, it's bit upscale and byob. My absolute favorite is the rack of lamb with the mint honey sauce. The seafood risotto and grouper with artichoke hearts are also favorites. My son is a very picky eater but swears they have the best penne vodka he's ever had.“

“Slice has quickly become our preferred destination. We appreciate every aspect of this establishment, particularly our support for family-run businesses due to their commitment to quality, consistency, and fair pricing. Frank makes the whole experience a very comfortable environment. Looking forward to visiting again, Frank!“

“I’ve gone a few times now had such great lunch and dinner here, also have taken food to go as well! Was just as delicious, the next day!The space is welcoming, they will accommodate the size of your party, adding tables/chairs to insure everyone is comfortable!Toddler friendly and approved! (Highchairs on hand)The service is so warm, friendly and attentive! The music and atmosphere is perfect for a family and/or friends night.I really appreciate the feeling of happiness when I’ve gone everyone is very busy but will always make sure to notice you and get you seated as soon as there is availability!It’s always busy and buzzing I love that about this place. I never feel rushed either the food is delicious we like to try a lot of dishes so we get to enjoy that in a timely manner and my kids really enjoy seeing other kids around having a great time playing, singing dancing whatever kids normally do!So If you enjoy food! Family! Friends! Kids! Happiness this place is a must!Not a tired stuffy or uptight place! Go elsewhere for that!Thank you!Kid-friendliness: Amazing! Kids having a wonderful time playing and enjoying a restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere!Wheelchair accessibility: There’s a ramp“

“The best tacos!! Keep it up always and you will never lack customers!! The delicious tacos al pastor and enchilada not to mention with their fresh and finely chopped onion their fresh cilantro the super fresh cucumbers, radishes, lemons that's how it should be! Just a little less fat but they are “

“My second experience was even better than the first ? I was actually looking for a different eatery with similar names. I ended up @ Touch of Italy ??,. And it was the right choice. I ordered the Apple ? salad, which was excellent. Thanks again for the great food and the great conversation ?“

“Our family was going to have a repast for my mother in law. We weren't sure where to have it. So we went to Nonna's and spoke to Joe the owner. We were not sure of the exact amount of people but Joe gave us option 1 if it was 20 or less, option 2 if 20-30 people. Joe could not have been any more friendly or helpful. He was so nice. He then gave us salad, appetizer and main course suggestions. He told us Melissa, Bill and Greg would be our servers. They were absolutely awesome and their attention to detail was top notch. The meatball sliders were a huge hit and our family raved about how great all the food was. My wife and I have been back since, and have even ordered take out for a family function. Friends that came up from Florida said the next time they come to visit NJ, their first place to go for dinner is Nonna's Cucina in Englishtown. Again, many thanks to Joe, Melissa, Bill and Greg.“

“It was pretty good! Nice date with my partner. I would say the food was quick and appetizers were good. Definitely come dressed nice the ambiance seemed for fine dining, which is fine just a little odd for the location. Waiter was good and friendly, but I will say there is no drink menu with prices so just prepped to pay lol.“

“For a mom n pop pizzeria, Carmela's sure is one of the best NY style pizzas that I've had. We ordered a large size cheese pizza, along with some garlic knots/bread. The pizza came out hot n ready from the oven. The cheese was just stretching away and the sauce was robust. The dough itself tasted very good. We sprinkled some red crush peppers and garlic seasoning/powder. Mmmmm more and more garlic. And more garlic. And wait....even more garlic. The garlic knots were delicious. They were heated warmAnd I asked them to lace it with extra garlic oil. A perfect combination of both items. There's a few tables inside and it's a simple looking pizzeria. They do offer pizza by the slices also.“

“We really enjoy this place. The food is excellent and it has a very chill laid back atmosphere. The second time we visited this place was because the Mexican restaurant next to it had a one hour wait. I'm not waiting one hour and we need that the food here was good. My wife ordered a Italian Stromboli and I had pasta and octopus. They were both exceptionally tasty, and always come out piping hot. In addition, everyone gets a really delicious bread basket with different types of Italian breads, garlic, bruschetta and baked bread. The owner is always cordial and you can see him mingling around talking to people.If you are in town I would recommend this place. They are fully accessible, and will move tables around for you if you need them to be moved. The bathrooms are also accessible and there are some accessible parking spots available on the street, or in the parking deck behind the courtyard restaurant area. By the way the prices are really good.Wheelchair accessibility: This place is wheelchair accessible and that includes the restroom facilities.“

“The pizza here is so freaking good and it’s not the crazy prices that most places are charging nowadays. Way better than La Madonna down the street & less expensive & the staff are WAY friendlier. I live in jersey city & work in New York and eat pizza way too much and Amano trumps 95% of places I’ve ever tried. Along with the prices and friendly staff, I would go out of my way and drive further to come here any day of the week. I got a spinach artichoke slice, a couple grandma slices, an Italian roll & a buff chicken roll and every bite of all of these were so yummy. I don’t leave reviews often but I really really really like this place. Would suggest.“

“No one can beat your cheese steaks. I had one yesterday from another restaurant and it was terrible. They used slices of yellow American which were hardly melted.. We ordered other food too , which I wasn't overlall thrilled with. VINNYS Old Bridge going forward 100%.“

“We absolutely love Dolce's. The food is top notch, the owner John and his staff are the best, the prices reasonable, and it's the BEST restaurant to host a party! It is BYOB and they are the most accommodating staff around. They treat their customers like royalty so visit John and his team for the best food and get treated like a VIP! Thank you, John!! Randi C“

“Incredibly good. I had veal parmesan last night as I do every time my work brings me to New Jersey. Best I've had after going to about 5 different restaurants in the area. Very tender and perfectly seasoned and prepared.The bread was addicting since I had 6 pieces and the service was excellent. Unfortunately I didn't catch his name.This will be the go to place when we come to work up here from now on.“

“It was my first time going there and I ordered a vodka fresh mozzarella cheese pizza and was one of the best pizzas I've had the service was good the owner was polite I would definitely go back again it's very convenient to get to right off of routeParking: There's plenty located in a strip mall right off of route 79 in morganville very easy access In-N-OutWheelchair accessibility: There is handicap parking right out in front of the place with a ramp right next to go“

“Delicious food, always very fresh & made with love just like home made. Owner John is very friendly and courteous. Our new go to place. Thank you John. You are a great addition to our local community. I highly recommend for everyone to try this restaurant.“

“It was a very busy night but we were able to be seated right away. The waitress was very friendly and realized we were celebrating Ramadan; she made us aware if there was pork in any of the food we were ordering and asked if we would like to customize our choices, if possible.The food was very good and each person who brought anything to our table was very courteous. There were just two moments of not being able to eat while waiting for grated cheese & and for someone so we could ask for salt.We were asked when the food was brought out if we would like grated cheese; but they never came back. The hostess noticed as soon as we started looking around and came over to see if we needed something. She brought grated cheese instantly.We wanted a little salt on the salad, but there was none on the table, and it took a bit before I was able to ask for it.Being it was busy, we assumed they were busy or got distracted.All and all... for as busy as it was, the two moments were not as bad as it could have been and definitely worth choosing to eat there.Highly recommend“

“Absolutely delicious pizza and what a wonderful owner. Delivered Pizza to my whole football team at Bloomingdale Park completely on time fully equipped with everything for the girls. There wasn’t even a slice left and we ordered eight pies. completely recommend this restaurant and we cannot go back to eat there and we are definitely having our seasonal football parties here! Thank you Mario!“

“My husband and I go on a regular basis. They always treat us so special. We even have our own little table always waiting for us! The food and specials are phenomenal along with the superb service we always get. It truly feels like family!“

“Although we have never dined in the restaurant, we have been to several private parties and just love the way they do things. Family style appetizers, pasta, salad and great choices. This last time we had steak, which we were apprehensive about but even that was tender and cooked perfectly.Parking: Plenty and easily accessible“

“Their food and service were superb. My husband and I had this restaurant recommended by close friend and we were so glad for that recommendation! We went here for our first year anniversary and it exceeded our expectations. The seafood was fresh and the pasta was so flavorful. The desserts were also so delicious! Their carrot cake was amazing! Every recommendation our waiter Jose made was on point. Aside from the food, we had such a fantastic waiter who clearly enjoyed his job and did it well. My husband is from Northern NJ where they are known for Italian food, so if he was impressed than I knew it was a great pick for us. We will for sure be back!“

“This is a great place to go eat at because of the nice wall paintings they have and just the vibe is so homey and welcoming. take out is great too. i have had the pizza, the tacos, the sopes, and let me tell you you cannot go wrong with anything on their menu. it’s just too good. now if i really wanna put my food reviewer cap on i have to say there is one thing that is off, and that is the prices. the amount of food that you get for the price is crazy. they make sure that you are full and have left overs ?‍? love it keep doing what you’re doing ??Kid-friendliness: great place to bring kids“

“I love this pizzeria restaurant. I have been going there since my teen years. The food is always fresh, delicious and made to order. The sauce is amazing in my opinion. Great portions hot and cold subs, mozz sticks, garlic knots and zeppoles. There is tons of parking and indoor seating.Parking: Large parking lotWheelchair accessibility: Ground level entrance“

“I wanted to try a new place for pizza, Benny's had pretty good reviews and I decided to try them. I placed my order for delivery not realizing there was a $5.99 delivery fee which didn't show up until I got the order confirmation. I don't know if the delivery fee was from the establishment or the delivery company Grabull.The Grabull website says " their service is absolutely free, all you pay for is the food & whatever fee's are mentioned for delivery or processing and taxes" I did not see any mention of a delivery fee on Benny's website. Also is the delivery fee a guaranteed tip for the delivery person? If it is that person got a big tip because I added on a tip at checkout.As far as the pizza goes, it was just okay, it certainly was not worth $37.23! It's too bad since Pharmaceutical Reps pays for our lunches we order food several times a week for delivery. We can't go over $17.00 per person delivery fee's cut into that $17.00“

“Absolutely delicious Italian pizza, pasta and entrees! There are so many pizza choices, my favorites were the grilled chicken Caesar salad and the Grandma with a sesame seed crust, soooo yummy! We shared the seafood salad with large shrimp, mussels and tender calamari and the beautiful cold cut platter. The pasta with bolognese was fabulous and so was the chicken francese. They even have gluten free pizza and pasta. Finish with cappuccino and the oh so fresh cannolis and zeppoles. Bring the entire clan as the prices are very reasonable at this wonderful family friendly restaurant.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free pasta and pizzaKid-friendliness: Definitely kid friendly“

“Cozy little Italian restaurant. Authentic Italian music plays over the speakers which sets a nice vibe. They immediately bring out hot, crispy Italian bread and seasoned olive oil...which is always a nice touch. Food was brought out timely and was delicious. Service was excellent. Overall a great experience. I would have given 5 stars except that the food is a tad expensive.“

“Jimmy provided the food for our family and friends after my husband's funeral. Everything was excellent. He went out of his way to accomodate us and made sure everything was set up and ready for us when we arrived from the funeral. Wonderful people to work with and prices were reasonable.“

“I LOVE THIS PIZZA PLACE!! I LOVE THE PIZZA THE FOOD AND THE PEOPLE THAT WORK THERE!!! I HAD ASMALL PARTY AT MY HOUSE AND ORDERED 9 PIZZAS! ALL WERE DELIVERED HOT AND MY GUESTS LOVED THEM!! THIS IS THE ONLY PLACE TO ORDER PIZZA! IN THE WOODBRIDGE AREA!“

“I was looking to have a small lunch after my son's communion and pretty much every place I contacted was like "4 hours and $80/pp" which is more money and time than I wanted. On a recommendation I contacted Pasquales Brick Oven on Ryders in Milltown and for MUCH less they gave us their side room for 30 people and it was FANTASTIC! It's BYO so we brought some beer and wine and they set up wine glasses and gave us more delicious food than I can even say-everyone went home with dinner for a few nights! Service was impeccable and I would recommend anyone having an intimate party check it out.“

“Pizza Margherita is The Best I’ve ever had in Jersey. Grilled Chicken is delicious. Salad is crisp and fresh. Cheesesteak hot freshly made exactly how I ordered it excellent flavor. Even the French Fries are delicious. The kids enjoyed their Plain Cheese Pie too. Maintenance of Restaurant atmosphere is clean with high standard. Professional friendly staff helped me bring everything to car. Thank you kindly PJ’S!!!“

“Been going here since I can remember and it’s always been my go to!!! Never disappoints, always on point with the service and food. I like trying new things once in a while and let me say my all time favorite is that grilled Salmon, the sauce and different flavors just so delicious. . I love them all there, the entire staff is amazing.“

“I live 200 yards away from AB and how lucky to have AB at my doorstep. Their food is always fantastic , portions are good size and present well. I ordered in last night (3/23) and had a large order. Didn’t disappoint and everyone was delighted to dig in. The best part about AB are the staff. Young women at the front are always delightful and engaging. Sure some experience less than stellar service at other establishments when the servers think or act like they are doing you a favor; this doesn’t happen at AB. Everyone has a smile, thank you are abundant and positivity abundant. I frequently dine out for work and always compare to AB. AB holds its own always!!“

“Excellent restaurant! Small but very inviting. The menu is eclectic yet down to earth. Daily specials are available. We had the baked clams spl as well as Rosalies salad. For entree, we had the veal piccata and the filet of sole. Dessert was the homemade cheese cake! Utterly delicious.“

“I can’t say enough about Avellino’s hands down the best tasting pizza. We order ALL the time and it’s always delicious. Customer service is always exceptional. I recommend Avellino’s to anyone that is looking for fresh, tasty and delicious pizza!“

“3/1/24 I read about Via Sposito having multiple restaurants serving family style dishes and their Pizza ovens are wood and coal fired so we went to the one in Old Bridge, NJ. Our gracious host Dolores is an Sposito who we had the pleasure to talk with.We started with Zuppa di Mussels,which was delicious and the sauce to dip the mussels in was so sweet yummy.Just look at the pictures before and after.Then my wife ordered the huge Pork Chop with mixed vegetables and potatoes, my wife couldn't finish her meal.I ordered a Margarita Pizza with homemade mozzarella and pecorino romano cheese and fresh basil with extra virgin olive oil. On top I added real sliced sweet sausage,outstanding pizza,will definitely order it again together with outstanding service see the before and after pictures. Well worth the trip.“

“We did our Holiday Luncheon today and catered from Bruzzse’s. It was a work luncheon for Nissan City of Red Bank and I must tell you the food was absolutely terrific. They delivered on time, set up everything perfectly, got all the sternos lit. The service was top notch. And again the food was delicious. Eggplant, beef Teriyaki, were incredible. Highly recommend this place to everyone. 5stars.“