You know how some Italian restaurants just feel like they’re trying too hard? They have the white tablecloths, the overpriced wine list, and the waiters who look like they’re judging your pronunciation of "gnocchi." Then there are the spots that just... get it.
I spent an evening recently at Frank Anthony’s Verona New Jersey, and it’s basically the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from a nonna who also happens to have a professional culinary degree. It’s located right on Bloomfield Avenue, tucked into that cozy stretch of Verona where the parking is a bit of a nightmare but the food usually makes up for it.
Honestly, it’s a weird mix of a high-end deli and a sophisticated bistro. They started as a deli years ago—across the street, actually—before moving into their current, much more spacious home at 667 Bloomfield Ave. You can still feel that "neighborhood deli" soul in the portions, but the vibe in the dining room is 100% "date night destination."
The Pasta Flight Everyone Is Talking About
If you’ve spent any time on Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen the pasta flights at Frank Anthony’s Verona New Jersey. Most places that do "flights" are just trying to hide the fact that their portions are tiny. Here? Not so much.
You can choose a flight of three or six different pastas. It’s a genius move for people who have serious order envy (me). When I went, the Orecchiette with broccoli rabe and sausage was the standout. The sausage had that perfect fennel-heavy snap, and the "long hots" gave it just enough of a kick to make you reach for your water. Or your wine, since it’s BYOB.
Don't sleep on the Rigatoni Venezia either. It’s got diced eggplant and fresh mozzarella that melts into the red sauce in a way that feels illegal. It’s heavy, sure. You’ll probably need a nap afterward. But it’s the kind of meal that makes you forget about your "no carbs" New Year's resolution in about four seconds.
✨ Don't miss: Why the Siege of Vienna 1683 Still Echoes in European History Today
Is the Pizza Actually Good?
Dave Portnoy gave this place a 6.7 a few years back. Now, look, everyone has their own "pizza philosophy," but I think he was a little harsh on the crust. The signature pie—topped with soppressata, long hot peppers, and provolone—is a salty, spicy masterpiece.
The crust is definitely on the denser side. It’s not that airy, Neapolitan style that’s popular in the city. It’s more of a "New Jersey sturdy" crust. It holds up under the weight of the toppings. If you like a pizza that fights back a little bit when you bite into it, you’ll love it. If you want something paper-thin, maybe stick to the salad.
Speaking of the salad, the Roman Antipasto is actually one of the best deals on the menu. You can pick three, six, or nine different items. The house-made mozzarella is basically mandatory. It’s made daily, it’s still slightly warm sometimes, and it has that milky, soft texture that you just can't get from a grocery store.
The Vibe and The "Atrium"
There is a specific "Verona" feel to the atmosphere here. It’s upscale but not stuffy. You’ll see families with kids who are surprisingly well-behaved, alongside couples on their third date trying to look impressed by the wine they brought.
The coolest part of the layout is the atrium. It’s covered and heated during the winter, so you can pretend you’re dining outside even when it’s 20 degrees in Essex County. In the spring and summer, they open it up, and it’s easily one of the best alfresco spots in the area.
🔗 Read more: Why the Blue Jordan 13 Retro Still Dominates the Streets
One thing to keep in mind: it gets loud. If you’re looking for a place to have a hushed, secret conversation about your inheritance, this isn't it. It’s a place for laughing, clinking glasses, and the occasional sound of a chair scraping as someone goes back to the deli counter to grab a loaf of bread for the road.
Some Real Talk About the Prices
Let’s be real—Frank Anthony’s isn't the cheapest Italian joint in Jersey. Entrees like the Burrata Chop (a bone-in veal chop pounded thin and topped with vodka sauce and burrata) can run you over $50.
Is it worth it?
If you’re looking for a $12 plate of spaghetti, go somewhere else. You’re paying for the fact that the kitchen is chef-driven and the ingredients are legit. The seafood is fresh, the steaks are hand-cut, and the specials change every two weeks. They aren't just reheating frozen bags of pasta in the back. You can taste the effort in the "Chicken Louie," which is egg-battered and layered with prosciutto di parma and a Marsala wine cream sauce. It’s rich. Like, "I need a green tea and a three-mile walk" rich.
What to Know Before You Go
If you’re planning a trip to Frank Anthony’s Verona New Jersey, there are a few practical things that will save your sanity:
💡 You might also like: Sleeping With Your Neighbor: Why It Is More Complicated Than You Think
- Make a Reservation: Seriously. Don't just show up on a Friday night and expect to be seated. They use OpenTable, or you can call them at 973-239-1303.
- The BYOB Rule: They don't have a liquor license, which is actually a blessing for your wallet. Bring a nice bottle of Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio. There’s a liquor store not too far away if you forget.
- Parking: It’s a pain. Give yourself an extra ten minutes to find a spot on the street or in one of the municipal lots.
- The Deli Counter: Even if you’re there for dinner, check out the deli counter. Their "Long Hots" and marinated eggplants are worth taking home for sandwiches the next day.
- Dietary Stuff: They are surprisingly good with gluten-free options. They have GF pasta that doesn't taste like cardboard, which is a rare find in the world of Italian dining.
Why This Place Stays Relevant
In a state where there’s an Italian restaurant on every corner, Frank Anthony’s survives because they haven't lost that deli-owner work ethic. Owners Nick Wright and Sean McMahon are usually around, and the service tends to be attentive without being hovering.
It’s the kind of place that feels like it belongs to the community. You go there for baby showers, for graduation dinners, or just because you had a long Tuesday and don't want to cook. It’s consistent. That’s the highest praise you can give a restaurant in New Jersey.
If you haven't been lately, go for the pasta flight. Even if you think it’s a gimmick, it’s a delicious gimmick. Just make sure you bring a group of people who are willing to share, because you’re going to want to try everything on the table.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check their Instagram (@Frank_Anthonys) before you go to see the current bi-weekly specials; they often post "off-menu" items that are better than the staples.
- Order the "Italian Style" Wings as an appetizer—they come with caramelized onions and a tangy garlic sauce that is a complete departure from your standard buffalo wing.
- Plan for Dessert: The funnel cake fries and the Italian rainbow cake are local favorites that usually sell out by the end of the weekend.