You know that feeling when you pull into a standard-looking New Jersey shopping center and expect just another mediocre sandwich shop? It happens all the time in Mercer County. But then you walk into 172 Scotch Road, and suddenly you're in a place that feels way more "downtown date night" than "strip mall lunch." Honestly, Metro Grill Ewing NJ is one of those local secrets that residents almost hate sharing because they don't want the wait times to get even longer.
It’s tucked away in the Glen Roc Shopping Center. Unassuming? Totally. But once you're inside, the vibe shifts. You’ve got dim lighting, a massive 30-seat bar, and a menu that basically refuses to be pinned down to just one category.
What’s the Deal With the Menu?
People always ask if it’s an Italian joint or a steakhouse. The truth is, it’s kinda both, plus a little extra. You’ll see a massive plate of Vodka Rigatoni at one table and a Metro Cheese Burger at the next. It’s that weird, beautiful Jersey mix where you can get high-end seafood specials and a casual panini in the same sitting.
The kitchen doesn't play around with portions. If you order the Chicken Marsala or the Veal Parmesan, be prepared for leftovers. They lean heavily into those classic Italian-American comfort flavors—lots of garlic, rich sauces, and fresh herbs. But then they throw a curveball with things like Thai Chili Calamari or Salmon Mediterranean loaded with Kalamata olives and artichokes.
One thing you can't ignore is the bar. It’s the heart of the place. They’re famous for these 10-ounce martinis that are, frankly, a little dangerous if you’re driving. If you’re a beer person, they keep a rotating list that usually hits the seasonal notes perfectly—think crisp lagers in the summer and heavier stouts when the Jersey winter kicks in.
The "Ozzy" Factor and the Vibe
Service can make or break a place like this. If you check out local chatter, one name pops up more than the actual food: Ozzy. Having a "Tier S" bartender—as some regulars call him—who remembers your drink and adds a bit of flair to the evening is why people keep coming back. It turns a Tuesday night dinner into an actual event.
The atmosphere is "casual-nice." You can show up in jeans and not feel like a slob, but you could also go there for an anniversary and feel like you're treating yourself. It's got that soft jazz or soft rock playing in the background, candles on the tables, and a general hum of conversation that isn't too loud to hear your partner speak.
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What Most People Get Wrong About Metro Grill Ewing NJ
A big misconception is that it’s "just another diner" because of the name. It’s definitely not a diner. If you’re looking for a 4 a.m. disco fry run, you’re in the wrong place. They have set hours, usually closing up around 9:00 or 10:00 PM, and they’re closed on Sundays.
Another thing? The price. It’s a bit more expensive than your average neighborhood grill. You’re looking at $$$ on the scale. Is it worth it? Most folks say yes because the quality of the seafood and the steak usually punches way above what you’d expect from a shopping center location. But if you’re on a tight budget, the "Lite Fare" section or the burgers are your best bet to keep the bill under control.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning to go, don't just wing it on a Friday night.
- Make a Reservation: Especially for indoor dining later in the week. You can do it online, but if you want one of the outdoor tables when the weather is nice, you have to call them directly at (609) 882-2800.
- Check the Specials: The regular menu is solid, but the kitchen usually has four or five daily specials that are way more experimental. That’s often where the best seafood hides.
- Parking is Easy: One perk of the strip mall life? You aren't circling the block for 20 minutes like you would be in Princeton. The Glen Roc lot is massive.
- Lunch vs. Dinner: They do a great lunch from Tuesday to Friday (starting at 11:30 AM). It’s a bit quieter and a great spot if you need to have a business meeting that doesn't feel stuffy.
The Catering Secret
A lot of people don't realize that they do huge party trays. They don't have a rigid "catering menu" where you have to pick Plan A or Plan B. Basically, if it’s on the menu, they’ll make a tray of it for you. Joe and the team are pretty flexible with this, which makes it a go-to for local office parties or graduation bashes in Ewing.
Whether you're there for a quick burger at the bar or a full-blown three-course Italian feast, Metro Grill manages to bridge that gap between "local hangout" and "fine dining" better than most. It’s a bit of an anomaly, but in a town like Ewing, that’s exactly why it works.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check their website or social media for the current "Summer Cocktail" or "Spring Beer" lists before you head out, as these rotate frequently.
- If you're heading there for dinner, aim for a 6:30 PM reservation to beat the loudest part of the bar rush while still catching the evening specials.
- Save room for the Tartufo—it’s the classic way to end a meal here and consistently hits the spot.