If there is one thing that New Jersey is great at, it's Italian food. Our state has one of the richest histories of Italian-American cuisine, and if you ask me, it's home to the best pizza in America. (Sorry, New York.)
Bergen County might be one of the best places in the Garden State to get Italian fare. So, when you're talking about a place that has great food by Bergen County standards, it's hard to ignore that kind of accolade. That's what brought me to Sanzari's New Bridge Inn, in New Milford.
Meet Sanzari's
Going to Sanzari's is something that you have to experience to fully understand, especially when it comes to ambiance. On one hand, you will go in there and get the feeling of a certain quiet elegance. Stepping in feels like you're walking into a country club's restaurant.
At the same time, Sanzari's also has a layout that looks like a wealthy relative's private home...and the friendliness of the staff matches that vibe. So while you may notice the elegance at first, it's the warmth of the people that really draws you in.
I sat outside and quickly saw everyone from families to business associates dining together. Not too far away from me, I couldn't help but notice that one of the restaurant's staff members knew one of the young children by name. It was a heartwarming thing to see.
I mean, how often do you hear of restaurants that know your kids by name?! That's amazing. Another thing that truly stands out is the way that chairs actually have the name of patrons and fans of the restaurant. It's definitely a people-oriented place.
Incredible Food
I need to be upfront: I'm not usually a fan of Italian. I'm very picky, and places that pile on cheese as a substitute for flavor will not go far with me. Sanzari's is not that kind of place. When I sat down, I quickly was presented several menus: bar bites, appetizers, and entrees.
The menu here definitely holds an Italian bent, but make no mistake about it. There are plenty of standard American platters for people who aren't quite ready to dive into pasta. I ended up trying a seafood ravioli on the special menu, and I was impressed. Oh, and I also nibbled on bread and olives.
Sanzari's knows how to make a remarkably smoky yet tangy pasta sauce that still offers a creamy texture. The sauce, as well as the portions, are decadent. Much like your favorite Italian nonna, Sanzari's is not going to let you go hungry.
Multiple Settings For Your Occasion
I loved the food here, but what really stood out to me is how vastly different each dining setting at Sanzari's is. I sat outside because I wanted to see the fall colors---and you absolutely can thanks to the beautiful patio and covered tent.
In the room next to the outdoor seating is a regal yet somewhat casual bar area with a fireplace. It almost looks like a British pub off in the countryside. In another part of the house, you can see an elegant and traditional fine dining setting. And, yet one more room has a banquet-ready feel.
What I'm saying is that this venue has something for everyone, even when it comes to settings.
My Verdict?
If you haven't already, give this place a try. You'll fall in love with it.
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