Axton's by Chef Anton Testino: Authentic Italian Fine Dining in Pompton Lakes, NJ

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino Introduce

For residents and visitors in Northern New Jersey seeking a truly exceptional dining experience, finding a local Italian restaurant that seamlessly blends classic flavors with contemporary culinary expertise is a treat. Axton's by Chef Anton Testino, located in Pompton Lakes, NJ, stands out as more than just a place for pasta; it is positioned as a destination for fine dining, offering a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, including those looking for high-quality vegan and gluten-free options. This establishment elevates the local dining scene by delivering an atmosphere that is at once cozy, quiet, romantic, and upscale.

Axton’s commitment to quality is evident across its extensive menu, which covers everything from classic Italian staples to fresh seafood and prime meats. Under the guidance of Chef Anton Testino, the restaurant prides itself on delivering dishes that are both rich in flavor and thoughtfully prepared. This makes it a popular choice for locals in search of a memorable meal, whether it’s a casual dinner, a special date night, or a celebration with family and friends. The positive feedback from patrons, highlighting the delicious food and great service, underscores its standing as a highly recommended establishment in the region.

The culinary philosophy here is broad and inclusive. The menu spans various categories, ensuring every guest finds something to enjoy. For instance, the savory Appetizers section features classics like Homemade Meatballs ($16.10), Fried Calamari ($20.70), and the unique Jekyll & Hyde Calamari ($21.85). Meat-eaters can indulge in premium cuts like the Prime Filet ($56.35) or Axton's Pork ($51.75). The extensive Chicken offerings include Chicken Parmigiana ($25.30), Chicken Marsala ($26.45), and the distinct Pesto Chicken ($28.75).

Pasta lovers have a variety of enticing choices, such as Baked Ziti ($23.00), Gnocchi ($26.45), and Spaghetti & Homemade Meatballs ($27.60). Furthermore, the menu caters exceptionally well to specialized diets. The dedicated Vegan Entrées section features items like Vegan Ravioli Parmigiana ($21.85), complemented by Vegan Pizzas (e.g., Large Classic Vegan Cheese Pizza for $20.70) and Vegan Stromboli. This dedication to diverse offerings solidifies its identity not just as an Italian eatery but as a conscientious, versatile fine-dining spot.

Location and Accessibility

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino is conveniently situated in the charming borough of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. The specific address is 437 Ringwood Ave, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442. This location makes it easily accessible for residents across Passaic County and surrounding areas in Northern New Jersey. As a local establishment, it is popular with area residents (Crowd: Locals) and also suitable for groups and families.

Accessibility is a key feature of the location, ensuring a welcoming experience for all patrons. The establishment provides essential features for ease of access:

Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom

In terms of parking, guests benefit from both a Free parking lot and the availability of Free street parking, making a visit less stressful from the moment of arrival. The combination of a central location within Pompton Lakes and these robust accessibility features enhances its appeal as a convenient dining option for the New Jersey community.

Services Offered

Axton's provides a comprehensive suite of service options to meet various dining preferences and needs:

Dine-in: Offering a romantic, quiet, and upscale atmosphere for enjoying the full fine-dining experience.
Takeout: Convenient service for patrons who wish to enjoy their Italian favorites at home.
Delivery: Available for those within the service area who prefer to have their meals brought to them.
No-contact delivery: A safe and convenient option for delivery services.
Outdoor seating: An option for guests who prefer dining in the open air (Service options).
Catering: Available for events and special gatherings, allowing clients to bring the restaurant’s fine cuisine to their private functions.
Table Service & Counter Service: The primary method for enjoying lunch and dinner.
Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, and dinner reservations are highly recommended, suggesting the establishment is often busy.

Features / Highlights

The following features and highlights contribute to Axton's reputation and appeal among New Jersey diners:

Exceptional Offerings: The restaurant is classified as an Italian restaurant, Fine dining restaurant, Gluten-free restaurant, Restaurant, Seafood restaurant, and Vegan restaurant, highlighting its broad culinary capability.
Specialized Menus: Features dedicated Vegan options and Gluten-free dishes, making it an inclusive spot for various dietary requirements.
Quality Beverages and Desserts: Patrons frequently highlight the Great coffee and Great dessert, with selections such as Homemade Cannoli Dip ($13.80) and Chocolate Lava Cake ($13.80).
Diverse Dining Options: Popular for Lunch, Dinner, and even Solo dining, with offerings including Comfort food, Happy hour food, and Late-night food.
Atmosphere and Crowd: The dining environment is described as Cozy, Quiet, Romantic, and Upscale, drawing a crowd that includes Family-friendly groups, Groups, and Locals.
Children's Amenities: The venue is considered Good for kids and provides High chairs and a specific Kids' menu.
Private Dining: A Private dining room is available for special events or more intimate gatherings.
Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods including Debit cards and NFC mobile payments.

Contact Information

To plan a visit or make a reservation, customers can use the following details:

Address: 437 Ringwood Ave, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442

Phone: (973) 831-0037

Mobile Phone: +1 973-831-0037

What is Worth Choosing

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino is a worthwhile choice for New Jersey diners for several compelling reasons. It delivers a fine dining experience without being exclusionary, evidenced by the warm, welcoming atmosphere that still maintains an upscale, romantic feel. The diverse menu is arguably its strongest asset, ensuring that everyone at the table, from the traditional Italian food enthusiast to guests requiring vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options, has an abundance of thoughtfully prepared, high-quality choices. The availability of diverse seafood like the Shrimp Al Vodka ($31.05) and the acclaimed O Sole Mio Seafood ($40.25), alongside premium meats, elevates its status beyond a simple neighborhood spot.

Furthermore, the high marks given for service—with customer reviews praising the staff as "awesome" and "super personable"—combined with the recommendation for dinner reservations, points to a reliable and popular dining experience. The restaurant is a destination for special occasions and regular outings alike, offering consistency in its culinary output and a commitment to customer comfort through excellent service and robust accessibility options. For those in North Jersey seeking a dependable, high-quality, and versatile Italian restaurant experience, Axton’s by Chef Anton Testino in Pompton Lakes is a clear choice.

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino Food & drink

Vegan Pizzas*
Large Classic Vegan Cheese Pizza $20.70
100% vegan dough and sauce topped with vegan cheese.
Large Vegan Pepe Rosso Pizza $31.05
Made with grilled eggplant, homemade roasted red peppers and zucchini, topped with vegan cheese.
Large Vegan Chicken Parmigiana Pizza $33.35
Fresh breaded vegan chicken made with oats and wheat, sliced thin and topped with vegan cheese.
Large Vegan Fungo Pizza $31.05
Made with grilled portobello mushrooms, baby spinach and roasted tomatoes, topped with vegan cheese.

Risotto*
*NEW* Spring Fling Risotto $42.55
Jumbo shrimp served over a bed of risotto with sautéed shallots, diced apples and grape tomatoes in a lemon apple mango sherry wine sauce, tossed with fresh baby arugula.
Chicken Carmelo Risotto $40.25
All natural roasted chicken breast served over a bed of risotto with sautéed sliced garlic, caramelized shallots and shiitake mushrooms in a brown sherry wine sauce, smothered in melted fresh mozzarella and garnished with braised baby spinach.
*NEW* Chicken Limone Risotto $40.25
All natural roasted chicken breast served over a bed of risotto with sautéed diced onions, sliced garlic, fresh grilled zucchini and grape tomatoes in a lemon sherry wine sauce, topped with melted fresh mozzarella.
Shrimp Risotto $42.55
Jumbo shrimp served over a bed of risotto made with sautéed caramelized shallots, portobello mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes and diced shrimp in a marsala wine sauce, garnished with grilled asparagus and smoked bacon.

Vegan Stromboli*
10" Vegan Cheese Stromboli $11.50
100% vegan dough stuffed with vegan cheese and your choice of toppings.
16" Vegan Cheese Stromboli $18.40
100% vegan dough stuffed with vegan cheese and your choice of toppings.

Vegan Appetizers*
Vegan Garlic Bread $13.80
Our homemade vegan focaccia bread, topped with minced garlic, oregano and melted vegan cheese.

Appetizers*
Chicken Wings $13.80
Served with your choice of BBQ, buffalo, garlic parmesan, teriyaki or sweet chili wing sauce and bleu cheese or ranch dipping sauce.
Fried Calamari $20.70
Crispy and tender calamari marinated in our homemade batter and served with our homemade marinara sauce. Your choice of Hot, Medium or Sweet.
Spiedini $17.25
Classic fried Italian bread stuffed with fresh, melted mozzarella cheese, baked to a glaze in a lemon caper sherry wine sauce with a slight hint of anchovy.
Garlic Bread $11.50
Our homemade Italian focaccia bread topped with minced garlic, oregano, grated parmesan and melted mozzarella cheese.
5, 4, 3 Combo $18.40
5 buffalo wings, 4 mozzarella sticks and 3 chicken tenders, served with honey mustard.
Jekyll & Hyde Calamari $21.85
Crispy and tender calamari served with Chef Anton’s signature sweet and spicy apple balsamic sauce, made with roasted peppers over a bed of fresh baby arugula, topped with toasted almonds. Starts off Sweet, ends with Heat!
Mussels Marinara $20.70
Fresh organic mussels served in our homemade marinara sauce. Your choice of Hot, Medium or Sweet.
Homemade Meatballs $16.10
Handmade ground angus and pork meatballs served with sautéed sliced onions and roasted peppers in a light plum tomato basil sauce, topped with ricotta cheese and garnished with a fresh basil purée.
Axton's Wings $16.10
Served with a sweet and spicy apple balsamic glaze made with sautéed diced apples.
Crab Cakes $21.85
Rockefeller style crabcakes served over a piece of garlic crostini, served with a garlic cream tarragon sauce.
Roasted Tomato Bruschetta $16.10
Toasted Italian crostini topped with a ricotta spread, roasted grape tomatoes, caramelized onions and a drizzle of honey.
Mozzarella Sticks $10.35
Served with homemade marinara dipping sauce.
Clams Casino $18.40
Little neck clams stuffed with a homemade roasted pepper breadcrumb crust, topped with minced bacon, baked in a lemon white wine sauce and crisped to perfection!
Chicken Tenders & Fries $13.80
Served with honey mustard dipping sauce.
Mussels Verde $21.85
Blue point mussels and sautéed diced shallots in our green basil purée sauce.

Chicken*
Pesto Chicken $28.75
All natural roasted chicken breast served with sautéed diced shallots and minced garlic in a light cream sherry basil purée sauce over fettuccine, topped with fresh grated parmesan cheese.
The Nicolette Chicken $26.45
Homemade roasted pepper breadcrumb crusted chicken with sliced caramelized onions sautéed with roasted red peppers in a light pink vodka sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and smoked bacon, served over a bed of penne.
The David Chicken $32.20
All natural chicken breast coated with our homemade roasted pepper breadcrumb crust, served with caramelized sliced onions, fresh sliced garlic and a touch of plum tomato in a light pomodoro sauce, topped with roasted peppers and grilled eggplant, smothered in melted fresh mozzarella over a bed of capellini and garnished with braised baby spinach.
Laghi Di Pompton Chicken $32.20
All natural chicken breast coated with our homemade roasted pepper breadcrumb crust, served with sautéed shallots and shiitake mushrooms in a lemon garlic sherry wine sauce, topped with roasted grape tomatoes and melted fresh mozzarella over a bed of linguine and garnished with braised baby spinach.
Chicken Esperanza $33.35
All natural roasted chicken breast baked in a brown sherry wine sauce with sautéed sliced garlic, caramelized onions, sweet Italian sausage and portobello mushrooms, topped with roasted peppers, sliced tomatoes, prosciutto and melted fresh mozzarella, served over homemade mashed potatoes and garnished with sautéed broccoli rabe.
Chicken Parmigiana $25.30
Homemade roasted pepper breadcrumb crusted chicken baked in our homemade marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and served over penne.
Chicken Marsala $26.45
Fresh all natural roasted chicken breast with sautéed diced onions, fresh portobello mushrooms and diced prosciutto in a sweet marsala wine sauce, served over a bed of linguine.
Chicken Francese $26.45
Egg-battered chicken in a lemon Chablis wine sauce, served over a bed of linguine and garnished with fresh lemon.

Soups*
Stracciatella Soup $10.35
Traditional italian spinach egg drop soup.

Salads*
Caprese Salad $16.10
Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and roasted red peppers over a bed of romaine lettuce, garnished with kalamata olives and served with our homemade Mediterranean balsamic vinaigrette.
Chopped Salad $16.10
Baby spinach topped with fresh grape tomatoes, diced apples, black Italian grapes, walnuts and crumbled feta cheese, served with our homemade lemon garlic basil vinaigrette.
Apple Mango Salad $16.10
Fresh sliced apples, diced tomatoes and provolone, served over baby spinach and arugula, topped with crumbled feta, toasted almonds and raisins, served with our homemade apple mango vinaigrette.
Garden Salad $13.80
Fresh chopped romaine lettuce topped with diced tomatoes, red onions and roasted peppers, garnished with black olives and served with our homemade Mediterranean balsamic vinaigrette.
Classic Caesar Salad $13.80
Fresh chopped romaine lettuce topped with homemade croutons and grated parmesan cheese, served with our homemade Caesar dressing.

Vegan Entrées*
Vegan Ravioli Parmigiana $21.85
Homemade vegan ravioli stuffed with artichoke hearts, spinach and mushrooms, topped with our 100% vegan marinara sauce and melted vegan cheese.

Meats*
Prime Filet $56.35
A Whopping Ten Ounce Filet Mignon perfectly seared and served over a bed of our homemade mashed potatoes, garnished with grilled asparagus.
Axton's Pork $51.75
A Show-Stopping Twenty Ounce Rack of Pork pan seared and slow roasted to order with black Italian grapes in a spicy port wine balsamic sauce, served over a bed of homemade mashed potatoes and garnished with smoked bacon and crumbled feta cheese.

Seafood*
Shrimp Al Vodka $31.05
Fresh jumbo shrimp served with sautéed diced onions, fresh basil and plum tomatoes in a light pink vodka sauce over linguine.
O Sole Mio Seafood $40.25
Jumbo shrimp and fresh Maine diver scallops served with blue point mussels, little neck clams, caramelized diced shallots, sautéed sliced garlic, fresh roasted grape tomatoes and peas in a light lemon olio sauce over linguine.
Pesto Shrimp $34.50
Fresh jumbo shrimp served with sautéed diced shallots and minced garlic in a light cream sherry basil purée sauce over fettuccine, topped with fresh grated parmesan cheese.
Shrimp Scampi $31.05
Fresh jumbo shrimp served in a white wine garlic butter sauce with a dash of lemon over linguine.
Seafood Marechiara $42.55
Jumbo shrimp and Maine diver scallops served with blue point mussels, little neck clams and fresh calamari in a light plum tomato basil sauce over linguine, garnished with fresh basil.
Shrimp Marinara Or Fra Diavolo $31.05
Fresh jumbo shrimp served with sautéed sliced garlic and fresh basil in our homemade plum tomato marinara sauce over linguine.
Linguine With Clam Sauce $31.05
Your choice of red or white sauce, served with fresh chopped cherry stone clams and little neck clams over a bed of linguine.

Calzones & Stromboli*
16" Cheese Calzone $24.15
Stuffed with ricotta and aged mozzarella cheese.
10" Vegetable Stromboli $20.70
Stuffed with your choice of classic or grilled eggplant, roasted peppers and spinach with aged mozzarella cheese.
16" Classic Italian Stromboli $32.20
Stuffed with prosciutto, pepperoni and aged mozzarella cheese.
10" Cheese Stromboli $17.25
Stuffed with aged mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
10" Cheese Calzone $17.25
Stuffed with ricotta and aged mozzarella cheese.
16" Cheese Stromboli $21.85
Stuffed with aged mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
16" Vegetable Stromboli $32.20
Stuffed with your choice of classic or grilled eggplant, roasted peppers and spinach with aged mozzarella cheese.
10" Classic Italian Stromboli $20.70
Stuffed with prosciutto, pepperoni and aged mozzarella cheese.

Pastas*
Cavatelli & Broccoli Rabe $25.30
Served with sautéed onions, sliced and minced garlic tossed with homemade cavatelli and diced broccoli rabe in an extra virgin olive oil.
Marinara Sauce $21.85
Served with fresh sliced garlic, whole plum tomatoes, fresh basil, herbs, spices and extra virgin olive oil, slow cooked to perfection.
Rigatoni Arrabbiata $23.00
Caramelized sliced onions, fresh sliced garlic and diced prosciutto in a spicy light pink basil sauce.
Gnocchi $26.45
Served with caramelized onions and sliced garlic in a light plum tomato basil sauce, tossed with melted fresh mozzarella and garnished with braised baby spinach.
Baked Ziti $23.00
Made with ricotta cheese and our homemade marinara sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
*NEW* Homemade Mafalda $27.60
Served with sautéed sliced onions, fresh zucchini, grape tomatoes and fresh sliced garlic in an extra virgin olive oil sauce with a hint of lemon, garnished with crumbled feta cheese.
Alfredo Sauce $21.85
Served in a velvety cream sauce with grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
Vegetable Ravioli $28.75
Homemade vegetable ravioli stuffed with artichoke hearts, spinach and mushrooms, served with sautéed thinly sliced garlic, shiitake mushrooms and fresh roasted grape tomatoes in a lemon chablis olio sauce, garnished with braised baby spinach.
Vodka Sauce $21.85
Served with caramelized diced onions and fresh basil in a plum tomato basil sauce with a touch of cream, tossed with pecorino Romano cheese.
Cavatelli Di Bari $26.45
Served with crumbled sweet Italian sausage, diced broccoli rabe, roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed onions, sliced and minced garlic tossed with homemade cavatelli in an extra virgin olive oil.
Spaghetti & Homemade Meatballs $27.60
Five of our homemade 100% ground angus meatballs served with caramelized onions, fresh sliced garlic and basil in our homemade plum tomato sauce.
Short Rib Ravioli $28.75
Served with caramelized shallots, smoked bacon, shiitake mushrooms and a touch of fresh basil in a light cream sherry wine sauce.

Classic Pizzas*
Large Traditional Cheese Pizza $19.55
Topped with homemade sauce, aged mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
Large Margherita Pizza $25.30
Homemade plum tomato marinara topped with fresh mozzarella and basil, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
Large Donna's Famous Sicilian Pizza $25.30
Donna's famous recipe, topped with homemade sauce, aged mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
Large Nonna's Pizza $25.30
Our thin crust pan pizza topped with aged mozzarella, plum tomato marinara and basil, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
Large White Pizza $26.45
Made with aged mozzarella, ricotta and melted provolone.

Desserts*
Homemade Cannoli Dip $13.80
Homemade cannoli cream served with cannoli shell pieces for dipping, garnished with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Chocolate Lava Cake $13.80
Served warm with our homemade strawberry brandy sauce, topped with a scoop of vanilla gelato and whipped cream.
Limoncello Mascarpone Cake $13.80
Double-layer lemon infused sponge cake filled with mascarpone cream, topped with white chocolate curls and garnished with whipped cream.

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Assistive hearing loop

Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy hour food
Late-night food
Private dining room
Vegan options
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Cozy
Quiet
Romantic
Upscale

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
Locals

Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Parking

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino Photos

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino Location

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino

New Jersey Passaic County Pompton Lakes Ringwood Avenue

437 Ringwood Ave, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442, USA

Axton's by Chef Anton Testino Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 992 user reviews.

food and servicecalamaririsottopork chopBYOBappetizersscallopsthe menupieshort rib ravioli

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

The food and service were great! The atmosphere would have been perfect- except it looked like they were under co structuring with unfinished drywall. We ordered dinner specials. From burrata appetizer to salmon over risotto and affogato for dessert, it was all very yummy and rich- what you’d expect from a fine dining restaurant. We will be back for date night or special occasions!
October 16 · Darcie Hunter
Place was great and waitress was Emma was awesome. Great attitude and super personable. Food was delicious and rack of pork was a 10 out of 10 and the sauce was to die do. The chicken and pasta was delicious and the last was super fresh. Salads were salads so nothing nothing special. Overall highly recommended
October 11 · Jon Rogers
Chef Anton has done it again!I was hungry, so I forgot to take a picture of our appetizer. We chose the chef special, which was a medley of shrimp, scallops, mussels, stuffed claws, and fried calamari .Dinner i choose the scallop special over pasta seasoned to perfection with tomatoes, herbs, garlic, and topped with feta cheese.My spouse chose the seafood plate on the regular menu. You can never get enough seafood over homemade pasta.I have told you about the homemade bread...Well, I passed on dessert for a loaf of bread 🥖 to go. What better to extend your meal. I can't wait to make French toast for breakfast. ( It was the chefs 👨‍🍳 suggestion. )Have I mentioned it's a Byob 🍷🍾I can't wait to go back again.
July 31 · susan mazar
We have been here several times... a lil pricey (be ready!) but fabulous food!! And the desserts are excellent as well... mmwwwaaah! Great birthday dinner!
July 27 · Heidi Scholl
Axton’s is truly a gem in Pompton Lakes! The food is always amazing and consistent — every dish is prepared with care, and the menu stays fresh and exciting with options that never disappoint. The hospitality is warm and welcoming, making you feel like part of the family the moment you walk in.We recently brought our 1.5-year-old daughter, and the staff couldn’t have been more accommodating — it made the experience even more special for us as a family. Fran, our waitress, is always such a joy to talk to, providing top-notch service with genuine kindness. And seeing Chef Anton pop out to say hello is always a treat that adds a personal touch to the meal.From the food to the atmosphere to the people, Axton’s never misses a beat. It’s a place where you know you’ll have a wonderful experience every single time.
September 05 · Andrew Colaneri