fromscratch cookingclass

- 44 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450

When New Jersey residents are searching for an Italian dining experience that transports them straight to Rome, the name From Scratch Cooking Classes in Ridgewood often comes up. This beloved Bergen County spot is more than just a restaurant; it’s a slice of authentic Italian culture, founded by Rome native Chef Claudia Rovegno. Since opening its physical storefront after a successful start as an online gourmet dinner service in 2014, From Scratch has cemented its reputation for a deep commitment to tradition, quality, and the simple, beautiful art of Italian cooking. The restaurant’s philosophy is captured perfectly in its name: every dish is prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and made entirely from scratch, a dedication you can truly taste.

For those in North Jersey and beyond, From Scratch offers a uniquely genuine Italian experience that stands out from the typical Italian-American fare. The intimate, cozy setting and inviting atmosphere make every visit feel like stepping into a small, cherished eatery in Italy. Whether you are craving the classic pasta dishes of Rome or looking to try a unique, handmade specialty, this is a destination that consistently earns high praise for its food quality and passion for culinary excellence. Diners frequently rave about the fresh, tender, homemade pasta—a true labor of love that highlights the restaurant's ethos. It’s an ideal setting for both a casual lunch or a special, intimate dinner.

The menu, rooted in Chef Claudia's Roman heritage, features rich, fresh flavors and traditional recipes. For pasta lovers, the selection is nothing short of exceptional, focusing on the simple, yet profound, flavors of authentic Roman cuisine. Imagine indulging in creamy, peppery Tonnarelli Cacio & Pepe, a dish that highlights the restaurant's commitment to using the highest quality ingredients to achieve perfect simplicity. Beyond the main courses, guests can enjoy beautifully presented appetizers and exquisite desserts, all crafted with the same careful attention to detail and authenticity.

Location and Accessibility

From Scratch is perfectly situated in the heart of one of Bergen County's most charming and vibrant towns. You can find this authentic Italian gem at the following address:

44 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA

Ridgewood is easily accessible to residents throughout Northern New Jersey. The location is in the bustling downtown area, which offers a variety of public parking options, including street parking and nearby parking garages, making it convenient for both local patrons and those traveling from surrounding towns like Glen Rock, Waldwick, Paramus, and Wyckoff. Whether you are planning a lunch break, a special evening out, or stopping by to pick up a catering order, its central location in Ridgewood's downtown makes for an easy and pleasant visit. The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot to simply walk in, though reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, given the restaurant’s intimate size and popularity.

Services Offered

From Scratch is dedicated to offering a variety of ways to enjoy their authentic Italian food, from dining in to taking the art of Italian cooking home with you.

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy the full, cozy, and casual dining experience for both lunch and dinner.
• Takeout: Conveniently pick up your favorite dishes to enjoy at home.
• Private Events & Catering: The restaurant is available to host private events in its cozy, intimate space, and also offers catering services to bring the 'from scratch' feast to your corporate event, family gathering, or celebration.
• Hands-on Cooking Classes: A truly unique offering, Chef Claudia and Roberto guide home chefs of all skill levels through the art of preparing authentic Italian dishes from scratch. These popular classes are held on-site, allowing you to not only taste the flavors of Italy but also learn the techniques yourself.
• BYOB Policy: Guests are permitted to bring their own alcoholic beverages (wine and beer) to complement their meal, offering a personalized touch to the dining experience.
• Menu Selections: Offers a full menu for lunch and dinner, featuring appetizers, main pasta and meat dishes, and desserts.

Features / Highlights

What makes From Scratch a must-visit Italian restaurant in New Jersey is its blend of authentic Italian roots, culinary quality, and a warm, inviting environment.

• Authentic Roman Cuisine: The menu is heavily influenced by the culinary traditions of Rome, Chef Claudia Rovegno's hometown, ensuring an authentic taste of Italy that is often described by patrons as a truly transporting experience.
• Homemade Pasta and Ingredients: True to its name, everything is made from scratch—from the fresh, tender pasta to the rich, flavorful sauces—using only the finest, high-quality ingredients, some imported from Italy.
• Signature Roman Pasta Dishes: The restaurant is highly regarded for its perfect execution of Roman pasta classics, including the Rigatoni Carbonara (made with egg yolk, Roman Pecorino, and imported guanciale), Tonnarelli Cacio & Pepe, and Rigatoni Gricia.
• Hands-On Cooking Classes: A rare and engaging feature that allows the community to learn traditional Italian cooking methods directly from an expert. These classes embody the spirit of sharing the passion for Italian food and culture.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The dining space is intimate, warm, and casual, fostering a feeling of family and home, reflecting the Italian motto of "Cook with Love."
• Popular Dining Spot: Highly rated by locals, the restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and is noted as a great option for solo dining.
• Fast Service: Despite its small size, the restaurant is known for its efficient and attentive service.
• Comfort Food: The menu centers around comforting, hearty, and flavorful Italian dishes.

Contact Information

To make a reservation for a delightful meal or to inquire about a hands-on cooking class, you can reach out to From Scratch using the following details:

Address: 44 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA

Phone: (201) 857-5188

What is Worth Choosing

For New Jersey food lovers, choosing From Scratch is choosing authenticity, quality, and a truly memorable culinary journey. The concept of making everything literally from scratch elevates the dining experience beyond the ordinary, delivering a freshness and depth of flavor that is hard to match. It is not merely a meal; it is an experience rooted in Italian tradition and passion.

The main dishes are a highlight and offer a masterclass in classic Roman cuisine. Dishes like the Carbonara ($26.00) or the Gricia ($25.00) are prepared with traditional ingredients and techniques, offering a taste that many feel is the best outside of Italy. For those looking for something richer, the Carbonara with Truffle Cream ($32.00) is an indulgent option. If you prefer baked pasta, the homemade Lasagna Alla Bolognese ($30.00) and the unique Lasagna Cacio & Pepe ($30.00) are fan favorites. The menu expertly balances comfort food with a sophisticated execution, evident in dishes like the Spigola Al Cartoccio ($38.00), a baked sea bass dish.

The antipasti selection perfectly sets the stage for your meal, with options like the classic Eggplant Parmigiana ($24.00), hearty Meatballs Cacio & Pepe ($20.00), or the fresh Panzanella With Burrata ($22.00). What truly distinguishes this Ridgewood spot is the dual-offering of dining and education. For those who appreciate the craft, the hands-on cooking classes are an invaluable opportunity to learn the simplicity and genuine spirit of Italian home cooking from a native Roman chef, turning a simple dinner out into a lasting skill.

In short, From Scratch in Ridgewood is worth choosing because it delivers an uncompromisingly authentic, high-quality, and homemade Italian meal in a welcoming setting. It’s a local New Jersey jewel that truly connects its patrons with the heart of Italian cooking.

fromscratch cookingclass

44 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA