Justin's Ristorante Introduce
Introduction / Overview: Experience Authentic Italian Comfort at Justin's Ristorante
For New Jersey residents, finding an Italian restaurant that truly feels like a neighborhood gem while delivering authentic, high-quality cuisine can be a challenge. Look no further than Justin's Ristorante, nestled in the heart of Hawthorne. This is not merely an Italian restaurant; it is a cherished local institution that has built a reputation on time-honored recipes, generous portions, and a dining experience that perfectly balances comfort and elegance.
Justin's Ristorante captures the essence of traditional Italian dining, specializing in the classic Comfort food that New Jersey families crave. The menu is a comprehensive journey through Italian culinary traditions, from robust red sauces and perfectly cooked pasta to delicate veal and fresh seafood preparations. Diners consistently describe the atmosphere as an inviting blend of Casual, Cozy, and distinctly Romantic, making it ideal for a weeknight family dinner, a celebratory outing with Groups, or a special date night.
One of the restaurant’s defining qualities is its dedication to exceptional service and a warm, inviting environment. Reviews praise the "attentive service" and the “cozy yet elegant atmosphere” that sets the stage for a memorable meal. Justin's Ristorante has successfully positioned itself as a culinary haven for the Hawthorne area, offering not only spectacular Lunch and Dinner options but also boasting particular highlights like Great dessert and Great coffee to complete the Italian dining ritual.
Whether you are a long-time resident of Passaic County or simply passing through, a visit to Justin's Ristorante promises a taste of handcrafted Italian cooking, served with the professional care and friendly hospitality that truly defines a superior New Jersey dining spot. With a wide range of menu choices, from the famous Pollo Alla Parmigiano to expertly prepared Pesce / Seafood, everyone—including children, thanks to a dedicated Kids' menu—will find something to love.
Location and Accessibility
Conveniently located in Hawthorne, Justin's Ristorante provides easy access for residents across Northern New Jersey. The location at 234 Lafayette Ave makes it a central and identifiable spot within the local community.
Address: 234 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
Accessibility has been thoughtfully addressed for all patrons. The establishment features a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming experience for all guests. For those driving, the restaurant provides practical parking solutions, including access to a Free parking lot and available Free street parking, minimizing the common inconvenience of parking in a busy New Jersey town.
The flexibility extends to payment options, accommodating modern preferences with acceptance of Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. This focus on convenience complements the welcoming atmosphere, making a visit to Justin's Ristorante a smooth and pleasant experience from arrival to departure.
Services Offered
Justin's Ristorante is designed to serve the community with comprehensive and flexible dining solutions, ensuring that the delicious Italian cuisine is accessible for any occasion, whether it’s a quick meal or a large gathering.
- Dine-in Service: Offering Table service for Lunch and Dinner in a Cozy, Romantic atmosphere. Dinner reservations recommended and Accepts reservations to secure your table during peak hours.
- Takeout and Delivery: For maximum convenience, the full menu is available for Takeout or Delivery, allowing customers to enjoy authentic Italian food at home.
- Catering and Events: Providing comprehensive Catering services, the restaurant can accommodate large events. Furthermore, a dedicated Private dining room is available for special gatherings, parties, or business functions.
- All-Day Offerings: Serving an extensive range of items, including Coffee and fine Dessert options, making it a perfect stop at any time of day.
- Dedicated Children's Menu: A specific Kids' menu features favorites like Chicken Parmigiano and Cheese Ravioli at reasonable prices, emphasizing the Family-friendly environment.
- Beverage Service: Offering a selection of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, including Wine and other Alcohol options to perfectly complement the Italian meal.
Features / Highlights
The popularity of Justin's Ristorante in Hawthorne is built upon a foundation of genuine Italian flavors and a host of customer-centric features:
- Specialty Pasta Selection: The restaurant excels in its Farinacei Pasta section. Signature pasta dishes like the creamy Penne Alla Vodka and the authentic Bowtie Rustiche (with broccoli rabe, sun-dried tomatoes, and sweet sausage) showcase the kitchen’s ability to execute both classic and unique Italian flavors. Other highlights include Rigatoni Maritale and the refreshing Capellini Pomodoro E Basilico.
- Traditional Veal and Chicken Dishes: The Pollo / Chicken and Vitello / Veal menus are extensive, featuring all the essential Italian-American comfort classics. Favorites include Pollo Alla Parmigiano, Pollo Marsala, and specialty preparations like Chicken Justin and Vitello Piemontese. Diners can also enjoy any Scaloppine A Piacere, prepared in styles such as francese, marsala, piccata, or parmigiana.
- Focus on Fresh Seafood (Pesce): The restaurant offers high-quality seafood options, most notably the impressive Zuppa Di Pesce (a rich seafood stew), Gamberoni A Piacere (shrimp prepared any style), and expertly prepared fish like Grilled Salmon and Dentice Alla Tarantina (Red Snapper). These options satisfy those looking for lighter, Healthy options.
- Appetizer Variety (Caldi & Freddi): The appetizers provide a perfect start to any meal. Hot appetizers (Caldi) include the crispy Calamari Fritti and the popular Mozzarella En Carrozza. Cold selections (Appetizers Freddi) feature the classic Antipasto Freddi and the elegant Prosciutto & Melone.
- Exceptional Service and Ambiance: High praise is consistently given for the Fast service and the overall atmosphere, described as a "delightful dining experience." The cozy and intimate setting makes it a go-to choice for New Jersey locals seeking a pleasant and relaxed evening out.
- Serves Local Specialty: As a dedicated local establishment, the menu often features classic, regional Italian-American favorites that are considered a local specialty in Northern New Jersey, often celebrated through their popular preparations of dishes like Penne Alla Vodka and hearty portions of Pollo Alla Parmigiano—dishes that resonate deeply with the local palate.
Contact Information
To secure a reservation, inquire about catering, or place a takeout order, New Jersey residents can reach Justin's Ristorante using the information below:
Address: 234 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
Phone: (973) 423-4345
What is Worth Choosing
When faced with the extensive and appealing menu at Justin's Ristorante, certain dishes consistently emerge as must-try recommendations for New Jersey diners seeking the full Italian experience. Choosing a popular and expertly executed signature dish ensures a meal that truly reflects the restaurant's high standards.
First and foremost, the Pollo Alla Parmigiano is widely recognized as a top choice. This classic dish is a benchmark for any Italian restaurant, and Justin's rendition, featuring tender chicken breast covered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, served over linguini, is noted for being prepared to perfection. It is consistently one of the most ordered items and a testament to the restaurant's mastery of essential Italian Comfort food.
For pasta lovers, the Penne Alla Vodka is an undeniable highlight. This dish, featuring pasta tossed in a delicious pink sauce, is a beloved staple of Italian-American cuisine. At Justin's Ristorante, it represents a rich, creamy, and flavorful experience that has garnered high praise from patrons.
Finally, for a taste of authentic Northern Italian fare and a more luxurious experience, the Zuppa Di Pesce is worth choosing. This impressive seafood soup includes a fresh and hearty mixture of clams, shrimp, scallops, calamari, and mussels, prepared in your choice of a vibrant marinara or a spicy fra diavolo sauce, and served over capellini pasta. This dish demonstrates the kitchen's capability in preparing complex Pesce / Seafood dishes and provides a memorable centerpiece for any dinner.
Beyond the main courses, diners should always leave room for dessert, as the restaurant is locally known for its Great dessert offerings. A perfect meal at Justin's Ristorante is completed with a rich dessert paired with their highly-rated Great coffee, solidifying its status as a complete, authentic, and enjoyable Italian dining destination in Hawthorne, NJ.
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Justin's Ristorante Vibe
Carne / Meat
- Bistecca Di Manzo $32.95
Charcoal grilled rib eye steak.
- Bistecca & Gamberi Alla Griglia $35.95
Rib eye steak grilled to your liking topped with sautéed shrimp in a zesty garlic sauce.
- Blackened Pork Chops $28.95
Two blackened or grilled pork chops, served over sautéed broccoli rabe.
Verdure / Vegetables
- Broccoli Oreganata $7.95
Baked broccoli spears with garlic, oil, cheese & bread crumbs.
- Spinach Aglio Olio $7.95
Spinach sautéed with garlic & oil.
- Broccoli Rabe Aglio Olio $7.95
Sautéed with garlic & oil.
Minestre / Soup
- French Onion Soup $6.95
- Minestrone Dell Ortollano $6.95
Mixed vegetable & pasta soup.
- Pasta Fagioli $6.95
Beans & pasta soup.
- Zuppa Di Giorno $6.95
Soup of the day.
Insalata / Salad
- Manny's Insalata $9.95
Mixed Tricolor salad topped with gorgonzola cheese, walnuts & balsamic vinaigrette.
- Santa Lucia Salad $9.95
Combination of sliced tomatoes, red onion, fresh mozzarella & basil over a bed of arugula.
- Insalata Mista $6.95
Mixed green salad in our vinaigrette dressing.
- Insalata Alla Cesare $7.95
Romaine lettuce with traditional Caesar dressing.
Children's Menu
- Chicken Parmigiano $12.95
With French fries.
- Cheese Ravioli $12.95
With marinara sauce.
- Chicken Tenders $12.95
With French fries.
- Pasta Marinara $12.95
Served with small soda and scoop of ice cream.
Farinacei Pasta
- Bowtie Rustiche $23.95
Broccoli rabe, sun-dried tomatoes & sweet sausage with a light olive oil and garlic sauce.
- Orecchiette Alla Barese $21.95
Orecchiette pasta with arugula, diced mozzarella & fresh tomato.
- Rigatoni Maritale $26.95
Sautéed shrimp and scallops with diced plum tomatoes tossed with rigatoni pasta & light tomato sauce.
- Penne Alla Vodka $22.95
With peas in a delicious pink sauce.
- Capellini Pomodoro E Basilico $19.95
Capellini with fresh tomato, onions & basil.
- Cozze Alla Buengustaio $22.95
Mussels served over linguini with your choice of bianco, marinara or fra diavolo.
- Linguini Clam Sauce $23.95
Linguini flavored with fresh clams in your choice of red or white sauce.
- Penne Alla Toscana $23.95
Broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes & artichokes with garlic, oil & a touch of fresh tomato.
Caldi
- Involtini Di Melanzane $11.95
Eggplant stuffed with ricotta cheese, topped with marinara sauce & melted mozzarella.
- Cozze Alla Buengustaio $12.95
Mussels prepared in bianco, marinara or fra diavolo.
- Funghi Ripiene $12.95
Mushrooms stuffed with mixed seafood, served with lemon sauce.
- Mozzarella En Carrozza $11.95
Brick oven bread buttered & stuffed with mozzarella, pan-fried & served with marinara sauce or anchovie & garlic sauce.
- Calamari Fritti $16.95
Fried squid served with your choice of mild or hot sauce.
- Zuppa Di Vongole $15.95
One dozen steamed clams with clam broth, extra virgin olive oil, white wine and garlic.
Appetizers Freddi
- Antipasto Freddi - Cold Antipasto $13.95
Combination of cold cuts and cheeses served over romaine lettuce.
- Cocktail Di Gamberetti $15.95
Classic shrimp cocktail.
- Prosciutto & Melone $11.95
Fresh chilled melon topped with prosciutto.
- San Marsano $12.95
Sliced fresh tomatoes, roasted peppers & homemade mozzarella, served over arugula.
Pollo / Chicken
- Pollo Nostrano $25.95
Boneless breast sautéed with red onions, wild mushrooms & peas in a white wine sauce.
- Pollo Marsala $23.95
Boneless breast sautéed with mushrooms in a marsala wine sauce.
- Lemon And Garlic Pollo $25.95
Boneless breast sautéed with wild mushrooms, garlic, demi-glaze and a hint of lemon.
- Petti Di Pollo Paillard $23.95
Boneless breast of chicken, charcoal grilled, served over tricolor salad.
- Chicken Justin $25.95
Breast of chicken sauteed with artichoke hearts, mushrooms & sun-dried tomatoes with a brandy demi-glaze.
- Pollo San Remo $25.95
Breast of chicken topped with roasted peppers and mozzarella, sauteed with wine and basil.
- Pollo Pumante $25.95
Sun-dried tomatoes, sherry, shallots & cream.
- Pollo Alla Parmigiano $21.95
Served over linguini.
- Pollo Florentina $25.95
Breast of chicken topped with spinach, mozzarella & marsala wine sauce.
Vitello / Veal
- Vitello Piemontese $28.95
Veal scaloppine with shiitake mushrooms, pine nuts, fresh basil & diced tomatoes in a white wine.
- Scaloppine A Piacere $26.95
Veal prepared any style francese, marsala, piccata or parmigiana
- Scaloppine Di Vitello Saltimbocca $28.95
Veal scaloppine topped with prosciutto, spinach & mozzarella cheese in a sherry wine sauce.
- Vitello Alla Portobello $28.95
Scaloppine veal topped with mozzarella & portobello mushrooms in a madiera wine sauce.
Pesce / Seafood
- Zuppa Di Pesce $31.95
Fresh seafood with clams, shrimp, scallops, calamari & mussels in a marinara or fra diavolo sauce, served over capellini.
- Gamberoni A Piacere $28.95
Shrimp prepared any style scampi, francese, marinara or fra diavolo served over linguini.
- Dentice Alla Tarantina $28.95
Red snapper sautéed with diced tomatoes, shiitake mushrooms, asparagus, basil, garlic & white wine sauce.
- Grilled Salmon $27.95
Served with sautéed broccoli rabe.
- Salmon Dijonnaise $26.95
Baked salmon served with dijon mustard sauce.
Justin's Ristorante Details
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Private dining room
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
Justin's Ristorante Photos










Justin's Ristorante Location
Justin's Ristorante
234 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
Justin's Ristorante Reviews
BYOBfood and servicepartyvodka saucesoupscallopsareaparkingsalmonlobster
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Had a great time, even though a little loud with an unexpected power outage that did not impact us. Pasta was great and loved the salad as well. Great neighborhood place, sometimes a little slow but not tonight!
June 28 · William LaiJustin's Ristorante offers a delightful dining experience with its warm ambiance, attentive service, and authentic Italian cuisine. From the moment you walk in, the cozy yet elegant atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal.
April 22 · Izzy HernandezWe have lived in the area for many years and have been to Hawthorne countless times but I am embarrassed to admit that we have never been to Justin's. It was recommended to us by a friend and we couldn't be more thankful.This place was excellent 👍We went with a friend and we all agreed that the food was wonderful, from start to finish. We all had a different fish dish, with pasta and everything was cooked perfectly.The service was great and they don't rush you at all. Keep in mind that this is a relatively small restaurant so I would recommend making a reservation, especially on the weekends.Last, but certainly not least, the prices are more than reasonable for what you're getting. The quality of the food is top notch.Seek out this great place and you won't be sorry.
June 29 · Stephen LesserThis place is amazing. The food was absolutely fantastic. The salad was simple, yet fresh and the homemade dressing was outstanding. I got the Chicken Justin and it was delicious!!! My husband had the grilled salmon and it too was delicious. Even the broccoli rabe was amazing. The service was extremely attentive. Seating is a bit tight, but we would definitely come back again.
June 29 · Patt DobsonSmall casual family owned restaurant. All the servers were attentive, like keeping our water glasses filled and asking if we needed anything. The food was terrific. House salad included the dressing was out of this world good. The main course was delicious!! Definitely on our restaurant rotation. Definitely make reservations because it is a small place.
May 06 · Maureen Villani
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