Lu Nello: Upscale Italian Dining in Cedar Grove, NJ for Special Occasions

Lu Nello Introduce

For New Jersey residents seeking an Italian dining experience that transcends the everyday, Lu Nello in Cedar Grove, NJ, stands as a true destination. Far more than a simple neighborhood eatery, this Italian restaurant has cultivated a reputation for being an upscale establishment that perfectly blends a warm, welcoming atmosphere with refined, high-quality cuisine and truly impeccable service. It's a place where the attention to detail, from the decor to the last bite of dessert, has earned it a loyal following across North Jersey.

Lu Nello is an essential spot for those looking to celebrate special occasions or simply indulge in a luxurious meal. The entire experience, as noted by local diners, is designed to exceed expectations. The ambiance is frequently described as beautiful, warm, and welcoming, creating a backdrop that is cozy, romantic, and distinctly upscale. The staff is known for being incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels cared for from the moment they arrive until they depart. For New Jersey locals, Lu Nello represents the pinnacle of Italian-American fine dining, delivering both classic and inventive dishes prepared with a clear focus on freshness and flavor.

The menu itself is a testament to quality, boasting an extensive array of dishes that cover everything from Fresh Catch seafood and Prime cuts of meat to exquisite, House Made Pasta. Signature items frequently earn high praise from patrons, such as the "absolutely outstanding" Risotto di LuNello and the famously decadent White Chocolate Bread Pudding. If you are looking for a reliable, sophisticated venue in the Essex County area where reservations are highly recommended—and often required—Lu Nello provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable meal, whether it's a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a major graduation celebration.

Location and Accessibility

Lu Nello is conveniently located in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, positioning it as an accessible fine dining option for residents throughout Northern NJ.

The restaurant's address is 182 Stevens Ave, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009, USA.

This central location in Cedar Grove makes it easily reachable from nearby towns like Montclair, Verona, Little Falls, and even those driving from further parts of Essex, Passaic, and Morris Counties. The restaurant is well-equipped to handle guests, emphasizing comfort and ease of access:

UL:

Parking: Lu Nello offers a great convenience in a busy area by providing a free parking lot, free street parking, and highly beneficial valet parking service, which is particularly welcome during inclement weather or busy hours.

Physical Accessibility: The premises are designed for full accessibility, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, ensuring all New Jersey guests can enjoy the dining experience comfortably.

Services Offered

Lu Nello provides a comprehensive range of dining and hospitality services tailored to an upscale clientele and special events, cementing its role as a premier New Jersey establishment.

UL:

Diverse Dining Options: Serving Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, with extensive seating and traditional table service provided throughout the day.

Reservation Management: Operates on a reservation-recommended, and often required, basis for all key dining periods, including Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, to ensure timely seating and a pleasant experience for all guests.

Full Bar and Beverage Service: Features a fully stocked onsite bar offering a great selection of Beer, Wine, Cocktails, and Hard Liquor, alongside high-quality Coffee and a great Tea selection.

Special Event & Private Dining: Offers Catering services and a dedicated Private Dining Room for groups and special functions like graduation dinners or intimate celebrations.

Off-Premise Dining: Provides both Dine-in and Takeout service options for customers who prefer to enjoy Lu Nello’s cuisine at home.

Guest Amenities: Equipped with essential amenities including a clean Restroom and High Chairs for families dining with children.

Payment Flexibility: Accepts a wide range of modern payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

Lu Nello’s reputation in the New Jersey fine dining scene is built upon several distinguishing features that appeal directly to a sophisticated local audience.

UL:

Award-Winning Cuisine and Menu Depth: The menu is extensive and features true Italian complexity, from Cold and Hot Appetizers to Crudo, and includes specialty categories like Fresh Catch (e.g., Grilled Bronzino, Halibut) and Farm Fresh (e.g., Grilled 20 Ozs. Prime Bone In Shell Steak, Veal Osso Bucco).

Signature Dish Excellence: Patrons rave about specific preparations, including the "absolutely outstanding" Risotto di LuNello, the tender Pollo al Forno, and the indulgent White Chocolate Bread Pudding, all of which demonstrate culinary mastery.

Exceptional Bar Program: A highlight for many is the high-quality beverage selection, with a great wine list, great beer selection, and expertly crafted drinks like the Lychee Martini and Espresso Martini, which are described as being "spot on" and "made to perfection."

Impeccable Service: The staff is consistently highlighted in reviews for being super attentive, friendly, and professional, providing a level of care and follow-up that defines the upscale experience.

Atmosphere for Celebration: The restaurant atmosphere is curated to be romantic, trendy, and quiet, making it an ideal choice for Groups and for celebrating milestones and special occasions, enhancing the memory of the event.

Hand-Made Specialties: Commitment to authenticity is seen in their House Made Pasta options, which include Taglioline, House Made Raviolini, and Trofie, showcasing traditional Italian kitchen skills.

Contact Information

To secure your reservation or for catering inquiries at this upscale Cedar Grove Italian destination, please use the following contact information:

Address: 182 Stevens Ave, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009, USA

Phone: (973) 837-1660

What is Worth Choosing

For a New Jersey diner, choosing Lu Nello is a decision to prioritize a complete, refined, and consistently excellent dining experience. It is worth choosing this establishment for its reliability in delivering on its promise of an upscale atmosphere and truly delicious food, making it ideal for the most important occasions.

First, the menu’s depth and focus on quality ingredients are unparalleled. Instead of generic Italian-American fare, diners can explore sophisticated dishes like Filet Mignon Tartare, Hen Egg Ravioli, or Veal Osso Bucco. A highly recommended choice for a main course is the Risotto di LuNello; local customers have declared it "hands down the best risotto I’ve ever had," a testament to its creamy texture and rich flavor. Similarly, their Fresh Catch items, such as the Grilled Mediterranean Branzino or the Dover Sole Meuniere, appeal to those seeking top-tier seafood prepared simply and perfectly.

Second, the total value of the experience, especially the service and ambiance, sets Lu Nello apart. Customers are not just paying for the meal but for the romantic, attentive setting that makes a simple dinner feel like an event. The convenience of valet parking upon arrival, followed by a genuinely attentive server who ensures your needs are met, removes any stress from the evening. The drink menu is another compelling reason, offering perfectly balanced cocktails like the Lychee Martini that complement the meal without overpowering it.

Finally, you must save room for their famous desserts. The White Chocolate Bread Pudding is consistently praised for being a show-stopper that "left us speechless." Whether you are celebrating a promotion, a birthday, an anniversary, or simply treating yourself to a truly exceptional meal, Lu Nello in Cedar Grove provides a consistently high-quality setting that fulfills the expectation of New Jersey fine dining. For a refined Italian meal where reservations and an expectation of excellence are the norms, Lu Nello is the undisputed choice.

Lu Nello Menu

Appetizers
Puntarelle Salad
Pan Roastd Shrimp
Vegetable Salad
Lobster Tail Scampi
Hen Egg Ravioli
Crispy Zucchini Flowers
Tuna Pizza
Scungilli Fra Diavolo
Filet Mignon Tartare
Roasted Cauliflower Whole

Fresh Catch
Salmon
Grilled Bronzino
Halibut
Filet Of Sole Oreganata
Ahi Tuna

Farm Fresh
Grilled 20 Ozs. Prime Bone In Shell Steak
Grilled Lamb Chops
Liver Ala Veneziana
Special Short Ribs
Rabbit Umido
Veal Osso Bucco
Short Rib Pot Roast

House Made Pasta
Taglioline
House Made Raviolini
Trofie

Entree
Salmon/ Grilled/ Dijon Sauce
Blue Fin Tuna/ Wasabi-Ginger
Grilled Mediterranean Branzino
Soft Shell Crab Any Style
Halibut/ Blackened/ Spinach/ Mushrooms/ Burre Blanc-Port Wine
Pacific Sea Bass/ Oreganata/ Rabe/ Hot Cherry Pepper
Dover Sole Meuniere
3 Lb Lobster/ Any Style
Organic Double Cut Pork Chop/ Oreganata/ Rabe/ Hc Pepper
Duck Combo/ Breast Pan Roasted/ Crispy Legs/ Orange Sauce
Veal Chop Valdostana
Filet Mignon Cardinale/ Shrimp Scampi Combo
Short Ribs/ Mashed Potato/ Corn
Grilled Rib Eye Steak Bone In 22 Oz/ Cream Of Spinach/ French Fries
Charcoal Grilled Lamb Chop/ Potato-String Bean Salad
Roasted Quai/ Port Wine/ Mushroom

Cold Appetizer
Beet Salad/ Tomato Goat Cheese/Walnuts/Umbria Lentil
Yellow Fin Tuna Trio
Seafood Salad
Vegetable Salad
Burrata Salad
Crabmeat-Watermelon/ Avocado
Stuffed Figs/ Walnuts/ Gorgonzola/ Prosciutto/ Balsamic

Hot Appetizers
Crispy Soft Shell Crab
Mussels Fra Diavolo
Scungilli Fra Diavolo
Sea Scallops/ Rabe/ Vinegar Peppers/ Lww
Crispy Zucchini Flowers/ Prosciutto/ Parmigiano
Grilled Baby Octopuss, Olive Relish
Stuffed Baby Artichokes/Herbs/ Bread Crumbs/O & G
Charcoal Grilled 1lb Lobster/ Fresh Cut Salad
Oyster Rockefeler
Cacciacavallo Cheese & Shrimp Scampi Combo / Almonds/ Anchovies/ Frice Salad/ Sambuca Sauce

Crudo
Francus Oysters $12.00
Cocktail Di Ostrice $5.00
Due Di Tonno $34.00

Others
Frog Legs Scampi
Musssels Fra Diavolo
Key Lime Pie
Caramel Flan
Risotto/ Filet Mignon/ Sausage/ Shiitaki Mushroom
Cavatelli Sunday
Garlic Shrimp $28.00
Clams Il Fornno $26.00
Calamari Fritti $33.00
Spiedini De Romana
Casalinga $24.00
Scallops Con Rabe $32.00
Lunello Salad $15.00
Arugula Noce $15.00
Garden Salad $15.00
Lunello Shrimp Salad $30.00
Wheat Berry Salad $16.00
Cesar Salad $32.00
Linguni Alla Vongole $36.00
Pappardelle Porcini $38.00
Gnocchi Di Patatae $28.00
Lasagna Bolognese $24.00
Rissotto Di Lunello $38.00
Eggplant Parmigiana $28.00
Troffi Amatriciana $32.00
Lunello Burger $22.00
Veal Lunello Sandwich $26.00
Filet Mignon Cheesesteak $32.00
Lubar Panini $26.00
Fish & Chips $36.00
The Pillard $26.00
Chicken Molino $34.00
Pollo Angelo $36.00
Pollo Martini $30.00
Pork Chop $42.00
Veal Pillard $42.00
Insalata Di Bietola Rossa $14.00
Insalata Giardino $14.00
Insalata Di Cesare $13.00
Insalata Di Lunello $15.00
Brussel Sprout Salad $15.00
Endive Salad $14.00
Asparagi $10.00
Broccoletti Di Rapa $12.00
Long Hot Peppers $12.00
Funghi $12.00
Patate $6.00
Spinaci $10.00
Black Wild Rice & Farro $12.00
Orechiette Con Salsiccia E Rabe $30.00
Capellini Desperato $38.00
Cavatelli Con Melanzane $30.00
Ravioli $28.00
Parmigiana Di Melanzane $28.00
Ravilolini - Tbd
Medaglione Di Vitello Lunello $38.00
Pollo Al Forno $33.00
Veal Molino $44.00
Short Rib $50.00
Filet Mignon And Shrimp Combo $55.00
Quail $36.00
Duck Berlet $48.00
Vongole Al Forno $26.00
Scallops $32.00
Zuppa Di Vongole $28.00
Foie Gras Lunello $38.00
Insalata Di Mare
Tuna Tartare $34.00
Stuffed Long Hot Peppers $19.00
Pope Tuna Pizza $30.00
Pope Tuna Salad $34.00

Lu Nello Details

Service options
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Great wine list
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Private dining room
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Cozy
Quiet
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale

Crowd
Groups

Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Lunch reservations recommended
Reservations required
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually a wait

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
High chairs

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Parking
Valet parking

Lu Nello Photos

Lu Nello Location

Lu Nello

New Jersey Essex County Cedar Grove Stevens Avenue

182 Stevens Ave, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009, USA

Lu Nello Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 673 user reviews.

food and servicediningbarbirthdayappetizerrisottobread puddingchoppresentationvalet parking

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This was my first time trying LuNello’s in Cedar Grove, NJ, and I must say it exceeded my expectations! I’ve passed by this restaurant many times but never stopped in until now and I’m so glad I did. The ambiance and décor are beautiful, warm, and welcoming. From the moment we arrived, the staff was incredibly friendly, attentive, and checked in often to make sure we had everything we needed. The drinks were spot on the Lychee Martini was made to perfection, and the Espresso Martini was just as good. The appetizers were fresh and flavorful, and the entrées came in generous portions. The risotto was absolutely outstanding hands down the best risotto I’ve ever had! We made sure to save room for dessert, and the White Chocolate Bread Pudding completely stole the show it left us speechless.What we ordered:• Calamari• Fresh Oysters• Risotto di LuNello• Chicken Martini• Pappardelle Porcini• White Chocolate Bread PuddingDrinks:• Lychee Martini• Espresso MartiniOverall, an amazing dining experience from start to finish. I can’t wait to return!
September 16 · Emmanuel Amador
Had the pleasure of dining at Lu Nello’s for one of my best friends graduation dinner and the experience was unbelievable! Upon driving in you’re greeted by the valet driver which was perfect as it was raining. Was seated right away and greeted by our server who was super attentive the entire night making sure that we had everything we wanted. We all ordered appetizers, meals, drinks, and dessert, all of which were delicious. I specifically ordered the Insalata Giardino, Peachy Martini, Pollo al Forno, Spinaci, and Crème Brûlée. The salad had the perfect amount of oil and vinegar where you could taste it in every bite but wasn’t soggy. The chicken was super tender and well seasoned along with the veggies & mash. The peachy martini was super refreshing and not TOO strong which can happen with martinis. The creme brûlée was the best way to end the meal, extremely creamy with berries that were fully ripe. Overall, we definitely enjoyed dining at Lu Nello’s and would recommend it for anyone trying to celebrate a special occasion or person in their lives.
May 17 · Merytel Rodriguez
This place is amazing. Its atmosphere gives Hollywood of Cedar Grove, LuBar cranks out the best mezcal negroni's and oh my, the food. Everything is 11/10. Pork Chop, amazing. Filet Mignon, out of this world. Tuna Tartare, you joking me? Their seafood dishes are phenomenal, especially the weekly specials.
May 29 · Kevin Kumetz
We had a fantastic dining experience at Lu Nello Restaurant tonight. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that set the tone for the evening. The Italian food was nothing short of amazing—each dish was crafted with precision and full of authentic flavors that truly transported us to Italy.This restaurant is not only a great place to enjoy a delicious meal but also perfect for conversation. The ambiance struck a perfect balance between being lively and relaxed, allowing us to enjoy our meal without feeling rushed.The service was impeccable from start to finish. Our waiter, Mario, was exceptional—his attention to detail and friendly demeanor made our evening even more enjoyable. Roberto, another member of the staff, was also very attentive and helpful, ensuring that everything was just right.Overall, Lu Nello exceeded my expectations in every way. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for top-notch Italian cuisine and outstanding service. We’ll definitely be returning!
August 30 · Mauricio C
I’ve been to Lu Nello in Cedar Grove several times, and every visit has been nothing short of outstanding. The food is always exceptional, and the service inside the restaurant is top-tier. Their history and reputation for excellence are well deserved, and I truly enjoy bringing clients here for important meals.However, my recent experience with the valet service was disappointing and did not reflect the hospitality I’ve always received inside. I had a 12 PM lunch meeting and arrived at 11:50 AM, ten minutes before the restaurant opened. Since there was no valet at the time, I parked myself and waited. During that time, I ran a software update on my Tesla, which takes about 50 minutes and prevents the car from being moved.At 12 PM, as I started walking toward the restaurant, an older valet gentleman approached me and asked for my key card. I smiled, said sure, and right away gave it to him. He immediately told me the car needed to be moved. I explained politely that the software update had just started and the car would not move for about 50 more minutes. His response was abrupt, saying it still needed to be moved, and then he added, “That’s why I hate Teslas.” At first I was shocked and tried to remain polite, but when he continued with attitude, I finally told him that it does not matter if he likes Teslas or not, it is my car and I am a customer.It was clear that the valet had an attitude problem, with no filters, and his behavior was far from what a place of this caliber represents. Someone with that approach to customers should not be servicing at a beautiful venue like Lu Nello, which otherwise exemplifies outstanding hospitality.This valet experience was the worst I have had anywhere. That said, the venue still deserves 5 stars for the food and service inside, so I will not take away from them for the poor valet experience. I only hope management sees this and addresses the issue with the gentleman at valet so the service outside matches the excellence inside.
September 23 · Jas S
My wife and I First time here. From start to finish top quality service. Food presentation was great the two Bartenders Were so polite and welcoming very knowledgeable of the Menu. Soft shell crab was delicious short rib was so tender. The ambiance is nice. We Highly recommend to everyone. Definitely coming back.
June 26 · James Adams