Trattoria Il Cafone

- 7 Ridge Rd, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071

Trattoria Il Cafone, located in the heart of Lyndhurst, New Jersey, stands as a beloved cornerstone for those seeking authentic and comforting Italian cuisine. For over two decades, this family-owned establishment has dedicated itself to serving the community with passion, tradition, and a commitment to excellent food and warm hospitality. It's more than just a restaurant; it’s a neighborhood staple where generations of New Jersey locals gather for an unforgettable dining experience.

Since its opening in 1997 by Chef Roberto Oliveira, Trattoria Il Cafone has grown significantly, evolving from a single room into a spacious, charming trattoria featuring two dining sections that can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger celebrations. The atmosphere is consistently described by loyal patrons as cozy, warm, and inviting—perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a romantic date night, or a special family occasion. The restaurant’s rustic charm is palpable, with vintage Italian artwork and a setting designed to make every guest feel right at home. It’s this blend of genuine Italian flavor, a friendly setting, and exceptional service that has cemented Trattoria Il Cafone’s reputation as a standout destination in North Jersey's vibrant dining scene.

For New Jersey diners, finding a spot that offers both quality and comfort is key, and Trattoria Il Cafone delivers on both counts, having cultivated a base of loyal customers who rave about the consistent and flavorful dishes.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently situated in Bergen County, Trattoria Il Cafone can be found at the following address, making it an accessible spot for residents throughout the North Jersey area:

Contact Information

Address: 7 Ridge Rd, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, USA

Phone: (201) 933-3355

The location on Ridge Road is easily reachable for local patrons and those traveling from surrounding towns. Accessibility is a priority at Trattoria Il Cafone, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. The restaurant offers:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot (with a parking lot conveniently located at the rear)
• Wheelchair accessible restroom and seating
• Free parking, including a private lot and free street parking options

These considerations make planning your visit simple and stress-free, whether you’re stopping by for lunch or a dinner reservation.

Services Offered

Trattoria Il Cafone provides a comprehensive suite of dining and event services designed to accommodate various needs and occasions, making it a flexible choice for the New Jersey community.

• Dining Options: Available for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, featuring traditional table service and comfortable seating in a casual, cozy environment.
• Reservations: Accepts and recommends dinner reservations, especially for groups or weekend visits, to ensure a seamless experience.
• Takeout and Delivery: Offers full takeout services and convenient delivery options for those who wish to enjoy their authentic Italian meal at home.
• Catering and Private Events: Provides extensive catering menus and can accommodate private events, parties, bridal showers, baby showers, corporate events, and even weddings, with space for up to 150 guests.
• Beverage Service: Features a full bar serving alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine, while also maintaining a BYOB policy, allowing guests to bring their personal wine selections (Personal Wines Allowed).
• Payment Methods: Accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Trattoria Il Cafone apart is its commitment to quality ingredients, welcoming hospitality, and menu variety, all of which contribute to its status as a local favorite.

• Signature Dish: Known for its famous Chicken Parmigiana, often highlighted by patrons for its delicious, melt-in-your-mouth quality and served over capellini or penne in a distinctive pink vodka sauce.
• Menu Variety: Offers a vast selection of Italian and, uniquely, Brazilian-style rodizio options (as per some search snippets), alongside daily specials, homemade fresh pastas, and extensive selections of meat, poultry, and seafood.
• Atmosphere and Comfort: The dining environment is described as warm, cozy, and casual, ideal for groups, family dining, or a romantic evening, with a lively, yet relaxed ambient buzz.
• Speed and Quality: Customers frequently praise the staff for exceptional, friendly, and attentive service, as well as the fast preparation and serving of the delicious food.
• Family-Owned Tradition: Operating since 1997, the restaurant boasts a rich history of serving authentic flavors and maintaining a dedicated staff, reflecting a true passion for Italian food and community.
• Kid-Friendly: Welcomes children with amenities like high chairs and a dedicated kids' menu, including options like Kids Chicken Fingers.

What is Worth Choosing

When exploring the extensive menu at Trattoria Il Cafone, you'll find a wide range of authentic Italian dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and careful attention to detail. The food here is often hailed as a consistent example of flavorful, home-cooked Italian fare, making every meal a memorable experience.

For appetizers, classic Italian selections are plentiful, ranging from cold options like the Gran Misto Jumbo ($13.95), featuring roasted eggplant, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and grilled portobello, to warm starters such as Padellate Di Cozze (Mussels Marinara Sauce, $17.95) or Vongole Oreganate (Baked Clams, $11.95).

The heart of the menu lies in the Homemade Pasta section. Patrons can indulge in beloved favorites like Fettuccine Bolognese ($19.95), the rich Linguine Frutti Di Mare ($26.95), or the creamy Pasta Vodka ($19.95). For those seeking something truly special, the Gnocchi Special ($34.95) and the Penne V.Shrimp (Penne with Shrimp and Vodka Sauce, $24.95) are highly recommended, with one customer noting the gnocchi often melts in your mouth.

In the protein categories, the reputation of the Pollo Alla Parmigiana ($32.95) precedes itself—it is consistently called one of the best Chicken Parm dishes in the area, particularly with the pink vodka sauce. The Pollo menu also offers sophisticated options such as Pollo Marsala ($20.95) and Pollo Francese ($20.95). From the Carni section, you can enjoy classics like Veal Marsala ($22.95) or Veal Parm ($24.95), while the Pesce menu tempts with dishes like Salmon Alla Grilla ($41.95) and the expansive Zuppa Di Pesce ($41.95).

To complete your meal, don't miss out on the highly-praised desserts, including classic Cannoli ($6.95), Tiramisu ($7.95), and Cheesecake ($7.95). Beyond the standard menu, the restaurant often features daily specials, showcasing the chef's dedication to fresh, seasonal, and creative Italian cuisine.

In short, Trattoria Il Cafone is an essential stop for New Jersey locals seeking high-quality, authentic Italian food served in a genuinely friendly and inviting environment. Its long-standing tradition and dedication to customer satisfaction make it a true gem in Lyndhurst.

Trattoria Il Cafone

7 Ridge Rd, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, USA