Verana

- 530 Livingston St, Norwood, NJ 07648

Introduction / Overview

Verana, nestled in the charming town of Norwood, has quickly become a standout destination in New Jersey’s vibrant dining scene, offering a modern Italian experience that blends Manhattan elegance with suburban charm. Spearheaded by Chef/Owner Giuseppe Agostino, an acclaimed culinary expert who honed his skills at Michelin-starred kitchens in Italy and the famed Del Posto in New York City, Verana aims to redefine fine dining in Bergen County. The restaurant is not merely serving meals; it’s curating an experience, driven by a deep respect for authentic Italian tradition, high-quality ingredients, and culinary inspiration.

This commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Verana has been recognized in local media, even being voted among the top for certain specialties in New Jersey. The atmosphere perfectly matches the cuisine—described as cozy, romantic, and upscale—making it an ideal setting for celebrating a special birthday, hosting an intimate gathering, or simply enjoying an exquisite dinner. The service is often praised by local patrons as "exceptional," with staff that are both knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring every diner feels special.

Verana's menu is a journey through Italian flavors, from innovative antipasti like the thinly pounded Carpaccio di Tonno with Sicilian-inspired elements, to celebrated Primi dishes and impressive Secondi. While the entire menu is lauded, particular dishes have achieved cult-like status among New Jersey diners, most notably the Pollo alla Parmigiana and the decadent Tagliatelle al Tartufo. Complementing the meal is an extensive selection of beverages, including a "Great wine list" and a curated menu of signature Italian cocktails and refreshing Spritz. Verana is designed for those who seek the highest level of culinary quality and a truly memorable dining event without the commute to the city.

Location and Accessibility

Verana is conveniently located at 530 Livingston St, Norwood, NJ 07648, USA. This Bergen County address positions the restaurant as an accessible fine dining option for residents across Northern New Jersey and the surrounding region.

Accessibility is a priority for the establishment, ensuring a smooth experience for all guests. The restaurant provides a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance, a Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot, a Wheelchair Accessible Restroom, and Wheelchair Accessible Seating. This attention to detail allows everyone to comfortably enjoy the warm and elegant atmosphere. For diners arriving by car, Verana offers the added convenience of both a Free Parking Lot and Free Street Parking, making reservations stress-free. Its setting, while suburban, delivers an ambiance often associated with metropolitan dining.

Services Offered

Verana provides a full spectrum of upscale dining and event services, catering to both intimate dinners and larger private events for the discerning New Jersey clientele.

• Dine-in Seating: Offers a cozy, romantic, and upscale atmosphere with full table service for lunch and dinner.
• Reservations: Accepts and highly recommends dinner reservations to secure seating, reflecting its popularity as a Bergen County fine-dining spot.
• Outdoor Seating: Provides a relaxed option for enjoying meals and drinks in a pleasant setting.
• Takeout: Offers the convenience of enjoying the exceptional menu at home.
• Private Events: Features a private dining room that can accommodate up to 26 guests for intimate gatherings, and the main dining room can be utilized for larger lunch events.
• Full Bar Service: Includes an on-site bar with a great wine list, hard liquor, beer, and a creative menu of signature cocktails and spritzes.
• Happy Hour: A dedicated Happy Hour featuring Italian bar bites and drink specials at the bar, including $1 oysters.
• Family Amenities: Provides high chairs and has changing tables, making it welcoming for families with younger children.

Features / Highlights

Verana is distinguished by the caliber of its kitchen leadership, its culinary creativity, and the high-end dining amenities it offers to the local community.

• Acclaimed Chef/Owner: Led by Chef Giuseppe Agostino, who brings authentic Italian techniques and inspiration from his time at Michelin-starred Italian kitchens and the prestigious Del Posto in NYC, ensuring a world-class dining experience.
• Signature Dish Recognition: Widely celebrated for its Pollo alla Parmigiana (Chicken Parmigiana), which has been voted among the top in New Jersey, showcasing the restaurant’s mastery of classic Italian recipes.
• Modern Italian Menu: Features exquisite, inventive dishes like Carpaccio di Tonno (thinly pounded bluefin tuna) and a highly praised Tagliatelle al Tartufo, demonstrating a commitment to modern yet authentic Italian flavors.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: Boasts a "Great wine list," creative signature cocktails (like the Italian Mule and Ciao Bella Spritz), and a variety of spritz options, perfect for pairing with the menu.
• Upscale Atmosphere: Defined by its "exceptional warmth and elegance," providing a romantic and cozy setting ideal for special occasions and impressing guests.
• Impeccable Service: Consistently praised by patrons for the "best service I’ve ever experienced," with staff ensuring a knowledgeable and attentive table experience.
• Dessert Excellence: Highlighted for having "Great dessert," with homemade selections like Tiramisu and Cheesecake that provide a perfect conclusion to the meal.

Contact Information

To make reservations or inquire about private events and the current menu, the following contact information should be used for Verana:

Address: 530 Livingston St, Norwood, NJ 07648, USA

Phone: (201) 347-6759

What is Worth Choosing

For New Jersey diners, Verana in Norwood represents an exceptional opportunity to experience truly world-class, authentic, and modern Italian cuisine without traveling far from home. What makes Verana worth choosing is the unparalleled blend of high-caliber culinary artistry and a genuinely superior dining environment.

The food is the core draw. Chef Agostino's pedigree means patrons are getting a depth of flavor and technique usually reserved for Manhattan's most exclusive establishments. The fact that their Chicken Parm has earned 'top in New Jersey' accolades speaks volumes about their ability to perfect a classic, while dishes like the truffle-infused pasta, creamy seafood, and unique Carpaccio selections showcase their creative finesse. Choosing Verana means trusting your special occasion—be it a birthday, anniversary, or client dinner—to a kitchen recognized for culinary excellence.

Beyond the plate, the dining experience is truly what sets Verana apart. Customers repeatedly use words like "magical and incredible" to describe the overall visit. The combination of an upscale, romantic atmosphere, an outstanding cocktail and wine program, and the exemplary service elevates a simple dinner into a celebratory event. For Bergen County residents and those throughout New Jersey seeking a romantic night out, a stellar group dinner, or simply an exquisite meal where both the food and the service are "speechless," Verana is the premier Italian choice that delivers a redefined suburban fine dining experience. Making a reservation is highly recommended to secure your seat at one of North Jersey's most celebrated tables.

Verana

530 Livingston St, Norwood, NJ 07648, USA