Villa Amalfi is a renowned Italian restaurant with two locations in New Jersey, one in Cliffside Park and another in Tom’s River. Established by a family with deep roots in the Amalfi Coast region of Italy, the restaurant has garnered a reputation for serving authentic and flavorful Italian cuisine. From the moment you step through the doors, the warm and inviting atmosphere transports you to the charming eateries of the Italian countryside.
The menu at Villa Amalfi is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. With a diverse array of offerings, ranging from classic Italian favorites to innovative creations, there is something to delight every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, Villa Amalfi promises a dining experience that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving for more.
Lunch Menu: Appetizers
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Villa Amalfi’s lunch appetizers, a delightful prelude to your dining experience. The roasted peppers & mozzarella, a classic combination, showcases the vibrant colors and robust flavors of freshly roasted bell peppers, complemented by creamy mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze.
For seafood enthusiasts, the clams oreganata is a must-try. Plump and succulent littleneck clams are bathed in a heavenly blend of garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will transport you to the coastal regions of Italy.
The stuffed mushrooms, a vegetarian delight, are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and melted cheese, offering a delectable burst of flavors in every bite. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for sharing or indulging in as a standalone appetizer.
Lunch Menu: Sandwiches
Villa Amalfi’s lunch menu features a delectable selection of sandwiches, perfect for a satisfying midday meal. One standout option is the Fish Filet Sandwich, showcasing a fresh filet of fish, lightly breaded and fried to perfection, nestled between a soft brioche bun. Accompanied by crispy French fries and a tangy tartar sauce, this sandwich is a seafood lover’s delight.
For those seeking a taste of Italy, the Prosciutto Sandwich is a must-try. Thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma, imported from Italy, is layered with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This sandwich is served on a crusty Italian bread, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
The Chicken California Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, featuring grilled chicken breast topped with avocado, crispy bacon, and melted Swiss cheese. This sandwich is served on a toasted brioche bun, ensuring a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Accompanied by a side of crispy French fries or a fresh garden salad, it’s a satisfying and indulgent choice for any appetite.
Lunch Menu: Salads
Villa Amalfi’s lunch salad selection offers a delightful array of fresh greens and vibrant flavors, catering to diverse palates. The classic Caesar salad is a beloved staple, featuring crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing made from scratch, topped with shaved Parmesan, croutons, and anchovies for an authentic taste.
For those seeking a heartier option, the portabella tower salad is a true showstopper. Grilled portabella mushroom caps are stacked atop a bed of mixed greens, accompanied by roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
The baby spinach salad is a refreshing choice, showcasing tender spinach leaves tossed with sliced strawberries, candied pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and a tangy raspberry vinaigrette. This salad offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tang, making it a perfect accompaniment to any lunch entrée.
Lunch Menu: Italian Favorites
Villa Amalfi’s lunch menu features a selection of classic Italian favorites that are sure to delight your taste buds. Indulge in the iconic veal parmigiana, a tender veal cutlet breaded and fried to perfection, then smothered in a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. For those who prefer poultry, the chicken francaise is a must-try dish. Lightly battered chicken breast is sautéed in a tangy lemon-butter sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Another crowd-pleaser is the chicken marsala, a dish that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to using only the finest ingredients. Succulent chicken breast is sautéed with mushrooms and finished with a velvety marsala wine sauce, resulting in a rich and flavorful combination that will transport your senses to the heart of Italy. These Italian favorites are served with a side of your choice, ensuring a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Lunch Menu: Entrees
Villa Amalfi’s lunch menu boasts an impressive selection of entrees that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Italian flavors and high-quality ingredients. One standout dish is the cavatelli & shrimp, a delightful combination of tender shrimp sautéed with garlic, white wine, and cherry tomatoes, tossed with homemade cavatelli pasta. This dish perfectly balances the sweetness of the tomatoes with the richness of the shrimp and the al dente texture of the cavatelli.
Another must-try option is the penne Amalfi, a signature dish that pays homage to the restaurant’s namesake region. This hearty pasta is prepared with sautéed chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy vodka sauce, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
For seafood lovers, the linguine vongole is a true delight. Tender littleneck clams are sautéed with garlic, white wine, and parsley, creating a flavorful broth that perfectly complements the linguine pasta. This dish is a classic representation of the simplicity and freshness that characterize Italian cuisine.
Last but not least, the chicken Murphy is a crowd-pleaser that combines the comforting flavors of Italian-American cuisine. Tender chicken breast is sautéed with mushrooms, prosciutto, and peas in a rich marsala wine sauce, served over a bed of linguine. This dish is a testament to Villa Amalfi’s ability to seamlessly blend traditional Italian techniques with modern twists.
Lunch Prix Fixe Menu
For those seeking a delightful midday culinary experience, Villa Amalfi offers a tantalizing prix fixe lunch menu available Monday through Friday from 1 pm to 3 pm. This carefully curated selection showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Italian flavors while providing exceptional value.
The prix fixe menu is a three-course affair, allowing diners to savor a delectable journey through the vibrant tastes of Italy. Begin your experience with a choice of appetizers, such as the classic Caesar salad or the creamy burrata, accompanied by prosciutto and roasted peppers. Vegetarians can delight in the grilled vegetables, perfectly seasoned with Villa Amalfi’s signature blend of herbs and olive oil.
For the main course, indulge in one of the restaurant’s signature pasta dishes, like the rich and flavorful penne alla vodka or the hearty linguine with clams. Alternatively, opt for a protein-packed option, such as the tender chicken piccata or the succulent salmon, both prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Complete your prix fixe experience with a decadent dessert, like the classic tiramisu or the refreshing limoncello sorbet, ensuring a sweet and satisfying conclusion to your meal.
This exceptional prix fixe lunch menu is available for $25 per person, offering an unparalleled value for the quality and authenticity of the dishes presented. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely business lunch or a midday escape with friends, Villa Amalfi’s prix fixe menu promises a truly memorable Italian dining experience.
Dinner Menu: Starters
Villa Amalfi’s dinner menu begins with a tempting array of starters that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to using the freshest, high-quality ingredients. The fried calamari is a perennial favorite, featuring tender rings of squid lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, served with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping.
For those seeking a heartier option, the stuffed artichoke is a must-try. Tender artichoke leaves are carefully stuffed with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying starter. The artichoke is then baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
Another standout starter is the grilled octopus, a testament to Villa Amalfi’s expertise in seafood preparation. Tender octopus tentacles are grilled to impart a delicate char and then drizzled with a vibrant lemon-garlic vinaigrette. Served atop a bed of arugula and garnished with cherry tomatoes, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Dinner Menu: Pastas
Villa Amalfi’s dinner pasta menu is a true celebration of Italian culinary traditions, showcasing a diverse array of mouthwatering options that are sure to delight pasta lovers. One of the standout dishes is the gnocchi Sorrentino, a delightful combination of tender potato dumplings enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, adorned with fresh mozzarella and basil. This classic Neapolitan dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and flavor.
For those seeking a heartier option, the pappardelle with short rib ragu is a must-try. This dish features wide, flat ribbons of pasta generously coated in a slow-cooked, velvety ragu made from succulent short ribs, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The tender morsels of meat melt in your mouth, providing a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Another highlight on the pasta menu is the stuffed rigatoni vodka, a delightful twist on a classic. Plump rigatoni tubes are filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, then served in a rich vodka sauce that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and savory. This dish is a true indulgence, combining the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with a touch of sophistication.
Dinner Menu: Seafood
Villa Amalfi’s dinner menu showcases the restaurant’s commitment to serving only the freshest and highest-quality seafood. The seafood dishes are a true celebration of the bounties of the sea, expertly prepared with traditional Italian techniques and flavors.
One of the standout offerings is the Scallops Amalfi, featuring plump and succulent sea scallops sautéed in a delicate white wine sauce, with garlic, shallots, and a hint of lemon. The scallops are cooked to perfection, with a tender and buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Served over a bed of fresh linguine, this dish is a harmonious blend of flavors that transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast.
For those seeking a true taste of the Mediterranean, the Lobster and Shrimp Pescatore is a must-try. This generous portion includes succulent lobster tail and plump shrimp simmered in a rich tomato broth, infused with garlic, white wine, and a medley of fresh herbs. The broth is a perfect accompaniment to the tender seafood, making it irresistible to soak up every last drop with crusty Italian bread.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the Salmon dish is a delightful option. The fresh, wild-caught salmon is pan-seared to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a moist, flaky interior. It’s served with a vibrant lemon-caper sauce that adds a bright and tangy flavor, complementing the richness of the fish. Accompanied by a seasonal vegetable medley and roasted potatoes, this dish is a well-balanced and satisfying choice.
No matter which seafood dish you choose, you can be assured that it has been prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail, using only the finest ingredients and time-honored Italian culinary traditions.
Dinner Menu: Meat
For meat lovers, Villa Amalfi’s dinner menu offers a tantalizing array of dishes that showcase the finest cuts and traditional Italian preparations. One of the standout options is the veal osso bucco Milanese, a slow-braised veal shank that falls off the bone, served with a rich demi-glace and creamy saffron risotto. The chicken parmigiana is a classic Italian favorite, featuring a juicy chicken breast coated in crispy breadcrumbs, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
For those seeking a heartier option, the rack of lamb is a must-try. Perfectly grilled and seasoned with fresh herbs, this tender and flavorful cut is accompanied by roasted potatoes and a red wine reduction. Steak enthusiasts will delight in the ribeye steak, a thick, well-marbled cut that is grilled to perfection and served with a side of garlic-sautéed spinach and roasted fingerling potatoes.
No matter your preference, Villa Amalfi’s meat dishes are prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring each bite is a delectable experience that transports you to the heart of Italy.
Conclusion
Villa Amalfi’s extensive menu offerings showcase the essence of authentic Italian cuisine, meticulously crafted with high-quality, imported ingredients and a commitment to traditional recipes. From the tempting array of appetizers and salads to the hearty pasta dishes, succulent seafood, and tender meat entrées, each item is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to culinary excellence.
The dining experience at Villa Amalfi is one that transports you to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast, where flavors are bold, and hospitality is warm and inviting. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an elegant evening out, the restaurant’s smart casual ambiance and attentive service create the perfect setting for savoring every bite.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Italy right here in Cliffside Park and Tom’s River, NJ. Visit Villa Amalfi today, make a reservation through OpenTable, or order online for delivery or takeout via Seamless or Grubhub. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights that have made this restaurant a beloved destination for food enthusiasts and locals alike.