(Englewood Cliffs, NJ) -- 23 years ago, Tony Del Gatto opened a neighborhood restaurant in Englewood Cliffs on a whim; today, Grissini remains one of the most popular and successful restaurants in New Jersey. With its warm and vibrant decor, friendly, knowledgeable staff and diverse menu, Grissini continues to offer an authentic and welcoming Italian experience for patrons who travel far and wide for a taste. Reserve with maître d’s Michael De Vincenzi & George De Leon at 201.568.3535.
At the heart of the Grissini’s 23-year success is an enduring commitment to guest service, a spirit of excellence, and innovation that brings guests back again and again. Bearing that in mind, it is only fitting that Grissini will kick-off the 23rd anniversary celebration by offering 23% off of all food items from August 24 – August 30th.
Over the past 23 years, owner Tony Del Gatto has experienced great success along the way, creating an unparalleled “upscale Italian casual” restaurant with an ever-evolving menu of freshly prepared items. Menu favorites include aged steaks and chops and each meal is accompanied with outstanding service found only at the top restaurants in New York City.
However, Tony Del Gatto’s story is one that starts from very humble beginnings. The son of a printer and homemaker, Del Gatto grew up in Hell’s Kitchen. The consummate storyteller, Tony recalls that he officially entered the food industry in 1952 when he borrowed $15 from his mother, got his own pushcart, and sold fruit and vegetables on the street with a friend of his. From that first taste of success in the food industry, Tony had the bug for what would become a career in the restaurant industry.
After working in construction for 40 years, including working on the original World Trade Center Construction, Tony purchased the Westmount Country Club along with his younger brother Tommy and transformed the space into one of New Jersey’s finest wedding destinations, producing over 400 weddings a year. The Westmount Country Club allowed Del Gatto the latitude to move into the restaurant business. Today, Grissini remains a well-known hotspot, full of the “who’s who” of the tri-state area, from celebrities to high profile business executives.
Tony Del Gatto, who lives in Englewood Cliffs with his wife Theresa and has 4 children, remains as passionate about his restaurant as the day he first opened its doors. At 78 years old, he continues to be the welcoming face customers see on each and every visit.
