Morris County does Italian food right. From BYOB neighborhood landmarks to handmade pasta counters and white-tablecloth rooms built inside centuries-old farmhouses, the county is packed with spots that have been feeding families for decades. Here are eight of the best Italian restaurants across Morris County, spread from Madison to Budd Lake.
Il Mondo Vecchio, Madison
A Main Street institution for more than 30 years, Il Mondo Vecchio serves Northern Italian cuisine in an intimate, antique-filled dining room. It is fully BYOB, which makes it a favorite for a relaxed special-occasion dinner. You will find it at 72 Main Street.
The Pasta Shop, Denville
Handmade pasta and wood-fired Italian American classics are the draw at The Pasta Shop, a small fine-casual neighborhood spot at 13 First Avenue in downtown Denville. They do not take reservations, so plan to come early and grab a table first come, first served.
Scalini Fedeli, Chatham
For a true special-occasion night out, Scalini Fedeli sets the standard. Chef Michael Cetrulo’s modern Italian restaurant sits inside a 260-year-old farmhouse at 63 Main Street and has long ranked among the most celebrated fine-dining rooms in New Jersey.
Rosie’s Trattoria, Randolph
Family-owned and run by Rosie and Giuseppe, Rosie’s Trattoria brings generations of tradition to 1181 Sussex Turnpike in Randolph. Expect handmade pasta, classic favorites, and the kind of warm welcome that keeps regulars coming back.
Eccola Italian Bistro, Parsippany
Open since 1992, Eccola Italian Bistro is a family-owned Parsippany favorite known for house-made pasta and inventive Italian American cooking. Find it at 1082 Route 46.
Capisce Trattoria, Morris Plains
Capisce Trattoria at 22 Gibraltar Drive pairs a full trattoria with its own pizzeria next door, so you can go casual or sit down for a proper dinner. It is BYOB, with outdoor dining and private rooms for a group.
Pavesi Ristorante, Morristown
In the heart of downtown Morristown at 50 South Street, Pavesi offers an elegant, multi-level dining experience that fits a date night or a celebration. It is an easy walk from the Green and the town’s theaters.
Enzo’s Ristorante and Pizzeria, Budd Lake
The Buonincontri family has owned and operated Enzo’s in Budd Lake for more than 40 years, making it a go-to in Mount Olive for pizza, pasta, catering, and family dinners alike.
Plan your next meal out
Hungry for more? Browse our guides to the best Mexican restaurants in Morris County and the best diners in Morris County to keep the list going.
