Photo: http://calandrasitalianvillage.com/
Review
Eating at Il Vecchio is like eating in a theme park, except the food is good.
Il Vecchio Cafe is part of Calandra’s Italian Village, the McMansion of Jersey Italian restaurants. There’s a tavern, a bakery, a gelateria, a wine shop, a deli and, of course, a gift shop, all in one convenient location. Just like Disney, it’s difficult to leave without buying something else.
The Cafe dining room is cavernous and very, very loud. Too many tables to count, large windows, and a prominent blue-tiled pizza oven. The atmosphere is Epcot’s Italy Pavilion with design updates by Carmela Soprano (of nearby North Caldwell).
Despite the decor, Il Vecchio is worth a visit for the food, which ain’t bad at all, and only moderately expensive. The homemade pastas are excellent. Lasagna has just the right cheese mixture and a straightforward sauce. Bread is fresh-baked from the bakery next door and the “Calandra” branded wines are decent. The pizza is just ok, though, with good quality toppings but a nondescript crust. Go for the pasta. The large menu includes soups, salads, burgers, and meat dishes.
Services is a bit chaotic given the size of the place, yet friendly. Many tables means no wait, even when busy.
