WOW WOW WOW this place is amazingly good and the decor was simply beautiful especially for the holidays. What a great staff and no rush while taking your order. Everything came out perfect and looked good and tasted even better. The grilled octopus, tribe and the Sunday sauce pasta with pork, short rib, and meatballs was to die for. Our main course my wife enjoyed her linguine with clams with garlic and oil, and I enjoyed my 16 ounce sirloin steak, which was cooked to perfection and the potatoes and onions that came along with it out of this world. The side of long hots had a big kick and my wife enjoyed it fully. Make your reservations and hit this BYOB place because you are gonna simply be amazed. Good luck Nicola. read more

We had a rehearsal dinner for 35 people. Sam was a pleasure to work with. The service was amazing and the food delicious. The restaurant is beautiful. We highly recommend. read more

My wife has trying to get me there for dinner but it hasn't worked out until last week. The service was great! Brian and the guys were very attentive. The apps and main entrees were great. As a family, we had both short -rib entrees and the seafood pastas with shrimp. One was better than the next. I also enjoyed an amazing cappuccino to end the evening. read more

01/23/25 Came here with my BIL and SIL for dinner. Been a few times and it's always been very good. We started sharing the mussels and stuffed shrimp (with crab) both great entrees. My wife and SIL had the seafood broil, my BIL had the pappardelle with short ribs which he enjoyed very much. I had the fettuccine lobster, which also was very tasty, although very 'heavy'... later sittin' kinda like a fettuccini alfredo would. I'd probably order this again, although I think I'd take half of it home. Service as always was very good and since we also appreciate the BYOB advantage... I'm sure we'll be back again. read more

Another amazing night at Nicola's. Dinner was outstanding and the service is second to none.

We had my son's confirmation here. The food and service were excellent!! Highly recommend!

From Carly, the hostess , to our awesome waiter Cole, our experience was so enjoyable! It was packed but you wouldn't know it from all the attention we got! We started with the "sweetest oysters" that we wished we had dozens more. We split a salad that was so fresh. I had the seafood Rivera which was cooked to perfection! My friend had the veal Rossini so flavorful. Of course we left room for the Italian ricotta cheesecake ! They just get better and better every time I go there! We were very very happy! read more

Nicola's is your standing NJ Italian American restaurant. I came here for a baby shower on a rainy Saturday. The restaurant was easy to find and had ample parking. The service outshined the food and deserves more than 3 stars. The waitstaff was tremendously attentive and even asked if they needed to change the temperature in the restaurant to accommodate the guests. It felt like we were at a family event with that level of hospitality. The food was good. What I expected. Portions were perfectly appropriate for lunch. The restaurant was also prepared to make adjustments for those of us who have allergies and sensitivities. If you're looking for a venue for a bridal, birthday, or baby brunch this spot checks all of the boxes! read more

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Had an office Xmas luncheon today and everyone commented that they loved the food from the appetizers,pasta and the main course. and of course the pastries. Everyone also commented on the service that we received. Great Food Great service. Thank you read more

My niece had a small wedding party sit down dinner during the week. There was so much food and the food was excellent. The wait staff was on top of everything. I would certainly be going back. read more

Food was delicious and full of flavor. Serving size was huge and waiters were super attentive. Restaurant was beautiful and super accommodating with my 18mo old when he started to get fussy. Will definitely be back read more

Still our favorite, all-around place. (I read some other negative reviews and would comment on the probable 1-off situation but will focus on our experiences...PS: The place is packed Friday/Saturday so they must be doing something VERY right!!!). One starts with very cordial Hostesses seating you (and checking you are enjoying). The staff has great waiters/waitresses and an overload of busguys making sure the incidentals are taken care of quickly. We usually get the Hot Antipasti, to get a nice variety of tasty clams, stuffed mushrooms, shrimp. Caesar salad always crisp and perfect dressing. I love the Veal Chop Milanese (and ask for Balsalmic Glaze for a delicious added touch)(once or twice over 20 times, the Chop seemed much smaller but i didnt complain and it returned to normal from then on). My friend loves the Wild Mushroom Ravioli (unbeliveable sauce), Chicken Marsala, and Lasagna (when offered). As a tribute to their business, many have parties there so the noise level could be unsettling to some, but i expect it, and creates a lively atmosphere (There's usually one or two cacklers in every party, in any restaurant, who seem like they're trying to be the life of the party) . The decor renovations of about 2 yrs. ago were very classy. The only minor issue is the fish dishes are a few dollars over what one would expect but delicious when tried. Enjoy! read more

Everything from Appetizers dessert dinner wine was the best. My birthday was perfect because my dinner was perfect. My dessert was perfect. My appetizer was perfect. Service was excellent. read more

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We started out with the calamari and it was delicious and for our dinner we had mixed mushrooms with truffles pappdelli

This place was awesome loved the food and the service. Food: I had the Fettucine Portofino - shrimp, scallops, and shiitake mushrooms in a marechiara sauce. OMG the plate was lovely super tasty definitely a lot of food. The wild mushroom ravioli was also great because of the sauce was perfect. Wild Mushroom Ravioli topped with shiitake mushroom and asparagus in a light vodka sauce. The only this about this place is that you need to BYOB which I didn't although they have a wine bar next door it's a bit overpriced. read more

Nicola's Ristorante - Wild Mushroom Ravioli - Italian Near Me - Totowa, New Jersey

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Our highest praise and gratitude go to Carly and Nick--and Sam and their Staff-- all of whom did a phenomenal job to ensure a beautiful Bridal Shower for our daughter at Nicola's Ristorante! From the time we called to reserve the date to the moment they helped bring gifts to our cars, we received their undivided care and attention! Carly and Sam were incredible as we planned our special event! They patiently answered our questions, offered excellent suggestions, and honored our specific requests. They took genuine interest in our vision for the day and did everything possible to bring it to life! Our 5-course meal was absolutely delicious, and the portions were beyond generous! The beautiful presentation and superior quality of the food impressed our guests. Many compliments were given for the Chicken Francaise and Salmon Oreganata! The Staff ensured an easy, measured flow for the afternoon so that our guests could appreciate each course--and the day's festivities--comfortably, without feeling rushed. Our daughter was so very happy, and our family and friends enjoyed an amazing time! Thank you so very much, Carly and Nick, and Sam and Staff!!! We look forward to hosting future celebrations at Nicola's! read more

Solid Italian experience. Great service and food, everyone in our party enjoyed their meals from appetizers to entrees. BYOB so that is nice as well. I ll be back read more

Excellent service. Nice atmosphere. Food was standard Italian fare. It's BYOB. Prices are reasonable.

You simply must Love Jersey as you can eat like kings in these great BYOB places and not get killed on liquor up charges. It really allows you to spread yourself out across the menu and try so many different things. I have never been here before, but it is highly recommended by multiple people. 8 of us tonight head in and our table is reserved, and we are seated on time. The place is huge with lots of space, nooks, crannies etc. and the service is bustling. We are immediately presented with complimentary 'Bruschetta" and Eggplant dip along with hot fresh bread as our wines are opened and our orders of bottled water are brought. The menu is diverse but standard for these parts. We decided simply to order A LOT and eat family style, so I'll break it down as we go. The place is packed, and it seems most of North Jersey is here as we know about 25% of the patrons LOL. Appetizers: Fried Calamari was a different take on your standard presentation with some spice and soy sauce. Not really my cup of tea but everyone seemed to enjoy it. Clams Oreganato were delicious. The mozzarella in carozza was very good as well with some nice marinara to dip. Kale salad was ok but then gain I hate Kale. Prosciutto di Parma and mozzarella were top shelf quality. The 2nd course was pasta which was a house specialty and they made up a little dish for each of us. Hands down best thing on the table all night. Homemade Orecchiette Ragumini meatballs, short ribs, and pork braciola in a red sauce. Entrée: Veal Parm was standard but High-quality veal cooked properly made this a winner. Shrimp & Chicken in brandy cream sauce perfect balance with jumbo shrimp big fresh and clean. Halibut oreganato was clean fresh fish same sauce the clams were in so another winner. Chicken Scarpello they forget the hot cherry peppers, but the sausage and sauce was delish. At this point we couldn't move but we still went for a few deserts. The Cheesecake was killer as was the carrot cake, and I know they buy their gelato, but the pistachio was so good. Service was fantastic with food moving quickly, water and bread refilled, and on top of any of our needs all night. Price points were beyond INEXPENSIVE for quality of food served and amount. All and all just a great evening with good friends at a place I will absolutely do again. read more

$26 for a portion of Chicken Parm that wouldn't fill my 6 year old. 1.5 pieces of thin small chicken. 3 tiny potato's and 2 pieces of the saddest asparagus I've ever seen. I've never seen asparagus so skinny and short. There are much better Italian places in the area. read more

This restaurant is been going down the hill. Food is just average for the price they charge. Very noisy and unable to hold a conversation with the person next to you. For what you pay, you can do better. Will not ever go back. read more

What can i say about the best restaurant in Nj ! The fish is by far the best in the area . We eat here probably once a week ! The ambiance has been updated and the service is the best! The entire menu is great! There are alot of restaurants in this area but hands down nothing compares to here. The quality is top notch and its also a byob . I highly recommend! read more

We came here on a Sunday to celebrate my mom's birthday. We were a party of 6 and made reservations in advance, just to be safe. This place has a large parking lot, so parking is not an issue. Upon being seated, we were served bread and butter; and waters were poured for all of us. We brought our own wine bottles too, and the servers assisted in pouring the wine for us as well, which was nice. We stared out ordering some appetizers. We went with the calamari and hot antipasto for two. Both of these dishes were excellent choices. The calamari was my favorite of the two. For my main dish. I went with the seabass. I love a good cooked fish, and this seabass was outstanding. It was the perfect dinner choice. My girlfriend went with the vela rossini, and she loved it as well. I tired a bit of it and really enjoyed the taste. Everything here was just so delicious. It was an excellent Italian restaurant this place was. Highly recommended! read more

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My husband and I really enjoyed this place when the original owners were here , since they retired it's nothing but downhill. We've been disappointed on 2 consecutive visits . The blonde hostess needs to improve her customer relations. RUDE !! We've also noticed lots of the waiters have changed . Seems like they left too . Not a great sign . Our apps were down right cold . How can you serve cold cooked clams ? Salads were good . Our entrees were not the same as we always had. Smaller portions and different flavors. The kitchen needs to go back as it was years ago . This place won't be around for long. There are so many great places byob in the area that's worth visiting before you decide to try it here . read more

Yes, this experience could have been alot better. We walked into a lively atmosphere and expected a jovial evening. It was anything but. For starters, the service was abominable. We had to wait for an eternity to have our wine bottle opened....and when I asked the hostess to send someone, she acted like I was asking her to cut her right arm off. The server was even worse. As soon as our wine was poured she snapped at us for our order. We ordered salads which she tried to take from us before we even finished. Three of our entrees arrived together and again we had to wait for the fourth for a very long time. When we asked about it, no one was aware that there was a plate missing. .....so more wait time. I ordered a capuccino and never received it, but surely it was on the check. The food was mediocre. I understand that the restaurant is under new ownership, which may explain the difference between some of the previous reviews and what we experienced. I certainly will never head back. read more

Wow wow wow where do i even start ! This place is a true hidden gem . The food was 10/10 amazing fresh flavourful the service world class ! The host was so sweet and accommodating ! This was my first time here and ill be back many many times you my friends have a customer for life now ! Seafood pasta was amazing , steak cooked perfectly , pasta was home made and fresh ! Stuffed artichoke was amazing ! read more

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Nicola's is a favorite of my family's. The food and service are always on-point, and it's BYO which is an added plus. I recently came in for dinner with my mom and we started with the zucchini flowers from the specials menu, which were stuffed with mozzarella and prosciutto. They were lightly fried and served with a red sauce... so good! For entrees we got the squid ink pasta with seafood special and the gnocchi. Both were delicious. The squid ink pasta was a bit too al dente for me, but I overall really enjoyed the dish. The gnocchi was tossed in creamy, fresh pesto sauce with shrimp. As always, the service was friendly and attentive. I wish they accepted reservations for smaller parties, but otherwise I love everything about this place. Nicola's is a great spot for delicious food with a wonderful ambiance. read more

BELLISSIMO!!! As a native of Italy, the food at Nicolas has ALWAYS been and STILL is completely authentic and homemade. Nicola Jr. and his staff are committed and you will ALWAYS go home full and happy . Love it here !! read more

" Miss the owners " The warm greetings from the original owners are missed . The food is no longer the same as it was. We had average appetizers, but my husband had to send back his dish twice . Once it was the wrong order , then when it came out it was extremely spicy!! He doesn't eat spicy foods. So this was obviously someone else's dish . My husband travels a lot for work and we always looked forward to coming here when he was home . Unfortunately this was a horrible experience on a Friday night. I truly hope this isn't going to be what the future holds for this once great restaurant. read more

Our food was cold !!! My boyfriend ordered steak that was as inedible. We spoke to our waiter who sent to us a woman who says she was the owner. We didn't expect this to occur . Very young lady who was not understanding or interested. In other words no one else complained about the food tonight!!!! She offered us dessert complimentary. We expressed to her that we can't have dessert due to medical conditions.Very very rude! We heard from others around us the original owners were nice people. But the young lady now seems she won't be in business much longer. I myself am In wholesale business and deal with customers daily . She definitely can use some tips on customer service skills . Stay away!! read more

We came here for a last-minute date night dinner on a Saturday night, and surprisingly they had a table available. The food was delicious, and the service was on point. Pictures are from our first visit. BYOB is a plus! I originally started writing this review well over a year ago. We returned a few times since, most recently this past summer, and everything was great! read more

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We were traveling to the area and asked the hotel for recommendations for an Italian restaurant. The clerk recommended Nicola's and below is our unsolicited review. We were able to visit Nicola's on a Friday and were the first couple seated for the dinner seating. We were wonderfully greeted by all staff and was given an excellent review of the evening's specials. Our main waiter, Jalil, was knowledgeable not only with the specials but with the entire menu. His people skills were outstanding and genuine. During the evening, we were served by most staff and never wanted or waited on anything. The food was authentic, delicious, and exceeded our expectations. We can't recommend this restaurant and dining experience enough and can't wait to return to the area so we can relive the experience. read more

Had been here many years ago, and decided to make it a go again. If I could do a 2.5 I would have rated it as such. The place was clean, location was great, the staff was quick to help and serve us.... But the food was blah. The Caesar Salad was blah, the bread was okay and then came the entrees. One of the specials was pumpkin ravioli... blah and the cream sauce was too thick! The short rib ravioli was tastier than the special. Wanted it to be so much better. The cappuccinos and amoretti cake were actually tasty and nice way to end a blah dinner. Wanted this place to be better. read more

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Went on a Sunday as hours online indicate availability. Tried to call ahead to no avail, and arrived to find the place totally locked up in the middle of their posted business hours. Waste of time read more

We made a last-minute reservation and it was pleasant and the food was great. I was there before but because it's the opposite direction from where I frequently travel, I forget about this place. I should remember it more often. read more

Nicola's has been our favorite go-to Italian restaurant for yearsssss when we want a pleasant meal/evening all-around - and they never disappoint. But tonight's meal was EXTRAORDINARY and incited my need to write yet another review. From the moment we walk in and greeted by the super friendly, professional Carly and Sam, we relax... and as soon as we sit at the table, the very attentive staff has our water, wine glasses, bread and Eggplant/Bruschetta samples ready. Our appetizer has been the Spock Shrimp because we love the garlic sauce and can order it NO SALT, NO SPICE to help with my diet (i save the extra sauce and pour on my dishes) My friend ordered my FAVORITE pasta dish ever, the Mushroom Ravioli, with a sauce that is out of this world and i cant wait to take home leftovers and use with vegetables and other things thrown in. The Veal Chop i ordered is usually Milanese but again, for diet purposes, i asked for it to be grilled and Nick made it soooooo juicy and tasty, i sometimes thought i was eating my favorite steak. We always finish the meal with a Macchiato of which they make the BEST anywhere. I shall sleep well once again tonight with my stomach so satisfied!! read more

Had few bad experiences here in the past . It used to be great but it was getting worse on each visit. Today I tried to take my 72 year old Mom there on our way back from the shore . It was 2:45 and on Yelp it says they were open until ten. I guess he doesn't need the business because the guy there bascially chased us out and said they were closed until 4. That was not listed anywhere. It worked out for us though because we went to Se7te pizza down the road and had an amazing meal with great service for half the price read more

Nicola's has never disappointed us!! I'm still getting texts from my family raving about the food and service. 8/3 Celebrating my husband's birthday with family - total about 18 of us. I originally wanted the reservation for 5pm. I was told that they had two other parties and asked me to please push it to 6:30pm. Yeah - sure - because we just love this place and their food!!!! No worries- I sent a quick text to the family and no problem. I arranged for the pre-fix menu so that we could all get our apps, salad and entrees at the same time. We had plenty of wine - wait staff made sure to keep the bottles uncorked and on ice. Nicola's is always lively. A little noisy but you can tell the patrons are enjoying themselves. We sure did. Water for the table immediately Drinks - soda orders Apps start coming out within 20 minutes of us getting there Waiter comes around to take salad orders and entree orders It was seamless - the night just flowed and so did the wine. My family enjoyed the food and couldn't believe how much food kept coming out. Everyone enjoyed their entree selection. We bought our own pastries and a small cheesecake - they were kind enough to unbox them and place on serving platers. Fresh fruit platers were included with the package - by this time we couldnt eat another bite. So I took that home. They also gave us all the leftover apps. Big shout out to Brian T our waiter - he went above and beyond: he was pleasant, accommodating, helpful, attentive and approachable. As I said in the beginning of my review : NICOLA'S HAS NEVER DISAPPOINTED US! My husband and I met at Nicola's when they were in Hawthorne in 2007. They will always have a place in our hearts. See you again soon! read more

Came with a group of friends and everyone was thrilled with their meal. I ordered the Seabass Nicola served over sautéed escarole with cannellini beans and it was phenomenal!!! One of the best fish dishes I had in a long time. The server was friendly and patient with all of our questions. Will definitely be coming back. read more

Food and service always great. We have never had a bad meal. It is always crowded which says a lot about the quality of food. Go you will not be disappointed! read more