There is something to be said about an Italian restaurant that has been around for more than 30 years, and Delfino’s proudly owns that accolade. Located at 500 Jefferson Street, Delfino’s has been serving the Hoboken community some of the most authentic Italian food in the area. Frank + Delfino Biancamano {cousins of the Biancamanos on Washington}, two brothers from the town of Salerno, Italy came to the states and made their home in Hoboken. In 1987, the two brothers decided to open Delfino’s + we are so glad that they did, as Hoboken-ites have enjoyed their homemade food and family recipes for decades.
The Menu
Most of the plates on the menu come from family recipes + they are delizioso. “People come to us for a home-cooked meal and that’s what we give them,” explained Frank and his daughter, Angela. In addition to the menu, Delfino’s has daily specials that are guaranteed to make your mouth water. The Chicken St. Peter {stuffed chicken breast with prosciutto, swiss, Massimo sauce + mushrooms} is a family favorite at the restaurant. Frank loves the Pasta Fagioli and the Escarole + Beans most of all {Editor’s note: the escarole + beans are something to write home about and you need it}.
The huge bowl of escarole + beans that is literally enough to be a meal
Even though Frank says that Delfino was the cook of the operation, you can be sure to find Frank behind the counter whipping up something new all the time. “Sometimes he just plays around with a recipe and puts his own spin on things, like his Chicken Parm over French Fries dish,” explained Angela.
The star of the menu is, of course, the pizza. At Delfino’s, you will always get true, homemade Hoboken pizza that you just can’t find anywhere else. With an endless amount of toppings plus specialty pizza like Sicilian slices, there is something for any pizza lover to enjoy. The menu also has an impressive variety of appetizers, pastas, seafood, salads, and even hot and cold heroes. Also important to note: Delfino’s is BYOB {which is always V appreciated}.
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Photo: @delfinoshoboken on Instagram
^ Baked clams, FTW
The Atmosphere
The vibe {when we can visit indoors, in-person} is very casual and open in the restaurant; you can walk right in and seat yourself. The menu itself is casual, too, offering hearty, genuine Italian food. The space was renovated a few years ago, which opened up the dining area for more people and bigger parties with big windows to showcase the restaurant. Even though Frank loved when it was small and cozy, he likes being able to bring more people into the dining room to enjoy the food and atmosphere. This is the perfect spot to kick back + enjoy that Sunday Dinner feel any day of the week. PS: Delfino’s also has outdoor seating when the weather calls for it.
All About Family
One of the owners, Frank Biancamano
The Biancamanos are all about family and it’s what they are most proud of. When you eat at the restaurant, you become part of it all. “Everything we do comes from love. It’s not about putting things together and making money, there’s background to it,” Frank shared. That doesn’t go unnoticed, either. The majority of the people who come into the restaurant are returning customers, who have made Delfino’s their regular spot for dinner for years. Of course, a mix of Hoboken residents gather at Delfino’s for lunch and dinner, so next time you’re in the area, stop by for a bite to eat or pick something up for takeout/delivery.
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The Verdict
If you are looking for yummy Italian food, family feel, and a great night out with friends, swing by Delfino’s, which is currently open for outdoor dining. The food is always fresh, and the staff is always friendly. Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy some classic Italian dishes — this closely-knit family will welcome you like you are one of their own.
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