Al Dente

Nestled in the heart of Elmwood Park, NJ, Al Dente is a celebrated Italian restaurant and wine bar that promises an authentic taste of Italy with every bite. True to its name—which translates to “to the tooth,” describing perfectly cooked pasta—Al Dente expertly crafts traditional Italian dishes that delight both the palate and the soul.

From the moment you step inside the warm and inviting space at 430 Market Street, you’re greeted by the aromas of fresh herbs, simmering sauces, and baked bread. The dining atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between cozy and elegant, suitable for intimate dinners, family gatherings, or casual celebrations. Friendly, attentive staff provide service that enhances the overall experience, ensuring guests feel right at home.

Al Dente’s menu is a rich mosaic of Italian classics with a modern twist. Pasta lovers will swoon over specialties like the Homemade Fettuccine with Chopped Shrimp and Sweet Italian Sausage—a harmonious blend of tender noodles enveloped in savory sausage and succulent shrimp—or the vibrant Fusilli Zingara, bursting with bold flavors. The Pasta Cavatelli With Broccoli—available in red or white sauce and accompanied by a crisp house salad—exemplifies perfectly textured pasta paired with fresh ingredients.

Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in the delicate Linguine In A Red Clam Sauce or the subtly fragrant Linguine Vespucci, which pairs shrimp with peppery arugula, lemon, and a gentle tomato touch for a refreshing burst of flavor. The Gnocchi Chicken Cacciatore, homemade potato dumplings stewed with tender chicken, peppers, and mushrooms in a rich red sauce, offers a comforting, rustic experience that feels like a warm embrace.

For those who enjoy sharing, Al Dente’s thoughtfully curated family-style meals stand out. The celebrated Chicken Parmesan with Rigatoni Marinara family meal combines crispy, juicy chicken parmigiana with perfectly sauced rigatoni, complemented by seasoned potatoes, mixed vegetables, and a fresh tossed salad with housemade dressing. These generous portions are perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Vegetable side dishes are treated with equal care: sautéed broccoli, rich sautéed spinach, tender broccoli rabe, and earthy mushrooms are all prepared with finesse, providing a vibrant balance to the meal. And no Italian meal is complete without dessert—Al Dente’s Mimi Cannoli’s offer a sweet, creamy finale that perfectly rounds out your dining experience.

Customer feedback is a testament to Al Dente’s excellence. One patron shared how the restaurant was the perfect setting for a birthday party with a varied menu including chicken, tilapia, and eggplant rollantini, praising the friendly, accommodating staff and inviting atmosphere. First-time visitors have been impressed by the helpfulness of the serving staff and the consistent quality of dishes like succulent salmon with garlic and vegetables.

Several guests highlight the genuinely tender and juicy chicken dishes, including a stuffed artichoke and decadent tartufo for dessert that left a lasting impression. Meanwhile, the combination of authentic recipes and attentive service makes Al Dente a sought-after location for private events, like baptisms, where food quality and hospitality come together seamlessly—even if some have noted minor timing challenges during busy transitions.

Whether you’re craving a beautifully crafted plate of pasta, looking to savor expertly paired wines at the bar, or seeking a warm yet refined atmosphere for a special occasion, Al Dente offers an Italian dining experience that is heartfelt, satisfying, and authentically memorable. With every forkful, you can taste the passion and tradition that make this Elmwood Park gem truly stand out.

For reservations or inquiries, call +1 201-791-3000 and prepare to indulge in a refined yet approachable Italian feast that invites you back again and again.