In 1985, when the Vizzini family opened the doors to Sal De Forte's Ristorante on N Olden Avenue in Ewing Township, New Jersey, they had a simple yet powerful vision: to bring the authentic flavors of Italy to their adopted American community. What began as a dream rooted in generations of Italian culinary tradition has flourished into a 39-year legacy of excellence, becoming a beloved cornerstone of the Ewing Township dining scene. Today, we're proud to be known as the best Italian restaurant in Ewing, NJ.
A Family's Journey from Italy to Ewing
The Vizzini family's story is one of heritage, passion, and dedication. Arriving in America with treasured family recipes passed down through generations, they brought with them not just ingredients and techniques, but a philosophy that dining is about more than sustenance—it's about connection, celebration, and creating lasting memories.
From the very first day, Sal De Forte's distinguished itself through an unwavering commitment to authenticity. While other restaurants adapted Italian cuisine for American palates, the Vizzini family stayed true to their roots. Fresh pasta made daily. Sauces simmered for hours using time-honored methods. Ingredients sourced for quality, not convenience. This dedication resonated with guests who were hungry for genuine Italian flavors.
Building a Community Institution
Over nearly four decades, Sal De Forte's has become more than a restaurant—it's a gathering place where the Ewing Township community comes together to mark life's special moments. From intimate anniversary dinners to joyous family celebrations, from business meetings over lunch to casual weeknight meals, the restaurant has been honored to play a role in countless memories.
The restaurant's warm, inviting atmosphere reflects the Vizzini family's belief that every guest should feel like family. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular who's been coming for decades, you're greeted with the same genuine hospitality that has defined Sal De Forte's since 1985.
Recipes That Stand the Test of Time
At the heart of Sal De Forte's enduring success are the recipes themselves. The Eggplant Parmigiano, layered with care and baked to golden perfection, has delighted guests for 39 years. Our Sal De Forte's Lasagna Bolognese — a Vizzini family recipe — remains a customer favorite. The Caprese, showcasing the simplicity of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, remains as popular today as it was in 1985. The Frutti Di Mare, a celebration of the sea's bounty, continues to impress with its authentic Italian seafood preparation.
These dishes aren't just items on a menu—they're edible history, connecting today's diners to generations of Italian culinary tradition. Each recipe has been perfected over decades, with techniques refined but never compromised.
Looking Toward the Future
As Sal De Forte's enters its 40th year, the commitment to quality and authenticity remains as strong as ever. The restaurant continues to source the finest ingredients, prepare dishes with the same care and attention that defined its early years, and treat every guest with the warmth and hospitality that has become its hallmark.
The Ewing Township community has been incredibly supportive throughout this journey, and the Vizzini family is deeply grateful. As they look toward the future, they remain dedicated to upholding the standards of excellence that have made Sal De Forte's a treasured local institution for nearly four decades.
Whether you've been a loyal guest since 1985 or you're discovering Sal De Forte's for the first time, you're invited to be part of this ongoing story. Come experience the authentic Italian tradition that has delighted Ewing Township for 39 years—and counting. Read what our customers have to say about their dining experiences.
We proudly serve families from Princeton, Trenton, Hamilton, and Lawrenceville — all just minutes away from authentic Italian dining.