Authentic Italian Cuisine Since 1985 • Fresh Pasta • Seafood • Family-Owned
Looking for the Best Italian Restaurants Near You? Discover Sal De Forte's — Ewing's Premier Upscale Italian Dining
Searching for nice italian restaurants near me with authentic flavors, upscale ambiance, and warm hospitality? Sal De Forte's Ristorante in Ewing, NJ has been the area's best italian restaurant since 1985. Perfect for romantic dinners, special occasions, and celebrations, we're located at 1400 Parkway Ave, conveniently accessible from Princeton, Trenton, Lawrenceville, and Hamilton. Whether you're planning a date night, celebrating an anniversary, or craving fresh handmade pasta and succulent seafood, our family-owned restaurant delivers an unforgettable upscale Italian dining experience just minutes from wherever you are.
Why Sal De Forte's is the Best Italian Restaurant Near You
When you search for italian restaurants near me, you want more than just food – you want an authentic experience. Here's what makes us stand out from other Italian restaurants in the area.
39 Years of Tradition
Family-owned since 1985, our recipes and cooking methods have been passed down through the Vizzini family. This isn't a chain restaurant – this is authentic Italian hospitality.
Fresh Ingredients Daily
We make our pasta fresh every morning using traditional Italian techniques. Our seafood arrives daily, and we source the finest imported Italian specialties alongside local ingredients.
Convenient Location
Easy access from I-95, Route 1, and I-295. Located in Ewing Township, we're just 5-15 minutes from Princeton, Trenton, Lawrenceville, and Hamilton with ample free parking.
Full Bar Available
Unlike many BYOB Italian restaurants in the area, we have a full liquor license. Enjoy perfectly paired wines, classic Italian cocktails, and premium spirits with your meal.
Open 6 Days a Week
More dining hours than most local competitors, including lunch service Wednesday through Friday. Perfect for business lunches, family dinners, and weekend celebrations.
Perfect for Students & Families
Just 2 miles from TCNJ and Rider University, we're a favorite for Princeton University families, student celebrations, and everyone seeking authentic Italian food near them.
Elegant Upscale Atmosphere
When searching for nice italian restaurants near me, ambiance is key. Our upscale dining room features soft lighting, white linens, and intimate seating – perfect for romantic dinners, anniversaries, and special celebrations.
Extensive Wine & Cocktails
Elevate your dining experience with our curated Italian wine list and signature cocktails. From Barolo to Prosecco, our wines pair perfectly with your meal. Try our Aperol Spritz or Limoncello Martini.
What Our Guests Are Saying
Don't just take our word for it – hear from our loyal customers who keep coming back for authentic Italian dining near them.
“Best Italian food in Mercer County! The homemade cavatelli is to die for. We've been coming here for 15 years and it never disappoints.”
John D.
Ewing, NJ
“My fiancé proposed to me at Sal De Forte's! The staff made it so special with a private table, champagne, and the most romantic atmosphere. Hands down the best italian restaurant near Princeton for a special occasion.”
Sarah M.
Princeton, NJ
“Sal De Forte's is our go-to for special occasions. The service is impeccable, the food is always fresh, and the veal marsala is the best I've had outside of Italy.”
Michael R.
Trenton, NJ
“As a Princeton University parent, I've tried many Italian restaurants in the area. Sal De Forte's stands out for its authenticity and consistency.”
Linda K.
Princeton, NJ
“Celebrated our 25th anniversary here and it was perfect. Upscale yet welcoming, attentive service, incredible food. If you're looking for nice italian restaurants near me for a celebration, this is THE place.”
David L.
Lawrenceville, NJ
“We've been searching for a good Italian restaurant near us for years. Sal De Forte's exceeded our expectations. Fresh ingredients, generous portions, and the eggplant parmigiano is heavenly.”
Jennifer W.
Hamilton, NJ
Years Serving Ewing
Since 1985
Happy Customers
And counting!
Ready to become our next satisfied customer?
Signature Dishes That Make Us a Local Favorite
When you're searching for italian restaurants near me, the menu matters. Here are the dishes that keep our guests coming back week after week.
Fresh Handmade Pasta
Homemade Cavatelli
Our signature pasta, handrolled daily using a traditional Italian recipe. Served with your choice of marinara, Alfredo, or pesto sauce. The perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Market Price
Lasagna Bolognese
Layers of fresh pasta, slow-cooked meat ragù, béchamel, and three Italian cheeses. Baked to golden perfection. A family recipe that's been perfected over 39 years.
$24.95
All our pasta is made fresh daily in-house using traditional Italian methods passed down through generations of the Vizzini family.
Seafood Specialties
Frutti Di Mare
Fresh clams, mussels, shrimp, and calamari in your choice of marinara or white wine sauce over linguine. Our most popular seafood dish – delivered fresh daily.
Market Price
Shrimp Scampi
Jumbo shrimp sautéed in garlic, white wine, lemon butter sauce, and fresh herbs. Served over angel hair pasta or with crusty Italian bread.
$28.95
Classic Italian Entrées
Chicken Parmigiano
Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara and melted mozzarella, served with pasta. A timeless Italian-American classic.
$22.95
Veal Marsala
Tender veal medallions in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. Served with roasted vegetables and your choice of pasta or risotto.
Market Price
Eggplant Parmigiano
Layers of breaded eggplant with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. A vegetarian favorite that doesn't compromise on flavor.
Market Price
Elegant Ambiance Perfect for Special Occasions
When you search for nice italian restaurants near me, ambiance is key. Sal De Forte's offers an upscale dining atmosphere that's perfect for romantic dinners, anniversaries, and celebrations.
Romantic & Intimate
Our elegantly appointed dining room features soft lighting, white tablecloths, and intimate booth seating — creating the perfect atmosphere for date nights and special occasions. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply enjoying a romantic evening out, our upscale ambiance sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.
- ✓ Soft candlelit atmosphere
- ✓ Intimate booth and table seating
- ✓ Live background music on weekends
- ✓ Private dining areas available
Upscale Yet Welcoming
We strike the perfect balance between upscale elegance and warm Italian hospitality. Our dress code is smart casual — no need for suits or formal wear, but we do maintain a refined atmosphere. You'll feel comfortable whether it's a special celebration or a nice dinner out with family.
- ✓ Smart casual dress code
- ✓ Family-friendly while maintaining elegance
- ✓ Attentive, professional service
- ✓ Accommodates parties of all sizes
Date Night
Romantic ambiance, attentive service
Celebrations
Birthdays, anniversaries, milestones
Business Dinners
Private areas, professional atmosphere
Family Gatherings
Multi-generational celebrations
Ready to experience the best italian restaurant near you?
Reserve Your Table for a Special EveningEasy to Find from Anywhere in Ewing, Princeton & Trenton
When you search for italian restaurants near me, location matters. We're conveniently located with easy highway access and free parking.
Our Address
Get DirectionsFree Parking
Over 100 free parking spaces in our private lot. No meters, no hassle – just convenient parking for all our guests.
From Princeton
5 miles • 10 minutes
Head south on US-206 S, turn left onto Parkway Ave. We're on your right in 2 minutes. Perfect for Princeton University families and students.
From Trenton
3 miles • 7 minutes
Take US-1 North, exit at Parkway Ave. Turn right, we're 1 mile ahead on the left. Ideal for downtown Trenton professionals.
From Lawrenceville
4 miles • 9 minutes
Take US-206 S to Parkway Ave, turn left. 3 minutes to our front door. A quick drive from Lawrence Township.
From TCNJ/Rider
2 miles • 5 minutes
Perfect for college students! Quick drive on Parkway Ave from both The College of New Jersey and Rider University.
Nearby Landmarks
0.3 miles
Ewing Township Municipal Building
1 mile
Trenton-Mercer Airport
2 miles
The College of New Jersey (TCNJ)
Open 6 Days a Week for Your Convenience
When you search for italian restaurants near me, availability matters. We're open more hours than most local Italian restaurants.
Restaurant Hours
Lunch available Wednesday - Friday, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Ready to Experience Authentic Italian?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. Book your table online or call us directly.
Proudly Serving Your Community
No matter where you are when you search for italian restaurants near me, if you're in the greater Mercer County area, we're your neighborhood Italian restaurant.
Ewing Township
Our home since 1985
Princeton
15 minutes away
Trenton
7 minutes away
Lawrenceville
9 minutes away
Hamilton
12 minutes away
Surrounding Areas
10-mile radius
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about dining at Sal De Forte's? We've got answers.
Do you take reservations?
Yes! We highly recommend reservations, especially for weekends and holidays. You can reserve online through OpenTable or call us at (609) 406-0123. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability.
What are your hours?
We're open 6 days a week:
- • Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- • Wednesday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- • Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- • Saturday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- • Sunday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- • Monday: Closed
Lunch is available Wednesday-Friday 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Is there parking available?
Yes, we offer over 100 free parking spaces in our private lot directly in front of the restaurant at 1400 Parkway Ave, Ewing Township. No meters, no hassle – just convenient parking for all our guests.
Do you offer gluten-free or vegetarian options?
Absolutely! We offer gluten-free pasta and many vegetarian options including our popular Eggplant Parmigiano, Fresh Caprese Salad, and Pasta Primavera. Please inform your server of any dietary restrictions, and our chef will accommodate your needs.
How far are you from Princeton and Trenton?
We're just 10 minutes from Princeton (5 miles) and 7 minutes from Trenton (3 miles). Easily accessible from I-95, Route 1, and I-295 with free parking. We also serve Lawrenceville (9 minutes), Hamilton (12 minutes), and the surrounding Mercer County area.
Are you family-friendly?
Yes! We welcome families and have been a favorite for multi-generational celebrations for 39 years. We're perfect for kids' birthdays, family reunions, and special occasions. High chairs and booster seats are available.
What makes you different from chain Italian restaurants?
We're family-owned since 1985 with authentic recipes passed down through the Vizzini family. We make our pasta fresh daily in-house, source premium ingredients, and provide personalized service you won't find at chains. Plus, we have a full liquor license (many local Italian restaurants are BYOB), and over 100 free parking spaces.
Do you serve alcohol?
Yes, unlike many BYOB Italian restaurants in the area, we have a full liquor license with an extensive wine selection, Italian cocktails (Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Limoncello Martini), and premium spirits.
Do you offer catering or host private events?
Yes! We offer catering for private events, business meetings, weddings, and celebrations. Our dining room can accommodate groups of various sizes. Contact us at (609) 406-0123 to discuss your event needs.
What's your most popular dish?
Our most popular dishes include Homemade Cavatelli (fresh pasta made daily), Frutti Di Mare (fresh seafood medley), Veal Marsala, and Chicken Parmigiano. Our Lasagna Bolognese is a family recipe perfected over 39 years and is a customer favorite.
Is Sal De Forte's a nice restaurant for a date or special occasion?
Absolutely! Sal De Forte's is one of the best italian restaurants near you for romantic dinners and special occasions. Our upscale ambiance features soft lighting, intimate booth seating, white tablecloths, and attentive service — perfect for anniversaries, proposals, birthdays, and date nights. Many couples choose us for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, and engagement celebrations. We also offer private dining areas for larger celebrations.
Still have questions? We're here to help!
Stop Searching "Italian Restaurants Near Me" – You've Found Us!
Experience 39 years of authentic Italian tradition at Sal De Forte's Ristorante. From fresh handmade pasta to succulent seafood, we're the italian restaurant near you that delivers an unforgettable dining experience every time.