I have a saying when it comes to eateries: "Gems are found in strip malls." The location of Bayville, New Jersey's Buon Appetito (745 Route 9, 732-269-4005, www,buonappetitobayville.com) might not be a true strip mall, but I'll allow it to apply here. Owner and head chef, Alfredo Leonor, worked for the prior ownership for over five years, and when the time came to pass the torch, he was ready to buy the business and make it his own. Wife Agueda Ibarra is side-by-side with him at Buon Appetito, they a perfect complement to each other in hospitality. Our visit was, in a way, a second birthday celebration for my wife, Lucille. We were heading back home from Cape May, exited the GSP to fill our car with gas and satisfy our tummies with food. We chose the right spot. Consider the kind appetizer that our hosts offered to us, called Bolli Knots (3 for $2.50, 6 for $5.50). If not opting for traditional Italian eatery apps like fried calamari, mozzarella sticks, or, yes, even garlic knots, these are a wonderful alternative. My choice for food before resuming our lengthy journey was a 7" homemade tuna sub with American cheese and mayo ($7.95), which - no matter the eatery - is what I often order. The sandwich was perfect. Lucille and Stefanie respectively ordered The Godfather (bottom left), which is made with crispy chicken smothered in creamy vodka sauce and fresh mozzarella, and the Calabrese, prepared with grilled chicken, broccoli rabe, and fresh mozzarella with a sundried tomato spread (bottom right). Both are $9.95, and are "sandwiched" between fresh, made-in-house Buon Appetito focaccia bread slices, and are served with fries. A comment here about friendliness, which is what Alfredo, Agueda, and their staff are all about. Food quality is indeed important at any restaurant, but so is service. At Buon Appetito, there is a handshake between both the before-mentioned, and it makes a visit all the more worthwhile and memorable.
Thank you, Buon Appetito! Steve
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AuthorAppetizers, hospitality, small plates - the best in dining! Archives
January 2023
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