Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Chicken Parmigiana and fried calamari in New Jersey

Made for those who treat a meal as a multi-course ritual and expect both their fried appetizer and main course to be executed with precision.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Bella Trattoria E Pizzeria image 1
Bella Trattoria E Pizzeria image 2
Bella Trattoria E Pizzeria image 3
View all
Italian restaurant

Elegant space with unique decor and great curb appeal creates a cozy, family-oriented atmosphere. Relaxing background music enhances the inviting vibe, while BYOB service adds a personal touch. Known for authentic Italian dishes and standout pizza, it offers a warm, intimate dining experience.

Chicken parmigiana features rich vodka sauce and a classic Italian flavor that stands out. The dish pairs well with calamari and tiramisu for a full meal.

Fried calamari comes out fresh and bursting with flavor. It pairs well with homemade sauce and stands out alongside other dishes like rib eye and antipasto salad.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try their fried calamari; it's bursting with flavor."

"I found the Chicken Parmigiana to be absolutely fantastic."

Good to know

1

Brunch is available on weekends.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing you to bring your own drink.

3

All desserts are homemade, ensuring freshness.

02
Oโ€™ Sole Mio Pizzeria Ristorante image 1

Italian restaurant offers family-oriented atmosphere with old-world charm and outdoor patio dining. The space feels like home, featuring authentic decor with paintings and background music. It hosts friendly interactions, including owner-organized games and thoughtful gestures.

Crispy, breaded chicken forms the base of the chicken parmesan here, often served with a rich vodka sauce. The sandwich version stands out for its satisfying texture and flavor.

Crispy and perfectly prepared, the fried calamari comes with a balsamic touch that adds a fresh, flavorful twist. It pairs well with other dishes like the Grandma pizza, enhancing the overall meal.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was phenomenal, especially the crispy thin crust."

"The fried calamari here is crispy and perfectly prepared."

"The Chicken Parmigiana's chicken was crispy, breaded, and fried."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYO, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect higher prices than what's listed on the menu.

3

There is no air conditioning in the restaurant.

03
Trattoria Toscana image 1
Italian restaurant

Renovated space blends rustic touch with classy, clean atmosphere and dark lighting for an upper-class dining feel. Live music and a resident singer create a chill, engaging vibe throughout the week. Spacious layout includes a private room and lounge, supporting both intimate dinners and large gatherings.

Chicken parmigiana here varies in quality. Some orders come out good and satisfying, while others arrive completely tasteless, including the sauce.

Tender texture and tasty flavor define the fried calamari here. It works well as an appetizer alongside salads or other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the seafood salad."

"I was blown away by the Chicken Parmigiana."

"The fried calamari was tender, tasty, and piping hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Live music happens every Friday night, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Brunch service is available on Saturdays and Sundays starting at the end of March.

04
The Roosevelt image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy with a secret bookcase entry offers a unique, hidden bar experience. Atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music and dancing energizing the space. Decor and architecture impress, creating a vibrant vibe suited for celebrations and private events.

Offers delicious chicken parmesan dishes, including a Penne Chicken Parmesan option. The chicken parmesan stands out alongside other hearty items like steak sandwiches and meatballs.

Fried calamari comes with light breading and is not rubbery or overcooked. Preparation avoids heaviness or dryness.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and craft signature drinks."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is delicious."

"The fried calamari wasn't over breaded, over cooked, or rubbery."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Valet parking is available on weekends, making parking easier in a tough area.

3

The venue offers private rooms for events, accommodating up to 30 guests.

05
Villa Amore image 1
Pizza restaurant

Dining room features Amalfi style decor with a warm and inviting atmosphere that evokes Italy. The place is family-run and offers authentic thin-crust pizza alongside generous portions of Italian dishes. It maintains a clean, updated space with a lively vibe and reasonable prices.

Vodka sauce shines on the chicken Parmesan, giving it a rich, creamy flavor. Pasta dishes like penne vodka with chicken Parmesan and eggplant Parmesan come with garlic knots on the side.

Crispy and well-seasoned, the fried calamari comes alongside other starters like mozzarella sticks and garlic knots. It pairs well with baked clams and sausage & peppers for a varied appetizer spread.

People are saying

"I found the pizza to have a fresh, crispy, thin crust."

"The staff here is so welcoming and attentive."

"I enjoyed the fried calamari; it was excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, making it easy to access the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

Takeout is available if you prefer dining at home.

06
Patricia's Downtown image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy Italian restaurant with crystal chandeliers and understated decor creates an upscale yet intimate atmosphere. Loud noise level and tight seating bring high energy, often filled with soft jazzy music. Space feels packed, with tables close together near the entrance.

Chicken parmigiana comes crispy and tender with a generous portion. It features an amazing tomato sauce that stands out.

Fried calamari comes handmade with a perfect crunch and light batter. It includes tender tentacles and stays fresh, not rubbery.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The Chicken Parmigiana service was warm, attentive, and perfectly paced."

"The fried calamari here is so tender and perfectly crunchy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to the restaurant's small size.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, but ice buckets are not provided.

3

A 3.29% service fee applies to debit card transactions.

07
Cassie's Restaurant image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious dining area with classic traditional Italian ambiance and floral and brick dรฉcor creates a family-style atmosphere. Multiple televisions add a sports bar vibe, making the place lively and sometimes noisy. The small full bar complements the setting, attracting groups who enjoy casual, energetic gatherings.

Chicken parmigiana comes tender and melts in your mouth. It pairs well with family-style dishes like salads and pasta.

Small orders of fried calamari come as a popular appetizer option. It appears alongside other starters like Buffalo wings and mozzarella sticks.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and came out quick."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is so tender and melts in your mouth."

"I got a small order of the fried calamari."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot right behind the restaurant with a path to the venue.

2

The restaurant offers family-sized options suitable for large groups.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

08
Bensi image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with a friendly family atmosphere and classic rock playlist sets a casual, mellow vibe. The space feels neat and clean though slightly dated, offering outstanding tomato sauce and a huge menu with well-loved dishes like chicken Marsala and penne vodka.

Chicken parmigiana comes with a heavy tomato sauce and is often fried. It pairs well with sides like broccoli rabe and is served alongside dishes like chicken marsala and penne vodka.

Fried calamari here comes from frozen and lacks freshness. It contrasts with other dishes like chicken parmesan and broccoli rabe, which stand out more.

People are saying

"I loved their salads; the Bensi salad was succulent."

"I found the fried calamari to be an excellent choice."

"I normally don't like Chicken Parmigiana, but this was incredible."

Good to know

1

The prices at Bensi are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

2

The portions served at Bensi are generous and satisfying.

3

Bensi maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout the restaurant.

09
Patricia's of Toms River image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and high ceilings create a welcoming space, but tight table spacing limits movement and raises noise levels. Loud music and hard surfaces make conversation difficult, while sports on big screens contrast with the Italian theme.

Chicken parm comes with a rich vodka sauce and serves quickly. It stands out as phenomenal and among the best in the area.

Crispy and crunchy textures define the fried calamari here, paired with a sauce that's almost drinkable. It stands out alongside other appetizers like grilled octopus and meatballs for a strong start.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, truly as good as I've had in Italy."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is amazing, and the sauce was delicious."

"The fried calamari is so crispy and the sauce is drinkable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to ensure a table.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, which allows guests to bring their own drinks.

3

They charge a 3.5% fee for credit card payments.

10
Superfrico Atlantic City image 1

Restaurant features themed rooms with Alice in Wonderland-inspired decor creating a unique dining atmosphere. Entertainment includes pop-up performances blending comedy, magic, and acrobatics that add lively energy. The vibe is fun and loud, attracting a diverse crowd seeking an unconventional experience.

Chicken parm features a crispy breaded chicken topped with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. The dish stands out for its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

Good fried calamari comes with a spicy sauce that adds a nice kick. It pairs well with other seafood options like deviled crab pizza.

People are saying

"Chef Noah's Italian food is innovative and prepared with passion."

"The dinner spots here have attentive staff who really care about your experience."

"Noah and Jocelyn's passion for the Chicken Parmigiana made me feel so welcomed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The show at The Hook features acrobatic acts and comedy after dinner.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner to avoid long wait times.

Discover more

New Jersey

Area guide
Loading Map...