Jack H.
Yelp
A New Review for Carluccio's Coal-Fired Pizza - Northfield, NJ
July 19, 2025
By Jack and Susan Holender
On Friday evening, Susan and I returned to one of our absolute favorite dining spots at the shore--Carluccio's Coal-Fired Pizza in Northfield, NJ. Every time we step through their doors, it feels like a warm welcome home.
From the moment we arrived, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The friendly staff greeted us with genuine smiles, and the vibrant display of fresh, sizzling pizzas near the entrance set the tone for the delicious journey ahead. There's something magical about the aroma of coal-fired pizza mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation in the air.
As we were seated, we scanned the menu, tempted by the many Carluccio's classics we've enjoyed over the years--especially the legendary Grandma Pie and the unforgettable Eggplant Parmigiana. But this time, we decided to try another favorite: a pasta special that absolutely blew us away.
We ordered the Nero Di Seppia--a dish as stunning as it is in flavor. This black ink-infused fettuccine was beautifully paired with tender clams, shrimp, mussels, and calamari, all bathed in a bold red sauce. I opted for it spicy, and the result was sensational--layered, aromatic, and intensely flavorful. The dish arrived like a work of art and tasted even better than it looked. Every bite was pure joy. We also shared a crisp, refreshing Caesar salad on the side, which complemented our meal perfectly.
Once again, Carluccio's delivered an unforgettable dining experience. The ambiance is welcoming, the service attentive, and the food consistently exceptional. It's a place where families, couples, and friends of all generations gather and feel at home. Whether you're young or young at heart, you'll find something to love here.
The prices are more than fair, especially considering the outstanding quality of every dish. In a world where truly great meals are becoming harder to find, Carluccio's stands out as a shining example of excellence.
Susan and I always look forward to our next visit, and we make sure to tell everyone we know about this incredible gem of a restaurant.
If we could give it ten stars, we would--without hesitation.
Bravo to Carlo and his amazing team. We'll be back soon!
-- Jack & Susan Holender