Al Dente

At Al Dente, located in the cozy Marketplace of Elmwood Park, New Jersey, the essence of authentic Italian cuisine comes alive. With a prime address at 430 Market St, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407, this Italian restaurant has enchanted both locals and visitors with its well-crafted dishes and warm ambiance.

Dining at Al Dente is not just about eating; it’s an experience filled with delightful surprises. The term "al dente," meaning "to the tooth," perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s commitment to cooking pasta to perfection. Each dish here showcases a marriage of high-quality, fresh ingredients and traditional Italian flair, resulting in bold flavors that will dance on your palate.

  • Children's Menu: Families are welcomed with a thoughtful children's menu featuring Kid's Chicken Fingers with French Fries and Kid's Ravioli Marinara that are sure to delight the little ones.
  • Signature Pastas: Don't miss the Fusilli Zingara, a vibrant dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, olives, and capers, or the rich and creamy Fettuccini Alfredo. Each serving includes a house salad, enhancing the meal experience.
  • House Salad: Begin your meal with a house salad, a fresh amalgamation of greens, tomato, red onion, black olives, and shredded carrots, dressed to perfection with a house dressing for only US$9.95.
  • Desserts: Make sure to save room for the homemade Tiramisu, a customer favorite known for its perfectly balanced sweetness and texture.

Customer reviews paint a vivid picture of the restaurant's atmosphere. Adam Herbst mentions the commendable service and delicious artichoke appetizer special, while Roberta Sable describes Al Dente as her "absolute favorite Italian restaurant," praising Steve's culinary artistry and Darlene’s impeccable service. Eloy Yip returned after two years to find consistent excellence in every dish, accompanied by warm bread that sets the tone for a fantastic dining experience.

Whether you’re treating yourself to a casual meal or hosting a large gathering—like Karen Chappell, who enjoyed a memorable Sunday dinner with seafood entrees—Al Dente caters to all, making each visit feel special. The attentive staff and BYOB policy add extra value to your experience, ensuring you leave with a satisfied heart and a full belly.

In summary, Al Dente is a hidden treasure filled with the robust flavors and warmth of Italian cuisine. If you find yourself in the area, it’s a destination that merits a visit—not just for the food, but for the genuine hospitality that envelops you the moment you walk through the door.

Menu

Location

Address: 430 Market St, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407, United States
Phone: +1 201-791-3000

🕓 Work Hours
MON Closed
TUE 3:30 AM - 9:00 PM
WED 3:30 AM - 9:00 PM
THU 3:30 AM - 9:00 PM
FRI 3:30 AM - 9:00 PM
SAT 3:30 AM - 9:00 PM
SUN Closed

Business info

  • Wheelchair-accessible Car Park
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Entrance
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Seating
    Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible Toilet
    Yes
  • No-contact Delivery
    Yes
  • Offers Delivery
    Yes
  • Offers Takeaway
    Yes
  • Serves Dine-in
    Yes
  • Fast Service
    Yes
  • Serves Great Dessert
    Yes
  • Live Music
    Yes
  • Popular For Lunch
    Yes
  • Popular For Dinner
    Yes
  • Good For Solo Dining
    Yes
  • Serves Food
    Yes
  • Serves Healthy Options
    Yes
  • Serves Wine
    Yes
  • Serves Dinner
    Yes
  • Catering
    Yes
  • Serves Dessert
    Yes
  • Seating
    Yes
  • Toilet
    Yes
  • Casual
    Yes
  • Cosy
    Yes
  • Good For Groups
    Yes
  • Accepts Reservations
    Yes
  • Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts Debit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts NFC Mobile Payments
    Yes
  • Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Good For Kids
    Yes
  • High Chairs Available
    Yes
  • Kids' Menu
    Yes
  • Free Of Charge Street Parking
    Yes
  • Free Parking Lot
    Yes
  • Plenty Of Parking
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Adam Herbst

    23 May 2025

    The food is great. I like the artichoke appetizer special. The service is great, as well. One of those classic NJ BYOB places in a small mini mall that is excellent all the time.

  • Author: Roberta Sable

    14 May 2025

    This is my absolute favorite Italian restaurant with the most unique and delicious foods. Steve creates mouthwatering sauces and dressings for his perfectly composed and presented dishes. Try to save room for his amazing homemade Tiramisu. Darlene keeps the dining room humming and service is impeccable. I eat there as often as possible and have had large parties, and even my wedding there it’s a hidden treasure.

  • Author: Karen Chappell

    14 May 2025

    Had a fabulous dinner on a recent Sunday evening. Several specials offered in addition to the regular menu. Eggplant rollatini and pasta with vodka sauce are always delicious, and seafood entrees are especially good (always fresh and portions are generous). Our server, Edward, was attentive, friendly, and helpful. One of our favorite casual neighborhood restaurants. Highly recommend.

  • Author: Eloy Yip

    02 May 2025

    Translated from the Italian literally “to the tooth," it describes pasta that is cooked to be firm to the bite. Located at the Marketplace of Elmwood Park strip mall off of Market Street, my partner and I made a return trip after two years to Al Dente for an early dinner tonight. Reservations were easily made by calling the establishment at the spur of the moment. Greeted by the staff upon entering, the patrons seemed to be enjoying their dinners and were seated promptly by the window. The menu featured typical Italian cuisine with appetizers, salads, pastas, chicken, fish, and veal dishes, as well as a special menu. We decided on their specials and got their homemade spinach and ricotta ravioli with blackened julienne chicken in Alfredo sauce and homemade fettuccine with chopped shrimp and sweet Italian sausage in a vodka pink sauce with shaved provolone. Our meal came with a side salad. Complimentary warm bread accompanied by butter started our meal. Food was always made with fresh ingredients, just the right amount of spice, and unbelievably delicious. Portions were just right. They offer a dessert, but we had no room to even try to have any. The service was excellent and accommodating, and the whole wait staff worked in tandem with each other. The price is comparable to the area, and BYOB adds to the value of the dinner. We continue to recommend it to anyone who either loves genuine Italian food or actually knows what genuine Italian food is supposed to be.