Don Pepe, Newark, NJ:
A Restaurant Review
844 McCarter Hwy.
Newark, NJ
973-623-4662
Website
Restaurant Highlights
Fare: Spanish - Portuguese
Price: Moderate - Expensive
Food Quality: 1 1/2 Stars
Service: 2 Stars
Decor: 2 Stars
Overall Rating: 2 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = Poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Offers a good selection of Spanish-Portuguese dishes served in huge portions
Value: Good
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy Spanish-Portuguese food served in huge portions in a festive atmosphere..
Not Recommended For: Spanish-Portuguese diners who prefer a low key, less festive setting
Recommended dishes: When available, Paella a la Valencia with with shellfish, chicken, and Spanish sausage; The Solomillo a la Sevillana, Filet mignon with special house sauce: and The Mariscada Don Pepe, a casserole with with a combination of shellfish in a tomato brandy and wine sauce with saffron rice.
Liquor: Full Service Bar with a decent selection of California and European wines .
Restaurant Review
Don Pepe, located close to the Prudential Center, this is an Ironbound longtime Newark favorite restaurant that continues to please.
The dining area is spacious with its three dining rooms and a vibrant bar --- especially when soccer is on TV.
The interior is basic, but more upscale than many of the nearby Ironbound restaurants. The ceilings are adorned with chandeliers and the walls with murals and tables set with white linen. The atmosphere is festive.
They serve up well prepared Spanish-Portuguese fare using fresh ingredients served in large portions. The restaurant is known for it's fresh lobster and steak specials. While the food is well prepared, it fails to distinguish itself enough to rise above the many other Ironbound Spanish-Portuguese restaurants.
The dining experience begins on a positive note with an excellent complimentary fresh baked bread serving.
Service is "Old School" friendly and attentive.
On-site parking is available though cramped.
(updated: November, 2016)
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