Fiorentini Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Rutherford, NJ

Fiorentini
98 Park Ave
Rutherford, NJ
(973) 721 - 3404

Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.

Fiorentini: Restaurant Summary

Fare: Tuscan Italian

Price: Expensive

Food Quality: Excellent. Serves a seasonal menu to reflect what's fresh, and includes imported essential ingredients from Italy

Service: Attentive but not intrusive, with deep knowledge of the menu and genuine hospitality

Decor/Ambiance: Upscale, seasonal decor that evolves with nature

Overall Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Note: Four-star Rating System from 1/2 Star =Poor to Four stars = Best in Class

Noise Level: Moderate

Dress: Upscale Casual

Best for: Couples, foodies, special occasions, and those seeking upscale Italian cuisine.

Not for: Budget-conscious diners or those seeking traditional red-sauce Italian fare.

Recommended dishes: When available, The Barolo-braised beef agnolotti; The Cacio e pepe gnocchi with mussels; and The Sweet pea fagottini with crab and tarragon.

Liquor: BYOB, with a curated pairing experience guided by the staff

Fiorentini delivers a refined farm-to-table Italian experience led by acclaimed Chef Antonio De Ieso, blending seasonal Tuscan fare with elegant ambiance and heartfelt hospitality. Known for its inventive cuisine, open kitchen, and community-driven ethos, it’s a top pick for special occasions and discerning diners.

🍷 History & Vision

Fiorentini was founded by Chef Antonio De Ieso and his wife Brenda De Ieso, who envisioned a restaurant that celebrates the spirit of Florence—“Fiorentini” translates to “citizens of Florence.” Their mission is to offer authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist, rooted in seasonal, sustainable ingredients and a community-centric approach

🍝 Food & Cuisine

Fiorentini specializes in Tuscan-inspired Italian fare with a strong emphasis on farm-to-table freshness. The menu is seasonal and curated, featuring organic vegetables, sustainable seafood, and imported Italian essentials. Dishes are elegantly plated, with standout options like:

12-hour roasted short ribs
Truffle risotto
Stuffed lamb and octopus
House-made rosemary focaccia
Tortellini soup and crab cake Dijon

Each dish reflects refined preparation techniques and high-quality ingredients, making the dining experience both rustic and elevated.

👨‍🍳 The Chef

Chef Antonio De Ieso brings international culinary credentials and industry acclaim to Fiorentini. His cooking style blends traditional Italian roots with modern sustainability practices.

🪑 Ambiance

The décor is organic and serene, with wood-accented floors and ceilings, lush greenery, and a light-filled interior. The open kitchen island offers diners a view of the culinary artistry in action. The vibe is elegant yet approachable, with moderate noise levels, comfortable table spacing, and seasonal décor that evolves with nature.

🤝 Service

Service at Fiorentini is warm, knowledgeable, and consistent. Staff are praised for their menu expertise, genuine hospitality, and attentive but unobtrusive demeanor. The experience feels personalized and welcoming, ideal for both intimate dinners and celebratory outings.

📝 Other Considerations

Patron Likes: High-quality food, intimate ambiance, BYOB policy (liquor store across the street), and creative plating.
Dislikes: Limited hours (typically 5–8:30 PM), not ideal for budget diners or large family-style meals.
Recommended For: Couples, foodies, special occasions, and those seeking upscale Italian cuisine.
Not For: Budget-conscious diners or those seeking traditional red-sauce Italian fare.
Alcohol: BYOB only.
Child-Friendly: Not explicitly child-focused, better suited for adults.
Parking: Available nearby.
Dress Code: Upscale casual.