Laurea Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Princeton, NJ

Laurea Restaurant, Princeton, NJ

Laurea Restaurant
102 Carnegie Ctr
Princeton, NJ

Laurea restaurant delivers a refined Italian dining experience with contemporary flair, standout service, and a vibrant ambiance—making it a top choice for special occasions and upscale outings.

🍝 History & Vision

Laurea is one of Princeton’s newest culinary gems, founded with a mission to honor the humble roots of Italian cuisine while elevating it through modern techniques and presentation. The vision is clear: Celebrate Italian traditions with a fresh, joyful twist

🧀 Food & Cuisine

Laurea specializes in contemporary Italian fare, blending classic recipes with seasonal ingredients and artistic plating. The menu features:

  • High-quality ingredients, often locally sourced, with a focus on freshness and flavor.
  • Signature dishes include Chesapeake Bay soft shell crabs over spaghetti, house-made pastas, and decadent desserts served in a dedicated dessert room
  • The brunch spread is particularly popular, offering live music and a variety of elevated breakfast options.
  • While not focused on farm-to-table or organic, the preparation style emphasizes clean flavors and thoughtful combinations

👨‍🍳 The Culinary Team

The culinary team comes with strong industry experience and a passion for Italian gastronomy. The plating, flavor balance, and seasonal creativity reflect fine dining standards, even without named accolades.

✨ Ambiance & Décor

Laurea’s atmosphere is vibrant, elegant, and inviting:

  • Beautiful and modern, with tasteful décor and spacious seating.
  • Quiet areas available upon request, ideal for intimate dinners or business meetings.
  • Live music during brunch adds a festive touch.
  • The ambiance is a standout—neither too noisy nor too formal, striking a balance between upscale and relaxed.

🤵 Service

Laurea earns high marks for its attentive, courteous, and knowledgeable staff

  • Prompt service without feeling rushed.
  • Accommodating staff who honor special seating requests.
  • Consistency in food quality and timing, even during busy hours

🍷 Other Features

  • Alcohol/bar service: Full bar available with curated wine and cocktail selections.
  • Child-friendly: While not a kid-centric venue, families are welcome—especially during brunch.
  • Recommended for: Date nights, celebrations, business dinners, and upscale brunch.
  • Not recommended for: Large, noisy groups or casual drop-ins seeking quick bites.
  • Parking: Ample parking available at Carnegie Center.
  • Dress code: Smart casual to business casual fits the vibe.
  • Holiday hours: Open for Mother’s Day brunch and special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.

🔧 What Could Be Improved

Outdoor dining options: Adding or promoting alfresco seating could broaden appeal.

🌟 What Sets Laurea Apart

  • Dessert room experience: A rare and indulgent feature that delights guests.
  • Live music brunch: Combines culinary excellence with entertainment.
  • Quiet seating options: Thoughtful touches for guests seeking a peaceful meal.

Updated October 2025