If you’re looking for a new reason to dress up and dine out in Essex County, make your way to Vette Ristorante at Calabria in Livingston. This recently opened fine-Italian dining destination from Chef and Sommelier Maurizio de Rosa reimagines traditional Naples-inspired cuisine through a lens of modern refinement — and a touch of tableside theater.
From smoked cocktails to handmade pastas and show-stopping desserts, dinner at Vette is an experience that unfolds like a story, one delicious chapter at a time.
A Night of Tableside Magic
When you walk into Vette Ristorante at Calabria in Livingston, you immediately feel that something special is happening here. Tucked within the familiar Calabria building, this new concept from Chef and Sommelier Maurizio de Rosa brings elevated Italian dining to Northern New Jersey — where authenticity meets artistry, and every dish has a story.
Chef de Rosa’s culinary journey stretches from his hometown of Naples to Michelin-level kitchens in New York and Buenos Aires. His philosophy is simple: let quality ingredients shine, with technique and hospitality that transform dinner into an experience. After my visit, I can confidently say — mission accomplished.
Cocktails with a Show
We began the evening with two cocktails, both prepared tableside for that extra touch of flair. The Smoked Old Fashioned arrived enveloped in a wisp of aromatic smoke that set the tone for the night — smooth, bold, and elegant. My companion opted for the Gin Martini, crisp and expertly chilled, a perfect classic executed with precision.
An Italian Wine Journey
Naturally, the wine program reflects Chef de Rosa’s background as a sommelier and his deep love for Italian wine. The all-Italian wine list (except for a few champagnes) reads like a journey through Italy’s diverse regions. Familiar varietals, such as Sauvignon Blanc, share the page with Timorasso, a rich and sharp white wine from Piedmont that’s rarely found on menus stateside. Among the reds, guests can sip everything from classic Chianti to the more obscure Cannonau of Sardinia. For those looking to splurge, the reserve selection features prestigious bottles, such as Dal Forno Amarone and Sassicaia — benchmarks of Italian winemaking excellence. With more than 30 wines by the glass, all kept at perfect temperature in the restaurant’s wine cave, guests are encouraged to experiment and discover new favorites. Every pour arrives in crystal stemware, and wines of a certain age are carefully decanted, ensuring the experience is as refined as the cuisine.
A Stunning Start
Our first bite came in the form of Calamari, fork-and-knife fashion — a creative presentation that’s as beautiful as it is time-consuming. Clearly, the kitchen takes pride in the details here. Each ring was tender, flavorful, and delicately plated, setting the stage for what was to come.
Impeccable Service, the Old-School Way
What truly elevates the Vette experience, beyond the exceptional food, is the impeccable, old-school service. The staff, dressed in ties and jackets, exude professionalism and warmth. Every movement feels intentional — from the way plates are presented to the cadence of conversation. Our server’s knowledge of the wine list was remarkable; he offered thoughtful pairing suggestions that perfectly complemented each course. It’s rare these days to find service that blends such formality with genuine hospitality — a reminder that fine dining, when done right, is as much about people as it is about plates.
Pasta Perfection
Next came two small plates of house-made pasta that stole my heart. The Gnocchi Sorrentina — tender pillows in a rich tomato and mozzarella sauce — was pure comfort, yet refined.
The Scialatelli Fra’ Diavolo with wild shrimp brought a lively kick, with the spice perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the shrimp and the brightness of the tomato sauce. Both dishes showcased the finesse and care that go into every component.
The Main Event
For my entrée, I chose the Snapper Acquapazza, poached and finished tableside with a pour of cherry tomato sauce. The presentation was simple but breathtaking. The fish was tender and delicately seasoned, while the sauce was bright, tangy, and perfectly salted — the kind of dish that stops conversation mid-bite. This one was the standout for me.
My dining companion’s Veal Scaloppine Marsala with mixed mushrooms was equally impressive. He declared it “knife-optional,” thanks to its tenderness, and the mushrooms were sautéed and seasoned to perfection.
A Sweet Finale
We ended the evening with a touch of drama: tableside Tiramisu. Fresh espresso was poured over ladyfingers, then layered with mascarpone whipped cream and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. It was light, luscious, and the perfect pairing with a lovely dessert wine and espresso.
More Reasons to Visit
If you needed another reason to plan your visit, Vette Ristorante at Calabria offers a Monday–Thursday Happy Hour featuring special pricing on select cocktails, wines, and small plates — the perfect way to unwind after work. And for those looking to experience Chef de Rosa’s complete culinary vision, the Four-Course Tasting Menu ($49), also available Monday through Thursday, is an unbeatable way to explore the best of the kitchen’s seasonal offerings. With choices that range from fresh pasta to perfectly executed entrées, it’s an elegant midweek indulgence that feels worlds away from ordinary.
Chef Maurizio de Rosa describes dining as “a story that begins when the guest arrives and ends when they walk away satisfied.” After experiencing Vette, I can tell you this story is one worth savoring.
Vette Ristorante at Calabria
588 S Livingston Ave, Livingston, NJ
973-992-8496
vette-nj.com
