Vinnie's Mootz — Restaurant in Lyndhurst

I've been to Vinnie's Mootz a couple of times in the past and have always been blown away by the Fresh Mootz and their sandwiches. I have always heard about the pizza, but never tried it and decided today was the day.

I stopped by and looked in to the pizza display case and noticed there was no cheese/margherita pizza. I asked but was told unfortunately there is none, but if I'd like they have a great clam pie with roasted garlic. It wasn't quite what I was craving, but, it looked fresh and I am a sucker for roasted garlic so I ordered it.

As I was waiting for my clam slice to warm up, I asked if there was any fresh cheese coming out and the young man hesitated at first, but then told me if I'm willing to wait 15 minutes for me, he'd make it.

I LOVE THAT!!

It is so important to go above and beyond and having that awareness and being able to add those little personal touches is what sets this establishment apart from the next one.

My clam slice was warmed up and handed to me, and it was good, but needed a little more oomph! I suggest a roasted garlic spread/base under the cheese, topped with clam sauce and a drizzle of olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley at the end to round out the flavors. Maybe even a sprinkle of lemon zest!

Shortly thereafter, the young man asked me what I thought of the clam slice and I gave him my honest feedback. He was genuinely interested and said it was the first time they've ever made it. His humbleness was incredibly apparent and once again, that sort of demeanor is so refreshing.

The cheese pie came out and he came from around the counter to hand me my box, thanked me, and wished me a nice weekend!

All of this seems so simple doesn't it?

I'm a veteran of the pizza and food business with over 25 years of experience and what I can tell you is, that service like this, is actually pretty rare.

I know from my prior visits that this young man is Matteo, the owners son, and to me, that makes this experience 10x better.

Why, you may ask? The fact that the owners son is this hospitable, earnest, down to earth, caring, and polite is really an anomaly.

I have always been brought back by the food, but I am now additionally going to be brought back due to the customer service. In this business, it's the little details that make the experience and the guest return and give word of mouth which is more valuable than influencers.

Matteo, thank you for your recommendation, and for making my simple transaction of 3 slices not only delicious but a...

I wanted to put this review on the one bite app, but I noticed the restaurant was not on there. We need to fix that ASAP, because this may truly be a contender for Portnoy. I got a slice of Marg, their burrata with sun dried tomatoes and the lyndhurst sandwich. This review will be centered on the marg.

The simplicity of the pie really let the quality of the ingredients speak for themselves. Simple yet delicious and perfectly cooked. I was going to give it under a 9 until I got to the crust. The crust was perfect with as much crunch as you would expect from a proper cook time, paired with a savory garlic flavor that was not over powering and only made itself known towards the end of the slice. The slice was crunchy all the way throughout without being at all over done or burnt. It was savory, and delicious, yet simple and authentic. I would give the marg slice a 9.1.

I will have to come back for a plain pie and see how it stacks up against Ralph’s across the bridge over in Nutley, but let’s just say I have a feeling there’s a new king in town.

The Lyndhurst sandwich boasts the same authenticity and simplicity which allows the ingredient quality to shine through.

I have yet to try the burrata with sun dried tomatoes that I purchased, that will be breakfast tomorrow. However, seeing as it is home made by Vinnie himself, creates some very high expectations based on my experience with his cooking so far.

If you appreciate quality ingredients, and real Italian authenticity, I highly recommend you check this place out. Also, the atmosphere was great, very friendly, with employees who are happy. If you live in NY/NJ, you know this can be a commodity which speaks to the different management styles of business owners. The owner Vinnie was also very helpful with my selection of his wide variety of cheese products, which felt very personalized and authentic, and he also served me my...

Vinnie’s Mootz 356 Valley Brook Avenue Lyndhurst, NJ 07071

More Than Waffles Southern Bell Where’s The Beef? The Uncle Phil The Mediterranean

I previously posted about this family owned sandwich shop and pizzeria.

Each choice was a home run that I had to come back to explore some more.

This is not your typical chicken and waffles; it is even better. This sandwich version of the southern entrée is layered with breaded cutlets, mootz, bacon and drizzled with hot honey. Be prepared for sticky fingers.

The Southern Bell has two full size cutlets loaded with burrata cream. The chunks of cream kept falling out, which is definitely a good problem.

You won’t need to search very hard to find the protein in this ironically named sandwich. A larger sized soup bowl is also included which will you need to dip this enormous sandwich in the au jus.

Here is a perfect variation of the classic steak pizzaiola dish. The tender chuck steak was smothered in red sauce; a divine combination.

If are not a fan of eggplant heroes, this sandwich will change your mind in a heartbeat. In addition to being generously piled with breaded eggplant, the hoagie was sprinkled with hot, roasted peppers for that spicy kick!

As a bonus, this spot also has an Italian market where you can purchase top quality cooking ingredients for superb Italian meals.

As another bonus, students are eligible to purchase selected lunch specials on weekdays.

Be sure to ring the bell if this is your first time exploring Vinnie’s Mootz!

Between excellent food and friendly service, I can virtually guarantee there will definitely be a next time.

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