Title: A Hidden Gem in Marlboro: Meli's Thin Crust Pizza Delivers Beyond Expectations
When it comes to hosting a child’s birthday party, expectations tend to lean more toward survival than culinary delight. However, Meli's Thin Crust Pizza in Marlboro, NJ, managed to completely upend my preconceived notions, transforming what could have been a chaotic afternoon into an event filled with joy, laughter, and surprisingly excellent food.
The occasion was a 7-year-old’s birthday celebration, with 15 lively children between the ages of 5 and 8 in attendance. The space at Meli's was spotless, and the pizza-making activity was not only creative and hands-on but also the perfect way to engage the children. Anthony and his team were the true unsung heroes of the day. They masterfully managed the unpredictable energy of a large group of children, allowing the adults to relax and enjoy each other's company over a selection of mimosas and beers—a delightful touch that added a layer of sophistication to the proceedings.
What truly stood out, though, was the food. While our initial expectations centered around classic thin-crust pizza, we were genuinely impressed by the quality and range of dishes on offer. In addition to the personalized pizzas crafted by our young guests, we sampled the spicy calamari, spicy penne vodka, and a vegetarian pasta dish. Each dish was vibrant, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared, exceeding what one might expect from a neighborhood pizza joint. The staff were attentive and warm, contributing to an overall atmosphere of comfort and hospitality.
Moreover, the cost was more than reasonable, providing excellent value for the quality of food and service we received.
It's worth addressing a lone one-star review that I stumbled upon during my research. A previous guest named Heather A. seemed to have had a minor issue with a missed order during the restaurant’s early days. The staff offered to rectify the mistake, but Heather chose to respond with a harsh critique. Based on our experience, this isolated review does not reflect the true caliber of Meli's. It is my hope that the numerous five-star reviews Meli's continues to receive will keep this unfair assessment in its proper perspective.
In a market crowded with options, Meli's Thin Crust Pizza distinguishes itself as more than just another pizza place. While other local favorites like Krispy’s certainly have their merits, Meli's delivers both pizza and a full menu with equal excellence. For my money, Meli's may very well be the new standard-bearer in the area.
A delightful surprise, exceptional food, and a team that knows how to turn an ordinary afternoon into a memorable experience—Meli’s Thin Crust Pizza is a true hidden gem...
Read moreWife and I moved to the area 2 years ago. We haven't been able to find a go to pizzeria up until a few months ago. That place turned into Meli's The food is great. We are probably there once a week. Would highly recommend trying out The Make it meli's way , the mustang hero and the tri pie first those have turn into my favorites. We recently had our son's first birthday party at a KOC , like most people who cater food from their favorite place you are always worried the food won't be the same or will change your opinion... Shit happens when food is carted keeping food hot isn't easy , it's not straight out of the oven and taste etc but none of that happened everything was great. All of our guest raved about the food and how nice the owner Anthony was. Everyone loved the eggplant parm , the smores bars , sausage and peppers (which may have turned into my new favorite). And honestly he gave TOO MUCH food which was a pleasant surprise, normally you don't have enough. Anthony and his staff at the party where great very attentive jumping in to make sure everything was good. Took care of cake cutting , working with the DJ to make sure the lights where on and off correctly to sing happy birthday.
To add on top of all this a week before our son's party at a KOC we found out that they did not have high chairs for a FIRST BIRTHDAY PARTY..... We called Anthony and without a second thought he said don't worry I'll bring high chairs from Meli's to the KOC for...
Read moreA VOID THIS PLACE AT ALL COSTS!!
This pizza place is not worth the head and stomach aches. A few months ago, I ordered from them for the first time, the food was delivered cold to my house and completely flavorless, and undercooked. When I called to address the issue, the person on the phone was rude and condescending. I let it go, thinking maybe it was just a bad day for them.
Tonight, after shopping at the nearby Supermarket, I decided to stop in and give them another shot, hoping that picking up the food in person would be better. I stood there for 7 minutes, completely ignored - no “I’ll be right with you”, “welcome” - nothing. Anyways, As I waited for my order, I noticed cockroaches running around the place. The tables were filthy, covered in sauce, and dirty napkins littered the floor etc,. To call it disgusting would be an understatement.
I tried but I couldn’t stomach eating the pizza and threw it straight in the trash when I got home.
I tried to give this place a second chance, but there won’t be a third. I’m honestly surprised they haven’t been shut down by health inspectors. Terrible food, a dirty establishment, and rude staff. Stay away from this place...
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