Osteria 545 — Restaurant in Paulsboro

First impressions speak loudly. Overall, the food was good, but unfortunately, due to our experience - we won't be back. Seems like a nice place, though the location is a bit set back and hidden. We had a reservation on 3/19/22 for 7:45pm and we were seated in the dining area immediately, which seemed like a great start. However, we then sat there for 40 minutes without ever being acknowledged, even for drinks. We watched other tables finish entire meals and left before we were even thought of. Had to flag down both a bus boy and another waitress (Who was not our original waitress) to help us. This waitress did take our order and apologized. Our supposed original waitress made an appearance to apologize again and take our order that was already placed with the other waitress, and told us that we could each have a free dessert at the end to make up for them forgetting us - that was the last we saw of her. We were helped from the other waitress from there on out. However, this must not have been communicated between the staff, because the desserts were not free when we received our check. Not once did we complain at all during our meal, as we were there on a gift card. Though had we not been - we would have left, never trying anything. During our time here, we did notice that this seems to be a very social place, it appeared that most of the other tables knew someone who worked here. Although, a business can not be run on regulars alone, new comers could become the new regulars and deserve the same attention. Our original waitress? Apparently had a friend on the bar side of the building... we saw her as we were leaving. Realistically, we probably should not have tipped at all, but we did leave the remainder gift card balance of $12.90 as a tip, considering we won't be back to...

Overheard an employee talking to someone they knew personally ( a customer) about how they hated management and everything wrong with the place super loud, which was crazy off-putting. All the tables around us were talking about how long they waited upon us even sitting down- cancelling their orders, leaving, complaining, etc. It was impossible to miss. My drink was great and our waitress was very kind, but it did take over two hours (only one course.) Fine since we weren’t in a rush, but if you have plans after forget about it. Then all the lights started to flicker for a few mins and it was just funny at that point, kind of a mess honestly. Food was very lack luster too, which is a shame cause I wanted to love the place so bad. I would not consider this fine dining. I think it’s mainly a staffing issue or because it was valentines, but I feel like it’s not even a big enough place (or menu) to be that under prepared. Would come back only...

I recently stopped by Osteria 545 with a couple friends for a farewell lunch before we ended a trip in the area and went our separate ways. The location was convenient for us and is what led us there, and I'm thankful for that because we had a great meal there.

We sat at the bar and were immediately made to feel welcome by Stephanie, who was working that day. She was a delight during our entire time there. A friendly regular seated near us told us that the meatballs were really good, so we split an order of those, and indeed, they were as described. I had a nice garlicky linguine with shrimp in scampi sauce as my main dish and enjoyed that as well. We met the owner briefly and enjoyed his jovial energy.

Having grown up in the area but now living across the country, this is exactly the sort of neighborhood strip mall Italian joint that I miss. Good food, comfy feel, and fair prices. If I'm in there area again, I'll be sure to come...