A Taste of Distinction — Restaurant in Town of Ramapo

3 1/2 stars

To me, the biggest selling point of this place is that it doesn't feel like it's in Pomona - that's not necessarily an insult on Pomona, but there's something very desolate about this town in general (from an outsider's perspective in January especially) that seems to permeate its businesses. The minute I stepped inside A Taste of Distinction, I felt very comfortable. It's an inviting space with a lot of tables off to the side where you can sit back and eat your lunch if you so choose. So many of the to-go restaurants around here just have a barren storefront, but this has several areas with specialty food items, etc. to browse as you wait for your order. It's almost like a mom and pop version of Cracker Barrel, though I doubt you'd encounter any biscuits and gravy here.

A Taste of Distinction didn't catch my attention right away. It's a little set back from Route 202 and off to the side of a shopping center featuring a Kosher supermarket that dominates the immediate area. But it's a pleasant looking building, and as mentioned, a nice interior to match - the only constructive feedback I'd give in that regard is that the area by the deli counter is very claustrophobic because they have a coffee display set up directly abutting it that very obviously should be pushed back a few feet. If there is even one additional customer besides yourself, it's hard to maneuver around, but that's a pretty easy fix.

Everyone I've interacted with here (mostly older women) has been very nice and accommodating. I've stopped by twice now for lunch, most recently yesterday afternoon. The first time, I got the #4 sandwich/wrap, which was fried eggplant and fresh mozzy on focaccia. It was okay - the ingredients were flavorful, etc., but it just wasn't my thing, palate-wise. That's definitely more on me experimenting with eggplant (something I've had maybe twice in my lifetime) than the establishment. I had more success on my second go-round, steering clear of the eggplant and focusing on their Italian meatballs and potatoes, both roasted, "regular" ones and sweet. The meatballs were HUGE and flavorful. There was an odd ingredient in the balls that I couldn't place - normally I see onions in there, which I'm not crazy about texture-wise though I understand their appeal for flavoring purposes - perhaps some kind of artichoke? Not crazy about that, but the balls were fine. The roasted potatoes were my favorite, seasoned and cooked perfectly. Surprisingly, I wasn't crazy about the sweet potatoes, specifically the curious decision to spice them up. That didn't make a lot of sense to me, and created a bit of palate confusion - the spice just did not go well with the sweet, so that's something I'd retool if I were them.

There are definitely some interesting options here, and like virtually any deli-like business I've been to, you can easily build your own creation with the able assistance of the staff. I honestly couldn't characterize any of the food as mind-blowingly good, but it's solid and a cut above many of the nearby lunchtime options, especially if you're looking for a change from the pizza and Chinese...

Unbelievably Disturbing Experience

I rarely write reviews, but my encounter with the owner of this restaurant was so unsettling that I feel compelled to share. I was met with an aggressive and intolerant attitude that left me shocked.

While I was driving to get some food, I witnessed the owner stop his car at a yellow light right. He was super aggressive because I stopped at the yellow light, Yes, you read that correctly—a yellow light! He got out and started yelling at a passerby for no apparent reason. Saying very racist comments and yelling at me because I made him wasted his time, I caught this bizarre incident on video, and I still can’t believe what I saw. It was not just embarrassing; it was downright disturbing behavior for someone who is supposed to be in the hospitality industry.

How can someone like this serve people? He clearly has some serious issues that need addressing. If he treats a woman alone like this, I can only imagine how he behaves behind closed doors. I have a feeling he wouldn’t dare act this way around a strong man.

If you value respect and a welcoming atmosphere, I urge you to stay away from this place. It’s hard to enjoy a meal when you know the owner has such a toxic attitude. There are plenty of other restaurants that prioritize good customer service and treat everyone with dignity. Save yourself the trouble and avoid this one...

We have been stopping by A TASTE of DISTINCTION at least once or twice a week sine they opened their doors for business in Pomona. In all that time we have never had any complaint with either the quality of the wonderfully prepared dishes or the pleasant and friendly service provided by the late owner Angela or her family and staff. The food is always fresh, delicious and plentiful and that includes the chicken, fresh fish dishes, fritatas and the great choice of sides always available. The baked goods are too good, especially the scones and fruit filled pocket pies. Eat-in or take out and you will never be disappointed. We have catered large family dinners and luncheons over the years as well as enjoying suppers for just us two. The wonderful new management have carried on the traditions of Angela and her sister. (Just one request if you are reading this and plan on stoping in...leave the chicken...