A Taste of Mercer County Tradition
In the heart of Mercer County, New Jersey, lies a treasure trove of culinary delights that have been satisfying locals and visitors alike for generations. Among these gems are the family-owned Mercer restaurants, establishments that blend rich history with mouthwatering flavors. Today, we’re taking a closer look at two iconic spots that have become synonymous with Mercer County’s food scene: Salerno’s in Ewing and DeLorenzo’s Pizza in Trenton.
Salerno’s: A Slice of Italy in Ewing
Address: 1292 Lower Ferry Rd, Trenton, NJ 08628 Phone: (609) 883-0700
Located in the quiet suburb of Ewing, Salerno’s has been a cornerstone of the community since 1961. This family-owned Mercer restaurant embodies the warmth and hospitality that Italian-American eateries are known for, making it a beloved destination for those seeking authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
A Legacy of Flavor
The Salerno family’s journey began when Giuseppe and Maria Salerno immigrated from Sicily to New Jersey. They brought treasured family recipes and a passion for feeding people. Their son, Anthony, took the reins in the 1980s, expanding the menu while staying true to the restaurant’s roots. Today, the third generation of Salernos continues to uphold the family legacy, ensuring that every dish served is a testament to their Italian heritage.
From Appetizers to Desserts
Stepping into Salerno’s is like being transported to a cozy trattoria in southern Italy. The aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through the air, immediately whetting your appetite. Start your meal with their famous garlic knots, pillowy soft and generously brushed with fragrant garlic butter. For the main course, you can’t go wrong with their homemade pasta dishes. The Fettuccine Alfredo, made with a silky smooth sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of pasta, is a perennial favorite.
However, it’s the pizza that truly sets Salerno’s apart. Their thin-crust pies, baked to perfection in a brick oven, strike the ideal balance between crispy and chewy. The Margherita pizza, topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It is a simple yet sublime choice that showcases the quality of their ingredients.
Don’t leave without trying their tiramisu – a heavenly concoction of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone that provides the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
More Than Just a Restaurant
What makes Salerno’s truly special, however, is the sense of community it fosters. Regular patrons are greeted by name, and newcomers are made to feel like part of the family. It’s not uncommon to see multiple generations of families dining together, creating new memories over plates of pasta and pizza.
This family-owned Mercer restaurant has become more than just a place to eat; it’s a local institution where life’s milestones are celebrated, from first dates to graduation dinners to golden anniversaries.
DeLorenzo’s Pizza: Trenton’s Tomato Pie Legacy
Address: 147 Sloan Ave, Trenton, NJ 08619 Phone: (609) 393-2952
Just a short drive from Ewing, in the heart of Trenton, lies another family-owned Mercer restaurant that has achieved legendary status: DeLorenzo’s Pizza. Known for their distinctive tomato pies, DeLorenzo’s has been a Trenton staple since 1947.
The Birth of a Pizza Empire
The DeLorenzo family’s pizza journey began when Alexander “Chick” DeLorenzo and his wife Eileen opened their first shop on Hudson Street. Their unique approach to pizza – what Trentonians call “tomato pie” – quickly gained a devoted following. Unlike traditional pizza, tomato pie is characterized by a thin, crispy crust topped with crushed tomatoes and a sprinkling of cheese. It creates a harmonious balance of flavors that lets each ingredient shine.
A Recipe for Success
Today, the torch has been passed to the third and fourth generations of DeLorenzos, who continue to craft each pie with the same care and attention to detail that Chick instilled in his children. The secret to their enduring success? A commitment to quality ingredients and time-honored techniques.
The dough, made fresh daily, is stretched thin and baked until it achieves that perfect crackle. The tomatoes, imported from Italy, are crushed by hand to ensure the ideal consistency. And the cheese? It’s applied sparingly, allowing the bright acidity of the tomatoes to take center stage.
Beyond the Classic Tomato Pie
While the classic tomato pie remains the star of the show, DeLorenzo’s menu offers a variety of toppings for those looking to customize their experience. The sausage, made in-house using a family recipe, is a popular choice. The the paper-thin sliced pepperoni that curls and crisps at the edges when baked.
For those seeking a truly indulgent experience, the white pie with garlic is a must-try. Topped with a blend of cheeses and roasted garlic, it’s a fragrant and flavorful departure from the traditional tomato-based pies.
A Piece of Trenton History
DeLorenzo’s is more than just a pizzeria; it’s a living piece of Trenton history. The walls are adorned with photos and memorabilia chronicling the restaurant’s journey through the decades. Loyal customers, some of whom have been coming since childhood, now bring their own children and grandchildren to experience the magic of DeLorenzo’s tomato pies.
Despite its popularity and numerous accolades (including recognition from national food publications), this family-owned Mercer restaurant has remained true to its roots. The DeLorenzo family’s dedication to their craft and their community is evident in every pie they serve.
The Heart of Mercer County’s Culinary Scene
Salerno’s and DeLorenzo’s Pizza are just two examples of the rich tapestry of family-owned Mercer restaurants that make this region a food lover’s paradise. These establishments offer more than just delicious meals. They provide a connection to the area’s history and a glimpse into the immigrant experience that has shaped American cuisine.
When you dine at these family-owned Mercer restaurants, you’re not just enjoying a meal – you’re becoming part of a legacy that spans generations. The passion, dedication, and love that these families pour into their food is evident in every bite, creating an experience that goes far beyond mere sustenance.
So the next time you’re in Mercer County and your stomach starts to rumble, consider skipping the chain restaurants and fast food joints. Instead, head to one of these family-owned gems. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting plate of pasta at Salerno’s or a crispy slice of tomato pie from DeLorenzo’s, you’re sure to find a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your soul.
In a world of constantly changing food trends, these family-owned Mercer restaurants remind us of the timeless appeal of good food made with care and served with a side of genuine hospitality. They are not just preserving culinary traditions; they’re creating new ones with every customer who walks through their doors.
Be sure to check out our other blog posts for more family-owned Mercer restaurants!