The latest Italian eatery in Bergen County is now open in Norwood. La Mensa offers everything from seafood and steak to Nonna’s chicken parmigiana, as well as a few surprises. The restaurant’s name translates to “table”, which is an important aspect of the décor and atmosphere.
“We wanted to make it bright, cheery, and for it to feel like home,” says Danielle Nasto; who owns the spot along with her husband, Henri, and Adrian Celmeta. For instance, authentic Italian dinnerware lines the shelves, which Danielle received from her mother. “We tried to make it feel cozy,” she adds. The 2,500-square foot restaurant offers indoor seating for 90, in addition to outdoor patio seating for 60 guests. (Patio dining is open seasonally, weather permitting.)
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The Menu at La Mensa
La Mensa is all about authentic Italian cooking, and that’s exactly what their menu entails. Recipes come from their chef, who has an extensive Italian cooking background; plus a few family recipes from the Nasto family as well. Of course, there are a few “traditional Italian American dishes with red sauce that everyone knows and loves.”
At the moment, popular menu items include the grilled octopus starter. As for entrees, the short ribs, seafood risotto, and grilled salmon (Danielle’s personal favorite) are the biggest hits. “The chef makes a tomato jam that isn’t sweet and has so much flavor,” Danielle says about the grilled salmon. “It’s just seared perfectly with great crispy skin and a great piece of salmon.”
The menu also showcases fresh pasta. In particular, Danielle recommends the Tagliatelle Bolognese; a handmade pasta with ground meat ragu. Though it’s easier said than done, be sure to save room for dessert; La Mensa makes zeppole and tiramisu on site. There’s also a liquor menu with craft and classic cocktails. Click here to see the full menu.
La Mensa even offers a prix fixe three course lunch menu for $20. Guests choose from multiple options for each of the three courses (antipasti, entrée, and dessert). Finally, they serve a weekend brunch as well.
About the Owners
The Nastos have both spent their lives working in restaurants, each with 20+ years of experience in the industry. They also own a spot in Mamaroneck, NY, but jumped at the chance to open a restaurant in NJ.
Visit La Mensa at 530 Livingston St in Norwood. (Click here to see them on Google Maps.) To learn more: Click here to visit their website | Follow them on Facebook | Click to give them a call.
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La Mensa FAQs
Yes, they take reservations.
Yes, they serve gluten-free options.
La Mensa offers vegetarian options, yes.
Yes, they do offer takeout.
Not yet, but they plan to offer delivery via Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Yes, they serve alcohol.
There is no kids’ menu, but they can do half portions of pasta or chicken.
All Photos: © La Mensa
