A new neighborhood bar and restaurant is now open in Wood-Ridge. Gus’ Last Word serves creative, elevated twists on casual American fare, according to Marketing Director Dominique Marinzulich. “Inspired by their grandparents’ 1950s cellar bar, the owners tip their hat to that era of home entertaining,” she adds.
The 3,500-square-foot Gus’ Last Word can seat about 125 guests inside; in addition to 35 more on their landscaped, backyard seasonal sandstone patio with umbrella-covered tables and string lights. The restaurant is owned by the Skopos Hospitality Group and, more specifically, brothers Thomas (Tom) and Dean Maroulakos. Both brothers have years of experience living and working in the area.
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“The space has a great layout, and the local community was looking for a hospitality-driven neighborhood bar and restaurant which we thought we could deliver,” Dominique says.
What’s on the Menu
Gus’ Last Word offers comforting entrees and thin crust pizza pies, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. So far, favorite dinner items include the Barnegat oysters, fried chicken sandwich, Irish grilled cheese, and loaded tzatziki fries. However, Tom’s personal favorite items are the deviled eggs and fried chicken lollipops. “They make a great snack while enjoying a fresh draft beer or cocktail at the bar,” he says. Click here to see the full dinner menu.
The large liquor menu features plays on classic cocktails. For instance, you’ll find 16 craft beers and both domestic and international wines available by the glass or bottle. Current trending cocktails include the Wood-Ridge Old Fashioned and Gus’ Last Word; the latter is a twist on a classic 1950s cocktail and the favorite drink of Gus, the owners’ grandfather. Click here to see the full drink menu.
About the Owners
Thomas and Dean Maroulakos are the founders of Skopos Hospitality Group. In addition to Gus’ Last Word, they own Franklin Social (Jersey City), Cowan’s Public (Nutley), The Vanguard (Harrison), and The Barrow House (Clifton). Thomas was previously a brewer at High Point Brewing Company, while Dean designed and managed several concepts in NYC.
Visit Gus’ Last Word at 191 Valley Blvd in Wood-Ridge. (Click here to see them on Google Maps.) To learn more, click here to visit their website or you can click here to give them a call.
Click here to find the latest restaurants open in New Jersey.
Gus’ Last Word FAQs
Yes, they accept reservations via call-in or Resy.
Yes, the Gluten-free options include salmon, chicken, hanger steak, and tacos.
Both Vegetarian and Vegan options are available, yes.
No, but curbside pickup is coming soon.
No delivery yet, but it’s coming soon to DoorDash, GrubHub, and Uber Eats.
Yes, Gus’ Last Word serves a variety of alcohol.
They offer a kids’ menu, yes.
All Photos: © Dominique Marinzulich / Skopos Hospitality Group
