The Horseneck Tavern opened in 2015 to great acclaim, which has only increased as people have flocked to the North Caldwell, New Jersey, establishment for the finest in American and Italian dishes, plus great live music and its famous Happy Hour and specials.
The story behind the restaurant’s name dates back to 1702, when Newark colonists purchased land from the Lenape Tribe. The shape of the land reminded someone of a horse’s neck and the name stuck. Near the end of the 18th century, the tract of land separated from the city of Newark to become the Township of Caldwell, later divided into what is today Verona, Cedar Grove, Fairfield and the Caldwells.
The selection of the name of the restaurant and the story behind it is almost as fascinating as the restaurant itself. When entering, the Horseneck Tavern, it exudes a warm glow – sophisticated, yet casual. It is impossible not to feel the energy in the room. The dining room is staffed by accommodating and knowledgeable servers and immediately the dining selections catch the eye, with a unique and delectable menu. You may choose to dine inside, but during the warmer times of the year, you might choose al fresco seating, making it the perfect destination for a celebratory evening with the family, or a sophisticated date night with a loved one.
The three owners of The Horseneck Tavern are all local businessmen: Todd Carnevale, Jim Faloni and Chris Pucillo. The General Manager of the establishment, Dean Eigenmann, brings 15 years of expertise to the restaurant, while Executive Chef Alfred Ianniello, has been in the industry for over 35 years specializing in American and Italian cuisine. His style and flair is evident in everything from the fresh seafood offerings, to the perfectly prepared steaks and chops, the gourmet burgers and of course, classic Italian dishes.
The kitchen always uses the freshest ingredients, coupled with the utmost care and expertise of the chef, each dinner is a delight and eminently memorable – as well as delicious! Patrons often choose the Horseneck Tavern’s seafood specials, where they enjoy such marvelously prepared dishes as scallops oreganata and roasted bronzino. If you are not in the mood for fish, make sure to try the lamb chops in a rosemary demi glaze or the chicken Madeira.
As you gaze at the menu, you will find an impressive selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts. To begin the evening, start with the bar selections, such as a flight of wine, tequila or American whiskey. For an appetizer, you might want to start with crispy calamari, featuring pickled peppers and citrus aioli; or the fried burrata with tomato jam and basil. Special mention must be made of the grilled octopus salad, with white beans and sundried tomato pesto.
In addition to superb steaks are the northern Italian offerings. For example, the shrimp and asparagus risotto is perfectly prepared and topped with Parmigiano Reggiano; the ricotta ravioli is prepared in a brown butter sauce with sage and the fresh tagliatelle available with a red or white clam sauce. For traditional American selections, you will find gourmet burgers, ribs and the hugely popular roasted Amish chicken.
Make sure to attend the weekly wine tastings at the Tavern. They take place every Saturday from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. For those in the military, police, fire and EMS, show your ID and receive a 10% discount off the entire bill.
The Horseneck Tavern is located at 11 Bloomfield Avenue in North Caldwell and is open for lunch from 12:00 noon to 3:00pm Thursday through Sunday and for dinner from 4:00pm until 10:00, Monday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday dinner is served from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm and Sunday from 4:00pm to 9:00pm. Call 973-287-6850 for reservations and visit their website: www.thehorsenecktavern.com.
