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Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
La Cipollina
Review
About
Recognized by Opentable as ONE OF THE TOP 1% RATED RESTAURANTS WORLDWIDE for a second year in a row.<br />Zagat review: After three decades, this dependable (if hard-to-find) Freehold Italian BYO maintains its old-world ways with a classic menu of quality items served by an excellent dining room team. The elegant decor lends it special-occasion status.
Features
CUISINES
Italian
Meal types
Lunch, Dinner
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
FEATURES
BYOB
Highchairs Available
Outdoor Seating
Parking Available
Private Dining
Reservations
Seating
Table Service
Takeout
Wheelchair Accessible
Location
Parking Available
Does this restaurant offer highchairs for toddlers?
Reserve a table
Order delivery
Save this restaurant
Hours
Closed today
Sunday
1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Contribute
4.4
203 reviews
Excellent
145
Very good
24
Average
12
Poor
12
Terrible
10
JJC
4 contributions
Jul 2023 • couples
LaCippolina is Freehold's best-kept secret since my husband and I had dinner on Saturday. From the moment we walked in we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. We're always so impressed with how professional even the younger waitstaff are. Everyone is so on point and it shows. The food is consistently amazing. I'm very picky with recipes that I make well like fried meatballs, stuffed artichokes, and riceballs so I usually don't order those things out but, I have the say your rice balls are the only ones that taste like mine... must be the risotto 😉
Written August 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
StacieMelissa
2 contributions
Aug 2021 • none
8/3/2021
I had the pleasure of hosting my daughter's baby shower at La Cipollina this past Sunday. I worked with Anthony, the owner, to plan the party. He was so easy and agreeable which made the planning effortless! The day of the party the numerous servers assigned to my party could not have been more attentive. They kept the party flowing well! The food was plentiful and delicious! We chose family style appetizers as well as entrees in addition to a salad course. Everyone commented that the food was really wonderful and that there was so much to eat they were taking home some doggie bags! The cake was a big hit too! I felt the cost of the party was very fair, I was impressed actually by the amount and quality of the food in relation to the cost. My two daughter's and I are gluten free. The chef made sure to safely prepare gluten free dishes for us as the regular courses were served so we did not feel left out! I also have a daughter that is vegan and he accommodated her diet as well! This is the second party I have had in the restaurant I would easily host another there! I can't wait to go back to have dinner as the food was just so good!
Written August 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Thank you so much for the amazing review! I will be sure to share your comments with both the dining room and kitchen staff. See you soon!!
Written August 4, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
cristen g
35 contributions
Jul 2023 • family
We had our children's graduation party catered by La Cipollina. The food was amazing as always, and all of our guests loved everything!! We have had our parties catered by LA Cipollina for 10 (+) years, and we will continue to use them for all our future celebrations!! Thank you to Anthony and all his amazing staff!!
Written July 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Curtis
2 contributions
Jan 2023 • couples
Would not take a simple request to put pasta in a separate dish, very unpleasant wait or and staff. Food came cold, waaayyy too salty, couldn't eat it. No value for the money. Barely found any veal in the veal saltimboca. Ice cold bread like it was just defrosted. Wilted salad greens. God awedul tasting prosciutto.
Will NEVER go back or recommend ANYONE. Sad because the place is cute and cozy.
Written January 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John
Hamilton1 contribution
Feb 2023 • friends
Haven’t been here in 20 years and now I know why. Came with a group of friends and appetizers came out cold. Like ice cold. Little neck clams were ice cold and both orders had to be sent back plus were terrible. Friends 2 orders of meatballs were ice cold too. Bread was horrible. Staff was nice but very young and had little experience. Never removed dirty plates or gave out plates to share appetizers. Ordered the lobster raviolis which wasn’t good. I ate mind but my wife didn’t. Ordered dessert and this baby slice of chocolate cake came out. It was ok. I ordered coffee which came out in this tiny cup. Maybe 4 ounces. The one thing that really bothered me was the Maitre d said at least 4 times to leave a good review because he gave us free banana fosters. They should be more worried about the quality of their food than leaving them good reviews. Wouldn’t go back.
Written February 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Meredith R
1 contribution
Jun 2022 • none
I cannot say enough good things about the food, the service, and the genuine hospitality we experienced at La Cipollina. We had a party of 18 to celebrate my parents' 60th Anniversary and everyone not only enjoyed the warm atmosphere and the impeccable service, but they RAVED about the delicious and plentiful food. Anthony and his staff are truly amazing and this restaurant is a must!!
Written June 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Thank you so much for the 5 star review! I will be sure to share your comments with the dining room and kitchen staff. See you soon for dinner
Written July 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DebbieK1967
Huntington2 contributions
Oct 2022 • none
La Cipollina is a wonderful little restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The food is delicious, in particular the mozzarella appetizer and the salmon dish. Owner Anthony and his staff were very communicative and took care of all the details for my family when planning a funeral luncheon. Family style appetizers and entrees allowed guests to sample all the wonderful choices, and a dessert trio completed a stellar meal. Staff poured and served the wine and beer we had dropped off the day prior to the event. They discretely removed extra place settings and packaged extra meals for us in to-go containers. All the care and attention to detail was so appreciated!
Written October 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Damian A
Freehold1070 contributions
Jun 2022 • family
We had a private party here and followed the recommendations of the staff at the tasting to go with family style dining. First let’s start with room size. Our party was 48 people and the space was tight. No room for much else except sitting. Now for the food. The food was good except the fish entree. That had a very fishy taste to it. The steak was delicious. Now one here’s family style dining and wonders at first if this is the right way to go. During the tasting and again after speaking with the owner we were assured this was a great way to do the party and that there would be plenty of food. Totally not the case. During the party I had to ask where is the food. There was barely enough to go around. It was an embarrassing situation. Needless to say everyone left hungry. Pretty sad. Another poor business tactic was the waiter brought over the bill with the amount and another amount on the ticket. He had already included gratuity yet brought a receipt with a tip to be added for a second time. Lastly, I had to host a Second lunch to feed my guests after leaving the restaurant.
Written June 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rene R
Marlboro159 contributions
Feb 2022 • couples
Had such tasteful flavors of food burst in to my mouth. The place is in between the alleys of buildings you wouldn't know it was there, unless you really look. The place is small and cozy not too small. The staff is attentive and friendly. Chef Anthony is such an amuzing and friendly classy gentleman. He makes you feel at home, and so comfortable you feel you have been here time over and known him for years.
Everything we ate was so delicious, generous portions and the best part, with all that we ate you didn't feel heavy leaving. The calamari pops the salad so crunchy and fresh! The salmon so fresh. This place has been here for over 40 years from what I understand. I hope it's here for another 40! I'm looking forward to going back to try a new dish. What new flavors will we discover.
Written February 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Thank you so much for the 5 star review! I will be sure to share your comments with the dining room and kitchen staff. See you soon for dinner
Written July 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Daniel B
1 contribution
Aug 2021 • none
My wife and I had the pleasure of eating at La Cipollina for the first time last week. This hidden gem was quite the find. It is set back from the street. The menu selection was quite large, the food was excellent and prepared just the way we like it. The restaurant has a charming and inviting atmosphere. You feel welcomed from the time you walk in and are greeted by the host, until you leave. The wait staff is attentive and fully versed regarding the menu options. They are goad to answer any questions you have or to recommend choices based upon your preferences. The chef visited our table to check on our food. A very enjoyable dining experience. Being a BYOB is also nice. We will certainly come back.
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Thank you so much for the 5 star review! I will be sure to share your comments with the dining room and kitchen staff. See you soon for dinner
Written July 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Christopher K
Asbury Park33 contributions
May 2021 • none
We had another lovely dinner on the patio, which was refreshed with new tables and chairs that look great and are so comfortable and complimented with extremely attentive and friendly staff. We ordered off the specials menu and started with a wonderful escargot appetizer and Excellent Caesar salad, yum. Our entrees included Coq au vin and Veal. Everything was so fresh and excellent and of course ended with a brilliant tasting Bananas foster for dessert, the presentation could have been better though. La Cipollina is such a cool spot tucked away from the main street and is a Great place for a romantic dinner or dinner with friends and family.
Written May 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Thank you so much for the excellent review! I will share your comments with the dining room and kitchen staff. See you soon for dinner
Written May 27, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jocelyn M
3 contributions
Feb 2024 • family
We had our rehearsal dinner here last week. I cannot say enough great things about the event! The staff was attentive, kind and really helpful. They even provided an extension cord so my grandpa could plug in his oxygen! The food was absolutely amazing, and people are still talking about it a week later. I dream about the mozzarella, it is just like heaven. Everything went smoothly and it was truly a fantastic night. Anthony and Osnelly are great people, they had multiple phone calls with me to discuss everything and made me feel reassured about everything. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to host the event!
Written February 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Patricia B
3 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
I can NOT say enough great things about La Cipollina. They helped organize and ran a seamless repast following my father's funeral for 60 people. Anthony helped me select all courses, that were served piping hot family style. Everything was delicious; our guests cannot stop raving about the food: the clams, vegetable and mozzarella platter, and arugula salad starters were each amazing; followed by chicken franchese, pasta with broccolini and sausage, and rolled eggplant. The Chef's Choice of 3 desserts were all plated beautifully and very yummy. His staff were extremely responsive and handled our large crew graciously, and the price point was very fair. Thank you, we will be back again soon (under happier circumstances)
Written February 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Dear Patricia- Thank you so much for hosting your event with La Cipollina. I will be sure to share your kinds remarks with both the dining room and kitchen staff. See you soon for dinner!
Matt
Written March 6, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Road662976
Marlboro1 contribution
Nov 2022 • couples
We had an excellent evening last Saturday night at this hidden gem. We thoroughly enjoyed a delicious meal at La Cippolina in Freehold. The servers were friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. The appetizers, entrees, and desserts were delicious and beautifully prepared. And the owner Anthony was charming and made everyone feel like a treasured friend. We will definitely be returning. Don’t overlook this terrific restaurant!
Written November 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam Riello
1 contribution
Jul 2020 • none
We dined at La Cipollina this past Sunday and it was delicious as usual. This was our 3rd time there since the pandemic. Really outstanding food, service and the timing of the meal was excellent. We were not rushed at all. They start you off with crusty Italian Bread with sides of EVOO, Pesto Sauce, and Roasted Garlic. We then shared a Calamari App with pepperoncini, which is delicious and more than enough for two.. Ceasar salad and then we both had the Chicken Scarpiello with sausage and Risotto. Everything was excellent.
Of course we will be back and my wife and I tell everyone we can about LaCipollina. Keep up the great tradition that you are known for.
Sam
Written August 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
802matth
Dear Sam- Thank you so much for the continued support.
Written August 28, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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