"It's definitely Mediterranean. Most of the items are seafood, and we have drawn from Spanish and French styles of cooking, as well as a little Middle Eastern," said manager Alex Thorn last week.
Formerly known as Rodeo's, the establishment had been one of Hoboken's best known night clubs. However, owner Steve Manning desired to cater to his usual clientele while shifting his focus towards dining.
"He was looking to do something more with the food, a little fine dining," said Thorn. "However, Friday and Saturday there is still the night club and after-dinner service, which starts at around 10:30 p.m."
The establishment itself hasn't changed much except for some renovations and upgrades to the kitchen. Everything for the restaurant has been custom made except for the chairs. The subtle mauve coloring and rich wooden and copper accents provide a warm, inviting setting for a great dining experience by candlelight, and customers can enjoy quick and professional service by the restaurant's congenial staff.
"You get to see the elegance without the attitude," said Thorn.
What's your pleasure?
Tazzo's has geared everything towards customer service and offers a wide array of choices, even down to the water - where mineral or sparkling may be your pleasure.
While you glance at the menu, servers make the rounds, offering their choices of breads from seven-grain to sourdough, and a zesty tomato pesto butter as an alternative to traditional butter.
For recommended appetizers, one could start off with a velvety lobster flan ($11), which is one of Tazzo's unique signature dishes and one of Spanish influence. The chunks of lobster embedded in warm creamy custard are served with dried leek leaves, and roasted peppers for an added kick. It's one dish that will truly melt in your mouth.
"It's taking items people are familiar with and changing it up a bit," Robert Camgelosi, executive chef. "We're basically a seafood grill with a Mediterranean twist."
If not allured by the lobster flan, customers can try some of Tazzo's top sellers, which include mouthwatering crab cakes ($10) or mushroom flatbread ($7) among their many delicacies.
Tazzo's also offers the finest in Mediterranean cuisine. Top sellers include a tender monkfish ($19) served with sautéed spinach or a 20 oz. rib eye steak ($29) for the meat lovers.
"I think the advantage we have is unbelievably fresh items," said Thorn.
But while deciding between the enticing French chicken ($15) served with golden mashed potatoes or the flavorful Zatar spice rack of lamb ($31), customers can indulge themselves with a drink from the bar or wine by the glass. Tazzo's offers a full bar, and additional seating at the bar for lunch and dinner.
Original creations
Of course, the artist behind the Tazzo's alluring menu is executive chef Robert Camgelosi. A culinary connoisseur, Camgelosi has worked in some of the finest establishments in New York City such as the Waldorf Astoria, and had an apprenticeship at the historic Russian Tea Room. Most of the items on Tazzo's menu are his creation.
"We're looking to change the menu seasonally," said Camgelosi. "New items are tried, and we're also engaging the clientele."
Thorn and Camgelosi were partners in a catering service when they were approached by Manning about Tazzo. "Alex and I had had a small catering company, and we were looking for a small base of operation," said Camgelosi. "We were introduced to Steve Manning, and he asked us if were interested in operating a restaurant." The two partners thought it would be an ideal business venture and a chance to bring their style to this side of the river where they also live.
"We thought we could bring a little SoHo flavor to Hoboken," said Thorn.
A tasty treat
After finishing a fine meal, customers can choose from one of Tazzo's homemade desserts prepared by their in-house pastry chef. Camgelosi recommends their homemade cookies with a cup of cappuccino.
"It's a nice light alternative to dessert," said Camgelosi.
With about eight weeks into its inception, word of mouth recommendations have gone far and Tazzo's has enjoyed a growing clientele base that has ranged from city socialites and young suburbanites to familiar locals just looking for a new place. Thorn is usually on the floor engaging with the clientele and taking the opportunity to assess their overall satisfaction. Camgelosi is on the floor Tuesday nights with customers as well.
"It gives me an opportunity to see how things are running up here," said Camgelosi.
"Today is the day we have our executive chef on the floor, so he gets to interact with the customers," said Thorn. "It's his day to shine."
Tazzo Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday 12 to 3 p.m. for lunch, and 5 to 11:30 p.m. for dinner. Tazzo's also provides catering services for public and business events. For more information call (201) 216-1550.
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