CONTENTS

Welcome To The Meadowlands

Letters from the Bergen County

& Hudson County Executives 6, 7

Stay in the Meadowlands

Accommodations 8

Destination Meadowlands

Attractions, Sports & Entertainment 14

Ecotourism 15

Heritage Tourism 15

Shopping 15

Bergen County Parks 15

Hudson County Parks 15

Eat in the Meadowlands

Food & Beverage 22

Meet in the Meadowlands

Catering & Event Venues 34

Event & Convention Services 35

Getting Around the Meadowlands

Transportation 38

Healthcare

Emergency Services 38

Miscellaneous Services 38

ON THE COVER

American Dream

americandream.com

Field Station Dinosaurs

fieldstationdinosaurs.com

Hackensack Riverkeeper

hackensackriverkeeper.org

Paddle the Meadowlands, Photo Credit: Rachel Katic

MetLife Stadium

metlifestadium.com

This official 2024 guide is published by Meadowlands Live! | Convention & Visitors Bureau, Town Square Publications, Meadowlands Chamber and Meadowlands Media.

DESTINATION MEADOWLANDS

ATTRACTIONS, SHOPPING & RECREATION

American Dream Meadowlands

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

1-833-AMDREAM |  www.americandream.com

American Dream is the ultimate destination of premier indoor attractions, shopping, and dining comprising more than 3 million square feet in East Rutherford, New Jersey – just minutes from Manhattan. Our family-friendly attractions include Nickelodeon Universe theme park, DreamWorks water park, Angry Birds and Blacklight mini golf, The Rink indoor ice skating and Big SNOW indoor ski slope! World-class shopping at flagship locations including H&M, Uniqlo, Zara, Primark as well as Lululemon, Sephora, Aritzia and IT’SUGAR, the world’s first “candy department store.” For luxury shoppers, experience The Avenue, a premier retail collection including Hermès, Mulberry, Saint Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana, Tiffany & Co. and Saks Fifth Avenue.

BergenPAC

30 N. Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ 07631

(201) 227-1030 | www.bergenpac.org

NJ’s most vibrant not-for-profit performing arts center! A home to hundreds of world class performances at affordable prices. Bergen Pac is one of the busiest Performing Arts and Art Institution in the State of NJ. Each season Bergen Pac strives to create a dynamic schedule of artistic and educational programs. From Bergen Pac’s arts education allows us to reach more than 30,000 children throughout Northern New Jersey.

City Cruises by Hornblower

Lincoln Harbor Marina, 1500 Harbor Boulevard, Weehawken, NJ 07086

(866) 817-3463

www.citycruises.com/NewJersey

Bring your casual dining experience or planned event to life with a picture-perfect backdrop and experience the iconic New York skyline from a new perspective! Enjoy high-quality cuisine, onboard entertainment, and spectacular skyline views. Savor the moment while sailing past the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and more!

Field Station Dinosaurs

Overpeck County Park, Henry Hoebel Section Fort Lee Road, Leonia, NJ 07605

(855) 999-9010 |  Fax: (973) 748-4317

info@fieldstationdinosaurs.com

www.JerseyDinos.com

Along with a dinosaur exhibit featuring over 30 life-size animatronic dinosaurs, Field Station: Dinosaurs offers a full schedule of live shows, games, and activities each day, including the T-Rex Feeding Frenzy, featuring a 15’ juvenile Mighty T-Rex interactive puppet. The park in Leonia is situated on 6 acres along the scenic banks of Overpeck Creek. Experience a hands-on science activity at the Paleontologists’ Laboratory, a dinosaur dig site for our youngest guests, meet dinosaurs face to face on the Jurassic Jump, and much more! Group rates available for summer camps, Scout groups, and school field trips. For hours of operation, please visit JerseyDinos.com.

Hackensack Riverkeeper

206 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601

(201) 968-0808

www.hackensackriverkeeper.org

Founded in 1997 by Captain Bill Sheehan, Hackensack Riverkeeper works to protect, preserve, and restore the river and its watershed – especially the Meadowlands’ marshes. See them for yourself on an Eco-Cruise aboard our comfortable pontoon boats or on a guided kayak trip out of Laurel Hill Park in Secaucus. Rentals are available there and at our centers in Teaneck and Oradell, NJ.

Liberty Science Center

222 Jersey City Boulevard

Jersey City, NJ 07305

(201) 200-1000 | www.LSC.org

Liberty Science Center in Jersey City is the region’s premier destination for science learning and fun. Explore 12 exhibition halls, a live animal collection, and the nation’s biggest planetarium. Enjoy live science demos, an on-site cafe, gift shop, and much more. On Thursday nights, grown-ups take over at our LSC After Dark celebrations for guests age 21+. Drinks, dancing, and a great night out with a twist of science! For directions, pricing, and current offerings, visit LSC.org.

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment

1 Racetrack Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

www.PlayMeadowlands.com

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment boasts year-round horse racing, FanDuel – America’s #1 Sportsbook, multiple dining areas, corporate and private event spaces, as well as family-friendly activities. Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment creates an exciting environment that everyone can enjoy. For more information or to book your special occasion, visit www.playmeadowlands.com or call (201) 843-2446.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

149 Polito Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071

(201) 933-2220 | 1-888-wejoust

www.medievaltimes.com

Medieval Dinner & Jousting Tournament set in an 11th century style castle. Show includes a full four-course dinner, and dramatic jousting and swordfight are featured. Our arena seats 1,350 and is fully enclosed and climate controlled. Reduced group rates for 15 people or more.

NY Giants Information

(201) 935-8111 | www.giants.com

RPM Raceway

99 Caven Point Road, Jersey City, NJ 07305 | (201) 333-7223 | www.rpmraceway.com

RPM Raceway redefines entertainment, providing a one stop shop where you can RACE, PLAY, and SO MUCH MORE! With high-speed electric karting, 100+ arcade games, state-of-the-art bowling alleys, immersive virtual reality and racing simulators, RPM Raceway exceeds all expectations of a fun and memorable time out with friends and family.

At RPM Raceway, there’s a party behind every occasion! Whether it’s a corporate event, birthday celebration or simply a competitive night out with friends, RPM Raceway has you covered. Select from a variety of entertainment packages with a number of options to personalize and upgrade your next event or visit.

The RPM Raceway tracks stretch across five locations throughout the Northeast, with each facility touting its own unique set of offerings, while all rooted in high-speed electric karting. To learn more, visit www.rpmraceway.com. 

Attractions, Sports & Recreation

Activate Games (East Rutherford)

(201) 636-7588

Angry Birds Mini Golf (East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of NJ (Teterboro)

(201) 288-6344

Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) (Englewood)

(201) 816-8160

Big SNOW American Dream (East Rutherford)

(973) 864-6600

Blacklight Mini Golf (East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

Bowlero Wallington (Wallington)

(973) 773-9100

City Cruises by Hornblower (Weehawken)

(212) 727-2789

Dream Wheel NJ (East Rutherford)

www.dreamwheelnj.com

DreamWorks Water Park (East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

Field Station: Dinosaurs (Leonia)

(855) 999-9010

High Exposure Rock Climbing/ Ninja Warrior & Parkour (Northvale)

(201) 768-8600

Kerasotes Showplace 14 Secaucus (Secaucus)

(201) 210-5364

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center (East Rutherford)

(551) 234-6381

Liberty Science Center (Jersey City)

(201) 200-1000

Meadowlands Area YMCA (East Rutherford)

(201) 955-5300

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment

(East Rutherford)

(201) 460-4166

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (Lyndhurst)

(201) 933-2220

MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)

(201) 559-1562

Mirror Maze (East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

Mountain Creek (Vernon Township)

(973) 827-2000

Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park

(East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

NY Giants (East Rutherford)

(201) 935-8111

NY Jets (Florham Park)

(516) 560-8100

NY Red Bulls (Harrison)

(201) 583-7000

Paradox Museum New Jersey (East Rutherford)

(551) 733-6081

Pinstripes (Paramus)

(551) 966-0420

Red Bull Arena (Harrison)

(877) 727-6223

RPM Raceway (Jersey City)

(201) 333-7223

SEA LIFE Aquarium

(East Rutherford)

(551) 234-6382

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

(212) 363-3200

The Escape Game New Jersey (East Rutherford)

(201) 514-5699

The Rink (East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

TiLT Museum

(833) 263-7326

Ecotourism

Hackensack Riverkeeper

(Hackensack)

(201) 968-0808

NJSEA Meadowlands Environment Center (Lyndhurst)

(201) 460-8300

River Barge Park and Marina (Carlstadt)

(201) 460-1700

Heritage Tourism

Historic New Bridge Landing | Bergen County Historical Society (River Edge)

(201) 343-9492

www.BergenCountyHistory.org

Meadowlands Museum (Rutherford)

(201) 935-1175

Shopping

American Dream

(East Rutherford)

1(833) 263-7326

Bergen Town Center (Paramus)

(201) 845-4050

The Plaza at Harmon Meadow (Secaucus)

(908) 226-5285

The Mills at Jersey Gardens (Elizabeth)

(908) 354-5900

The Shops at Riverside (Hackensack)

(201) 489-2212

Westfield Garden State Plaza (Paramus)

(201) 843-2121

Calvin Klein Company Store (Secaucus)

(201) 223-9760

Bergen County Parks

Belmont Hill County Park (Garfield)

(201) 336-7275

Borg’s Woods Nature Preserve (Hackensack)

(201) 336-7275

Dahnert’s Lake County Park (Garfield)

201-336-7275

Darlington County Park (Mahwah)

(201) 327-3500

Hackensack River County Park (Hackensack)

(201) 336-7275

Losen Slote Creek Park

(Little Ferry)

(201) 460-1700

Overpeck County Park (Leonia)

(201) 336-7275

Pascack Brook County Park (Westwood)

(201) 336-6000

Ramapo Valley County Reservation (Mahwah)

(201) 327-3500

Richard W. DeKorte Park (Lyndhurst)

(201) 460-1700

Riverside County Park (Lyndhurst)

(201) 939-9339

Saddle River County Park

(Saddle Brook)

(201) 796-0324

Samuel Nelkin County Park

(East Rutherford)

(973) 777-0318

Van Saun County Park (Paramus)

(201) 262-3771

Wood Dale County Park (Hillsdale)

(201) 336-7275

Hudson County Parks

Braddock Park (North Bergen)

(201) 915-3188

Columbus Park (Hoboken)

(201) 915-1388

Laurel Hill Park (Secaucus)

(201) 403-1992

Liberty State Park (Jersey City)

(201) 915-3400

Lincoln Park (Jersey City)

(201) 915-1388

Mercer Park (Bayonne)

(201) 915-1388

Mill Creek Point Park (Secaucus)

(866) 927-6416

Stephen R. Gregg Park (Bayonne)

(201) 858-7180

Washington Park

(Jersey City/ Union City)

(201) 348-5700

West Hudson Park (Kearney)

(201) 217-5482

MEADOWLANDS REGION

EAT IN THE MEADOWLANDS

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Carnegie Hospitality Group

(646) 653-3663

Hello@CarnegieHospitality.com

www.carnegiehospitality.com

Carnegie Hospitality currently operates two Carnegie Diner & Café locations and a third one is in the designing phase. In addition, CH operates Pizza & Shakes, a QSR restaurant that serves freshly made-to-order pizzas, milkshakes & gelatos, Carnegie Catering and 3 ghost Kitchens (Organic Burger House, NYC Pancake House, NYC Pastrami House).

Cowan’s Public

229 Centre Street, Nutley, NJ 07110

(973) 542-8151

https://www.cowanspublic.com/

We welcome you to Cowan’s Public: dateline 1938. Here guests can enjoy a rotating selection of 15 craft beers on draught, cocktails featuring artisanal spirits and seasonal ingredients, and a modern twist on the traditional pub menu (wings, burgers, tacos, and more), all in a space that transports you back to a time gone by. 

Franklin Social

292 Barrow Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302

(201) 413-1300 | https://franklinsocial.com/

Franklin Social - Tavern & Garden is a restaurant and bar, inspired by Ben Franklin, offering a modern take on the American Tavern. A seasonally driven menu offers classic dishes (burgers, tacos and so much more), highlighting local ingredients and is complimented by a cocktail program inspired by Colonial drinking culture.

Gus’ Last Word

191 Valley Blvd, Wood-Ridge, NJ 07075

(973) 939-5608

https://www.guslastword.com/

Inspired by their grandparent’s 1950’s cellar bar, the Maroulakos brothers tip their hat to that great era of home entertaining. The bar & dining room capture the essence of the era with a fun, modern twist along with a seasonal Backyard Garden. The food menu features classic American bar fare, comforting entrees & (thin) crust pies - with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The beverage program features plays on classic Cocktails, including Gus’ favorite, Last Word - complete with his unique twist, 16 draft beers & wine focused on a mix of domestic and international offerings.

Il Villaggio

650 Route 17 North, Carlstadt, NJ 07072

(201) 935-7733 | Fax: (201) 935-3111

www.ilvillaggio.com

Zagat top-rated restaurant serving fine Northern Italian cuisine. We have been perfecting our traditional cuisine and service for more than 39 years. Wide variety of fish, seafood specials, and homemade desserts. Weddings and private events from 20 to 250 people. Dine at one of the most elegant Bergen County New Jersey Italian restaurants tonight - dine at Il Villaggio.

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment

1 Racetrack Drive

East Rutherford, NJ 07073

www.PlayMeadowlands.com

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment boasts year-round horse racing, FanDuel – America’s #1 Sportsbook, multiple dining areas, corporate and private event spaces, as well as family-friendly activities. Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment creates an exciting environment that everyone can enjoy. For more information or to book your special occasion, visit www.playmeadowlands.com or call (201) 843-2446.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

149 Polito Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071

(201) 933-2220 | 1-888-wejoust

www.medievaltimes.com

Medieval Dinner & Jousting Tournament set in an 11th century style castle. Show includes a full four-course dinner, and dramatic jousting and swordfight are featured. Our arena seats 1,350 and is fully enclosed and climate controlled. Reduced group rates for 15 people or more.

Skopos Hospitality Group

The Greek word Skopos refers to a distant mark or end-goal one has in view. Our objective is to bring a fresh take to the food and beverage industry in New Jersey, centered around exceptional hospitality set in spaces that offer escapes from daily life, while complementing the unique food and beverage programs at each venue.

Skopos Hospitality is made up of owners, operators, staff, and vendors who make it possible to focus in depth on the varied details that distinguish our venues. It allows us to focus on all aspects from the food and beverage to the feel of the rooms, to the warm hospitality one would expect while visiting an old friend.

The Barrow House

1296 Van Houten Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013

(551) 223-6609

https://www.thebarrowhouse.com/

The Barrow House is a Colonial-Era Farmhouse restaurant located in Clifton, NJ on the site of a former farm. Modeled after a traditional Hall & Parlor Home, the space is comprised of seven unique rooms. Guests can enjoy options from our rustic American Farm Fare menu (ranging from salads, tacos, burgers and entrees), 100 bottle curated wine list, handcrafted cocktails, & robust selection of craft beer.

The Parkside Social

706 Bloomfield Ave, Verona, NJ 07044

(609) 248-4596

https://www.theparksidesocial.com/

The Parkside Social is a classic American tavern with modern touches, drawing inspiration from nearby Verona Park. A New American menu offers an assortment of share plates, sandwiches & entrees, complimented by a cocktail program that utilizes fresh ingredients and homemade syrups. The Oak Room is a private dining room - perfect for hosting your next event, and a seasonal garden offers outdoor dining during the warmer months.

Food & BEVERAGE

30 Burgers (Rutherford)

(201) 375-6869

Al Di La (East Rutherford)

(201) 939-1128

Angelo’s Ristorante (Lyndhurst)

(201) 939-1922

Annabella’s House of Mozzarella

(East Rutherford)

(201) 804-0303

Bagels Plus & Deli (Secaucus)

(201) 330-0744

Bahama Breeze (Paramus)

(201) 368-5860

Bar 503 (Lyndhurst)

(201) 635-0008

Bazzarelli Restaurant & Pizzeria (Moonachie)

(201) 641-4010

Be Well Greens (Rutherford)

(862) 330-5020

Biggies Clam Bar (Carlstadt)

(201) 933-4000

Bistro Six-Five-Zero (Hasbrouck Heights)

(201) 288-6100

Bolero Snort Brewery (Carlstadt)

(201) 464-0639

Boogie Woogie Café (Weehawken)

(201) 863-4666

Buffalo Wild Wings (Secaucus)

(201) 348-0824

Carpaccio

(East Rutherford)

(551) 248-4984

Carnegie Diner & Café (Secaucus)

(201) 267-6111

Carnegie Hospitality Group

(646) 653-3663

Casa Giuseppe Restaurant (Lyndhurst)

(201) 460-0060

Chart House Restaurant (Weehawken)

(201) 348-6628

Chevys (Clifton)

(973) 777-6277

Chili’s Restaurant (Secaucus)

(201) 319-0804

Chipotle Mexican Grill (Secaucus)

(201) 330-1349

Chris’ Pizza & Family Restaurant (Rutherford)

(201) 933-3315

Colonial Diner (Lyndhurst)

(201) 935-3192

Concourse Club

(Wood-Ridge)

(201) 710-6459

Cowan’s Public (Nutley)

(973) 542-8151

Dunkin Donuts/ Subway (Secaucus)

(201) 617-9200

El Asadero Mexican Grill (201) 909-8880

Elia (East Rutherford)

(201) 939-9292

Finch’s (Rutherford)

(201) 231-3141

Fiorentini Restaurant (Rutherford)

(973) 721-3404

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse (Paramus)

(551) 278-8880

Franklin Social

(Jersey City)

(201) 413-1300

Ghost Hawk Brewing Company (Clifton)

(973) 259-6037

Gus’ Last Word

(Wood-Ridge)

(973) 939-5608

Houlihan’s (Secaucus)

(201) 330-8856

Il Cafone (Lyndhurst)

(201) 933-3355

Il Villaggio (Carlstadt)

(201) 935-7733

Isola Bella

(East Rutherford)

(833) 263-7326

Jarana

(East Rutherford)

(551) 777-8020

Justin’s Ristorante II (Woodridge)

(201) 933-4276

Kona Ice Truck of Paramus

(917) 830-3322

La Reggia Restaurant & Banquets & Lounge (Secaucus)

(201) 422-0200

Mamma Vittoria (Nutley)

(973) 662-0242

Marcus Live! Bar & Grille

(East Rutherford)

(201) 340-0076

Mason’s Cellar (Rutherford)

(201) 935-1212

Matera’s Italian Market & Catering (Rutherford)

(201) 438-8083

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment

(201) 843-2446

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (Lyndhurst)

(201) 933-2220

Morton’s The Steakhouse (Hackensack)

(201) 487-1303

Mozzarella Bar

(East Rutherford)

(551) 239-1139

Mr. Bruno’s Pizzeria & Restaurant (Lyndhurst)

(201) 933-1588

Olive Garden (Secaucus)

(201) 867-3543

Outback Steakhouse (Secaucus)

(201) 601-0077

Paisano’s Ristorante (Rutherford)

(201) 935-5755

Panera Bread (Secaucus)

(201) 348-2846

Pink at Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment

(East Rutherford)

(201) 843-2446

Pinstripes (Paramus)

(551) 966-0420

Red Lobster (Secaucus)

(201) 583-1902

Redd’s Restaurant & Bar (Carlstadt)

(201) 933-0015

Restaurante Azteca (Rutherford)

(201) 438-2111

Ruth’s Chris Steak House (Weehawken)

(201) 863-5100

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

(Jersey City)

(201) 448-8664

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

(Paramus-Maywood)

(551) 258-0013

Rutherford Pancake House (Rutherford)

(201) 340-4171

Saladworks

(East Rutherford)

(201) 939-8886

Sals Good Eats (Teterboro)

(201) 375-4949

Segovia Restaurant (Moonachie)

(201) 641-4266

Shake Shack (Secaucus)

(551) 375-3012

Shannon Rose (Clifton)

(973) 284-0200

Song E Napule (Rutherford)

(201) 347-9339

Sonoma Bistro (Rutherford)

(201) 935-7070

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas (Clifton)

(973) 661-2435

Starbucks Coffee

(East Rutherford)

(201) 438-0584

Starbucks Coffee (Secaucus)

(201) 223-4924

Stefano

Mediterranean Grille

(Secaucus)

(201) 865-6767

Steven’s Café (Rutherford)

(201) 375-6973

Stew Leonard’s Farm Fresh Food & Wine

(201) 649-0888

Stew Leonard’s Wine & Spirits

(973) 859-7700

Taqueria Nacho Libre (Rutherford)

(201) 383-9005

Taverna on the Green (201) 857-0126

The Barrow House (Clifton)

(551) 223-6609

The Parkside Social (Verona)

(609) 248-4596

The Roosevelt

(East Rutherford)

(201) 713-3145

Tokyo Hibachi Asian Cuisine (Secaucus)

(201) 863-2828

Varrelmann’s Bake Shop (Rutherford)

(201) 939-0462

Vesta Wood Fired Pizza & Bar (East Rutherford)

(201) 939-6012

Vinnie’s Mootz (Lyndhurst)

(201) 697-0203

Volare’s Restaurant (Rutherford)

(201) 935-6606

Wayback Burger (Secaucus)

(201) 293-4654

Yard House

(East Rutherford)

(201) 528-2875

CHEFS OF THE MEADOWLANDS

By Kelly Nicholaides

Special to Meadowlands Media

As a culture, our appetite to know more about the masters behind the meals is insatiable, with more than 100 chef-centered television shows in production. Celebrity chefs rose in number and popularity since Julia Child’s debut in 1963. Today, three chefs have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The real celebrity chefs, however, are those right here in the Meadowlands. These kitchen artists know you by name and often know what you will order. These are the local eateries and elegant dining rooms you turn to for date night, takeout, or any reason to nosh. These are the local chefs (and even celebs) who have earned your trust no matter the occasion.

Il Villaggio Offers Innovative Dishes in a Warm, Modern Italian Setting

How many of us have made lunch or dinner plans, with the same question coming up each time: Where to go?

Well, I have the place for you and it is right here set back on our most used highway in Bergen County, Route 17 North in Carlstadt, NJ. The name is Il Villaggio and it lives up to all stars bestowed upon it!

It seems we pass this place every week and never knew it existed. Well, now you know and I am here to tell you all about it. The expansive light cream pale colored Brick and Marble Building sits back surrounded by trees that appear indigenous to Italy; glistening lights are scattered about and a seamless modernized Glass Entranceway leads us inside Il Villaggio.

Ralph Magliocchetti created the concept 43 years ago. Ralph grew up on a farm outside Rome, Italy. It was on the farm that Ralph would help his parents make a variety of food. The olive oil was made from their homegrown olive trees and at the very early age of 5 years old, Ralph was cultivating and harvesting grapes to make wine. As a young boy he was always involved in the everyday cooking with his Mom and he loved it right from the start! He was also a very good chef.

Having his own restaurant was always in Ralph’s heart and mind, and being a young man looking for adventure, he came to the land of opportunity: America. It was here that he worked at several restaurants and pizzerias before owning his own pizzeria in East Rutherford. That was an immediate success.

Time passed and Ralph wanted more, so in 1979 he opened the restaurant Il Villaggio, a small intimate brick building that catered to about 120 people. It was his second successful restaurant endeavor. It would not be unlikely for you to be rubbing elbows with Billy Joel, Elton John, and the most famous sports figures from the Giants to the Jets, just to name a few. As it grew, so did Ralph’s thoughts. He wanted more Grand! His children were grown and times were changing. So Ralph’s Grand idea developed into what Il Villaggio is today: a reinvented Italian Palazzo.

Still a restaurant but so much more, Il Villaggio became a Palatial Banquet and Private Event destination. Several rooms, each with their own unique look, can accommodate as few as 10 people to as many as 265. From your dream wedding and all kinds of showers, engagement parties, communions, to Bat and Bar Mitzvahs, or any special occasion you may have! Il Villaggio is your one-stop destination place right here in the Meadowlands.

When stepping into Il Villaggio, you immediately feel the warm, modern Italian Elegance. The Palatial entrance has soaring ceilings and steps away into an airy atrium surrounded by hand-painted murals in a lifelike setting of Roman Fountains and trees, from original photographs that the artist personally took in Rome. All chandeliers are straight from Italy and each room is one of a kind with its own impressive feel. Expect sophistication at every turn. The room that houses the most weddings has state-of-the-art lighting that changes colors to suit your liking.

Inside this Italian Palazzo is Il Villaggio, the lavish restaurant that will make you come back again and again. The room is meticulously designed to feel the tasteful Italian inspiration of chic! Magnificent white draperies surround the plush scarlet colored velvet banquettes which enhance the Tiffany Blue painted walls. A sleek bar with a pleasing bartender is set to the left when you walk in. Expect a well-dressed crowd, and to be greeted by the debonair host Ralph, who has mastered hospitality second to none. All are special and all must leave satisfied! You will be served by a staff of classic waiters in black jackets and white tailored shirts, some of whom have been there for more than 20 years.

The menu was developed to showcase a cosmopolitan approach by the chef who takes pride in his innovative dishes, be it a selection of fresh seafood that arrives daily, steaks, or of course Italian cuisine all dressed by underpinnings of the freshest ingredients, mostly imported from Italy. It makes for a truly memorable culinary experience.

The restaurant is open Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturdays from 4:30 to 11 pm.

Chef Chris Burnett Gambles on Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment

Since taking the reins as executive chef of Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment last summer, Chris Burnett has added a flair that is unapologetically Black and driven. The former South Jersey pub and ale house chef and entrepreneur set his sights north, to elevate the horse racing venue’s dining.

“Food is my outlet, my therapy, my fun, my games and my life,” Burnett said. “I want food to look good and taste good so there’s a balance. I’m more of a book smart chef. I study and taste to understand the etymology of flavors. I like to tweak, but never change the foundation, just enhance it.”

The Meadowlands has been good to Chef Burnett, treating him like family. He notes that it was a culture shock to go from working full operation kitchens daily to planning and prep for a storm of reservations in a seasonal industry where he can teach line cooks.

“I don’t have to come home with a dirty uniform anymore. I look across the racetrack and watch the sunset from three levels up every day and it tells me to keep climbing. I want to be the first Black man and the first in my family to succeed at the highest levels in culinary,” he said.

Horse racing at the “Big M” has transformed from an old timer’s haunt for gamblers who place their bets through 12 races with side of hot dogs and fries to a cross-generational draw for select bets and $50 buffet dinners featuring steaks, seafood and pork tenderloins with all the trimmings. Guests snap photos of horse racing memorabilia, decor and culinary creations, take in the nightlife ambiance and tiered dining of the Pink room, book private rooms overlooking FanDuel Sportsbook, kick back at the Lounge & Victory Sports Bar, indulge in the rustic Trotters Club, head to the Backyard Grill for a front row seat to the action, book the Gallery for special events, and hit up the Grandstand and corner café.

“I’m trying to elevate everything from concession stand food to the buffet and the Trotters menus, make it tasteful and eye-catching,” Burnett said. “We’re in the process of coming up with famous horse names for burgers, hot dogs and fries. Owner Jeff Gural wants to personalize some menu items for people who were part of the track since the 1980s.”

Burnett has complete creative control of the menus for the restaurant, café and catering aspects of Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment.

“I redesigned the catering menu which hadn’t changed in seven years, so I got positive response to that. I researched racetrack and stadium food to see what people are asking for. We keep some of the favorites and keep up with trends. I like to make my mark by mixing American style with my experience from scratch cooking,” he explained.

The racetrack’s busiest nights are Fridays and Saturdays. Visitors can enjoy unique menus for Super Bowl, March Madness, and theme nights that stir Burnett’s creative juices. He has labored on menus for National Food Day, Southern, Thai, Peruvian, Italian and other themes.

In some ways, the Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment’s comeback from its gritty, stuck-in-the-past rut to a state-of-the-art venue mirrors Burnett’s experiences.

Growing up in Long Branch, Burnett led a hard knock life but always turned to culinary for social connection and solace. He grew up with 12 siblings. He learned to cook from his mother, Belinda, and grandmother, Martha, who fed everyone in the neighborhood who dropped by with homemade fried chicken, mac n’ cheese, and other Southern comfort foods.

“I want to have the same mantra and make them proud,” Burnett said.

Orphaned when his mother was murdered in 1992, Burnett grew up in foster homes. He spent a decade in prison where he worked as a cook. Pushing the reset button on his life during work release and halfway house residency, he refined his culinary career.

He continued where his culinary education left off before being incarcerated in 1999. Burnett attained culinary credentials through Essex and Monmouth County colleges, vocational schools, a Philadelphia satellite program, and a Reentry Program. He worked at food banks, judged culinary competitions for youths, and at a McDonald’s for a year before he went knocking on doors seeking better opportunities in South Jersey restaurants.

Burnett’s star rose. He impressed “Chopped” judges in 2017. His catering business, Handsome Creations, features more than 600 followers and five-star reviews on Facebook. His coveted “Sho ‘Nuff” wings and their secret sauce are a party staple.

“I’ve matured fast, did my time, scarred my knees, and burned my hands,” Burnett said. “Some people want to be line cooks. I want to master the next part of my career and be an example to my daughter [Kyndall, 12] through hard work and determination.”

With Chef Burnett at the helm, the Meadowlands’ gamble on transforming its dining experience is paying off. He hopes New Jersey approves expanding casino gambling to Bergen County to bring in more patrons and raise the stakes.

“We wanted some new ideas brought to our buffet dining. We have many repeat customers and to keep them happy, the menu has to remain fresh and interesting for them. Chris has made that happen,” said GM and COO Jason Settlemoir.

For information on horse racing basics, racetrack happenings, and more, visit www.playmeadowlands.com.

MEET IN THE MEADOWLANDS

CATERING & EVENTS

Meadowlands Exposition Center

355 Plaza Drive, Secaucus, NJ 07094

(201) 330-7773 | Fax: (201) 330-1172

This privately owned 61,000 square foot exhibition facility is ideal for trade shows, meetings, and special events. It is located just five miles outside New York City and is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and free parking.

MetLife Stadium

1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

(201) 559-1500 | www.metlifestadium.com

MetLife Stadium is the home of the New York Giants and New York Jets. It is one of the largest stadiums in the NFL and has hosted over 700 major events and 3,000 special events. Event highlights include the first outdoor, cold-weather Super Bowl (XLVIII), WrestleMania 29 and 35, the Copa America Centenario Final and many concerts, college football games, and international soccer matches. It will also serve as the host stadium for the FIFA World Cup 2026TM Final.

MetLife Stadium offers behind-the-scenes tours of the venue and can also serve as home to your next private event such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Corporate Conferences, 5k’s, Galas, holiday parties and more! Our dedicated event specialists will ensure your event receives the attention and service that only a world-class facility can provide. Impress your guests with a venue that boasts fireside lounges, field level clubs, and allows you to walk on the same field as your NFL idols.

For Private Events, please contact us at specialevents@metlifestadium.com or 201-559-1710. For Guided Stadium Tours email tours@metlifestadium.com

Visit us on Instagram: @metlifestadium

@metlifestadiumevents

Catering & Event Venues

Al Di La Fine Italian Private Catering (Rutherford)

(201) 939-1128

Annabella’s Fine Foods, Inc. (East Rutherford)

(201) 804-0303

Apple Spice: Box Lunch Delivery & Catering Company (South Hackensack)

(201) 525-2775

Dream Live at American Dream (East Rutherford)

1 (833) 263-7326

Glen Ridge Country Club

(Glen Ridge)

(973) 744-7800

Graycliff Catering Inc.

(The Graycliff) (Moonachie)

(201) 939-9233

Il Villaggio (Carlstadt)

(201) 935-7733

In Thyme Catered Events (Moonachie)

(201) 666-3353

Mamma Vittoria (Nutley)

(973) 662-0242

Matera’s Italian Market & Catering (Rutherford)

(201) 438-8083

Meadowlands Exposition Center (Secaucus)

(201) 330-7773

Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment (East Rutherford)

(201) 842-5013

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (Lyndhurst)

(201) 933-2220

MetLife Stadium

(East Rutherford)

(201) 559-1710

Nanina’s In The Park (Belleville)

(973) 751-1230

Personal Touch Experience & Catering (Hackensack)

(201) 488-8820

Sal’s Good Eats (Teterboro)

(201) 375-4949

Seasons Catering

(Washington Township)

(201) 664-6141

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

(212) 344-0996

Sterling Affair Caterers (Carlstadt)

(201) 372-0734

The 18th Amendment (Rutherford)

(201) 935-1212

The Boulevard (North Bergen)

(201) 744-8169

The Fiesta (Wood-Ridge)

(201) 939-5409

Venetian (Garfield)

(973) 546-2250

Williams Center (Rutherford)

(201) 613-1844

Event & Convention

Services

4Wall New York (Moonachie)

(201) 329-9878

AlphaGraphics (Totowa)

(973) 812-6600

Any Excuse For A Party (Fairfield)

(973) 808-8700

Bounce Music & Entertainment (Englewood Cliffs)

(201) 482-8191

Cliffhanger Productions Inc. (Rutherford)

(201) 460-1489

Content Party Rentals

(East Rutherford)

(201) 623-0400

Dohrman Printing Company, Inc. (Carlstadt)

(201) 933-0346

Edge Auto Rental (Newark)

(212) 947-3343

Jimmy’s Artistic Creations

(East Rutherford)

(201) 460-1919

JMH Dull Productions (Rutherford)

www.dullmusic.com

Kona Ice Truck of Paramus

(917) 830-3322

LTB Entertainment (Secaucus)

(201) 282-1117

Maggie McGill Photography (Rutherford)

(201) 460-0344

Metro Party Services (Secaucus)

(551) 255-0889

Placement Productions (Rutherford)

(201) 681-5490

R.S. Knapp / Napco (Lyndhurst)

(201) 438-1500

Suero Cigars

(908) 858-6496

Sideways Triangle Productions (Passaic)

(973) 572-0268

Unique Event Center (Little Ferry)

(201) 880-5025

United EVENTures (Oradell)

(201) 694-6583

William Neumann Photography (Rutherford)

(201) 939-0370

WorldCast Live Inc. (Brooklyn)

(917) 755-7148

GETTING AROUND

THE MEADOWLANDS

TRANSPORTATION

Academy Bus, LLC

(201) 420-7000

Coach USA

(800) 877-1888

Customer Service: (866) 912-6224

Country Club Services

(973) 376-4352

EmpireCLS Worldwide Chauffeured Services

(800) 451-5466

EZ Ride

(201) 939-4242

Golden Eagle Shuttles

(201) 741-5484

Lyft

Lyft.com

Minuteman II Limousine and Car Service

(973) 347-6100

Moonlight Limousine & Party Bus Service

(201) 254-0126

NJ Transit

(973) 275-5555 | www.njtransit.com

NY Waterway

(800) 533-3779

Panorama Tours

(973) 470-9700

Pegasus Transport Services

(201) 867-1677

Vander Plaat Executive Limo

(201) 891-3856

HEALTHCARE

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Bergen New Bridge Medical Center (Paramus)

(201) 225-4703

Comprehensive Behavioral Healthcare, Inc.

(CBH Care) (Lyndhurst)

(201) 935-3322

Hackensack Meridian Health- Palisades Medical Center

(North Bergen)

(201) 854-5002

Hackensack University Medical Center (Hackensack)

(551) 996-2000

Hospital for Special Surgery (Paramus)

(201) 599-8000

Hudson Regional Hospital (Secaucus)

(201) 392-3100

Miscellaneous Services

Bergen Community College

(201) 447-7100

Big City Tourism

(844) 726-1052

Bruinooge & Associates – Counsellors at Law

(201) 939-3303

Edward Krawiec & Associates

(201) 935-7005

Fairleigh Dickinson University

(201) 692-2000

Fischer Porter & Thomas, P.C.

(201) 569-5959

Goya Foods (Jersey City)

(201) 348-4900

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

(800) 355-2583

InHome Golf (Lyndhurst)

1 (800) 557-5859

Jewel Electric Supply, LLC

(201) 653-1613

Overhead Door Company of the Meadowlands

(973) 471-4060

Ramapo College of New Jersey

(201) 684-7500

RCM Ceberio, LLC

(973) 832-4146

Russo Development LLC

(201) 487-5657

Weiss Realty LLC (Moonachie)

(201) 814-1800