Unique Features

While working at San Remo in West Orange, Tony met his soulmate, Clara, and married her two years later, on the anniversary date of his arrival in America. Clara became Tony's partner in all aspects of his life. When he opened the Bel'vedere in Clifton in 1976, Clara learned to run a restaurant - from making salads to sautéing vegetables to tending bar! Most importantly, the couple worked to achieve their primary goal - to introduce true Italian food to Americans who up to then had thought of lasagna or spaghetti and meatballs as Italian fare.

At Bel'vedere, Tony experimented with the menu by constantly adding or changing items in an effort to find what his customers liked best. Soon Bel'vedere was so popular that parking became a real problem. Out of this problem came the birth of Il Capriccio, which, Tony now states, was really a caprice for him. He built his capriccio on the site of a former town bar known as the Full House. At Il Capriccio, the "full house" soon was a reality. Tony's "caprice" of a restaurant devoted to the total pleasure of his patrons has been realized.

Palladium style, with a touch of contemporary, the main dining room offers relaxed dining in comfortable armchairs. Tables are well spaced for privacy. Fresh flowers showcased in gentle lighting provide a most romantic effect. The romantic ambiance is complemented by soft piano music.

The Wine Cellar at Il Capriccio has been given the Award of Excellence by The Wine Spectator. With over 400 selections and a stock of approximately 15,000 bottles, Il Capriccio's wine list offers moderately priced wines as well as exclusive reserve wines. Grappa lovers appreciate the large selection of these wines as well.