Traditional Italian food is arguably the cornerstone of New Jersey cuisine. At 19 South Park Street, Leone’s has been an Italian-American staple in the heart of Montclair since 1995. As it’s celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Leone’s is reflecting on its legacy and why following the beat of its own drum has kept it in business for all of these years. Keep reading to find out how Leone’s came to be and which dishes are a must-try.

Owner Michael Restaino was born in Newark and is the only child of Orlando Restaino and Rosemary Leone, after whom the restaurant is named. “Both my parents loved to cook and always felt drawn to Montclair as a warm and welcoming community,” Michael told The Montclair Girl.