About Us
The Molto Bene Story
Learn about the Experience, the Chef, and the History
The Molto Bene Experience
In Italy – and around the world – sharing delicious food and drink with friends and family is a way to experience and celebrate community. It’s this philosophy that led Chef Peter Adamo to open Molto Bene Caffé e Mercato.
At Molto Bene, a customer is like family. From the moment you enter to the instant you leave, Pete wants you to experience a sense of familiarity, warmth and welcome, while also having the chance to discover a bit of the new and unexpected.
This unique blend of comfort and unexpected surprise is in every aspect of Molto Bene – from the décor (a seamless combination of the historic building’s original architecture, Chef Pete’s own beautiful carpentry work, local art and modern industrial pieces) to the ambience to – of course – the food.
Chef Pete describes his food as Italian fusion cuisine – featuring classic Italian flavors with a twist, and impeccable attention to detail. A big supporter of quality ingredients and supporting local farmers, he regularly changes his menus to feature fresh, seasonal and local ingredients – and also maintains a few regular favorites.
It was a trip to the Sicilian countryside – where Pete’s father was born and raised – that led him to bring back the concept of “Cicchetti’s”: small, tapas-style plates that can be shared and enjoyed. Indeed, it’s his hope that you might be excited to try a few different dishes on your visit, and walk away feeling full, content and inspired. Though, of course, you’re always welcome to order a large plate and keep your food all to yourself!
The History
Pete first opened the restaurant as a small café in Hightstown. After suffering severe damages from Hurricane Irene, he moved to a small location in Cranbury, and soon afterwards, relocated to the current location just down the street.
It took nearly a year to lovingly update the interior of the new space, and he was thrilled to finally re-open Molto Bene in the fall of 2015. In the new location, he is excited about the newly-constructed open, loft-like upstairs space, available for private parties; just another way to help people connect and celebrate one another over a meal.
Peter is grateful and delighted with the loyal patronage he’s received as a member of the Cranbury community. He loves greeting so many familiar faces, and is always excited to see new ones walk through the door.
Location:
Molto Bene Ristorante & Cicchetti
17 North Main St.
Cranbury, NJ 08512
Tel: 609 642 6724
Mail: info@moltobeneonline.com
Hours:
Tue-Thurs: 11:00am – 9:00pm
Fri-Sat: 11:00am – 10:00pm
Sun: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Parking Information:
– Molto Bene has street parking on Main Street.
– There is also public parking at Sweetwaters parking lot (32 North Main Street, Cranbury N)
The Chef
Chef Pete spent eight years as a chef in various Princeton-area restaurants, including Mediterra and the Nassau Inn, after which he took a break from the food service industry to pursue his second creative passion – carpentry. (You can see his carpentry work featured throughout the Molto Bene dining room and in the upstairs spaces.) After two years of carpentry work, his trip to his father’s homeland of Sicily reignited his passion for creating a delicious culinary experience – and he returned home with the visions from which Molto Bene was born.
Websites talk about us:
New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/02/realestate/cranbury-nj-one-town-many-personalities.html
Patch: https://patch.com/new-jersey/southbrunswick/best-brunch-spots-near-south-brunswick
Businessfinder: https://businessfinder.nj.com/15546602/Molto-Bene-Cranbury-NJ
Singleplatform: https://places.singleplatform.com/molto-bene-ristorante-e-cicchetti-bar/menu#menu_2071714
Merchantcircle: https://www.merchantcircle.com/molto-bene-cafe-italian-mkt1-hightstown-nj
Localflavor: https://www.localflavor.com/businesses/25026/molto-bene
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/molto-bene-ristorante-and-cicchetti-bar-cranbury
Molto Bene Online Team
Peter Adamo: Head Chef
Peter Adamo is a classically trained chef who has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens and chefs in New Jersey. He is the head chef at Molto Bene Ristorante & Cicchetti Bar, as well as Molto Bene Group which includes Molto Bene Hotel & Restaurant, Molto Bene Caffé e Mercato, and Molto Bene Online. Peter graduated from Brookdale Community College in 2002 with a degree in Associate of Arts and Sciences – AAS. As a chef, he knows the importance of having the right kitchen appliances. That's why he writes reviews and buying guides for them.
I am Peter Adamo, one of the most exciting and talented chefs in New Jersey. I have my own catering business, Molto Bene Ristorante & Cicchetti Bar, as well as Molto Bene Group which includes Molto Bene Hotel & Restaurant, Molto Bene Caffé e Mercato, and Molto Bene Online. I graduated from Brookdale Community College in 2002 with a degree in Associate of Arts and Sciences - AAS. I am a classically trained chef who has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens and chefs in New Jersey, including Terra Momo Restaurant Group and Nassau Inn. As a chef, I know the importance of having the right kitchen appliances. That's why I write reviews and buying guides for them. I also love to share tips with my readers. Whether you're looking for information on a specific appliance or just want to be inspired in the kitchen, you'll find what you need here.
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Jerome Heptinstall – Editor
Hi, my name is Jerome Heptinstall and I'm a guide. I write tips, buying guides, reviews and all sorts of other stuff to help people out. I love giving people the information they need to make informed decisions and help them get the most out of their lives. When I'm not writing or blogging, you can usually find me playing with my kids or relaxing at home.
