Al Di Meola turned 70 on July 22. The American was one of the co-inventors of jazz-rock and is one of the most influential and fastest guitarists in music history. Together with John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucia, Al Di Meola released the live acoustic album "Friday Night In San Francisco", which sold millions of copies. For the New Jersey-born Ital...

Fast-casual is dominating the dining landscape today. We see this style of restaurant becoming more popular each year—from 2022 to 2023, the fast-casual market more than doubled in value, according to a report released by Allied Market Research late last year. Whether it is because diners increasingly want faster, more casual service, or if it’s a...

In the upcoming months, Nutley native Joe Lodato is ready to take on the stage once again. Renowned for his vocal prowess and captivating stage presence, the Italian-American baritone is emerging as one of the foremost interpreters of the Verdi baritone repertoire. Lodato’s voice has been praised for its “stunningly beautiful timbre, Italianate sna...

The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) announced Tuesday its 18 inductees for 2024 and Ocean City’s Gay Talese is one of them. According to a news release, Talese, 92, an author and journalist, was selected in the category of “Arts & Letters.” Inductees are chosen for their accomplishments in six categories, including Education & Science and Enterpris...

There’s something about finding the perfect cafe, reminding you of a distant trip to Europe or the shop you used to venture to for an espresso and pastry in New York City. Dolce Marie, located at 464 Bloomfield Avenue in Verona, fills that void. Nearby Verona Park, Dolce Marie serves coffee, breakfast, lunch, and, most notably, baked goods made in-...

Join us at the Nutley Public Library on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., for a free screening and discussion on the fictional film Our Return to Italy with award-winning filmmakers Marylou and Jerome Bongiorno. The Nutley Public Library is pleased to welcome back prior ECLAP-funded artists, Emmy-nominated, award-winning, husband and wife fil...

Mark your calendars! La Festa Italiana, Jersey City’s biggest Italian festival hosted by Holy Rosary Church returns in August with live bands, great food, and games & rides for the kids!  La Festa Italiana begins Wed, Aug 7th, and runs through Sun, Aug 11th, from 5-to-11 pm each day. Located on 6th & Brunswick Streets, in the neighborhood surroundi...

This year’s edition of Hoboken’s beloved annual St. Ann Italian Festival, also known as the St. Ann Feast, will take place from July 24 to July 28. And from July 21 to Aug. 25, the Hoboken Historical Museum will offer an exhibition titled “On the Steps of St. Ann’s: A Collection of Photographs from The Feast 2001-2022 by Bob Delevante.” If you are...

Nestled in the heart of Lambertville, New Jersey, Angelico Winery stands as a testament to a harmonious blend of diverse heritages, deep-rooted passion, and unwavering dedication to winemaking. The story of Angelico Winery is as rich and intriguing as the wines produced there, encapsulating a journey that spans continents and generations.  The ince...

Gio’s is owned by John Giaquinto who also owns J&S Pork Store in Lodi, New Jersey which sits on the corner of Union Street and Woodside Avenue. Gio’s had their official grand opening this past Saturday June 22nd and the place was hopping with a live D.J. and samples of their delicious fresh mozzarella. All the food is homemade on the premises. You...