Luna Wood Fire Tavern is a go-to neighborhood spot to watch the game with a slice of wood-fired pizza and a craft cocktail. But it’s more than that — it’s a family-owned and operated restaurant that makes you feel at home the moment you walk in. Located at 223 Franklin Avenue in Nutley, it has made a name for itself in the community thanks to the homestyle Italian meals, cocktails, and spirits. Keep reading to learn more about this Nutley food gem.
About the Owner
Founder Louie Ritacco grew up in Nutley and has been in the food industry ever since he can remember. His father, a Nutley pizza maker, opened his pizzeria in Nutley in 1981, which is still open to this day. From being in the family business for so long, he was inspired to open up his own family-owned and operated business as well, and then Luna Wood Fire Tavern was born in 2014.
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About the Menu
Ranked as one of the best spots to get pizza in the area, Luna Wood Fire Tavern definitely does not disappoint. With several pizza options to choose from, expect each pie to be made fresh from the wood-fired oven and, on top of that, the fresh mozzarella is made on the spot. Gluten-free menu options are available and more information can be found here.
Some of the most popular items are rice balls, mezzaluna, Margherita pizza, steaks, and seafood. But mezzaluna, one of the signature pies, is the one to get. It is a half calzone, half Margherita pie, basically the best of both worlds (pictured below).
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No matter what, there is always room for dessert. From tiramisu to dessert pizza, trust us when we say that your sweet tooth will be satisfied. MG Tip: If you’re a fan of soft, fresh cookies, then get a chocolate chip cookie cup served with ice cream and get ready for it to melt in your mouth.
Throughout the week, Luna Wood Fire Tavern lists food and happy hour specials on the website here. Some examples of past drink specials at Luna include $6 Titos’s Handmade Vodka cocktails and $6 glasses of Pepperwood Grove Wines. Also, some past lunch specials served were $11.95 for any burger, sandwich, or panini. There are also specific hours when these specials are served so it’s important to stay up to date on the website.
The Experience
We spoke to the manager in 2021, Alex Sistarenik, and he described the spot to be “a relaxed and easy atmosphere with an attentive, well-trained staff, and great loyal customers.”
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Luna is a great spot to have a nice family dinner or just catch up with a friend over some drinks and apps while at the full bar.
Luna Wood Fire Tavern is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30AM-9PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:30AM-10PM, and on Sundays from 11:30AM-9M. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. You can stay up-to-date with Luna Wood Fire Tavern on Instagram here.
