Bella Vita is definitely a family affair. Opened in 2000, Bella Vita (or Beautiful Life, in Italian) was always the dream of owner Giovanni Silletti. Born and raised in Brick, Giovanni has been in the food service business since he was 10 years old. That was when he was finally strong enough to push a fruit cart on Washington Street in Hoboken.

After earning a degree in Criminal Justice from St. John's University, Giovanni opened an Italian deli and restaurant on Newark Street in 1998. Just 1/4 mile from the train station, in the middle of Yuppie Heaven, "Giovanni's" was an immediate success. Thanks in large part to Momma Silletti's cooking!

With a degree in hand, a full-time job, successful deli and a growing family at home (Wife, Karen and first daughter, Shana), Giovanni decided he needed another challenge. So he began renovation of Bella Vita in 1999, leaving the management of "Giovanni's" in the hands of his brother, Pat.

For awhile, the Silletti's ran both enterprises. But when Karen gave birth to their second daughter, Calista, it was time to focus full attention on Bella Vita. Giovanni added full time chef, Marco Bautista (trained by Mom) and Pat came south as a partner in Bella Vita.

Now, we'd like to invite you into our extended family. If you haven't already registered in our Preferred Customer Club, we invite you to do so now. We would also like to remind you that we do catering and private parties. We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions you can email me or call me at 732-899-3666.