Downtown Westwood's reputation as a premier Bergen County dining destination rests on a pair of sophisticated culinary anchors that blend old-world European traditions with modern execution. While the town's central business district offers a diverse array of casual eateries, these two mainstays on Jefferson Avenue and Westwood Avenue elevate the local dining experience into a regional draw for food enthusiasts.
At the forefront of Westwood’s modern Italian movement is Osteria Crescendo, located at 36 Jefferson Avenue. Founded by Chef Robbie Felice and his father, Joe Felice—who first established their culinary footprint at Viaggio in Wayne—the restaurant presents contemporary Italian flavors in a sleek, stylish space characterized by chalk-white vintage-brick pillars and elegant chandeliers. The menu focuses on elevated execution, featuring delicate house-made pastas, gooey burrata paired with carrot caponata, and premium proteins such as Wagyu short ribs and Berkshire pork chops, all served alongside a curated beverage program.
For a different expression of regional European tradition, Mezza Westwood offers a refined Mediterranean dining experience nearby. Under the culinary leadership of Executive Chef Richard Puli, this BYOB establishment has spent nearly two decades serving fresh, scratch-made Mediterranean cuisine. Mezza balances classic flavors with modern innovation, emphasizing seasonal produce, premium olive oils, and fresh seafood in a welcoming, upscale environment where guests are encouraged to bring their own wine or champagne to pair with their meals.
Together, these two landmarks represent the complementary facets of Westwood's upscale dining landscape. While Osteria Crescendo provides a high-energy, cocktail-forward modern Italian experience, Mezza Westwood delivers a long-standing, customized BYOB Mediterranean alternative. Both establishments demonstrate how Westwood's walkable downtown has successfully moved away from suburban dining cliches in favor of chef-driven, metropolitan-caliber hospitality.