Cocco Bello Cafe

Located in the heart of Livingston, NJ, Cocco Bello Cafe is a delightful Italian restaurant that masterfully blends traditional flavors with contemporary culinary artistry. This inviting eatery offers a diverse menu that caters to lovers of authentic Italian cuisine and those eager to explore innovative dishes with a refined twist.

At Cocco Bello Cafe, every bite is a journey into the rich, vibrant world of Italian cooking. Start your experience with enticing appetizers like the crispy, flavorful Samosa or the perfectly seasoned Calamari Marinara, which bursts with a garlicky tomato sauce that awakens the palate. The menu’s highlight for dinner includes exquisite entrées such as the Veal Milanese, delicately breaded and paired with a fresh mixed green salad featuring roasted peppers, juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, and shaved Parmesan—a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Seafood lovers will find the Shrimp Scampi irresistible, with its succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic, white wine, and lemon sauce, complemented by sautéed broccoli rabe that adds a healthy, slightly bitter contrast. For those seeking something more sophisticated, the Halibut, lightly breaded and baked with spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, is a heavenly choice that balances earthiness and brightness in every forkful.

The panini and sandwiches offer a casual yet deeply satisfying alternative, with options like the Chicken Parm filled with a crunchy breaded cutlet and melted mozzarella or the rich Umbria panini featuring sliced steak, roasted peppers, sautéed onions, and mozzarella—all served on your choice of bread for the perfect handheld delight. And for a sweet finish, the Pistachio Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce melts on the tongue with its creamy texture and delicate nutty flavor.

Beyond the stellar cuisine, guests rave about the ambiance at Cocco Bello Cafe. Whether dining indoors or taking advantage of the beautifully designed new patio, the atmosphere is warm, comfortable, and subtly sophisticated—ideal for intimate dinners or relaxed gatherings. Customers have highlighted the attentive and professional service, noting that the staff goes above and beyond to accommodate special requests, making every visit feel personalized and memorable.

Longtime patrons and newcomers alike have fallen in love with this gem. Robert DeHaven praises the “awesome service” and “scrumptious” halibut, while Carl Scalzo calls his first visit “absolutely outstanding,” complimenting everything from the appetizers to the elegant presentation of entrees. Mike DeBonis appreciates the generous portions and consistent quality, dispelling any misconceptions about the café being just an upscale pizzeria. Donna Farrell’s delight with the “great atmosphere” and the inviting new patio only cements Cocco Bello Cafe’s status as a top dining destination in Livingston.

Whether you’re craving classic Italian comfort food or adventurous, expertly crafted dishes in a welcoming setting, Cocco Bello Cafe delivers an unforgettable dining experience that pleasures all the senses and beckons you to return again and again.