CARTERET, NJ \u2014 One of the owners of the former Ristorante Venezia, a beloved Italian restaurant open for years in Woodbridge, is now running a new bistro and bar in Carteret.<\/p>\n
It’s called Sal\u2019s Bistro & Bar, and it’s co-owned by Vesal “Sal” Deva, who used to be head chef and a co-owner at Ristorante Venezia in Woodbridge, now closed.<\/p>\n
Sal’s Bistro & Bar is located at 1 Louis Street in Carteret, where they’re renting a space. They’ve actually been open since December (soft opening), but held a grand opening last Tuesday, March 24 with Carteret and Middlesex County officials.<\/p>\n
For 31 years, Deva owned and operated Ristorante Venezia on Main Street in Woodbridge, until he was forced to close when Woodbridge Township approved a redevelopment plan for the property.<\/p>\n
Now, he and business partner John O’Leary are bringing back the same Northern Italian fare that made Venezia so popular: His Chicken Venezia (lemon chicken with artichokes and capers) is back on the menu, as is their chicken and eggplant parmigiana. Sal’s Bistro & Bar combines traditional Northern Italian fare with American pub food, such as steak sandwiches and burgers. There’s also a lively bar with signature cocktails, such as the Black & Tan Espresso martini with Bailey\u2019s Irish Cream.<\/p>\n
“At Sal\u2019s Bistro and Bar, guests can expect the same passion, flavor and welcoming atmosphere that have defined Vesal\u2019s culinary journey for decades,\u201d said O\u2019Leary. “From Italy to New Jersey, Vesal Deva continues to share his love for food \u2014 one plate at a time.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are so proud to be part of this community,\u201d Deva said. \u201cCarteret has been incredibly welcoming, and we can\u2019t wait to share our food and hospitality with our neighbors for years to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
Deva was born and raised in Macedonia and trained to cook for three years in Northern Italy. He moved to the United States in 1989 and within a few years, he was running the Woodbridge restaurant. Venezia\u2019s legion of customers, fans and friends missed the place immensely when it closed.<\/p>\n
\u201cSal\u2019s Bistro & Bar plays a unique role in supporting the borough\u2019s long-term vision for growth, entertainment and community engagement,\u201d said Carteret Mayor Dan Reiman. \u201cExecutive chef Sal spent his life perfecting the art of Northern Italian cuisine … and now he brings his lauded skills to our community. Sal and his partners believe in the Carteret resurgence and vision.\u201d<\/p>\n