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Welcome to Espo's

Espo's, an Italian eatery located in Raritan, NJ, offers a cozy and lively dining experience reminiscent of traditional Italian family restaurants. Known for its signature dishes like chicken parm and Sunday Gravy, Espo's prides itself on serving fresh and flavorful meals. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, perfect for a date night or a gathering with friends. With top-notch service and an impressive bar selection, Espo's is a must-visit spot for those craving authentic Italian cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss out on their must-try menu items like the Hotsy Totsy Shrimp and Raviolis Espo – you won't be disappointed!

Espo's: Reviews & Ratings

Christine B.
Christine B.

Never would've expected a restaurant in the middle of a block of houses but there it was! It reminded me of Laico's in Jersey City. Very unexpected. First impression they had a bunch of outside seating (covered and with heatlamps). Nice to have on crisp nights. From entryway is covered and helps muffle any noise from nearby houses. We walked in 6:30 ish on a Sat night and it was packed. Bar seating is available and also on a first come first serve basis. We did not expect to be seated quickly but 10 mins and we had a table. Service was fast and furious. Drinks, bread, and order taken within the 1st 10 mins of being seated. I ordered the chicken parm and my husband had the steak special (Marsala style). The chicken parm was delicious, huge order that came with a side of pasta. Steak was weird for my husband. I think he heard steak and went with it not realizing it was a saucy and cheesy steak and not what he's used to. Steak was cooked to his liking but I think he was overwhelmed with the the toppings. Now he knows! I ordered cacio y Pepe to go (bucatini) which was delicious! My husband said the bar's liquor options were impressive for such a small estate. Def a spot I'd love to come back to on another night.

Carlos C.
Carlos C.

Our neighborhood's local Italian eatery and it did not disappoint! Went in on a Sunday evening for my wedding anniversary. Had their staple Sunday Gravy which was phenomenal. So delicious and hearty. Everything tasted super fresh. Wife went with the traditional chicken parm which she loved. We will be back. If you're looking for a laid back Italian meal, this is where it's at. Service was top-notch. Restaurant is super chill and laidback. Great for a date night or a group!

Joao L.
Joao L.

First of all this is our go to restaurant. From beginning to end the experience and service is phenomenal. They do not take reservations which is good first come first service deal. But the wait is definitely worth it. It makes you feel you're in an old school Italian restaurant and the food does not lie! We had the hotsy totsy shrimp which we love. Me and my wife shared the raviolis espo and chicken savoy and let me tell you the left overs never made it to the fridge. Everything on the menu is a must try! Head over to espos and prepare to be stuffed!!!!!!

Amanda R.
Amanda R.

Espo's never disappoints! From the moment we were seated, the impeccable service set the tone for an amazing evening. Our meal began with fresh house salads, followed by the Hotsy Totsy Shrimp appetizer--a perfect balance of heat and flavor. For entrees, we enjoyed the Chicken Savoy with broccoli rabe and Espo's Ravioli, which features cheese ravioli in a decadent vodka sauce with crab meat and shrimp. Every dish was expertly prepared and absolutely delicious. Our waiter was attentive and ensured everything was perfect throughout the meal. Espo's is a true gem, and we can't wait to return!

Elaine R.
Elaine R.

I used to go to Espos all the time in the 70s and 80s. My Italian family loved their food, especially their tomato sauce. The late owner Bob Esposito was frequently there until he passed away. The restaurant then closed down and later reopened under a new ownership. I went there a few days ago and was extremely pleased to taste the Espos' trademark sauce. The chef is the same Phil with the same recipes! The environment is dressed up a bit more and more updated, and the bathroom is so clean you can eat off the floor! The vibe of Espos has always been like going to a NYC family-owned restaurant. Long, narrow, and tight with as many tables as the place will hold. If you are looking for a quiet place, Espos may not be the place to dine, unless you eat outside (which didn't exist years ago). If you are looking for great food, a lively atmosphere, and wonderful service then give Espos a try!

Stephen H.
Stephen H.

Beautiful little spot. Waited for table at the outside sofas, cozy and comfortable to wait. Lucky weather was nice

Stephanie W.
Stephanie W.

Staff, food and ambience was great. Our waitress was a perfect 10, she made appetizer recommendations and it was just as described. Everything was delicious. I can't wait to go back

Ally K.
Ally K.

Espos exudes all the charm and warmth you'd expect from a classic Italian restaurant. This small restaurant may fly under the radar, but it packs a flavorful punch that keeps patrons coming back for more. Let's start with the appetizers, particularly the standout Hotsy Totsy Shrimp. These plump, succulent shrimp are lightly breaded and fried to perfection, then tossed in a zesty sauce that's equal parts spicy and savory. Each bite is a burst of flavor that sets the stage for the culinary delights to come. Speaking of delights, the Seafood Manicotti is a true showstopper. Tender manicotti shells are stuffed to the brim with a decadent mixture of seafood, including shrimp, crab, and scallops, all bathed in a velvety tomato cream sauce. It's a dish that's as comforting as it is indulgent, leaving you feeling fully satisfied and dreaming of your next visit. But it's not just the food that makes Espos special--it's the ambiance that transports you to a bygone era of Italian-American charm. From the moment you step through the door, you're greeted with the soulful sounds of Frankie Valli and other artists from the era, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. Combined with the warm, inviting decor and attentive service, dining at Espos feels like being welcomed into the home of an old friend.

Location

  • Espo's
    10 2nd St Raritan, NJ 08869 Hotline: (908) 685-9552

Are you a fan of authentic Italian cuisine? Look no further than Espo's, a hidden gem located at 10 2nd St in Raritan, NJ. This cozy Italian eatery offers a wide range of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Espo's boasts a variety of amenities, including takeout, reservations, delivery, and outdoor seating with heat lamps for those chilly nights. They also accept credit cards and Apple Pay, making payment a breeze. Whether you're dining solo or with a group, Espo's has something for everyone.

Customers rave about the savory dishes at Espo's. From the mouth-watering Chicken Parmesan to the hearty Sunday Gravy, every bite is bursting with flavor. The menu also features classics like Chicken Parm and Ravioli, all expertly prepared and served with a touch of Italian flair.

The welcoming atmosphere at Espo's adds to the overall dining experience. The attentive service and laid-back ambiance make it the perfect spot for a date night or a casual meal with friends and family. And don't forget to check out their impressive selection of liquor at the bar!

So, whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, be sure to stop by Espo's to experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality that make this Italian eatery a standout in the area. Bon appétit!