Our Story

A Legacy of Italian Tradition

A New Chapter in New Jersey

Amorina, meaning "Little Love" in Italian, is the newest culinary venture from Joe and Colleen Pisacreta. For more than thirty-five years, they set the standard for bringing the flavors of Italy to life with their ownership of Il Giardinello Ristorante in Toms River, New Jersey.

The restaurant's reputation as one of Ocean County's most beloved dining establishments was earned by serving the finest Italian dishes crafted from recipes handed down from one generation to the next and made from authentic, fresh ingredients. Paired with a warm approachable style of service and inviting atmosphere, Il Giardinello was always more than just a restaurant, it was a labor of love.

Now, Joe and Colleen invite you to join them as they embark on a new culinary journey in Marlboro, NJ. Opening in April 2025, Amorina will once again embody the essence of dining in Italy with flavorful, thoughtfully prepared dishes in a welcoming environment.

As a BYOB establishment, we invite you to bring your favorite wine or beer to complement our time-honored recipes designed to satisfy the most refined tastes.

Our Values

Authenticity

We stay true to traditional Italian cooking methods while embracing modern culinary innovations.

Quality

From imported Italian ingredients to locally sourced produce, we use only the finest materials in our kitchen.

Family

We treat every guest like family, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.

Community

We're proud to be part of our local community, supporting local producers and giving back whenever possible.

Our Team

Amorina is owned and operated by Joe and Colleen Pisacreta, who bring over 35 years of experience in Italian restaurant ownership. Their expertise and passion for authentic Italian cuisine is at the heart of everything we do.

As we prepare to open in April 2025, we're assembling a team of talented chefs and staff who share our commitment to exceptional food and service. Many team members will be joining us from our previous restaurant, Il Giardinello, bringing their years of experience and dedication to our new venture.

Our Philosophy

"La cucina รจ un atto d'amore" - Cooking is an act of love

This simple phrase guides everything we do at Amorina. We believe that great food has the power to bring people together, create memories, and celebrate life's special moments.

Experience Amorina

Join us for an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine and hospitality.

Make a Reservation View Our Menu