Authentic Italian Restaurant Opens Its Doors In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY, NJ — A new family-run Italian restaurant has opened up in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Managed by Josephina and Sergio Spinosa, along with their son Leo, Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food Restaurant will offer an authentic and comforting approach to Italian food at 77 New Road in Parsippany.

The eatery pays homage to Josephina's family, who immigrated to Pennsylvania and opened a chain of Italian restaurants and pizzerias outside of Philadelphia. "I guess you could say that working in the restaurant business is in my DNA," Josephina said.

Lo Sfizio Italian Street Food Restaurant opened on Wednesday, April 12, with an official ribbon cutting presided over by Mayor Barberio.

"I’m sure you’ll do well here in Parsippany. We have so much diversity here in Parsippany, and you're bringing an Italian street food style menu adds to our eclectic selection," Barberio said.

Josephina stated that cooking has always been a big part of her family and that it was her grandmother who passed on a love of cooking to her.

"I can still remember the smell of freshly baked bread in the kitchen coming back from school. I used to love to be in the kitchen with her and help her prepare meals. I was inspired by the way she used to turn simple ingredients into amazing dishes," Josephina said. "I was only nine years old when I decided to write down her recipes in a little red notebook, which today has become the staple of many of the Neapolitan specialties I enjoy preparing."

Lo Sfizio will honor the authentic cuisine found in Southern Italian street food, according to Josephina, who immigrated to the United States from Naples, Italy, when she was eight years old.

One of their popular menu staples is Pizzetta Montenara.

"Pizzetta Montenara is a delicious Neapolitan street food that consists of fried pizza dough topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil. It’s a popular dish in Naples, Italy, and has gained popularity worldwide. It was one of the first dishes to be put on the menu and it is my mother’s recipe," Josephina said.

The Spinosa family said opening Lo Sfizio in Parsippany felt like the right next step for them. "Parsippany is a thriving community with a strong economy, a mix of cultures, and plenty of attractions for residents and tourists. Being surrounded by a vibrant food scene and a supportive community gave me the confidence to turn my passion into a business."

Lo Sifizo and its staff said they are dedicated to providing a welcoming environment, a friendly face and delicious food.

One of the most important things for her, Josephina said, is "keeping in mind my nonna’s words: 'i veri ingredienti nella cucina sono amore epassione!' or 'the real ingredients in your cooking are love and passion!' Our doors are open, come and become a part of our family."

You can find out more about the restaurant on its website.