Located in Manalapan, New Jersey, Ruocco’s Restaurant is a family-owned and -operated Italian spot offering a menu of what Chef Stephen Ruocco calls “Italian classics with a contemporary flare.”
After building a following in its Jersey home, Ruocco’s Restaurant is now coming south, launching its first Florida location in Boynton Beach, at 701 N Congress Ave.
“It’s like being at Grandma’s house,” Ruocco told What Now on Monday. “It’s about making people feel they’re not just coming to a restaurant; they’re coming to somebody’s home.”
The Ruocco’s menu has featured entrées like Parmigiana, Marsala, and Pink Panther (Vodka Sauce) served with proteins like chicken, shrimp, and veal. There’s Honey Roasted Salmon, Scallop Risotto, and Pasta dishes like Spicy Stuffed Rigatoni and Gnocchi with Braised Short Ribs—plus a lot more. Chef Ruocco says about 90% of these choices will be found on the Boynton Beach menu, with only a few tweaks.
“I always say, if it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” the chef said.
The new location features casual yet upscale décor, with inside seating for about 88, including a 12-seat bar (a first for the brand), plus room for about 30 more guests in an outdoor patio. There will also be live entertainment.
“We’re trying for the end of March or beginning of April, as long as everything stays on track,” Ruocco said. “This is a passion of ours, to make people happy with food. We’re looking to open multiple in Florida.”
You can keep up with Ruocco’s Boynton Beach by following @ruoccosrestaurantboynton on Instagram.
