Welcome to Cafe Merlino
Cafe Merlino, nestled in Blackwood, NJ, serves as a culinary haven for Italian food lovers. With a focus on freshness and homemade quality, the menu boasts unforgettable dishes like expertly crafted chicken cutlets, savory meatballs, and mouthwatering sandwiches. The passionate staff, led by owner Rich, consistently delivers exceptional service, making each dining experience memorable. Customers rave about the flavorful combinations and generous portions, perfect for both casual lunches and grand events. Whether you’re savoring a classic Caesar salad or the acclaimed "Boss" sandwich, every bite at Cafe Merlino is a delightful journey through authentic Italian flavors.
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6 Shoppers Ln, Blackwood, NJ 08012, United States Hotline: +1 609-600-2722
If you're in the mood for a culinary delight in Blackwood, NJ, look no further than Cafe Merlino. Nestled at 6 Shoppers Ln, this charming eatery is quickly making a name for itself as a must-visit destination for Italian food lovers and foodies alike. With rave reviews and a menu that speaks volumes about the artistry of traditional Italian cooking, Cafe Merlino offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for casual dining or special events.
Customer experiences at Cafe Merlino consistently highlight the quality and freshness of the dishes. As one enthusiastic diner, Brooke Owens, noted, the meatballs are made from scratch and deliver a flavor that is both fresh and comforting. Her description of the restaurant as “special” is echoed throughout reviews, showcasing the dedication that chef Rich and his team put into every dish. Customers can expect a menu where each item—from the chicken cutlets served with a velvety vodka sauce to the tantalizing "Boss" sandwich—is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Cafe Merlino's catering services are also worth mentioning, as Nick Basile pointed out in his review. Whether it's for an intimate gathering or a large celebration, the ample portions and delectable selections ensure that your guests will leave satisfied. The sausage and peppers have been notably praised, while the chicken cutlets continue to be a crowd favorite, indicating that when you choose Cafe Merlino for your next event, flavor is guaranteed.
But don’t just take their word for it. Enthusiastic customers like Kelly Eafrati and Destinee Petryk gush over their experiences, raving about the crispiness of the chicken tenders and the “tipsy chick” sandwich, respectively. The warmth and friendliness of the staff add to the welcoming atmosphere, making every visit feel like a cherished moment shared among friends.
However, it's not all perfect, as feedback from customers like Kib Isima highlights the importance of transparency in pricing at the point of sale. Addressing customer concerns with clarity and responsiveness can enhance the overall experience, solidifying Cafe Merlino's reputation as a customer-centric establishment.
In summary, Cafe Merlino is a delightful find in South Jersey, serving Italian comfort food that stays true to its roots. From the moment you step through the door to the last bite of your meal, you’re treated to an experience that celebrates both flavor and community. So gather your loved ones, take a trip to Blackwood, and indulge in the heartwarming tastes that Cafe Merlino has to offer. You won’t regret it!
My first time ordering catered food after being a longtime customer. As always, the food was great! I have Rich an “idea” of what I wanted, and left the rest of the details up to him. And he didn’t disappoint. We had more than enough food for roughly 100 people, and they “tore up” the chicken cutlets with the side of vodka sauce for the sandwich. The sausage and peppers was delicious as well. Don’t hesitate to let Cafe Merlino cater your next event!
Your point of sale machine does not itemize the charges. I chose 18% on the total. Later, I see your machine included the debit card fee in my tip calculation. In other words it applied my 18% to the debit card fee. I paid a tip on a debit card fee. That is the deception here. 6 days ago: Answering Cafe Merlino’s reply to my question: I believe the pos tablet said “total”. To which I added 18% tip. The total was not itemized on the tablet. Only after reviewing my printed receipt I discovered 18% was calculated to include the credit card fee and tax. That means your computer added 18% to the food, the soda, the credit card fee, and the tax. I (and many others) don’t think your computer should calculate the tip on the credit card fee and tax. And second question: Should my debit card have been charged a use fee the same as a major credit card? My initial question: Is it customary for the point of sale tablet here to calculate the tip on top of the credit card fee and on top of the tax? Two cheesesteaks, one fries, one $2 side, one root beer, 18% tip = $60. I don't recall seeing this on the pos tablet.
Until today, I haven't had really good Italian food since I was a teenager working at a fancy Italian restaurant. I stopped here for lunch, not even realizing this place was back here. On an impulse, I ordered meatballs for my daughter. One bite, and I knew this place was special. It was evident everything was made from scratch in house. The sauce was fresh, and flavorful. To be honest, I can't even describe how great the food is. For the first time in my life, words fail me. The meatballs were delicious. They weren't greasy, dry, or falling apart. My sister and I ordered a chicken Caesar salad, and the cutlets were, also, the best I ever had. It was thin, crispy, light, and not greasy. I'm not huge on chicken, but this was just so good. I can't wait to bring my husband and Mom. The pictures aren't great, because we devoured the food fast.
Everything was phenomenal!!! We ordered the tipsy chick, nonnas meatball parm and fries. We will absolutely be coming back, thank you Richie!!!
First off, Rich is absolutely amazing!! Great guy. The food was GREAT! I’m extremely picky on what I will eat and that was not the case here. We will be ordering again! Thank you again Rich!
Absolutely incredible food! The best roast beef sandwich hands down! The cutlets are also amazing. Definitely recommend and will be back to try more!
We had the absolute pleasure of trying out Cafe Merlino yesterday for lunch. I was craving a sandwich and BOY did they deliver! I tried the “Boss” and it was one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever eaten!! Perfect bread, crispy delicious cutlet, fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and tangy balsamic all came together in the most scrumptious explosion of flavor! My son had the tenders, and he swears the chicken was “life-changing” and the best chicken tenders he’s ever had. We really enjoyed not just the food, but also the ambiance and the staff, who were friendly & welcoming. Altogether, it was a fantastic lunch, and we’re thrilled to have found Café Merlino- we can’t wait to try out the rest of the menu!!
Food was amazing! We got the classic caesar salad and a turkey hoagie. Both exceeded our expectations! Staff was super friendly. A South Jersey gem. We will be back!