Marco Polo Tavern - Summit

Over 20 years I've driven by but tonight as I begin a brutal workout and diet regimen, all I can say is: Marco! Polo!! First, this is my new favorite local eatery. Why? From the very boyish table clearing clerk who hawk eyed me to anticipate my need for water like a vestibule Gunga Din to my waitress who was one of the most attentive and responsive server I'd experienced in a while, to yet a second server who just stepped in to help clearing my table and was quite the charming Latina staff member, answering this. The food was so good, I asked if I returned for just the spinach and green beans and sausage, would that be possible? And I'm no vegetable dude but these veggies were succulent, juicy, flavorful and seductive , I had to ask! Beaming, she purred that of course I could do that! The interior reminded me of the locally famed Sal's Tavern in Red Bank, opening 1933 but now sadly gone. I'll be back! Marco! Polo...Parmigiana!

This restaurant is a classic institution with a level of care and attentiveness that is reminiscent of a traditional Italian eatery. I have been coming here since I was a child and I am delighted to see that it is still thriving. The menu offers all the typical Italian dishes with some modern surprises featured as specials. The service is the standout feature, with management making sure every guest feels like royalty. In addition to the bar and dining area, there is also a second floor that can be rented out for events. My family has hosted many special occasions here, from christenings to rehearsal dinners. Here's to creating many more wonderful memories at Marco Polo.

I am disappointed to say that Marco Polo has been on a downward trend. Despite my sentimental attachment to the restaurant, my recent experience on Saturday, October 14th, 2023 was less than stellar. The evening was marred by a hair in my side salad, fruit flies buzzing around the table, and a lack of flexibility in substituting a side salad for potatoes. The portions were small, with only one spear of broccoli and a few pieces of roast potato. The clams casino and eggplant parm were also underwhelming. I had hoped for improvements, but it seems that Marco Polo continues to disappoint with each visit.

We order from Marco Polo frequently and love their pizza and other menu items. However, we were disappointed with their Thanksgiving offerings. The mashed potatoes seemed to be from a box mix and the sweet potatoes were plain and unpeeled. Considering the price we paid, we expected better quality. It was not up to our standards.

I've been coming here since I was a kid in the 90s. My dad loved it. I hope it never changes.